The best Triangle restaurants for patio dining

When the weather is beautiful, what’s more enjoyable than sitting outside for dinner, soaking up the outdoors with a drink in hand? If you love outdoor dining, you don’t want to miss these top Triangle restaurants for patio dining. With a variety of food and drink options, there are several spots across the Triangle that you’ll want to check out for date night, happy hour, or a relaxing dinner with family.

Here are some of our favorite locations for both delicious food and a great patio ambiance.

For amazing Mexican food with tons of vegan and vegetarian options and an eclectic ambiance, Gringo A Go Go is a great choice in downtown Raleigh. From delicious, flavorful margaritas, to the several varieties of chilaquiles, this spot puts an interesting twist on authentic Mexican food. It also offers a patio with an artsy, unique vibe.

German-inspired Guglhupf in Durham is a great place to enjoy treats from its old-world bakery, the Biergarten, and fare that is a fusion of Southern and German cuisine. This is a great place for any time of the day, from breakfast to a late-night dinner. Both the interior and exterior have a German look and feel, with a few modern touches. The patio itself is very cozy and quaint, and it feels like you’re eating at a European café thanks to its water fountain and greenery. It’s a must-visit option if you’re looking for Triangle restaurants with patio dining.

Located in a former gas station in Durham, Grub is a great eatery. It’s close to Duke University and the heart of downtown Durham, and it features an eclectic and fun aesthetic throughout. The restaurant offers breakfast (until 3 PM), lunch, dinner, along with a patio and rooftop bar. Owned and created by two Durham natives, who also own Nosh, Grub prides itself in striving to create delicious dishes from fresh, local ingredients.

The neighborhood bar and grill experience, which includes in-house-made beers, an amazing second-floor patio, and delicious pub food, is encapsulated perfectly at Lynnwood Grill and Brewing Concern in northwest Raleigh. They offer everything from pizza to burgers and have plenty of variety and vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Knightdale Station Park has become a great place for a day out with the family, including the Splash Pad, playground, dog park, Oak City Brewing, fitness classes. But if you’re looking for Triangle restaurants with patio dining, you must check out one of its anchor establishments, Prime BBQ. While this eatery is well-known for its various BBQ meats, the patio overlooks Knightdale Station Park, which offers a relaxing view on a beautiful day. Plan on going early, because they often sell out of food very quickly.

Located in North Hills, Rosewater Kitchen and Bar is a great date night spot with a romantic patio enhanced by a stunning garden created to give customers a rich sensory experience. The cuisine is inspired by the finest foods in Europe, and the extensive wine list pairs well with the featured menu items.

With locations in both Cary and Apex, Scratch Kitchen and Taproom focuses its menu on Southern cuisine and has a relaxed, family atmosphere on the patio. Operated by the owners of the Mason Jar Tavern and the Mason Lager Company, this restaurant focuses on providing diners with the highest quality food with fresh ingredients.

A staple in the Village District neighborhood in Raleigh, The Flying Biscuit is a brunch favorite. For anyone looking for top Triangle restaurants with patio dining, this spot has an expansive patio for diners to enjoy any of their savory breakfast or lunch choices. The fresh-made biscuits with butter and jelly are a great way to round out any breakfast.

The expansive patio at Whiskey Kitchen is a great spot for craft cocktails and Southern cuisine in downtown Raleigh. The patio is filled with umbrella-covered picnic tables and is perfect for large groups, date nights, lunch meetings, and more. Whiskey Kitchen offers an extensive whiskey and scotch selection as well as wines and other craft cocktails to fit everyone’s taste buds.

Located in the historic Boylan Heights neighborhood in Raleigh, Wye Hill is one of the top Triangle restaurants with patio dining. It offers an unparalleled view of downtown Raleigh, along with delicious food, craft brews, and an extensive cocktail and wine menu. This amazing location has been the site of many memorable occasions for Raleigh residents, including first dates and engagements.