The buzz of the bumblebees, the humming of the birds, the blooming flowers—these all mean one thing: it’s spring!
As the weather starts to warm and winter is wiped off the outdoor chairs, Oklahoma City’s patio scene starts buzzing. If you’re new to town, like I was last year, you want to take advantage of this great weather before the blistering heat comes barreling down in July. However, you probably have no idea where to go; fear not, for I’ve compiled a list of a few places I think deserve recognition.
Uptown:
Guyutes is new to town (sort of), and their patio is amazing. It’s high above 23rd Street and a big enough place where all of your friends can join.
Cuppies and Joe is probably one of my favorite places in the city. There are only a few tables outside but if you can snag a spot, you’ll enjoy your coffee and cupcake even more.
Midtown:
Fassler Hall is a great place to have after-dinner drinks and mingle with young people who are working hard to improve the city.
I love Bleu Garten because everyone goes there to have a good time and simply enjoy being outside. Bring your pets because they’re more than welcome!
Bossa Nova takes you back to Brazil (or to Brazil if you’ve never been there). They have amazing, AMAZING cocktails. Plus, they offer a great Happy Hour on weekdays from 4–7pm. Oh, and did I mention that their outdoor seating overlooks the Oklahoma City skyline?
Downtown:
FLINT is also one of my favorites—(I may have too many favorites). Their patio is great. They have recently incorporated huge table tents to help block the sun, which is a plus. They also have couches, an outside bar and high-top tables, as well as live music on Thursday nights and Sunday brunch.
Automobile Alley:
Packard’s New American Kitchen has a great rooftop bar that overlooks the city. This patio is always buzzing during the warmer months! If your friends or family are visiting, bring them here for a fun atmosphere with great views.
Sidecar is the perfect place for a tasty cocktail. When the day is pretty, Sidecar opens up their restaurant’s sliding doors and the whole place is filled with the nice seasonal breeze.
Red Prime Steak has a small patio, but if you want a nice dinner and a great steak, this is the place.
Iguana Mexican Grill has margaritas that you can sip on outside. I mean, what else do you need to know?
Pelotón Wine Bar and Bistro is great for a romantic night out without breaking the bank. The food is amazing and the service is friendly. If you can’t decide on a specific wine, no worries, just order their wine flight.
Bricktown:
Chelinos is a great Mexican restaurant with outdoor patio seating in Oklahoma City’s historic Bricktown.
Captain Norm’s Dockside Bar is perfect if you want to people-watch. They have large tables that sway back and forth and they’re situated right next to Bricktown’s canal.
I’ve actually never been to Mantel’s Wine Bar and Bistro but I’ve always wanted to try it. So, I thought it deserved a spot on the list. If you’ve been there, let me know what you think of it!
West Restaurant is new to Bricktown, and it’s a great addition. I’ve never sat on their patio but their food is so good, I’m sure their patio is too.
Deep Deuce:
Deep Deuce Grill is a great spot for outdoor dining. It’s a perfect place to catch a sports game on one of their numerous TV’s while enjoying a nice beer.
If the only reason you go to Slaughter’s Hall is their Cuban Sandwich, I understand completely. The food here is consistent and some of the best I’ve had in OKC.
Other restaurants:
I’ve never been to Bellini’s but it always comes up when I search “patio seating in OKC,” so I thought I would add it to the list. One thing I do know, Bellini’s is always featuring new cocktails, so it’s gotta be good.
Lights are hung across the outdoor patio of Museum Café, and it’s absolutely lovely. The Museum Café is located within the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, which is close to the Civic Center Music Hall and makes it a perfect date night spot if you’re headed to see a show. It can get a little pricey, but it’s worth at least one visit.
I’m sure there are more restaurants to add to this list, but this is a good start. In my short time of living here, I’ve learned that OKC is a city that gives back whatever you’re willing to invest. So if you’re looking to make new friends or just branch out from the mundane, check out one of these places. And hey, if anything, you’ll be able to enjoy a nice drink or meal while soaking in some rays.