Photo courtesy of Woodshed Smokehouse via Instagram
A perk of living in Dallas-Fort Worth is enjoying patios year-round. Breezy misters help people keep cool during the dog days of summer, while the lack of snowstorms brings a welcoming vibe during the winter. And there’s no shortage of outdoor spaces across the cities.
Whether you’re sharing a meal with friends or having a cozy evening alone, here are 13 premier patios at DFW restaurants.
José on Lovers
4931 W Lovers Ln, Dallas, Texas 75209
José is inspired by the culinary flavors of Jalisco, Mexico — and that extends to more than just the food. The entire restaurant feels like a community of friends hanging out, from the festive mural on the walls to the sun brightening up the patio in just the perfect way. Perhaps that’s not a surprise since a group of friends literally brought José together, including Brady Wood of WoodHouse, José Noe Suro of Ceramica Suro, Lance Raney of Droese Raney Architecture, and Megan Reinhardt of Reinhardt Creative.
Photo courtesy of José via Instagram
The Porch
2912 N Henderson Ave, Dallas, TX, 75206
Offering classic American items “with a southern wink,” The Porch’s all-weather patio and beer garden make for a great spot, rain or shine. The brunch options are extensive, from the Charrito Chilaquiles to the Snooze Button, a flight of four mini espresso martinis. At dinner, the Short Rib Stroganoff is perfectly tender, with a hearty helping of veggies for good measure. The Porch also offers a “Giant Pretzel Pass,” a monthly snack pass to indulge in perhaps the best soft pretzel in the city.
Reata
310 Houston St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
With nearly 20,000 square feet and four stories of dining areas, Reata is a popular destination for weddings, graduations, and other large gatherings. Even if you’re not celebrating anything, Reata is worth a stop, providing some of the best fine dining in Fort Worth. Meat lovers: Try the Blackened Buffalo Ribeye or Pan Seared Pepper Crusted Tenderloin.
Photo courtesy of Reata Restaurant via Facebook
Birdie’s Eastside
6221 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75214
Weekend brunches beginning at 10 am. Late-night bites and happy hour — including $6 margs and slushies — starting at 9 pm. There’s really no wrong time to slide into a porch seat at Birdie’s. Grab a flatbread (our favorite is the Fig & Prosciutto) or indulge in something sweeter, like a frozen espresso martini or the Red Velvet Whoopie Pie. It just might make you chirp with excitement.
Free Play Arcade
1311 Lipscomb St, Fort Worth, TX 76104
The worst part about going to an arcade as a kid was running out of quarters on your favorite machine. Right when you were about to set the high score, too! Luckily, there’s no such issue at Free Play Arcade. The 90+ retro arcade games and pinball machines are all set to free play, so you can button mash to your heart’s content. When you need a breather, head to either of the two lower-level patios or walk upstairs to the rooftop, featuring a tiki bar and beautiful city views.
Cowboy Chow
311 S Akard St, Dallas, TX 75202
When you need an injection of Lone Star State pride, head to Cowboy Chow. This Jack Gibbons-led restaurant in the AT&T Discovery District is an homage to all things Texas. The saloon-style building sports an elaborate “Great Pawnee Bill Show” mural and mounted buffalo heads. Picnic tables and lounge chairs on the 10,000-square-foot patio provide an inviting setting for the Western-inspired menu. The Mash Tater Parfait is a must, and the Prickly Pear Gimlet is a refreshing way to beat the heat.
Photo courtesy of Cowboy Chow via Facebook
Woodshed Smokehouse
3201 Riverfront Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Sitting on the banks of the Trinity River, Woodshed’s patio is a lovely spot to munch on the signature smoked food from chef Tim Love. Watch runners and bikers head down the Trinity Trail as you soak in some fresh air or catch live music from Thursdays through Sundays. Order the Bock Beer Cheese Fondue to create an extra campfire ambiance.
Press Cafe
4801 Edwards Ranch Rd #105, Fort Worth, TX 76109
This cafe was meant to (im)press. Located on the Trailhead at the Clearfork River, Press Cafe always seems to be bustling, yet the spacious outdoor patio feels like a calming oasis. The modern American fare adds a bit of extra comfort, too; highlights include the Wagyu Burger and the Beurre Blanc Salmon. For private parties and events, check out the full rooftop bar area.
Photo courtesy of Press Cafe via Facebook
Pegasus City Brewery
1508 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201
Pegasus City Brewery closed its Tiny Tap location in the Design District last fall to focus on this brewery downtown. The aim of Pegasus City is simple: to create a space where you “feel welcome, drink beer, and meet your best friend(s).” Well, mission accomplished. The patio seating is spread out, so you can enjoy conversation without overhearing your neighbors. Vibrant pegasi along the wall add a colorful touch.
Chelsea Corner
4830 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75205
Chelsea Corner is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and its 2,500-square-foot dog-friendly patio feels like an upscale backyard hangout. In fact, you might need to stay for a while if you order something like the Margarita Flight or Cocktail Minis. Luckily, there’s plenty to enjoy on the menu, from Hot Honey Chicken to the protein and veggie-packed Harvest Bowl.
Photo courtesy of Chelsea Corner via Facebook
Goat & Vine Winery
2600 W 7th St, Suite 153, Fort Worth, TX 76107
One of the top spots for wine enthusiasts, Goat & Vine’s patio has a sleek, inviting feel, with its marble tables, bench seating adorned with throw pillows, and large trees providing shade during the summer months. The Goat Cheese Bites are a scrumptious snack, and the wine selection is impressive. Not ready to join the wine club? Come visit during happy hour (4-6 every weekday) to get half-price wine bottles and glasses.
Love Local Coffee & Art Shop
4612 SW Loop 820, Fort Worth, TX, 76109
Who says restaurants and breweries should have all the fun? Love Local is one of the most charming spots in Fort Worth. The inside feels like a bustling garden, with plants and vines adorning the walls and hanging from the ceiling. Sip on a honey cinnamon latte as you take in the peaceful vibes on the patio out front, or browse the extensive gift shop full of art, cards, and other designs from local DFW creators.
Photo courtesy of Love Local | Coffee & Art Shop via Facebook
HG Sply Co.
2008 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
1621 River Run #176, Fort Worth, TX 76107
With locations in both Dallas and Fort Worth (and Trophy Club, to boot), HG Sply Co. offers guests a casual, friendly experience. The picnic tables are a great hangout for larger groups, while the Dallas rooftop provides good views amidst a hearty atmosphere of foliage. Fort Worth is no slouch, either, offering a rustic feel with plenty of room. Grab a seat at the bar or catch a game on the outdoor screen and go for the Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Sandwich, a delicious take on the decade’s trendiest sandwich.
This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
