The Best Outdoor Dining Experiences in the US

Embracing Outdoor Dining: A Growing Trend in the US

The United States has seen a significant shift in the dining experience, with outdoor dining becoming increasingly popular. As people look for novel and enjoyable ways to savor their meals, dining al fresco has emerged as a favorite pastime. There are several reasons behind this lifestyle trend, which include an increased focus on health and wellness, the aesthetic appeal of nature, and the social aspect of dining outdoors with friends and family.

Outdoor dining offers a unique opportunity to enjoy fresh air and sunshine while partaking in delicious fare. The appeal of this dining experience isn’t just limited to the surroundings, but also the sense of freedom it provides. As people become more conscious of their well-being, they’re looking for healthier dining options that incorporate quality food and eco-friendly practices.

Nature has a particular charm that elevates the dining experience. Whether it’s the calming effect of a garden, the invigorating sensation of being near the ocean, or the breathtaking views of mountains, these natural landscapes create the perfect backdrop for memorable meals. Outdoor dining allows food lovers to indulge in their favorite dishes while being surrounded by the beauty of the great outdoors. It’s a fantastic way for people to unwind and relax, fostering a deep connection with food and the environment.

Moreover, outdoor dining offers a distinctive social aspect, which has contributed to its growth in popularity. People often share intimate conversations and laughter around tables set under the stars, creating memorable bonding experiences with friends and family. These shared moments add an element of joy to every meal and help build lasting relationships.

Top Dining Destinations for Outdoor Dining Experiences in the US

The United States boasts a diverse range of top outdoor dining destinations that cater to various tastes and preferences. These destinations span the country, from the bustling cities to serene rural landscapes and scenic coastal towns. Here, we explore some of the best locations to have unforgettable outdoor dining experiences across different regions of the US.

Coastal Towns

Many coastal towns across the US offer idyllic outdoor dining spots, often with waterfront views and fresh seafood on the menu. For example, the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea in California presents several alfresco dining options, such as the cozy patio at The Stationæry or the elegant Pacific’s Edge at the Highlands Inn. Stunning sunsets and a relaxed atmosphere are a hallmark of seaside dining in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

National Parks

National parks are another excellent destination for outdoor dining, with most parks offering restaurants that take advantage of their surrounding natural beauty. Yosemite National Park, for instance, features the Ahwahnee Dining Room where guests can dine while admiring the magnificent views of Half Dome and Glacier Point. The iconic Jackson Lake Lodge in Grand Teton National Park also boasts an outstanding vista of the Teton Range while enjoying a delightful meal.

Mountain Resorts

There are numerous mountain resorts across the US that offer exceptional outdoor dining experiences in a picturesque alpine setting. The Farm at Moose Creeks Grill in Moose, Wyoming, is a fantastic example, as it provides breathtaking views of the Teton Mountain Range. Patios and decks at mountain resorts are often adorned with fire pits, providing the perfect spot for a cozy outdoor dining experience.

The United States is home to a diverse range of top dining destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Each region offers unique cuisines and stunning landscapes that cater to different tastes and preferences. From the scenic coastline of California to the awe-inspiring views in national parks, and picturesque mountain resorts, outdoor dining is an experiential adventure that every food lover must try.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Dining Spot

When selecting the perfect outdoor dining spot, there are several factors to take into account to ensure that your experience is memorable and enjoyable. These factors can make or break your outdoor dining experience and should be considered before making a reservation or visiting a location.

Type of Cuisine

Before deciding on an outdoor dining spot, think about the type of cuisine you would like to enjoy. Research local eateries that offer your preferred dishes, whether it be Mexican, Italian, or seafood. Furthermore, consider the freshness and quality of ingredients used in the preparation of the dishes as this can significantly influence the overall dining experience.

Ambiance and Atmosphere

The ambiance and atmosphere play a vital role in creating an enjoyable outdoor dining experience. Observe the overall design, décor, and color scheme of the dining space; does it evoke the feeling of relaxation or excitement? Assess the lighting, both during the day and at night, to ensure that the outdoor setting is inviting no matter when you plan to dine.

