Best Patios & Outdoor Bars in Austin

I love walking from restaurant to restaurant or hopping from margarita to margarita when the sun is shining and the sidewalks are crowded because everyone has either just gone for their morning Town Lake run or they are pregaming for their Lake Austin boat day. Sit outside on all the welcoming outdoor patios around town and enjoy the quality time with your people!

So, whether you’re in the mood for live music, the best tacos, a classic burger, or a kid-friendly space, I’ve rounded up my all time favorite Austin restaurant patios. Let’s hope they all have their misters ready for the heat!

SOUTH

Elizabeth Street Cafe

I prefer this pretty pastel oasis for brunch or lunch. The patio wraps from the front to the side of the restaurant, and even though you’re on a major road, it feels like a secret garden. Order the fried chicken bún—I get half noodles and half lettuce, and it comes with flavorful herbs and crunchy peanuts. I also love the shrimp dumpling appetizer called Steamed Rice Rolls and their shrubs, a non-alcoholic drink made with Apple Cider.

Loro

This is the Aaron Franklin (of Franklin’s Barbecue) and Tyson Cole (of Uchi) mash-up that works for an easy lunch or quick evening dinner. There are no reservations, but there’s a good flow to their seating, so it’s worth the wait on the patio. There’s plenty of seating outside, and you can order craft canned beverages while you wait to keep the time speedy. Once you make it to the promised land, hop on that mango sake slushie, chicken bo sam, cabbage salad, brisket sandwich (daytime only), and brisket plate (after 5 PM).

Only the Wild Ones

With Austin’s first outdoor custom hi-fi sound system and top-notch natural wine program, Only the Wild Ones is a stunner for looks and transporting you to a beautiful vacation right on South Congress. The shaded old-word oasis makes you feel like you’re in Europe, and the wine program offers bottles that are both familiar and totally fresh and only available here. There are cocktails and NA drinks, as well as food. You can make a reservation for patio seating or hang out in the conversation pit by the shaded tree and meet new friends. (Photo by Ashley Randall)

St. Elmo Brewery

While I’m not a beer lover, I enjoy visiting this brewery with craft beer because it’s unassuming and there is usually always a spot to squeeze into. Plus, they now have a Spicy Boys Fried Chicken Food Truck, and we all know food is my first priority. You can spend all afternoon perched at a picnic table here, playing games with friends, or visiting other drinking spots in the St. Elmo parking lot like Austin Winery or Still Austin.

The Little Darlin’

The Little Darlin’ is a safe haven for good music, low key scene, cold beer, and a regular/expected backyard burger and fries in South Austin. Take a seat and stay awhile in this huge area—full of picnic tables, swings, and lounge chairs. It’s close to another favorite music club of mine, Sagebrush, if you like to hop around.

Still Austin

Enjoy this local distillery’s bourbon, whiskey, and gin. And, most importantly, they have great live shows.

High Road DelicaTexan

This spot opened next to Thai Fresh on the corner of Mary and South 5th, and after visiting on opening weekend, I can say this is super exciting for the neighborhood. I will always order a turkey sandwich if it’s on the menu, and the one here held a great ratio of meat to a super squishy bun. I did want more of the banana peppers on the sandwich, and I enjoyed the crinkle cut fries! All the dishes I saw held great portion sizes, and everything was homemade, including the turkey. Although I loved the retro interiors and red-and-blue checkered floor, the purpose of this place really is to eat outside and watch people walk by. It’s a place for everybody — babies, dogs, families, friends, you name it.

Lenoir

Let their beautiful wine garden take you away —I t feels like you are at a friend’s dinner party. It’s one of the best meals in town with an ever-changing seasonal menu, and always all natural wine list. It’s good hot-weather food. Next time you’re there, try the whole fish in curry sauce which is my favorite dish in all of Austin. They are so careful with their delicate ingredients and everything on the menu is always fabulous and different than anyone else’s in town.

