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Blue banquette seating with white tables on a covered patio.
The terrace at Ouzo Bay.
Kirsten Gilliam

Houston Patios Perfect for Dining and Drinking Alfresco

Soak in the sun and cooler temps at these outdoor dining destinations

by Megha McSwain and Brittany Britto Garley Updated
View as Map
The terrace at Ouzo Bay.
| Kirsten Gilliam
by Megha McSwain and Brittany Britto Garley Updated

Houston’s weather may be unpredictable, but there is no denying that the city boasts a pretty solid patio season when the climate is pleasantly cool and less humid. Though the weather will only cooperate for so long (hint: the time is now!), sitting outside with snacks and a cocktail can still be enjoyable.

Luckily, Houston’s patios in different pockets of the city offer a vibe for everyone, and Eater Houston is doing its best to keep track of the best.

So, whether in search of skyline views or a no-frills hideaway to drink beer and eat barbecue at a picnic table, here are 21 options for perfect Houston patios to dine or drink alfresco.

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If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

d'Alba

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A beloved neighborhood restaurant with locations in Garden Oaks and Midtown, d’Alba boasts a charming backyard-style patio, complete with flat-screen TVs, picnic tables and Adirondack chairs, and a children’s play area. In addition to craft cocktails, wine, and beer, the menu features provisions like Gulf oysters, seafood campechana, and 12-inch wood-fired pies. 

3715 Alba Rd, Houston, TX 77018
(346) 319-5790
(346) 319-5790

Also featured in:

Rainbow Lodge

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Rainbow Lodge has been the site of countless special events and celebrations, and for good reason. The stunning property, situated on the banks of White Oak Bayou, boasts breathtaking views from both inside the restaurant, which is housed in a more than 100-year-old cabin, and from its sprawling outdoor oasis. Explore its menu of wild game and seafood, and then explore the grounds.

2011 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77008
(713) 861-8666
(713) 861-8666
The exterior of Rainbow Lodge with a sprawling outdoor terrace.
Rainbow Lodge is a restaurant housed in a more than 100-year-old cabin.
Jerry Smith

Also featured in:

La Lucha

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Ford Fry’s Gulf seafood and fried chicken destination boasts a large enclosed patio peppered with casual seating and picnic tables meant for lingering around for a long while. With its hanging lanterns, the large oak tree, makes for a charming backdrop as you enjoy dishes like raw or wood-roasted Gulf oysters, a fried chicken dinner, or crispy shrimp tacos.

1801 N Shepherd Dr #A, Houston, TX 77008
(713) 955-4765
(713) 955-4765

Also featured in:

Coltivare

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When it comes to dining outdoors, Coltivare’s quaint backyard garden is a classic option with a true neighborhood feel. Down its iconic version of black pepper spaghetti, meatballs, and a wood-fired pizza on the gravel patio, and take in the scents of the plots of herbs while downing a glass of wine.

3320 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007
(832) 203-7890
(832) 203-7890

Also featured in:

Daily Gather

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Quality people-watching, cocktails, and heartwarming dishes abound at this CITYCENTRE restaurant. Daily Gather’s patio, which is equipped with heaters in the cooler months, overlooks the development’s courtyard and green space, which means diners get a front-row seat to its calendar of outdoor festivities, including live music in the plaza.

800 Sorella Ct #940, Houston, TX 77024
(713) 429-0451
(713) 429-0451
Daily Gather’s patio, which is outfitted with a variety of seating and tables.
Daily Gather.
Claudia Casbarian

Also featured in:

Flora

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Nestled up high along Buffalo Bayou, Flora feels like an urban treehouse where guests can bask in the views of their natural surroundings. The large covered patio is bedecked with string lights, and is a comfortable place to feast on sopecitos, guacamole, cricket salt-rimmed margaritas, and more, with friends.

3422 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019
(713) 360-6477
(713) 360-6477

Also featured in:

Brenner's on the Bayou

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There are no shortage of steakhouses in the city, but few offer views like Brenner’s on the Bayou. Quietly situated among the natural landscape of Buffalo Bayou, the restaurant’s large outdoor terrace serves as a serene backdrop in which to dine on steakhouse classics. For a more relaxed dining experience, visit the outdoor Blue Bar for happy hour on weekdays from 4 to 7 p.m.

