Patio Dining

Houston's Prime Outdoor Dining Options

Despite the scorching summers, enjoying a drink and fabulous food at an outdoor patio table is a favorite activity among Houston locals. H-town isn't necessarily known for "mild" weather, but there are still plenty of good weather days that allow for frequent enough outdoor dining. When the urge to dine al fresco strikes, make sure to check out these Houston patios.

1517 Alabama Street, Houston, TX 77004

 

A beer garden and arts community hub, the circa-1920s Axelrad building in Midtown is bordered by a stunning 12,000 square-foot garden full of native, regional, and heirloom plants; sculptures and other art installations; plenty of seating for large and small gatherings; a colorful hammock grove for lounging; and more. Live music, film screenings, festivals, and other events are hosted in the historic space. Axelrad offers an extra-long Happy Hour from 12 p.m - 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, when $3.50 Beer of the Day, $3 Mimosas, $4 Wells, $2-off Frozens, $5 Michel-Rad-As, and more. 

4306 Yoakum Blvd., Houston, TX 77006

Candente is the Tex-Mex favorite situated in the heart of Montrose, with the patio located along the bustling Richmond Avenue. Queso topped with chopped brisket, sea salt-rimmed margaritas, and fresh ceviche are just a few of the mouth watering options perfect for enjoying in the fresh air. With a plethora of seating options, both covered and uncovered, the patio features fountains, fans, and friendly service from the Candente team. Whether you’re enjoying some cooler Houston weather or looking to soak up some rays, this is the spot for you!

2101 Washington Ave., Houston, TX 77007

 

Betelgeuse Betelgeuse offers delicious cocktails, pizza, and more in Historic Old Sixth Ward. Along with an indoor space that includes an intergalactic hallway, taxidermied wildlife, and a retro room fitted with refurbished pews perfect for group meetups, Betelgeuse Betelgeuse also has an exceptionally spacious patio. The outdoor space provides an option for guests to enjoy cool cocktails and fresh air. Facing Washington Avenue, Betelgeuse Betelgeuse has a stellar happy hour, offering $7 32 oz jugs of draft beer, $6 dollar wines by the glass, and $8 “experimental” cocktails. The space also has plenty of tables for bar goers to spread out, dart boards with custom wall art, and plenty of great vibes to go around.

888 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77006

Looking to take things up a notch? Marmo is upscale with a delectable menu and live pianist, but boasts a beautiful patio in the heart of Montrose. Enjoy unique Italiane fare amongst the hustle and bustle where the vibes are top-notch. If posting your meals is a priority, this outdoor seating area is perfectly Instagrammable, and the house made pastas, steaks, and happy hour items will not disappoint.

1 Birdsall St., Houston, TX 77007

 

When it comes to great outdoor views, Brenner’s on the Bayou is in a league of its own. The steakhouse’s terrace offers diners a panoramic scene of Buffalo Bayou and the restaurant’s gorgeous landscaped grounds. The restaurant also has a bar, called Blue, where visitors can enjoy cocktails, wine, snacks and cigars at one of its two patios, which are outfitted with comfortable seating, fire pits, and striking views.

2205 Patterson St., Houston, TX 77007

Have you ever dreamt of sipping delicious cocktails in a giant treehouse? Then look no further than Patterson Park! The patio bar features a menu boasting beer, wine, cocktails, and frozens, as well as food trucks that make for a perfect day or night outdoors. Happy Hour is Monday to Friday from 2 pm to 7 pm and includes $1-off specific cocktails, $1-off drafts, $6 wells, and $8 Ranch Waters. Enjoy an outdoor lounge chair, a hammock chair, or group table with friends at this hidden Houston gem.

2011 Ella Blvd., Houston, TX 77008

 

Rainbow Lodge is Houston’s destination for sophisticated, not stuffy, lodge inspired cuisine. Wild game, steaks and seafood in a refined log cabin setting is made even better when enjoying on a picturesque patio along the banks of White Oak Bayou. The wooden deck is lined with warm lighting, making for a romantic and intimate dining experience while surrounded by nature. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at this local favorite for deliciously hearty bites and patio dining.

600 N Shepherd Dr., Houston, TX 77007

Need a great bar to catch the big game? Highline Park in M-K-T Heights is a patio bar with screens aplenty to root for the home team. Crafty cocktails and brews complement the delicious spinach dip, burgers and wings on the menu. The park-like setting is situated along a hike and bike trail and around several other restaurants and shops, so the energy is always up at this Heights hotspot. The bar is open every day and features daily specials. Bring your buds, your pups, or yourself to enjoy the great outdoors in an equally great setting.

2604 Dunlavy St., Houston, TX 77006

A favorite among artsy types, musicians, and students, Brasil in Montrose offers good coffee, wine and beer, and tasty bites. Open since 1992 and considered the first coffee shop in Houston, Brasil has a welcoming neighborhood vibe and two patios to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. Hang out at the front patio for good views of the busy intersection of Westheimer and Dunlavy or head to the back patio for a quieter time. And don’t miss the coffee house's weekly live musical acts, film screenings, and food tastings.

2817 W Dallas, Building C Houston, TX 77019

 

Verde Garden is where cocteles, cervezas, and Tex-Mex come together for a truly delicious experience in Montrose. With 12 specialty frozen margaritas and a food menu boasting tacos, tortas, queso and more, Verde Garden offers a picturesque patio oasis for dining in style. Perfect for groups or date night, the patio offers a variety of seating options, beautifully authentic decor and the perfect option for outdoor dining and cocktail enjoyment.

Photos: Courtesy of the restaurants presented on this page.

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