Boni’s Bar Next Door

South 1st’s first cocktail bar, Boni’s, offers Spanish-inspired drinks, stand-out bar food, and the best Old Austin ambience we’ve been shouting for! With Lenoir right next door, owners Todd and Jess have put so much care and intention into this little village by preserving the nearly 100-year-old bungalow that Boni’s occupies. The outside deck is made from original, recovered wood, and the side yard features plenty of picnic tables for group hangs. Plus, you won’t find better food or drinks at such a cozy, easygoing neighborhood bar! (Photo by Chad Wadsworth)

Cosmic

An eclectic vibe that’s mostly all outdoors, so plenty of seating, and all sorts of beverages for all your friends to be happy, from kombucha to beer to cocktails to coffee. I prefer it during the late afternoon, but you could stay late into the night for a relaxed evening.

Far Out Lounge

The Far Out Lounge is a South Austin staple—let’s be real, all the best music venues with dedicated locals are down South and stay true to the city’s original vibe. There’s a GIGANTIC yard with an outdoor stage, food trucks, and live music multiple nights a week that makes you feel like you’re at a Texas ranch or mini music festival in the best way. It feels low key enough for a weeknight hang and historic enough to make you come back for more.

Moontower Saloon

Hang out on Moontower Saloon’s 11 acre property studded with shady oak trees and cozy fire pits. It’s your typical old-school dive bar but it feels just so authentic and “old” Austin to me. I love the huge yard and crowd that feels like Texas, plus the stage feels a little more intimate and open. They have live music multiple nights a week and a mouthwatering brisket quesadilla at their resident food truck, plus cold beer to take down the summer heat. No they do not have any fancy drinks or seltzers, so don’t even bother asking.

Fresa’s South 1st

Fresa’s South 1st patio is perfect for kids. Parents can order margaritas, queso, guac, chicken plates with rice and beans while the kids run around the grounds and stare at the rainbow painted tables. Finish the meal with the homemade ice cream, especially the salted caramel. Or grab some pints to go!

Central Machine Works

This place is always packed (but not annoying), and you’ll always run into friends or someone’s kid here. If you’re not into beer like me, try the blackberry smash for something springy and refreshing and always Ranch Rider Spirits. They have a big stage and plenty of outdoor patio seating and lawn games.

SOUTH CONGRESS

Meteor

This South Congress wine shop meets bike shop meets restaurant with really good pizza and brownies has a surprisingly good back patio that’s super hidden and quiet. They have umbrellas over the picnic tables, so it’s a good place to meet up to hammer out on your laptop or for a post-work hang. There’s usually room for you and your crew, and it’s super easy going.

Hotel San José

Hotel San José’s courtyard is a hidden oasis, and one of the best places to escape the hustle and bustle of South Congress. I’d recommend this for a date in the early evening or to meet someone for the first time. The infamous frosé is not too sweet and refreshing, and their michelada is a classic if you enjoy drinks on the savory side. Sunday is one of my favorite days to come here for a last weekend getaway drink among the plants, cacti, and serene pool that peeps through the lounge.

Perla’s

Take a leisurely lunch at this seafood mecca with the largest patio on South Congress (but watch out for the pooping birds–eww). Stay for the best shrimp cocktail in the city, oysters, tuna tostada, big red fish with chimichurri, and caesar salad with grilled shrimp, plus a great wine and champagne list. Of course, they always have a frozen drink of the day, too!

Summer House on Music Lane

I recommend this spot at night over lunch or brunch because the lighting at night is super cozy, and everything I’d ever want to order for dinner is on this one menu: a stellar whole fish, good starter salads, whipped feta with some soft yet crunchy homemade bread, steak cut fries, and a gorgeous California vibe patio.

Guero’s

This old Austin Mexican spot has live music in the heart of South Congress Wednesday – Sunday. Don’t miss the $2.75 tacos, $1.89 tamales, and margs before hopping around town. I’d stay in the side yard vs. waiting too long for a table. If you NEED Tex-Mex go to Polvo’s!

