It’s officially springtime and you know what springs to mind? Taking lunch outside on the patio. RICtoday readers helped recommend 10 outdoor patios where you can eat, drink, people-watch + sunbathe. There’s also several pet-friendly options to try with your furry companions.
The Mantu, 10 S. Thompson St.
Chef Hamid Noori serves up Afghan cuisine at this fine dining restaurant near Ellwood Thompson’s. Try this: A table on the breezy covered patio, Banjan Borani + a saffron iced tea.
Pinky’s, 3015 Norfolk St.
Travel to the Mediterranean with the expansive patio + fresh flavors at Pinky’s. The Scott’s Addition spot will make you feel like you’re dining on the coast.
The Continental, 609 Hull St. and 5704 Grove Ave.
Both the Manchester and Westhampton locations have patios to sit and sip limeades. We’ve got our eye on the apps — the baked goat cheese and honey + falafel sliders are calling our names.
Union Market, 2306 Jefferson Ave.
Head to Union Hill to pick up a summery sandwich + sit in the shade. If you aren’t hungry yet, check out their Instagram for daily open-air temptation.
Feel free to bring your furry friends to Parterre. | Photo by @parterre_rva
Parterre, 100 E. Franklin St.
The garden patio at Parterre — which is attached to the Linden Row Hotel — is a summery Southern escape. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, making it the perfect stop during a downtown walk.
Little Nickel, 4702 Forest Hill Ave.
Tropical flare meets diner staples at this inventive Forest Hill restaurant. On a hot day, split a Ruby in the Rough punch bowl + a plate of Hawaiian nachos with your pals.
Izzy’s Kitchen, 2901 Park Ave.
If you’re looking for something fresh, put Izzy’s on your list. The farm-to-table spot is open Tuesday through Saturday in the Museum District and can seat 40+ people on the patio.
The Smoky Mug, 15 E. Brookland Park Blvd.
Whether you’re on the hunt for specialty coffee or Tex Mex tacos, this Northside cafe has something for you. Feel free to bring your laptop, too: The pup-friendly “front porch” is an ideal spot to get some work done.
Maya, 525 E. Grace St.
Take the vibrant flavors of this modern Mexican restaurant outside to the patio. Pro tip: Outdoor tables are first come first serve.
Island Shrimp Co., 11 Orleans St.
The new location of Island Shrimp Co. just opened in Rocketts Landing. On a nice day, the garage doors open and each diner has a view of the James.
We know we left off some stellar Richmond restaurants. Let us know your favorite patio in the city. If you want to read even more recommendations, our list of places with heated patios has spots that are welcoming even outside the winter months.