Accessibility and Location

Consider the location of the outdoor dining spot and its accessibility. Is the location suitable for you and your fellow diners? It should be easily reachable by public transport, car, or even on foot. Moreover, evaluate the parking options available and the proximity to attractions or your accommodation if you are on vacation.

Price Range

Establish a budget to avoid unexpected costs when enjoying outdoor dining. Consider the average price range of the dishes on the menu and the additional expenses such as drinks, appetizers, and desserts. Look for budget-friendly eateries that offer good value for money or higher-end options that justify the increased cost through exceptional cuisine and service.

Reservation Requirements

Some outdoor dining spots may require reservations, particularly during peak seasons or weekends. Research whether or not a reservation is necessary and plan accordingly. This ensures that you secure a spot on the desired date and time, avoiding potential disappointment.

Outdoor Dining Options for Different Preferences

There are myriad outdoor dining options catering to individual preferences and lifestyles. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, look for restaurants that emphasize plant-based cuisine. For fitness enthusiasts, look for eateries offering healthier menu options. And for those with a taste for the finer things in life, seek out restaurants with a focus on fine dining. Additionally, consider diners’ preferences regarding family-friendliness, pet-friendliness, and socially-distant dining experiences while selecting your outdoor dining destination.

Responsible and Sustainable Dining

Select outdoor dining spots that prioritize sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices. These include using local, organic ingredients, reducing waste, and supporting environmentally-conscious food production methods. Dining at these establishments can elevate your overall experience and contribute to a more sustainable and accountable food industry.

Unique Outdoor Dining Experiences in the US

The United States is home to an incredible array of unique outdoor dining experiences that push the boundaries of conventional meals. Here, we’ve compiled a list of extraordinary dining opportunities that are sure to delight your palate and provide you with unforgettable memories.

Repurposed Train Cars

• The Dining Car at Rail Explorers: Located in Las Vegas, the Dining Car invites you on a unique rail adventure while you enjoy a delicious meal.
• Iron Horse Restaurant: This full-service restaurant in Gallatin Gateway, Montana, is housed in a historic train car and serves various American cuisine dishes.

Floating Restaurants

• Labrea Star: Located in San Francisco, this floating fine dining restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a beautiful view of the Bay.
• Paddlewheel Boathouse: This charming restaurant in Paducah, Kentucky, features a broad menu and offers diners a glimpse into the history of the area’s riverfront.

Dining with a Sheep Herd on a Farm

• Belle Creek Farms: In Georgetown, Colorado, you can experience a true farm-to-table dining experience while surrounded by a herd of grazing sheep. They offer a wide variety of house-made dishes and special events throughout the year.
• Island Lake Lodge: In Fernie, British Columbia, you can have dinner while surrounded by free-roaming, pettable sheep on the Muleshoe Meadows. They serve locally sourced ingredients from their farm and other nearby farms, accompanied by an extraordinary wine selection.

These unique outdoor dining experiences demonstrate the diverse and innovative spirit of the culinary world in the United States. As you can see, there are endless possibilities for memorable outdoor dining experiences, each offering a distinctive and extraordinary way to enjoy a delicious meal.

Outdoor Dining with a View: Enjoying Breathtaking Landscapes While Dining

There’s something magical about experiencing a meal while surrounded by stunning natural landscapes or dramatic city views. Outdoor dining venues across the United States are taking advantage of their unique locations to offer patrons a feast for the eyes and palate. From dizzying heights to tranquil lakeside settings, let’s explore some of the best destinations and scenery that combine dining and breathtaking vistas.