Home Slice

They have a new-ish fenced off patio right on South Congress, so it’s the prime place for a quick slice when you’re in a hurry. Don’t tell anyone, but I actually love their Turkey sandwiches more than the pizza. Their Hyde Park patio is also a good vibe and super kid-friendly, and they have a happy sea salted chocolate chip cookie that’s soft.

BARTON SPRINGS & DOWNTOWN

El Alma

This Austin staple on Barton Springs Road has an extra special rooftop patio because it’s not oversized, and you can see everyone out there. Make sure to get there early because it fills up fast. I love their ceviche, queso, and make sure to ask for extra special thick chips because they don’t give them with every dish. Please skip all of their wine and go for the mango margarita.

Casa de Luz

This healthy, macrobiotic, and vegan spot is a hippie escape from the rest of town and one of the only places I’ll choose to go alone. For under $15, you get a healthy serving of nutritious and delectable veggies in your own safe haven. Always a daily soup, salad with the best almond dressing, and main vegetable plate that is paired with kale, cabbage, rice, beans. The Guacamole Tacos on Wednesday at lunch are the jam! The whole place is centered around healing and wellness. It reminds me of Bali with its calming atmosphere, and even though it’s pretty hippie dippie, everyone comes here, so the people watching is a nice post-lunch activity.

P6 at The Line

I think P6 at The Line Hotel is a great option for taking your out-of-town friends to see the city from a different vantage point. It’s a pretty girly atmosphere, but guys can’t complain when there’s great views and cocktails to be had. Their Happy Hour Monday – Friday 4 – 6 PM includes $5 beers, wines under $10, and a few snacks. They also have Sunday Bottle Night for $20 off wine by the bottle.

Las Perlas

Las Perlas’ back patio is home to my favorite taco outpost, Asador. I love the chicken adobo taco with chips and guac. They also have amazing thick chips, but it’s truly the best guac in town. There’s something about the tortillas—they grill them and hold the perfectly marinated chicken so well. Grab a game of darts while you’re out back or go next door for some pool.

EAST

Tamale House East

Another old-school Mexican restaurant and an original east side institution with a nice garden patio full of plants, colorful mix-matched furniture, and string lights. Get the chicken mole taco and tamales.

Latchkey

Another no-frills patio that might seem like all the others on this street, but I really like the weekend DJ and rough interiors. Stop by if you’re out and about on the east side and looking for live music, a beer, a photo booth, and picnic table set-up.

Domo Alley-Gato Tatsu-Ya

You might have missed it, but beloved Ramen Tatsu-Ya has an East Austin patio bar focusing on highballs, sake, and even a frozen beer drink. The patio is decked out in paper lanterns, covered wooden booths, and feels chill, cozy, and kind of romantic. It’s a hidden treasure once you pass the large cats in the front. Also, make sure to walk upstairs to the mini rooftop. I didn’t know it was there until probably my 4th visit.

Il Brutto

This is my fave Italian food in Austin, and they happen to have a nice shady patio with a beautiful Live Oak tree. Chef Erind Halilaj makes the best lasagna I’ve ever had, and their burrata pizza is addicting without leaving you feeling totally immovable (they ferment their dough for 48 hours, so it’s flavorful and easier to digest). Make sure to try the frozen Aperol spritz, which I helped put on the menu when I was working with them! You’re welcome. Also, check out the patio every Thursday 7 – 9 PM for Jazz Night and enjoy some Cadamaro after dinner or their homemade Limoncello.

LoLo

I love LoLo’s outdoor disco ball and simple picnic table set-up. They always have parties and events going on like pop-up markets, oysters, and special collaborations, but the easy going natural wine selection is enough to bring me back.

Kinda Tropical

A hipstery, au naturel haunt with a facade reminiscent of a convenience store and a plant-filled patio, that’s well, kinda tropical. Get the sesame salad with pulled chicken, cuban yucca fries, and turmeric piña colada. $7 happy hour, 3 – 6 PM, Monday – Friday.

