The Absolute Best Patio Restaurants in Austin [Updated 2024]

Having explored the vibrant culinary scene of this Texan gem, I have discovered eight remarkable patio restaurants that offer not only delectable cuisine but also the perfect al fresco dining atmosphere. From hidden gems boasting breathtaking views to lively spots where you can soak up the sun, Austin's patio restaurants cater to all tastes and preferences.

Whether you're a foodie in search of the best Tex-Mex or a brunch enthusiast looking for the perfect outdoor spot, this article will be your go-to resource. So grab your sunscreen and join me on this lighthearted journey through the best patio restaurants in Austin!

Upstairs at Caroline

Highlights
Great happy hour
Large outside patio
Tasty fresh food
Friendly and hospitable service

Nestled in the heart of Austin, Upstairs at Caroline is a hidden gem that captures the essence of what a patio restaurant should be. As I stepped onto the large outside patio, a wave of excitement washed over me, and I knew I was in for a treat.

One of the things that stood out about Upstairs at Caroline was their incredible happy hour offerings. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing craft cocktail or a local beer, the drink specials are bound to please even the pickiest of palates. The friendly and hospitable service made the experience even more enjoyable, with the staff going above and beyond to ensure every customer felt welcomed.

But what really sets Upstairs at Caroline apart is their commitment to serving tasty, fresh food. From their mouthwatering burgers to their flavorful vegetarian options, every bite was a delightful explosion of flavors. The attention to detail and the quality of the ingredients truly showcased the chef's passion for creating memorable dishes.

As I sipped my cocktail and indulged in my delicious meal, I couldn't help but appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the charming view of the city. The patio's cozy and relaxed ambiance provided the perfect backdrop for a delightful dining experience.

Overall, I can confidently say that Upstairs at Caroline is a top contender for the title of one of Austin's best patio restaurants. With its great happy hour, large outside patio, tasty fresh food, and friendly service, it's an absolute must-visit for locals and tourists alike.

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Stella San Jac

Highlights
Amazing food and wine bar
Mouthwatering smoked salmon Benedict
Exceptional customer service
Fantastic coffee and biscuits
Great atmosphere

Let me start by saying that Stella San Jac is the epitome of everything you'd want in a patio restaurant. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

The food and wine bar at Stella San Jac is nothing short of amazing. I was blown away by the variety of options on the menu, and the flavors were simply outstanding. One dish that stood out to me was the smoked salmon Benedict. Let me tell you, it was a mouthwatering explosion of flavors that left me craving for more.

What really sets Stella San Jac apart is their exceptional customer service. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about ensuring that I had the best dining experience possible. Their friendly demeanor and willingness to go above and beyond truly made me feel like a valued guest.

As a coffee lover, I was delighted to find that Stella San Jac serves a fantastic cup of joe. Paired with their fluffy and delicious biscuits, it's the perfect way to start your day. Whether you're a caffeine addict or just looking for a tasty treat, you won't be disappointed.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a patio restaurant that offers amazing food, exceptional customer service, and a great atmosphere, look no further than Stella San Jac. It's a true gem that deserves a spot on the list of the best patio restaurants in Austin.

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Salty Sow

Highlights
Fantastic cocktails
Phenomenal service
Epic entrees
Consistency of food
Next level drinks

Upon entering Salty Sow, I was immediately captivated by its charming and lively atmosphere. The patio, complete with cozy tables and twinkling lights, offered a perfect spot for a leisurely evening of people-watching and, of course, indulging in some delicious food and drinks.

Now, let's talk about their fantastic cocktails - a true highlight of my visit. From classic concoctions to unique creations, Salty Sow's cocktail menu is a mixologist's dream. I highly recommend trying their signature cocktail, the Sow Thistle. Its refreshing blend of botanicals and citrus flavors is simply divine.

What impressed me most, however, was the phenomenal service. The attentive and knowledgeable staff went above and beyond to make my dining experience memorable. They were prompt, friendly, and always ready with a recommendation or a friendly chat. The service truly elevated my visit to Salty Sow.

Now, let's talk about the epic entrees. The menu boasts a delectable selection of farm-to-table dishes that perfectly marry flavors and textures. I have to give a special mention to the crispy Brussels sprouts and the mouthwatering pork belly sliders. Each bite was bursting with flavor and left me wanting more.

The consistency of food at Salty Sow is notable. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, you can always expect quality dishes that exceed expectations. This speaks volumes about their commitment to culinary excellence.

Last but not least, let's not forget about the next level drinks. Salty Sow offers an impressive selection of craft beers and an extensive wine list that perfectly complements their menu. Whether you're a beer aficionado or a wine lover, you'll find something to suit your taste.

In conclusion, Salty Sow is a patio restaurant that truly shines and deserves a spot on the list of the best patio restaurants in Austin. From the fantastic cocktails to the phenomenal service and the epic entrees, it delivers an unforgettable dining experience. So next time you're in Austin, do yourself a favor and make a stop at Salty Sow. Your taste buds will thank you.