1 Birdsall St, Houston, TX 77007
(713) 868-4444
(713) 868-4444

Also featured in:

Backstreet Cafe

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A Houston institution both for its diverse menu by chef Hugo Ortega and its unique dining space inside a 1930s-era home, Backstreet Café offers the quintessential outdoor patio. A sunken courtyard boasts picturesque views at every turn with tables peppered across two levels. On excellent weather days, a table in the courtyard is highly sought after — luckily, the restaurant offers a number of tables on the front patio, too.

1103 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77019
(713) 521-2239
(713) 521-2239

Also featured in:

Brasserie 19

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Seats on the front patio at Brasserie 19 are some of the most coveted patio seats in town. The trendy French restaurant is consistently a reliable go-to for locals looking to kick back and nosh on snacks like caviar and chips, burgundy escargot, and well-built charcuterie boards. The people (and dog) watching is good, so spring for a bottle of Bordeaux and stay awhile.

1962 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019
(713) 524-1919
(713) 524-1919

Also featured in:

The Annie Cafe & Bar

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The Annie’s dual-level patio perched high above Post Oak Boulevard is a welcoming extension of the swanky restaurant. Oversized green umbrellas offer solace from the sun, and walls of ivy surround the large space, creating a cozy atmosphere.

1800 Post Oak Blvd Suite 6170, Houston, TX 77056
(713) 804-1800
(713) 804-1800
The covered patio with white tablecloth tables and trees.
The Annie’s boxwood lined patio is a favorite for weekend brunch.
Jenn Duncan

Also featured in:

Toulouse Cafe and Bar River Oaks

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With prime real estate at the center of River Oaks District, Toulouse’s patio is reminiscent of the alfresco dining and drinking options you’ll find in Europe. Seating spills into the main courtyard, where diners can take in all of the ritzy retail center action from their table, while sipping wine and snacking on butter-drenched escargot. Live music on weekends is the icing on the cake.

4444 Westheimer Rd Ste E 100, Houston, TX 77027
(713) 871-0768
(713) 871-0768

Ouzo Bay

Copy Link

Ouzo Bay has striking interiors, but its narrow canopied patio, with vibrant pops of blue accents, is a welcome place to retreat to when the weather is pleasant. Explore the beverage list, which boasts many Greek wines, and enjoy dishes like spanakopita, hummus with crisp chicken, and okra king salmon with smoked tomato broth.

4444 Westheimer Rd Suite G130, Houston, TX 77027
(832) 430-6610
(832) 430-6610

Also featured in:

Musaafer

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Like its various themed dining rooms, Musaafer’s large covered patio offers a unique space in which to eat, drink, and hang. Bar seats and high top tables are situated around a large outdoor bar, plus there are a few coveted tables enclosed by white linen drapes. Pair one of the famed G&Ts with tuna chaat, and allow yourself to mentally escape to the majestic palaces of India.

5115 Westheimer Rd Suite C-3500, Houston, TX 77056
(713) 242-8087
(713) 242-8087
Covered outdoor terrace with yellow barstools and hightop tables.
Musaafer’s palatial terrace sits high above Westheimer.
Julie Soefer

Also featured in:

Tiny Boxwoods

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With its lush grounds filled with flowers and rustic décor, this West U standout is home to one of the best outdoor dining spaces in the city. People-watch from a table or comfy couch lounger on the patio while dining on salads, sandwiches, and Tiny’s famed chocolate chip cookies. 

3614 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77027
(713) 622-4224
(713) 622-4224

Also featured in:

Marmo

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This Italian chophouse is a newbie at the Montrose Collective. Opt for a seat on the large, shaded patio, lined with planters, and take in views of the retail development’s buzzy surroundings. Visit during happy hour, which is available Sunday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., and take advantage of food and drink specials like $2 East Coast oysters and $7 veal bolognese.