Nixta

If you haven’t been in a while, their backyard has transformed into a place you’d want to stay all day with a huge backyard, picnic tables, and a colorful wooden full bar where you order directly. The tuna tostada made with yellowfin and topped with a chipotle aioli and microgreens is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures, and the duck carnitas taco is my favorite on the menu. Juicy and fits right into that homemade tortilla well. They also have a lot of vegetarian options, so it’s a perfect place to bring anyone. Finish off with the coco rico paleta, a creamy delight with toasted coconut flakes that add the perfect crunch.

Birdie’s

Cute, cozy east side restaurant with a stellar wine list. Husband and Wife team Arjav and Tracy do it up just right here where they have an ordering system unlike anyone else in town so they can make sure to pay their workers an ideal wage and insurance. Because they are counter service and you can wine taste up there, the line starts around 530 / 6 p.m., but once you order, your food comes out quickly. The backyard has gravel and nice white tables, but I actually love sitting at the bar inside watching them swirl and make the pasta, and seeing the chocolate chip cookies come out of the oven. 🙂

Licha’s

This is an old-school Mexican restaurant with dishes you won’t find anywhere else—I like the Tlacoyos, queso fundido, and sweet potato tacos. Go for the front yard vs. the back patio because you can see everyone walking down 6th street, and good news, they now take reservations.

Yellow Jacket Social Club

Right behind Tamale House, this is where local chefs and industry people come on the weekends and Sundays, so it’s a fun spot if you’re looking to hang with those in the hospitality industry. When it’s really hot, it’s your go-to for a shaded, hidden backyard.

WEST

Pool Burger

Pool Burger was made for post-Deep Eddy swims and summer Friday happy hours. Their handheld burger really does taste like a backyard burger, and while I prefer my patty less well done, it is still dependable and yummy with the crinkle cut fries. Finish the meal off with a frozen hurricane, and stay late on the weekends for DJ sets even if you are still in your swimsuit!

Littlefield’s

This patio is tucked inside the Tarrytown neighborhood, and it’s ideal if you live around here and walk over because parking can be tight. Veracruz Tacos and Medici have outposts here, so it’s a great place to answer your morning emails or take kids to snag a breakfast taco and hang for a bit.

Sway Westlake

It’s not as far as it sounds, and well-worth the little drive to Westlake for the best food and views. The rooftop patio gives you an amazing view of Downtown Austin and everyone who I bring is in awe that this exists. I love everything on their menu, especially the Thai basil eggplant, son in law basil chicken, and octopus.

Better Half

Spend the better half of your day at this coffee shop, restaurant, cocktail garden combo. Come for the morning drip coffee, and stay for the Big Salad and cauliflower tots with beet ketchup for lunch. The patio is spacious and calm with plenty of seating. Make sure to hop over to Holdout Brewing next door.

Holdout Brewing

Better Half’s Better Half, Holdout Brewing, is just as good of a vibe and tucked a little further away. It’s a covered spot with wooden picnic tables, and you order inside which also has some seating and is a bit darker. If the line is too long at Better Half, the food here looks just as good and is a strikingly similar menu. The large salads and burgers are what everyone wants anyway. The central location with abundant parking can’t be beat, and you can always hop between the two spots if you need a mood change.

Nightcap

Everyone here is on a date. If you aren’t, still opt to end the night at the aptly named Nightcap and chow down on a carnitas grilled cheese or cheese platter. Although, skip the espresso martini here it’s a bit too creamy for my taste.

FARTHER OUT

Jester King

Definitely a Texas farm feel with several bars serving good pizza and beer. Lots of picnic tables and umbrellas that make for a fun afternoon adventure. Beware, the lines for ordering on the weekends are LONG, so I’d pre order on the app in advance or check out the wait before you think you’re the only one going there. They also have some trails to walk around while you wait.

Desert Door

If you haven’t taken the drive to Driftwood to visit the Desert Door Distillery, then I’ve just made weekend plans for you. They’ve created a relaxing, laid back, and dog-friendly atmosphere where you can try their handcrafted Sotol on its own, or in a creative cocktail. Plus, just ask and they give tours of the distillery and are really great about educating you on what Sotol actually is.