Outdoor Dining in Any Season

Grand Rapidians love the outdoors ­ – so much so that local restaurants and breweries have devised ways for us (and our visitors) to dine al fresco throughout the year.

Soak up the summer sun on a lakeside deck. Ward off the fall chill at a beergarden fire pit. Watch the snow fall from inside a transparent dome. Enjoy the gradual spring warm-up on a patio equipped for both cool and warm weather. All while enjoying some of the best food and drink in the nation.

Starting with the Downtown area and moving outward into other neighborhoods and regions, the eateries listed below feature outdoor spaces that can accommodate guests in three or all four seasons. Some of them are included in Refreshment Areas that allow visitors to stroll around with food and beverages in addition to offering general and restaurant-specific seating. All of these spaces remain excellent options to maximize the health benefits of fresh air and social distancing.

Outdoor seating tends to be available on a first-come, first-served basis during warm weather but may require advance reservations in winter. Always check a restaurant’s website or social media before you go. You can also search these outdoor locations on our Restaurants Page.

Downtown Refreshment Area and Outdoor Dining Space, summer/fall 2021
A red cocktail at IDC's patio, positioned in front of an outdoor fire pit in Grand Rapids, MI

Spacious patios for all weather like Uccello's Ristorante - Downtown Grand Rapids or on a rooftop like IDC.

Photo by Brian Craig for Experience GR.

The Apartment Lounge

One of Michigan’s oldest LGBTQ-friendly bars serves drinks on a covered outdoor patio adjacent to the Rainbow Road street mural. Local food trucks are frequently on site for eats.

Aperitivo

Bar/restaurant in the Downtown Market Grand Rapids features a fully enclosed outdoor dining space. Shop for gourmet foods in Aperitivo’s retail store before or after your meal.

Atwater Brewery

The sidewalk tables outside Atwater, at the corner of Michigan Street and Monroe Avenue, are a great place to dine, drink and people-watch.

Barrio Tacos

A garage door opens up to a landscaped patio space with a fire pit and string lights at the GR location of this Midwest chain restaurant known for tacos, tequila and whiskey.

Big E’s Sports Grill

Enjoy American fare and great beer on the front patio of this restaurant in the Embassy Suites Grand Rapids Downtown Hotel.

Bobarino’s

The Sky Deck at this Big Old Building (B.O.B.) serves made-to-order pizzas from Bobarino’s and handcrafted-on-site beers from B.O.B.’s brewery.

B.O.B.’s Brewery

The Outdoor Beer Garden at this Big Old Building (B.O.B.) offers a variety of beer and grab-and-go items from the brewery, plus wine & cocktails from the outdoor bar. It’s dog-friendly in warm-weather months.

Brick & Porter

Enjoy a diverse selection of upscale American pub food and 20+ beers at streetside tables along busy Monroe Center St.

BrickYard Tavern

The elevated outdoor patio at this restaurant and bar overlooks the courtyard pool and fountain of Boardwalk Condominiums in what was once the world’s largest furniture factory.

Cinco De Mayo

This Mexican restaurant offers fresh-made food and bar drinks at outdoor tables with or without umbrellas and “roofs.”

City Built Brewing Co.

This cross-cultural brewery in the Monroe North Social Zone offers outdoor seating right outside the front door, with views of Canal Park and the Grand River. 

Eastern Kille Distillery

Indulge in premium craft spirits and cocktails at this Monroe North distillery, which has extended its outdoor seating area to accommodate patrons on both sunny days and cool evenings.

Flanagan’s Irish Pub

Treat yourself to authentic Irish hospitality, food and drink on the partially covered patio outside this enduring downtown eatery.

Founders Brewing Company

The spacious outdoor beer garden and patio at the city’s largest brewery is always hopping (and heated as necessary.)

Garage Bar and Grill

This Monroe North neighborhood favorite has moved its outdoor seating from the front to the back through July 2023, accommodating Ottawa Ave. road construction.

Grand Rapids Downtown Market

Grab a meal or a snack at any of the Market’s 20+ restaurants and gourmet vendors, and enjoy it at an outdoor table as you watch customers stream in and out of the food emporium.