888 Westheimer Rd Suite 109, Houston, TX 77006
(832) 626-3400
(832) 626-3400
Two rows of table on the covered patio at Marmo.
Marmo’s large covered patio at the Montrose Collective.
Alex Montoya

Also featured in:

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J-Bar-M Barbecue

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At this EaDo joint, barbecue and brews can be enjoyed with sweeping views of the Downtown skyline, which is especially beautiful after sunset. Tuesday through Friday, catch their smokehouse reverse happy hour, hosted from 9 to 11 p.m. with specials on beer, cocktails, and wines by the glass.

2201 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003
(713) 534-1024
(713) 534-1024

Also featured in:

Bistro Menil

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Steps from the famed Menil Collection, the minimalistic patio at Bistro Menil allows the sweeping views of the surrounding Menil Park to take center stage. Walk the grounds before settling in on the patio with a bottle of vino and a charcuterie board. 

1513 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006
(713) 904-3537
(713) 904-3537

Also featured in:

Gratify

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Rice Village is home to patio restaurants galore, and Gratify is a standout among them. This trendy eating and drinking place from restaurateur Grant Cooper boasts a covered wraparound patio with dining tables and comfortable lounge seating overlooking a community green space.

5212 Morningside Dr, Houston, TX 77005
(713) 524-7865
(713) 524-7865

Also featured in:

Hungry's

Copy Link

This decades-old restaurant is a popular stop among Rice Village visitors, namely for its enormous, family-friendly patio that’s equipped with heaters, fans, and large tables so to enjoy the views of the shopping district. Weekend brunch finds pops of color at various tables with mimosa flights featuring fresh OJ, raspberry, strawberry, or grapefruit juices, while evenings reel in the crowds for long, wine-fueled dinners.

2356 Rice Boulevard, Houston, TX 77005
(713) 523-8652
(713) 523-8652
The exterior of Hungry’s restaurant at dusk.
Hungry’s patio has long been a favorite in Rice Village.
Julie Soefer

Also featured in:

Betsy's at Evelyn's Park

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This Bellaire restaurant is situated on the grounds of the Evelyn’s Park Conservancy, making it a great place to stop for sustenance before or after a walk or bike ride. The family-friendly restaurant has an approachable menu of pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, and tacos, plus sweet treats like soft-serve and popsicles.

4400 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX 77401
(713) 660-6692
(713) 660-6692

More in Maps

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d'Alba

3715 Alba Rd, Houston, TX 77018

A beloved neighborhood restaurant with locations in Garden Oaks and Midtown, d’Alba boasts a charming backyard-style patio, complete with flat-screen TVs, picnic tables and Adirondack chairs, and a children’s play area. In addition to craft cocktails, wine, and beer, the menu features provisions like Gulf oysters, seafood campechana, and 12-inch wood-fired pies. 

3715 Alba Rd, Houston, TX 77018
(346) 319-5790
(346) 319-5790

Rainbow Lodge

2011 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77008

Rainbow Lodge has been the site of countless special events and celebrations, and for good reason. The stunning property, situated on the banks of White Oak Bayou, boasts breathtaking views from both inside the restaurant, which is housed in a more than 100-year-old cabin, and from its sprawling outdoor oasis. Explore its menu of wild game and seafood, and then explore the grounds.

2011 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77008
(713) 861-8666
(713) 861-8666
The exterior of Rainbow Lodge with a sprawling outdoor terrace.
Rainbow Lodge is a restaurant housed in a more than 100-year-old cabin.
Jerry Smith

La Lucha

1801 N Shepherd Dr #A, Houston, TX 77008

Ford Fry’s Gulf seafood and fried chicken destination boasts a large enclosed patio peppered with casual seating and picnic tables meant for lingering around for a long while. With its hanging lanterns, the large oak tree, makes for a charming backdrop as you enjoy dishes like raw or wood-roasted Gulf oysters, a fried chicken dinner, or crispy shrimp tacos.

1801 N Shepherd Dr #A, Houston, TX 77008
(713) 955-4765
(713) 955-4765

Coltivare

3320 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007

When it comes to dining outdoors, Coltivare’s quaint backyard garden is a classic option with a true neighborhood feel. Down its iconic version of black pepper spaghetti, meatballs, and a wood-fired pizza on the gravel patio, and take in the scents of the plots of herbs while downing a glass of wine.

