We understand the preference to beat the heat indoors. But on summer days when there’s not a cloud in the sky and there’s a light breeze, we should enjoy the sunshine. Several Philly restaurants, cafes, and bars offer expanded seating options during the warmer months so you can enjoy the fresh air and people-watch while savoring a delicious meal. Here are some recommendations.
Out West
5127 Walnut St.
Fuel up with Out West’s Korean fried chicken sausage sandwich or the Out West BLT — or build your own sammie. And kick back and relax out back on picnic tables and lounge chairs. The cafe just listed updated house specials, including (for the matcha lovers) desert rose matcha and matcha à la cherry.
Lucky Duck
501 N. Columbus Blvd.
What better place to shuck oysters than right along the Delaware River? This new addition to Philly’s dining scene, from the team behind Libertee Grounds, is providing the most scenic views of our waterfront and the Ben Franklin Bridge. Sit at either standard or high top tables and munch on chicken milanesa, tavern burgers, or duck bolognese. If you want an early meal, good news: Lucky Duck rolled out brunch options at the end of May.
Le Virtù
1927 Passyunk Ave.
This South Philly restaurant brings a taste of Southern Italy directly to your table. Le Virtù has a large patio with strung lights, lush foliage, and a mural celebrating Abruzzo that adds to the ambience. The menu changes seasonally, allowing guests an opportunity to try something new each visit. For now, check out the sformato, a savory flan-like dish; the pork involtini, for some protein; and a pistachio affogato at the end of your meal.
Sor Ynez
1800 N. American St., Unit G
If you’re a fan of seafood, try the pulpo tosada — octopus on a blue corn tortilla with refried beans and pico de gallo. Or try some tlacoyos, traditional street food made of blue masa cakes filled with refried beans, salsa verde, nopales, queso fresco, and radish. Wash it all down with a paloma. Be sure to stop by for a social dance and lessons on the second and fourth Fridays of the month. If you’re driving in, don’t worry about parking. There’s plenty.
Talula’s Garden
210 W. Washington Square
Enjoy farm-to-table dining right across from Washington Square Park. Talula’s Garden leans into its name with its leafy, cozy setting. Some menu highlights include ginger salmon, seared sea scallops and fresh Gulf shrimp, and handmade ricotta ravioli.
PHS Pop-Up
1438 South St. or 106 Jamestown Ave.
Relax in this green oasis while munching on some bar favorites. Both locations host regular events to level up your gardening skills, whether you have a green thumb or not. And the best part? Your attendance supports PHS’s mission to use horticulture to improve the well-being of Philadelphians.
Renata’s Kitchen
3940 Baltimore Ave.
Feast on Mediterranean cuisine right in University City. Come by Renata’s for brunch or dinner to enjoy lamb shank, a falafel rice bowl, or Turkish hummus. The restaurant is right next to the 40th Street Trolley Portal Gardens, so you can relax outside before or after your meal (and have easy access to your ride home).
🎧 Want even more recommendations? Check out more of our favorite places to eat outdoors.