Grand Woods Lounge

The partially enclosed patio at this hunting lodge-themed casual restaurant includes a fireplace and plenty of space to spread out, in and out of the elements.

House of Wine

The outdoor patio at this wine and charcuterie bar along Monroe Center St. is set with open-air tables.

IDC at Amway Grand Plaza

You need a secret code to get into this year-round balcony bar with great views of downtown GR. (Sign up at the IDC website to get it – just don’t tell anyone we told you.)

Knoop Rooftop Beer Garden

Enjoy craft cocktails and small bites at this upscale, up-high destination inside (and outside) the Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown hotel.

Linear

Outdoor tables offer a view of the Grand River and Riverwalk at this cool, casual restaurant serving seasonal American cuisine and craft cocktails.

Luna GR

Award-winning Mexican restaurant in downtown’s Heartside Social Zone welcomes guests to a spacious, partially enclosed patio.

Margaux on the Dek

The riverside outdoor space at this French-inspired entry is lined with private dining domes when winter sets in.

Mertens Rooftop

French-inspired bites and cocktails, soft-yet-elegant seating arrangements and some of the best views in the city await guests atop a former historic hotel.

Monsoon Vietnamese Cuisine

Authentic Vietnamese restaurant offers a range of outdoor seating options fronting Monroe Center, a main artery of the Downtown Refreshment Area.

One Twenty Three Tavern

Enjoy dining on the patio at this New American tavern located in downtown’s Studio Park .

Peppino’s Downtown Grille & Pizzeria

The patio at this sports lounge doesn’t have the TVs you’ll see inside – but you can enjoy the same great food and drink and watch the people passing by on busy Ionia Ave. instead.

Real Seafood Company

The Grand Rapids location of this contemporary seafood chain serves up fresh oysters, lobster, shrimp and more on its 75-seat outdoor patio.

Roam by San Chez

Streetside seating is the ideal place to enjoy global street eats – from Belgium, Mexico, the U.S., Thailand and more – expertly prepared at this relaxed restaurant.

Social House

Casual pub across from Van Andel Arena boasts an outdoor ground-floor patio and is opening a second-floor rooftop patio in summer 2023.    

Social Misfits

You can get waffles, coffee and cocktails all day at this restaurant ­and enjoy them on the triangular-shaped outdoor patio in good weather.

Stella's Lounge

The home of America’s Best Burger (per GQ Magazine) and other elevated bar foods has supplemented its popular patio with even more streetside seating. 

Sundance Grill & Bar

A streetside patio with umbrella-topped tables seem to make the Southwest-inspired burgers, sandwiches, shared plates and all-day breakfasts at this restaurant taste even better.

Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea

A few outdoor tables are available for those who want to sip their coffee, tea or shake and nibble on pastries and light eats al fresco.

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen and Bar

This Hyatt Place Hotel restaurant serves seasonal, scratch-made Southern food and libations on the patio outside its front door.

Uccello’s Ristorante – Downtown Grand Rapids

The spacious patio outside this pizzeria and sports lounge is ideal for people-watching while dining.

Whitewater Café & Lounge

Enjoy coffee and cocktails on the balcony off the second floor of the Embassy Suites Downtown Grand Rapids Hotel, which overlooks Sixth Street Park and the Grand River.

Z’s Restaurant & Bar

The sunny, secluded outdoor patio at this downtown mainstay is equipped with tables and seating.

Heritage Hill

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The Commons

American dining with a retro twist and an adult vintage ambiance are the draws at this lounge and dining spot, inside and on the sunny patio.

Lyon Street Café 

Treat yourself to high-quality sandwiches, baked goods and beverages at streetside tables.

Medical Mile

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Logan’s Alley

Take a seat on the covered patio at this friendly neighborhood pub to partake of some great pub grub and an extensive beer and spirits offering. 

The Friesian Gastro Pub

The eclectic New American menu at this casual restaurant and pub can be enjoyed in any weather on its stylish and comfortable outdoor patio.

