by Chelsea Lin - 273 Reviews - 109 List
It's a little secret that Seattle weather is not always gray and miserable. For a few months, there is summer: sunny bliss in the form of long daylight hours and temperatures warm enough to get out on the boat, take in a Mariners game or enjoy a meal al fresco. To help with the latter, here's just a few of our favorite restaurants to enjoy eating outside (when weather permits, of course).
Updated: June 22, 2011
This welcoming Wallingford spot shows up on many folks' lists of favorite local eateries, mainly for the Tuscan-style cuisine and specialty charcuterie, but also because of the lovely patio.
Perched right on the waterfront, this staple in the Seattle scene is an outdoor dining destination for tourists and locals who are looking for a meal with a view.
The back patio at this Ballard pizza joint isn't visible from the curb--it's a romantic hidden gem, and just the sort of place you'd want to enjoy a Chocolate Chip Orgasm (the restaurant's legendary dessert).
Boating and burritos? Get your fix for both at this U-District fave, an obvious choice for al fresco dining (and post-brunch paddling around Lake Union).
Through the winter, Bastille's stunning side patio went unused, despite it being both covered and heated. But for warm Ballard nights, this twinkly, open-air seating area can't be beat.
Another popular choice for Elliott Bay views, this delightful Italian restaurant's deck offers prime sunning in the summer months. Early (3pm-5pm) and late (10pm-close) happy hours means you can go whenever is convenient.