It’s finally officially spring (even though it seems we never even had a winter), and we are ready to welcome the warm weather by sitting outside and enjoying the sun. Luckily, here in Austin we have tons of great options for people to eat, drink and enjoy themselves outdoors. Here are our picks for eight of the best patios and porches in Austin.
77° Rooftop– This new outdoor lounge located in the Domain Northside area is already getting buzz for its great drinks and awesome outdoor space. Named for the ideal temperature, the three-story rooftop patio bar serves both cocktails and snacks daily from 3PM-2AM. 77° also has happy hour weeknights from 3-7PM and hosts parties every Sunday. All patrons must be 21 and up.
Central Standard– Located on buzzy South Congress Avenue, Central Standard boasts an awesome wraparound porch perfect for summer cocktails. The restaurant and bar, located in the South Congress Hotel also has happy hour every weeknight from 4-6:30PM and it includes food and snacks (like their highly acclaimed Cheeseburger with crimini mushroom butter and caramelized onions).
Juliet Ristorante– Nestled in the beautiful Barton Springs area, Juliet has one of the most lush patios in the area. This Italian restaurant also covers all your bases on wonderful Italian fare- whether you’re interested in pizza, pasta, an olive oil tasting or cheese, Juliet has got your Italian fix. They also have happy hour in the bar areas each day from 3PM-7PM. During Happy Hour, diners can enjoy snacks like arancini and shaved cauliflower salad and $7 cocktails, $5 house wine, $4 draft beer, and half-off rosé.
Weather Up – Renowned bartender Kathryn Weatherup decided to bring her talents to Austin after opening up bars in both Tribeca and Brooklyn. With 108 cocktails on the menu, Weatherup designed all the cocktails with ice, the ingredient she believes is most important, in mind. Weather Up also serves dinner and brunch in case you want a bite to go with your craft cocktail.
Emmer & Rye– Want a great place to eat before a night out on Rainey Street? Check out Emmer & Rye for their awesome patio and for their unique menu, which changes daily. The goal at Emmer & Rye is to maximize seasonality, so chefs vary the menu depending on what ingredients they can get fresh. Emmer & Rye also has happy hour, where guests can get $1 off draft beer, $2 off wine by the glass, and $2 off specialty cocktails.
Perla’s– An Austin classic, Perla’s is the perfect place to post up for weekend brunch and enjoy beautiful weather. With fresh oysters daily and a long list of seafood options, this beachy restaurant will make you feel like you’re on vacation. Perla’s bar menu also has snacks in case you come between lunch and dinner service, and on weekdays their happy hour discounts oysters and cocktails.
Rustic Tap– If you’re looking for a great outdoor bar on West 6th, Rustic Tap is an awesome spot. An extension of Austin’s oldest family owned restaurant, The Hoffbrau, this bar serves over 20 types of beer and a variety of cocktails. They also have fun games, like corn hole and Jenga, and a stage for live performance. This is a great place to hang out with your squad on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.
Irene’s– Noted for its toasts and Instagram-famous ivy covered wall, Irene’s has become a staple on the Austin bar scene. With lots of outdoor space, Irene’s is a great place to enjoy your weekend outdoors, especially with its “Biscuits & Booze” brunch Saturdays and Sundays. Also, enjoy discounted drinks on weekends and listen to 80’s music Saturday and a live DJ Sunday.
So far the spring weather has been nearly perfect, so be sure to take advantage of all these fun outdoor spots before it gets too hot!
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