One of the best perks about living in a city where it’s *warm* nine to ten months out of the year? There are plenty of opportunities to dine and drink al fresco! In Houston, every season is patio season and the Bayou City boasts a plethora of patios to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque view or a casual hang, there’s a seat just for you.
The Annie Cafe & Bar / Galleria
Overlooking the glitzy Galleria skyline, the revamped Annie Cafe & Bar offers a Texas take on American cuisine. A seat on this two-story patio will have you feeling instantly transported to a coastal destination with pops of green and palm trees decorating the space. Our recommendation? Snag a seat on the second floor and pick your poison from the beverage menu, or stop by for their can’t-miss brunch!
1800 Post Oak / theanniehouston.com
Backstreet Cafe / River Oaks
Known for its shady trees, black umbrellas and greenery, this American bistro has been a Houston staple for over 38 years. Located in a 1930s-era house off Shepherd Drive, the legendary patio offers a cozy spot to dine on award-winning Executive Chef Hugo Ortega’s incredible menu for lunch, brunch or dinner.
1103 Shepherd / backstreetcafe.net
Batanga / Downtown
A Downtown favorite, this Spanish-inspired tapas locale is perfect for hanging out and enjoying a day of beautiful weather. The colorful patio features a canopy of umbrellas in every color of the rainbow and kicks the ambience up a notch with strings of twinkle lights. We highly recommend sipping on a glass of Sangria and noshing on the meat + cheese board on a sunny afternoon.
908 Congress / batangahouston.com
Eight Row Flint / Heights
Whiskey, beer and tacos take precedence at this open-air bar housed at a former Citgo gas station located at the corner of Yale and 11th. Those looking for a casual environment with a killer menu will feel right at home. Grab a bench on the patio and peruse their elevated menu that includes food truck fare and every type of taco you can imagine.
1039 Yale / agricolehospitality.com
Lucille’s / Museum District
Chris Williams’ smart restaurant bar and patio pays tribute to his great-grandmother — African American entrepreneur, chef and pioneer, Lucille B. Smith. Enjoy his much-lauded modern take on traditional Southern cuisine on the comfortably shaded, expansive patio.
5512 La Branch / lucilleshouston.com
Tiny Boxwoods / River Oaks & West University
Easily one of the best outdoor dining spaces in Houston, the spacious patio at Tiny Boxwoods welcomes you to get comfortable at their rustic table settings while snacking on their farm fresh sandwiches and salads. Don’t forget to stop by Tiny’s Milk & Cookies!
3636 Rice Boulevard / tinyboxwoods.com
Secret Garden / Downtown
Nestled in Downtown’s Historic District you’ll find this gorgeous bar on the patio of Bravery Chef Hall. With a custom greenhouse surrounded by plants, this Instagrammable outdoor bar brews world-class coffee by day and innovative cocktails by night.
409 Travis / braverychefhall.com