Palio Grand Rapids

The sidewalk patio at this Italian ristorante is a great place to enjoy authentic rustic Italian cuisine, signature cocktails and a smartly curated wine list.

Taco Borracho

A garage door at this authentic Latin restaurant opens up to a covered outdoor patio with heaters, planters and privacy shades A massive indoor-outdoor marble bar serves up margaritas and other cocktails.

The Friesian Gastro Pub's Outdoor Patio In Grand Rapids, MI

Experience a beautiful shaded patio at The Friesian Gastro Pub.

Photo by Paul Jendraisak for Experience GR

North Quarter

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Café Mamo

Dig into classic Midwestern comfort dishes on the patio beside this Plainfield Ave. dining favorite.

Creston Taproom

Microbrewery and restaurant located in the historic Creston neighborhood is a great place to hang out, indoors or on the patio.

Graydon’s Crossing 

This cozy global pub has covered (but not enclosed) its outdoor patio to shelter guests from the elements.

Lucy’s

The front patio at this from-scratch café and bakery, open for breakfast and lunch, is a perennially popular gathering spot.

River North Public House

Neighborhood restaurant and bar offers a nice variety of shareables, handhelds and more, all of which can be enjoyed on the front patio when the weather cooperates.

Switchback Gear Exchange

Enjoy coffee, tea and cocoa around the huge fire pit on the outdoor patio – and when you’re finished, head inside to browse a selection of bicycles and camping gear.

Top Flight Family at The Green Well.
Saying Hi to a Pup While Getting Coffee with Friends

Enjoy patio dining no matter what season or temperature! Sunshine at The Green Well or an open space at Outside Coffee Co.

Photo by Experience Grand Rapids

Brewery Vivant

Sustainability-forward brewery in a refurbished funeral home serves Belgian-inspired farmhouse ales and from-scratch food indoors and out.

Donkey Taqueria

This one-of-a-kind Mexican street food concept winterizes its spacious outdoor patio with heated outdoor domes when temps dip below comfort level.

Furniture City Creamery

A spacious outdoor bench is the perfect spot to sit and enjoy a made-from-scratch ice cream flavor.

The Green Well

Seating on the ever-popular patio at this creative, eclectic restaurant is available on a first come-first served basis.

Grove Restaurant

A repeat “Restaurant of the Year” winner in Grand Rapids Magazine reader polls, featuring expertly prepared seasonal dishes, an impressive wine list and a cozy front patio.

Hancock

Chill eatery serves fried chicken, sharing plates and sandwiches in a refurbished gas station and on a spacious outdoor patio.

Harmony Brewing Company

Great beer, great pizza and a great dog-friendly patio on which to enjoy them – no wonder this brewpub is an Eastown neighborhood favorite.

Less Traveled

The shaded outdoor patio at this cocktail bar from Long Road Distillers overlooks historic brick-lined Cherry St. Limited snack selection available.

Madcap Coffee – Fulton St.

The Uptown location of this award-winning local coffee shop adds heaters to its outdoor dining space as weather warrants (as if the hot coffee wasn’t warming enough).

Maru Sushi

Chef-driven restaurant serves thoughtfully prepared sushi, grill items and cocktails on the patio overlooking brick-paved Cherry Street.

Outside Coffee Co.

This community coffee shop welcomes guests to its lovely garden setting in every season – sit as sun-splashed tables in summer and inside private domes in winter.

Mangiamo

The patio outside this historic mansion turned globally inspired restaurant is a great vantage point for surveying the 1870s-era home and grounds.

Speciation Artisan Ales

Experience an evolutionary approach to brewing wild beer, wine, hard seltzer and cider on the patio at this Wealthy Street favorite – it’s dog friendly!

Terra GR

Some say Terra’s farm-to-table dishes, wood-fired pizzas, craft cocktails and beer taste even better when enjoyed on the sunny patio.

That Early Bird

Brightly colored tables and chairs adorn the patio at this casual breakfast and lunch café offering a fresh and healthy eclectic menu.

Wealthy Street Bakery

A handful of outdoor tables grace the front of this bakery and café stocked with fresh-made sandwiches, pizza, bread and pastries, as well as beer and wine.