3320 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007
(832) 203-7890
(832) 203-7890

Daily Gather

800 Sorella Ct #940, Houston, TX 77024

Quality people-watching, cocktails, and heartwarming dishes abound at this CITYCENTRE restaurant. Daily Gather’s patio, which is equipped with heaters in the cooler months, overlooks the development’s courtyard and green space, which means diners get a front-row seat to its calendar of outdoor festivities, including live music in the plaza.

800 Sorella Ct #940, Houston, TX 77024
(713) 429-0451
(713) 429-0451
Daily Gather’s patio, which is outfitted with a variety of seating and tables.
Daily Gather.
Claudia Casbarian

Flora

3422 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019

Nestled up high along Buffalo Bayou, Flora feels like an urban treehouse where guests can bask in the views of their natural surroundings. The large covered patio is bedecked with string lights, and is a comfortable place to feast on sopecitos, guacamole, cricket salt-rimmed margaritas, and more, with friends.

3422 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019
(713) 360-6477
(713) 360-6477

Brenner's on the Bayou

1 Birdsall St, Houston, TX 77007

There are no shortage of steakhouses in the city, but few offer views like Brenner’s on the Bayou. Quietly situated among the natural landscape of Buffalo Bayou, the restaurant’s large outdoor terrace serves as a serene backdrop in which to dine on steakhouse classics. For a more relaxed dining experience, visit the outdoor Blue Bar for happy hour on weekdays from 4 to 7 p.m.

1 Birdsall St, Houston, TX 77007
(713) 868-4444
(713) 868-4444

Backstreet Cafe

1103 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77019

A Houston institution both for its diverse menu by chef Hugo Ortega and its unique dining space inside a 1930s-era home, Backstreet Café offers the quintessential outdoor patio. A sunken courtyard boasts picturesque views at every turn with tables peppered across two levels. On excellent weather days, a table in the courtyard is highly sought after — luckily, the restaurant offers a number of tables on the front patio, too.

1103 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77019
(713) 521-2239
(713) 521-2239

Brasserie 19

1962 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019

Seats on the front patio at Brasserie 19 are some of the most coveted patio seats in town. The trendy French restaurant is consistently a reliable go-to for locals looking to kick back and nosh on snacks like caviar and chips, burgundy escargot, and well-built charcuterie boards. The people (and dog) watching is good, so spring for a bottle of Bordeaux and stay awhile.

1962 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019
(713) 524-1919
(713) 524-1919

The Annie Cafe & Bar

1800 Post Oak Blvd Suite 6170, Houston, TX 77056

The Annie’s dual-level patio perched high above Post Oak Boulevard is a welcoming extension of the swanky restaurant. Oversized green umbrellas offer solace from the sun, and walls of ivy surround the large space, creating a cozy atmosphere.

1800 Post Oak Blvd Suite 6170, Houston, TX 77056
(713) 804-1800
(713) 804-1800
The covered patio with white tablecloth tables and trees.
The Annie’s boxwood lined patio is a favorite for weekend brunch.
Jenn Duncan

Toulouse Cafe and Bar River Oaks

4444 Westheimer Rd Ste E 100, Houston, TX 77027

With prime real estate at the center of River Oaks District, Toulouse’s patio is reminiscent of the alfresco dining and drinking options you’ll find in Europe. Seating spills into the main courtyard, where diners can take in all of the ritzy retail center action from their table, while sipping wine and snacking on butter-drenched escargot. Live music on weekends is the icing on the cake.

4444 Westheimer Rd Ste E 100, Houston, TX 77027
(713) 871-0768
(713) 871-0768

Ouzo Bay

4444 Westheimer Rd Suite G130, Houston, TX 77027

Ouzo Bay has striking interiors, but its narrow canopied patio, with vibrant pops of blue accents, is a welcome place to retreat to when the weather is pleasant. Explore the beverage list, which boasts many Greek wines, and enjoy dishes like spanakopita, hummus with crisp chicken, and okra king salmon with smoked tomato broth.

