Best Outdoor Dining in Houston
South Texas has the perfect spring weather for outdoor dining, and Houston boasts a pretty solid patio season. After a winter of being cooped up, doesn’t it sound nice to try some great restaurants and dine outdoors?
There is patio dining in places all over the city that offers a vibe for everyone. So whether it’s skyline views or a no-frills hideaway you crave, you’ll find it here.
Here are the perfect patios for dining al fresco in Houston, all located in southern Houston and not far from Medical Center RV.
The Backstreet has become a Houston institution, both for its unique dining space inside a 1930’s-era home, and its diverse menu crafted by Hugo Ortega serving the classics and more. Just outside, a sunken courtyard offers picturesque views at every turn, with tables peppered throughout two levels. On days with nice weather, a courtyard seat is highly sought after, but fortunately they have a front patio, too. Still, you’ll want to arrive early to stake your claim.
For a bit of the high life, this famed bistro is just steps from the Menil Collection, with a minimalistic patio boasting sweeping views of Menil Park. Drum up your appetite by first walking the grounds, then settle into your table with a bottle of wine and a charcuterie board. For those with a less refined palette, their American fare with craft beer may be more to your liking.
At the Arrive at River Oaks retail complex and steps from upscale shopping mecca Tootsies, Pondicheri is a modern Indian café offering first-class people watching Grab a table at their sprawling wrap-around patio and indulge in humungous dosas paired with a saffron-spriced sangria.
We thought this was apt because the name of this eatery reminds us of RV living! But all joking aside, this is a fabulous spot with lush grounds and rustic décor. Many people are adamant that this is the best outdoor dining in Houston. On the patio, dine on a variety of salads and sandwiches while you people-watch from a comfy lounger or table. Then wrap up your meal with one of Tiny’s famous chocolate chip cookies.
Located in the Museum District, this Houston gen offers a semi-covered patio and a spacious seating area with both picnic tables and high-top tables. It is equipped with misting fans and heaters to accommodate Houston’s sometimes predictable weather. Enjoy live jazz on Thursdays at 6:30 or during brunch at 11 on the weekends. Enjoy dishes such as Tennessee hot duck and southern fried green tomatoes.
This Houston staple is 45 years young, and with good reason. A popular stop with Rice Village visitors, it’s got a gigantic patio with fabulous views of the shopping district. During weekend brunch, you’ll find pops of colors peppered throughout as people indulge in mimosa flights featuring fresh raspberry, strawberry, grapefruit, and OJ. During the evenings, the crowds arrive to take part in lingering, wine-fueled dinners.
Another Rice Village favorite (this area is home to many a patio restaurant), this dining spot stands out from the rest. Gratify is a trendy place to eat and drink, offering a wraparound patio with dining tables and comfortable lounge seating overlooking a community green space. Savor healthy, traditional fare such as lamb meatballs, lobster & crab mac & cheese, and seared salmon done to perfection.
This spot is both a restaurant and a live music destination. With its large, fully enclosed patio, an actual larger-than-life armadillo metal armadillo with greet you at the main entrance. Enjoy Tex Mex fare that is presented in photo-worth splendor, such as carne asada and campechana.