The Winchester

It’s always a beautiful day on the patio at this destination pub, which serves seasonal food and drinks sourced from the best local, regional and global suppliers.

Zivio

Experience a cultural clash of modern European cuisines on the spacious patio at this family-owned restaurant, which also offers abundant beer, wine and cocktail selections.

East Grand Rapids

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Carolina Lowcountry Kitchen

Enjoy Southern-inspired coastal fare and cocktails on the charming brick-paved patio of this restaurant in the Gaslight Village shopping district.

Condado Tacos

A recent addition to the Breton Village shopping center, Condado offers a spacious patio on which to enjoy its signature build-your-own tacos, nachos and bowls.

Jose Babushka’s

Mexican staples share the menu with Polish classics at this Gaslight Village eatery with a seasonal outdoor deck.

Olive's Restaurant & Bar

Relax on the three-season deck at this Gaslight Village restaurant while enjoying made-from-scratch lunches and dinners plus premium wines, artisanal beers and signature cocktails.

Rose’s on Reeds Lake 

Enjoy a beautiful view of Reeds Lake  along with delectable food and drink on the heated patio of this historic East Grand Rapids eatery.

Enjoying Bridge Street's Refreshment Area
Condado Tacos - exterior

Enjoy a pint to-go in the downtown and surrounding area refreshment areas!

Photo by Brian Craig for Experience GR.

Arktos Meadery

The front patio at this Bridge Street destination is a popular place to enjoy Arktos’ traditional meads – “the nectar of the Gods.”

Butcher’s Union

Gastropub with a meat-heavy menu of globally inspired fare, 100+ whiskeys and draft beer has outdoor seating for warmer weather and a covered and heated courtyard when it gets cool.

Condado Tacos

Right in the heart of the Bridge Street entertainment district, Condado serves its signature build-your-own tacos, nachos and bowls on a spacious back patio equipped with seasonal tower heaters. 

Fulton Street Pub and Grill 

Casual neighborhood pub offers a mix of classic American dishes and such local favorites as latkes, Polish sausage and German potato salad, served indoors or on the patio.

Greyline Brewing

Picnic tables, firepits and tower heaters, a single-sided tent that hosts live music performances – outdoors is a great place to enjoy Greyline’s fresh, small-batch ales in any weather.

The Holiday Bar

In business since 1905, THB offers its trademark “everyone’s a regular” service and extensive food and drink selection on a backyard patio & bier garden.

Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria & Brewery

Sidewalk tables at this artisan ale and fun food destination let guests keep an eye on the hustle and bustle of Bridge Street all year-round.

The Mitten Brewing Company 

Vintage baseball-themed microbrewery/pizza place serves outdoor guests in “The Outfield” during warm weather and the “Base Camp” (complete with campfires and warming huts) when it turns cold

The Monarchs’ Club

Sandwiches, hot dogs and other bar food share the menu with a vast selection of beers, ciders, wine and more, all for enjoying indoor or on the seasonal patio.

New Holland Brewing – The Knickerbocker 

The outdoor beer garden at this Bridge Street brewery/restaurant is equipped with a retractable roof and overhead heating system to keep guests comfortable in any weather.

One Bourbon 

The spacious outdoor patio at this Bridge Street crowd-pleaser offers tables with umbrellas to shade you from the sun and tower heaters to ward of the chill.

O’Toole’s Public House 

Dig in to an outrageously topped gourmet burger on the streetside patio at this neighborhood pub in the Bridge Street Entertainment District.

The People's Cider Co. 

The shanty out front is equipped with solar lights, tower heaters and plexiglass wind protection so you can enjoy their hyper-local draft ciders even when the weather outside is frightful.

Rise Bakery + Squibb Coffee 

Sip Squibb coffee and snack on gluten-free, vegan and soy-free baked goods inside a heated greenhouse.

Salvatore’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria

Enjoy pizza, pasta and other Italian favorites on the seasonal covered patio of this west side favorite, serving patrons since 1976.

Westside Social

Have a seat indoors or out to experience elevated comfort food, beer on tap and cocktails at this “reimagined” American tavern.