4444 Westheimer Rd Suite G130, Houston, TX 77027
(832) 430-6610
(832) 430-6610

Musaafer

5115 Westheimer Rd Suite C-3500, Houston, TX 77056

Like its various themed dining rooms, Musaafer’s large covered patio offers a unique space in which to eat, drink, and hang. Bar seats and high top tables are situated around a large outdoor bar, plus there are a few coveted tables enclosed by white linen drapes. Pair one of the famed G&Ts with tuna chaat, and allow yourself to mentally escape to the majestic palaces of India.

5115 Westheimer Rd Suite C-3500, Houston, TX 77056
(713) 242-8087
(713) 242-8087
Covered outdoor terrace with yellow barstools and hightop tables.
Musaafer’s palatial terrace sits high above Westheimer.
Julie Soefer

Tiny Boxwoods

3614 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77027

With its lush grounds filled with flowers and rustic décor, this West U standout is home to one of the best outdoor dining spaces in the city. People-watch from a table or comfy couch lounger on the patio while dining on salads, sandwiches, and Tiny’s famed chocolate chip cookies. 

3614 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77027
(713) 622-4224
(713) 622-4224

Marmo

888 Westheimer Rd Suite 109, Houston, TX 77006

This Italian chophouse is a newbie at the Montrose Collective. Opt for a seat on the large, shaded patio, lined with planters, and take in views of the retail development’s buzzy surroundings. Visit during happy hour, which is available Sunday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., and take advantage of food and drink specials like $2 East Coast oysters and $7 veal bolognese.

888 Westheimer Rd Suite 109, Houston, TX 77006
(832) 626-3400
(832) 626-3400
Two rows of table on the covered patio at Marmo.
Marmo’s large covered patio at the Montrose Collective.
Alex Montoya

Related Maps

J-Bar-M Barbecue

2201 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003

At this EaDo joint, barbecue and brews can be enjoyed with sweeping views of the Downtown skyline, which is especially beautiful after sunset. Tuesday through Friday, catch their smokehouse reverse happy hour, hosted from 9 to 11 p.m. with specials on beer, cocktails, and wines by the glass.

2201 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003
(713) 534-1024
(713) 534-1024

Bistro Menil

1513 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006

Steps from the famed Menil Collection, the minimalistic patio at Bistro Menil allows the sweeping views of the surrounding Menil Park to take center stage. Walk the grounds before settling in on the patio with a bottle of vino and a charcuterie board. 

1513 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006
(713) 904-3537
(713) 904-3537

Gratify

5212 Morningside Dr, Houston, TX 77005

Rice Village is home to patio restaurants galore, and Gratify is a standout among them. This trendy eating and drinking place from restaurateur Grant Cooper boasts a covered wraparound patio with dining tables and comfortable lounge seating overlooking a community green space.

5212 Morningside Dr, Houston, TX 77005
(713) 524-7865
(713) 524-7865

Hungry's

2356 Rice Boulevard, Houston, TX 77005

This decades-old restaurant is a popular stop among Rice Village visitors, namely for its enormous, family-friendly patio that’s equipped with heaters, fans, and large tables so to enjoy the views of the shopping district. Weekend brunch finds pops of color at various tables with mimosa flights featuring fresh OJ, raspberry, strawberry, or grapefruit juices, while evenings reel in the crowds for long, wine-fueled dinners.

2356 Rice Boulevard, Houston, TX 77005
(713) 523-8652
(713) 523-8652
The exterior of Hungry’s restaurant at dusk.
Hungry’s patio has long been a favorite in Rice Village.
Julie Soefer

Betsy's at Evelyn's Park

4400 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX 77401

This Bellaire restaurant is situated on the grounds of the Evelyn’s Park Conservancy, making it a great place to stop for sustenance before or after a walk or bike ride. The family-friendly restaurant has an approachable menu of pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, and tacos, plus sweet treats like soft-serve and popsicles.

4400 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX 77401
(713) 660-6692
(713) 660-6692

Related Maps