Al Fresco: 7 Inspiring Outdoor Eating Spaces

by Dean Jeffery

With warmer weather on the horizon, we’ve found ourselves craving refreshing margaritas on the patio and sun-drenched afternoons spent reading outside of our favorite coffee shops. 

We couldn’t think of a better way to usher in the spring and summer seasons than by celebrating the beautiful outdoor eating spaces at a few of our favorite restaurants.

From the quaint street side vignettes to dramatic rooftop patios-each with their own panache-check out seven of our favorite outdoor restaurant spaces.

1. Malamen Restaurant

The designers of the Malamen Restaurant created a seamless transition from in and out by using the same chairs and tables for both spaces. We also fell in love with this outdoor patio, the old school charm mixed with the modern interior has us swooning. 

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2. Superba Food + Bread

Los Angeles-based architecture and design firm Design, Bitches worked to create this modern outdoor eating area for local brand Superba Food + Bread. Bright aqua colored tile benches, dusty pink stools, and simple black tables create an epic combination of color and quirk. The rest of the outdoor area is planked with natural wood elements that mimic the design language of the interior.

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3. Parson's Chicken & Fish

Negroni slushies and a double shot of intelligent design has made Parson’s Chicken & Fish one of the hottest spots in Chicago to go once the temps heat up. Hand lettered picnic tables, an array of local plants scattered throughout make this al fresco space reminiscent of any backyard bar-b-que.  

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4. YOI

YOI reinforced their branding by showcasing their signature yellow on their modern outdoor chairs. The bright seating is a perfect pop of color against the black building.

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5. Moby

Clean lines and bold colors define this Australian eatery. Inspired by Tuscany in the 70's, the design firm We Are Huntly’s use of graphic lines and white accents brings a breath of fresh air to this stunning space. Even with its minimal design, the patio with simple outdoor dining chairs and pedestal tables is sophistication grounded in purpose.

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6. Buena Vista Hotel

Sophisticated, thoughtful, refined... just a few words we'd use to descirbe this hotel dining area. The color palette of this restaurant is a refreshing break from the vibrant, color saturated patios that flood our Instagram feeds.  Terra cotta colored leathers and cement colored outdoor dining chairs pair perfectly with the warm wood accents on the tables and beams. It truly is a charming space that feels like a French bistro meet a Southwestern inspired spa, to create a breezy oasis. 

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7. Bernie's Lunch and Supper Club

Bernie’s Lunch and Supper, designed by 555, has the whole trendy rooftop patio concept perfected. The graphic floor design pulls you in, and the classic bistro seating creates a comfortable space with an amazing view of the city. This restaurant feels fresh with minglings of Chicago’s old school charm.

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As I sit watching the snow fall (knowing it’s mid-March), a sunny patio can’t come soon enough. Just in case you didn't get the memo, we launched a new product designed for outdoor eating spaces, check out Opla.

Outdoor restaurant furniture