Cedar Springs Brewing Company

Warm up in Cedar Springs Brewing Company's wintergarten.

Photo by Bryan Esler for Experience GR

Archival Brewing

One of the area’s newest breweries boasts a spacious patio equipped with as-needed firepits and heaters for cozy consumption of their made-from-scratch beer, cider, mead and food.

Bier Distillery

The outdoor space at this micro-batch beer, wine, spirits and food destination is equipped for comfortable dining in any weather.

Blue Water

The menu has something scrumptious and down to earth for everyone – and a beautifully landscaped lakeside patio on which to enjoy your selections.

Bostwick Lake Inn

You’ll love the food and the view on the four-season lakeside deck of this renovated 1910 beach house near Rockford.

Bud & Stanley’s Pub & Grub

Neighborhood favorite off Plainfield Avenue, named for the founder’s golden retrievers, offers a huge menu and friendly service, indoors and out.

Cannonsburg Ski Area

Ski resort just 20 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids offers domes and fire pits plus an assortment of food and warm drinks on the ski lodge deck. Contact for dome reservation. 

Cedar Springs Brewing Company

A summer biergaten transforms into an outdoor wintergarten to accommodate fans of this German-inspired restaurant and brauhaus.

Charlie’s Bar & Grille

Dine indoors or out at this neighborhood pub, which offers a large and eclectic comfort-food menu utilizing many Michigan-made products.

Gravity Taphouse Grille

When cold weather hits, the fireplaces are roaring and the heaters are cranked up to high on the outdoor patio at this beer, wine and food destination just off I-196 at the East Beltline exit.

HopCat Knapp’s Corner

Relax on the outdoor patio with Michigan beers and marvelous food – you must try the Cosmik Fries!

Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen

Enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine, award-winning pizza, wine and spirits indoors or on the seasonal patio.

Reds

You’ll enjoy wine, steak, seafood and scenic views of beautiful Thousand Oaks Golf Club on the seasonal deck and patio of Reds.

Rockford Brewing Company

Enjoy great food and beer from this award-winning brewery among the picnic tables and fire pits of downtown Rockford’s Outdoor Refreshment Area.

The Score Restaurant & Sports Bar

This rollicking joint keeps the chill summer vibe going all year ‘round on its outdoor lakeside patio, complete with palm trees and tiki torches.

Shots on the River

Kick back with a delicious meal and great beverage (there are 22 beers on tap) on the outdoor patio at this friendly neighborhood destination.

Third Nature Brewing

The second-place winner of an MLive reader poll on Grand Rapids’ best outdoor dining destination, this Rockford brewery outfits its nature-centric biergarten with firepits and private domes in colder weather.

Timbers Inn Restaurant & Tavern

Choice steaks, fresh fish and wild game are among the culinary delights available on the outdoor patio at this Rockford restaurant.

Amore Trattoria Italiana

A spacious, shielded-from-the-elements patio provides a perfect showcase for the authentic regional Italian specialties whipped up by local celebrity chef Jenna Arcidiacono and her crew.

Brick Haus Brews

Sparta brewery offers a covered patio with retractable walls to block the elements and let you focus on the great beer, wine, cocktails and comfort food.

The Local Kitchen & Sports Lounge

Order up street tacos, burgers, handhelds and daily drink specials, and enjoy them on the spacious outdoor deck.

Perrin Brewing Company 

This microbrewery 10 minutes north of downtown Grand Rapids offers deck and patio seating.

Pink Barrel Cellars

Hang out on the deck or the back seating room, both with great views of Ed Dunneback Girls & Farm, while you enjoy Perrin’s handcrafted food, beer, wine and hard cider.

The Pubb Food & Spirits

Bar food, beer on tap, a fully stocked bar and a private, fenced-in patio with toss games await you at this neighborhood joint.

Shots Restaurant and Bar 

The front patio offers a view of bustling downtown Standale as well as a cozy spot for enjoying some delectable food and drink.

Trail Point Brewing Company 

Allendale microbrewery serves handcrafted beer, cider and seltzer on its open, seasonally heated patio.

