With the weather getting colder, eating outside might seem like a thing of the past — but that’s nothing a heater or fire pit can’t fix.
We consulted our readers and did some investigating to compile a list of places to cozy up outside — with the help of some good food and a bit of extra heat.
Note: Make sure to check with individual restaurants to confirm patio hours.
Map
Richmond
City Dogs, 1309 W. Main St.
Get cozy and comfortable in the Fan with hot dogs and a weekly happy hour.
Cobra Cabana, 901 W. Marshall St.
With a fire pit and plenty of heaters, Cobra Cabana in Carver is open late and has no shortage of creative menu options. Try this: the Prince of Tides vegan “lobster” roll.
The Continental Westhampton, 5704 Grove Ave.
Reader Darlene L. recommends this heated outdoor seating if you’re looking for American food.
The Daily Kitchen & Bar, 2934 W. Cary St.
Dine out on the heated patio as they meet all your gluten free and vegan dietary needs.
En Su Boca, 1001 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd.
Enjoy Tex-Mex dishes in Richmond and stay toasty on the lamp-heated patio.
Fall Line Kitchen & Bar, 500 E. Broad St.
Reserve a personal igloo for your party and enjoy cocktails, craft beer, and comfort food.
Fire & Hops Pizza Co., 1 N. Belmont Ave.
Reader Kathryn B. shouted out the expanded heated patio at this Museum District pizza joint.
Goatocado, 1823 W. Main St.
Fresh food and fire pits — what more could you want?
Grisette, 3119 E. Marshall St.
Sip a house cocktail and sample the seasonal menu at this French restaurant.
Hardywood Pizza Kitchen and Taproom, 2410 Ownby Ln.
Enjoy a slice and a brew around a fire pit or near a heater in the beer garden.
The Hill Café, 2800 E. Broad St.
Reader Meredith L. recommends this Church Hill spot.
Island Shrimp Co., 11 Orleans St.
Book an igloo to enjoy tropical seafood outside even during the colder months. Bonus: The seasonal menu Rum & Reindeer continues through Jan. 5.
Little Nickel, 4702 Forest Hill Ave.
Tropical vibes are a year-round affair at this Forest Hill spot. Split a plate of Hawaiian nachos or try out the crab spaghetti on its heated patio.
LuLu’s, 21 N. 17th St.
This Shockoe Bottom staple has plenty of patio heaters and award-winning brunch. Try a lobster biscuit or order the Insta-worthy red velvet waffle.
Lunch.SUPPER!, 1213 Summit Ave.
The modern eatery in Scott’s Addition is a heated haven for local food aficionados. The fire pit provides a cozy atmosphere; the mushroom gnocchi and bacon-onion-parm brussels fill your belly.
Millie’s Diner, 2603 E. Main St.
Reader Aaron C. told us that this Richmond staple started serving outdoor brunch on its heated patio a few years ago.
New York Deli, 2920 W. Cary St.
The rooftop of this Carytown staple has fire pits and a tropical theme to keep you toasty.
Parterre, 100 E. Franklin St.
Nestled in the Linden Row Inn in Monroe Ward, Parterre has heaters in its cozy garden patio and drinks to help warm you up. Try the Tiramiss-You specialty cocktail or go for a comforting entrée, like the chicken and sausage gumbo.
Pit and Peel Rooftop, 1210 W. Main St.
Warm up with on this rooftop with some coffee or tea and snuggle up to a heater while taking in an amazing view of Richmond.
Union Market, 2306 Jefferson Ave.
Reader Joseph B. recommends keeping an eye out for the mulled wine, a favorite from its seasonal menu that pairs with patio dining perfectly.
Henrico
Bartizan, 4035 Whittall Way
Reader Terrell F. recommends Bartizan, which has a covered outdoor patio in West Broad Village in Henrico.
The Grapevine, 11055 Three Chopt Rd.
Reader Beth P. recommends dining outside on this heated patio to eat under the stars in Henrico.
HOBNOB RVA, 6010 Hermitage Rd.
Heated lamps cheer up the patio at this Lakeside neighborhood restaurant.
Portico, 12506 River Rd.
Settle in for a toasty Italian-inspired meal outside the charming cottage on River Road. Reader Robb M. loves the outdoor space.
Red Salt Chophouse and Sushi, 12221 W. Broad St.
Sushi, steak, and an enclosed heated patio in Short Pump come recommended by Reader Steve S.
Tazza Kitchen, multiple locations
The Short Pump and Alverser locations of this wood-fired oasis have a cozy outdoor seating area, according to Readers Terrell F. and Mary Beth T.
West Coast Provisions, 301A Maltby Blvd.
Reader Steve S. recommended this outdoor heating dining experience and the seafood at this restaurant in Henrico.
Chesterfield
Capital Ale House, 13831 Village Place Dr.
Reader James M. recommends the Midlothian Capital Ale House location. You can also order the Thai chili wings to stay warm — or go for a giant pretzel with Bavarian mustard.
The Hard Shell, 11400 W. Huguenot Rd.
Head to Midlothian location to enjoy seafood and a heated patio, recommended by Reader Shelley M.
Did we forget your favorite place to enjoy a warm meal in a toasty outdoor environment? Tell us who we left off and we’ll add them to our list.