Elevated Dining Experiences

Rooftop bars and restaurants have been a popular trend in recent years, providing stunning panoramic city views while enjoying a meal. Here are some of the best rooftop dining spots:

• The Press Lounge in New York City, offering an incredible view of Manhattan and the Hudson River
• Raised Archi’s Eat + Drink in Chicago, boasting spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline
• Le Rêve Pool & Lounge in Las Vegas, showcasing mesmerizing views of the Strip and surrounding desert landscape

Dramatic Coastal Views

For those who love being near the water, dining with a coastal view can create a memorable culinary experience. These coastal restaurants promise stunning views:

• The Lobster Place in Santa Barbara, providing views of the Pacific and a picturesque pier
• The Deck Bar and Restaurant in Key West, offering vibrant sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean
• Scala’s Bistro in San Francisco, featuring views of the bustling waterfront, the historic Fisherman’s Wharf, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge

Majestic Mountaintop Dining

Nothing quite compares to the serenity of dining with a view of towering mountain ranges and valleys. Here are a few of our favorite mountaintop dining spots:

• The View at Paliser in Colorado, offering awe-inspiring vistas over the San Juan Mountains and surrounding valleys
• Tavern on the Green in Central Park, New York, providing a picturesque escape in the heart of the city
• Clyde Common in Portland, Oregon, offering spectacular views of the city and scenic mountains in the distance

Romantic Waterfront Dining

Dining by a tranquil lake or serene river can add a romantic ambiance to any meal. Here are a few waterfront dining spots:

• The Terrace Restaurant in Bar Harbor, Maine, perfect for sunsets, lobster, and scenic views of Frenchman Bay
• Wild Iris Coffeehouse in Hood River, Oregon, offering picturesque views of the Columbia River and surrounding vineyards
• Nick’s Fish House in Baltimore, Maryland, a contemporary waterfront dining experience with views of the scenic harbor

The combination of a magnificent view and a delicious meal can truly elevate the outdoor dining experience. Whether you prefer gazing upon a twinkling city skyline or soaking up the splendor of nature, there is an outdoor dining spot out there to cater to your desires. Don’t miss out on these remarkable opportunities to indulge in a feast for both your eyes and palate.

The best outdoor dining options for specific lifestyles and preferences

Outdoor dining experiences can cater to a wide range of lifestyles, dietary preferences, and interests. We’ve put together a list of recommendations for various categories, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable outdoor dining spot to suit their individual tastes.

Vegetarian and vegan options

For those who follow plant-based diets, several exceptional outdoor dining options showcase the best of vegetarian and vegan cuisine:

• Crossroads Kitchen – Los Angeles, CA: This upscale vegan restaurant offers a stylish atmosphere and an innovative plant-based menu crafted by Executive Chef Tal Ronnen.
• Sqirl – Los Angeles, CA: A popular spot for natural wine and vegetable-centric dishes on their shaded patio.
• Dirt Candy – New York, NY: With a focus on vegetables that are often treated as novelties, this critically-acclaimed vegetarian restaurant features vibrant, creative dishes in a cozy outdoor setting.

Fitness enthusiasts

For those who prioritize health and wellness, many outdoor dining venues are ideal for maintaining an active lifestyle, providing nutritious meals in serene natural environments:

• Salt & Straw – Portland, OR: This destination for artisan ice cream features a focus on sustainability and local ingredients, making it a perfect post-workout treat at their outdoor seating area.
• True Food Kitchen – Nationwide: With a commitment to nutrition-rich ingredients, this popular dining chain offers a variety of innovative dishes that appeal to health-conscious individuals.
• Groundation – Los Angeles, CA: This cafe offers health-conscious, plant-based meals in an inviting atmosphere as part of a one-stop shop for wellness, including yoga and fitness classes.

Family-friendly spots

Outdoor dining experiences can be designed with the whole family in mind, providing a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for kids and adults alike:

• Fox in the Snow – Columbus, OH: This bustling bakery offers a spacious outdoor patio where families can relax together, enjoying freshly baked pastries and coffee.
• BigEgg Pancakes Co. – Seattle, WA: Offering delectable pancakes and a welcoming environment, Big Egg Pancakes Co. is the perfect spot for a family breakfast outdoors.
• The Jelly Bar – Boston, MA: This ice cream shop offers a casual and whimsical atmosphere for sampling creative flavors, including vegan and dairy-free options, on their outdoor seating area.