Uccello’s Ristorante - Standale

Pizzeria and sports lounge has something for everyone, including a patio seat when warmer weather comes around.

Brass Ring Brewing

You can enjoy patio season in any weather at Brass Ring Brewing!

Photo by Paul Jendrasiak for Experience GR.

Bobcat Bonnie’s

The outdoor patio at this Breton Village dining destination offers abundant summer seating and reserve-in-advance heated domes for winter dining.

Brass Ring Brewing 

Patio umbrellas in the summer, beer shanties in the winter … the third-place winner in an MLive reader poll of GR’s best outdoor dining destinations is comfy in any weather.

Cascade Roadhouse

Savor the flavor of comforting entrées and handcrafted drinks on the award-winning patio of this rustic-chic restaurant.

Cork Wine & Grille

Upscale casual restaurant serving fresh, quality food and extensive wine list has a back patio overlooking the golf course of Watermark Country Club.

FireRock Grille

Upscale American bar & grill features fresh, innovative dishes, happy-hour specials and a scenic patio overlooking the golf course at StoneWater Country Club.

Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery

Ada brewery offers 20 or so beers on tap and a smart selection of pub food (including a kid’s menu), all available on the outdoor patio.

Horrocks Market

Combination grocery store, garden center, floral/gift shop, deli and craft beverage destination invites you to enjoy food and drink around firepits in its outdoor beer garden.

Luna ­- Ada

The second area location of this award-winning Mexican restaurant is now open in Ada Village, complete with a roomy outdoor patio.

New Union Brewery

New Union’s handcrafted beer, cider, spritzers and root beer taste delicious outdoors in any weather – firepits keep you warmer in cold weather, though.

Noco Provisions

Take a seat on the outdoor patio at this delicious American eatery to get your fill of craveable family cuisine and craft beverages.

Nonna’s: The Trattoria

The wraparound covered porch at this popular Ada dining destination is warmed with heaters in winter.

Railtown Brewing

Enjoy award-winning craft beer, awesome burgers, sandwiches and more, all available on a seasonal patio.

Thornapple Brewing Company 

Savor house-made beers, spirits, wine, pizza, sandwiches and more on the outdoor patio equipped with heaters for cold weather.

Uccello’s Ristorante – Caledonia

Enjoy a vast selection of Italian favorites on the outdoor patio at this southeast pizzeria and sports lounge.

Uccello’s Ristorante – Grand Rapids

The second southeast location of this local chain features the same lineup of Italian favorites and its own seasonal patio.

Zeytin Turkish Restaurant & Bar

Casual restaurant serves authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, and offers a full bar and seasonal outdoor patio.

Farmhaus Cider

Head out to Farmhaus Cider Co. for a day trip or evening under the lights!

Photo by Experience Grand Rapids

Alebird Taphouse and Brewery

The sunny, dog-friendly patio at this Byron Center gathering spot welcomes guests with a taste for ice-cold beer, creative cocktails and delicious comfort food.

Farmhaus Cider Co. 

Sip delicious ciders under the sun and stars in a rustically beautiful outdoor setting – heated domes are available by reservation in winter months.

Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen - Hudsonville

Authentic Sicilian cuisine, award-winning pizza, wine and spirits can be enjoyed in and outdoors at the Hudsonville location of this family restaurant.

Pike 51 Brewery - Hudsonville Winery 

The outdoor space at this microbrewery, winery and restaurant soaks up the summer sun and offers a heated, semi-enclosed seating for cooler weather.

Railside Bar & Grill

A back patio with stone fireplace overlooks Railside Golf Club at this restaurant, which offers lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.

Rush Creek Bistro

Enjoy everything from artisanal sandwiches to hand-cut steaks on the seasonal patio overlooking the golf course at Sunnybrook Country Club.

TwoGuys Brewing

The outdoor patio at this Wyoming brewery is much like the beer and food menu – unpretentious, comfortable and eminently enjoyable.  

Uccello’s Ristorante - Grandville

Enjoy a vast selection of Italian favorites on the outdoor patio at the southwest location of this pizzeria and sports lounge chain.

Updated: December 16, 2022