Best Outdoor Dining in Raleigh
Out: Winter Weather. In: Springtime and dinner al fresco! I for one am ready for the warmer weather to come our way and when it does, it’ll be an outdoor table for this gal. I don’t gatekeep, so I’m here to share my favorite restaurants for outdoor dining in Raleigh with you! Enjoy.
Mulino Italian Kitchen and Bar
When writing about outdoor dining areas, my mind will never not go straight to Mulino Italian Kitchen and Bar. Year-round, this Italian escape offers the most gorgeous outdoor dining experience. Step through the gate and you’ll see beautiful plants + palms plus seating circling their gorgeous pool. With vibrant colors and twinkling lights, you’ll be transported to paradise. Complete your visit with the Amalfi Holiday cocktail + their decadent truffle gnocchi.
Photo by: Mulino Italian Kitchen and Bar
east end bistrot
This new Raleigh gem is known for its upscale, French-inspired interior, but did you know they have a stunning patio as well? As Spring approaches, you’ll want to mark your calendar for Tuesdays on the Terrace at East End Bistrot. Every Tuesday while the warm weather lasts, enjoy a champagne toast, menu of light bites, oysters, and frites while soaking up the sunshine. Enjoy this award-winning spot and patio vibes simultaneously all Spring and Summer long!
Photo by: East End Bistrot
wye hill kitchen & brewing
If you’re looking for outdoor dining with incredible Raleigh views and delicious eats, Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing is your spot! After just one visit, you’ll understand why it becomes THE Raleigh hotspot once the temperatures warm up. Wye Hill’s vibrant, inviting feel will keep you coming back for more and makes the perfect place to bring your out of towners!
Photo by: Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing
Madre
Downtown Raleigh’s hottest new spot, Madre, has quickly become my favorite restaurant. Its celebration of motherly hospitality, Spanish-inspired menu, unique dishes for sharing, and absolutely stunning interior have blown me away. While I highly recommend dining inside to experience the incredible design, their outdoor patio is going to be lovely this Spring + Summer, no doubt. This season, their bar will open up to the terrace and create an outdoor gathering place you won’t want to miss.
Pro-tip: try their new brunch menu! The smashburger is life-changing.
sam jones bbq
I couldn’t dare make this list without including a North Carolina staple like barbeque. Feel-good vibes can always be found on the patio of Sam Jones BBQ! “Rooted in the tradition of Eastern North Carolina whole hog technique that Sam has known his entire life, Sam Jones BBQ also offers a variety of new spins on smoked meat” and we’re thrilled to have his second location be right here in Raleigh. Downtown, but tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets, it’s the perfect place to spend an evening enjoying some comfort food and warmer temps.
Photo By: Sam Jones BBQ