Fine dining

For more refined tastes, outdoor fine dining experiences can elevate the culinary experience, combining exquisite cuisine with unforgettable scenic panoramas:

• Sister Bay, WI: The fine dining experience at Alexander’s features locally-sourced ingredients in seasonal dishes, with gorgeous views of the bay.
• The Farmhouse – Philadelphia, PA: Set in Plainfield Township, this rustic fine dining venue offers a carefully curated menu, set within a beautiful rural landscape.
• Justice – Minneapolis, MN: For a more elevated experience in the heart of the city, Justice offers a sophisticated seasonal menu in a sleek and modern outdoor setting.

Pet-friendly establishments

For those who their canine companions, numerous pet-friendly outdoor dining options ensure that dogs and their owners can enjoy a meal side-by-side:

• Modern Annie – Chicago, IL: This trendy eatery welcomes dogs to their outdoor seating area, known for their mouthwatering burgers and unique cocktails.
• Piratzé Gallo – Pasadena, CA: This cantina-style restaurant features an outdoor seating area complete with a doggy menu, allowing owners and pets to dine together in style.

Socially distanced dining experiences

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, socially distanced outdoor dining experiences have rapidly gained in popularity. These venues prioritize safety and well-being, ensuring that patrons can still enjoy delightful cuisine and unforgettable views:

• Elevated Awnings – Various Locations: Offering fully custom, easily sanitizable outdoor dining spaces, Elevated Awnings allows restaurants to create unique socially distanced dining experiences for their customers.
• Como – Boston, MA: This sophisticated restaurant has implemented a variety of safety measures, including outdoor seating with plexiglass barriers and temperature checks prior to entry.

No matter one’s lifestyle or preferences, outdoor dining options are plentiful and diverse across the United States. These carefully curated experiences promise a memorable dining adventure, combining fresh flavors and unique surroundings to satisfy all food lovers.

The Future of Outdoor Dining in the US and Why it’s a Must-Try Experience for Every Food Lover

Outdoor dining, once a niche experience, has become a mainstream phenomenon across the United States. This shift is not merely an ephemeral trend but a fundamental change in the way Americans approach their dining experiences.

The pandemic has acted as a catalyst, accelerating the growth of outdoor dining due to its perceived safety and fresh air ambiance. According to a survey by the National Restaurant Association, 31% of restaurants have expanded outdoor seating to accommodate the demand.^{[1](#myfootnote1)}

But the pandemic is not the only factor driving this change. Americans increasingly value health and wellness, and outdoor dining ticks all the right boxes. It encourages a slower-paced meal, a reconnection with nature, and a natural extension of the social dining experience.

Moreover, outdoor dining offers a unique and memorable experience, one that goes beyond the traditional indoor restaurant setting. Imagine enjoying a meal on a picturesque dock overlooking the ocean, or dining beneath the stars in a cozy alpine setting. These are experiences that enhance the sensory pleasure of food, experiences that will undoubtedly continue to draw diners long after the pandemic has subsided.

In response to this growing demand, restaurants are getting creative, transforming rooftops into lush gardens, patios into intimate dining rooms, and even entire streets into dining plazas. This innovation is not just limited to major cities; small towns and rural areas are also embracing outdoor dining, often capitalizing on their natural surroundings to create unique and enchanting settings.

But what does the future hold for outdoor dining in the United States? As the dining industry evolves, it’s clear that outdoor spaces are here to stay. With more and more people looking for unique dining experiences, outdoor spaces offer a blank canvas for creativity and innovation. They also cater to a wide range of preferences, from fine dining to family-friendly settings, vegetarian options, and even pet-friendly establishments.

Furthermore, the technological advancements in outdoor heating and lighting have made it possible to enjoy outdoor dining almost year-round, even in colder climates. This, combined with the ongoing focus on health and wellness, sustainability, and the desire for unique experiences, suggests that the popularity of outdoor dining in the US is set to continue to rise.

As you explore the world of outdoor dining, remember that the experience is not just about the food on your plate but the environment you’re in, the company you keep, and the memories you create. Outdoor dining in the United States is more than just a dining option; it’s a celebration of the joy of food and the beauty of nature, and it’s an experience that should not be missed.

“The discovery of a new dish does more for human happiness than the discovery of a new star.” – Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

So, the next time you’re planning a meal, consider stepping out into the great outdoors. Your taste buds, and your soul, will thank you for it.