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El Alma

Highlights
Authentic cuisine
Cool outdoor area
Good service
Challenging parking
Refreshing margarita

El Alma is a hidden gem amongst the best patio restaurants in Austin. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the restaurant's authentic cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of downtown, El Alma boasts a cool outdoor area, perfect for enjoying the warm Texas weather.

The patio ambiance is both welcoming and lively, adorned with colorful flowers and comfortable seating options. The staff at El Alma provided exemplary service, ensuring that all my needs were met throughout the evening. Their attentiveness made my dining experience all the more enjoyable.

As for the food, El Alma did not disappoint. Each dish showcased the flavors of Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. From the flavorful tacos to the mouthwatering enchiladas, every bite was a delight to my taste buds. The highlight, however, was the refreshing margarita. Served with a perfect balance of citrus and tequila, it was the ideal accompaniment to the flavorful dishes.

While El Alma undeniably exceeded expectations with its patio dining experience, one aspect to consider is the challenging parking situation. The limited spaces nearby make finding a spot a bit of a struggle, but the culinary adventure waiting inside is well worth the effort.

Overall, El Alma is a top contender when it comes to the best patio restaurants in Austin. With its authentic cuisine, a cool outdoor area, and exceptional service, it's a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. If you're in the mood for delicious Mexican fare and a vibrant atmosphere, El Alma is the place to be.

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Launderette

Highlights
Fun atmosphere
Friendly staff
Fabulous aroma
Excellent cocktails

As soon as I stepped onto the patio, I was greeted with a fun atmosphere that made me instantly feel at ease. The staff was incredibly friendly, offering warm smiles and prompt service throughout my visit.

But let's talk about the food. Oh, the aroma! The moment I sat down, a delightful scent wafted in the air, teasing my taste buds with the promise of something truly fabulous. And believe me, the menu did not disappoint.

From the first bite of heavenly crispy calamari to the last forkful of a decadent flourless chocolate cake, every dish on Launderette's menu showcased their commitment to quality and flavor.

But the crowning glory of this place is their cocktails. The mixologists at Launderette are true artists, carefully crafting unique and excellent cocktails that are a joy to sip on the patio. I highly recommend indulging in their signature Blue Violet cocktail, a delightful concoction that perfectly balances floral and citrus notes.

As I sat back and enjoyed the ambiance of the patio, I couldn't help but admire the thoughtful design of the restaurant. The patio is adorned with twinkle lights, adding a touch of enchantment to the dining experience.

In conclusion, Launderette truly stands out as one of the best patio restaurants in Austin. The combination of the friendly staff, fun atmosphere, fabulous aroma, and excellent cocktails make it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

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Comedor

Highlights
Quality of food
Great cocktails
Excellent service
Beautiful patio

Comedor, nestled in the heart of Austin, truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best patio restaurants in the city. As I walked into this culinary oasis, I couldn't help but be captivated by the beautiful patio, adorned with lush greenery and twinkling lights.

The moment I sat down, I knew I was in for a treat. The quality of food at Comedor is absolutely top-notch. Each dish seemed like a work of art, bursting with vibrant colors and exquisite flavors. From the first bite to the last, I was taken on a culinary journey that left me craving more.

To complement the mouthwatering cuisine, Comedor offers a plethora of great cocktails. The mixologists at the bar are true wizards, concocting creative and refreshing libations that perfectly complemented my meal. Each sip was a tantalizing symphony of flavors, leaving me wanting to try every cocktail on the menu.

The staff at Comedor provided excellent service throughout my visit. Their warm hospitality made me feel welcome and their knowledge of the menu was impressive. They ensured that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional, attending to my every need with a genuine smile.

As I soaked up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoyed my meal, I couldn't help but be grateful for the beautiful patio at Comedor. The well-designed space provided a serene escape from the bustling city, allowing me to savor my dining experience in the midst of nature.

In conclusion, Comedor is a true gem among Austin's patio restaurants. The restaurant offers a delightful combination of outstanding food, creative cocktails, impeccable service, and an enchanting ambiance. If you're looking for an unforgettable patio dining experience in Austin, Comedor is a must-visit.

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Corner Restaurant

Highlights
Delicious dinner
Great dining experience
Helpful server
Outstanding food
Clean presentation

Let me start by saying that my taste buds were treated to a delicious dinner at Corner Restaurant. From the moment I stepped onto the patio, I knew I was in for a great dining experience.

I was greeted by the most helpful server who guided me through their menu and recommended some fantastic options. The service was impeccable, allowing me to relax and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh my, it was outstanding! Each dish was a work of art, both visually and in taste. The presentation was clean, and the flavors were exquisite. I particularly enjoyed the perfectly cooked steak paired with a delectable sauce that had me scraping my plate clean.

The patio at Corner Restaurant is truly a hidden gem in Austin. Its cozy atmosphere, coupled with the greenery and twinkling lights, created a magical ambiance. I found myself immersed in conversations with friends, sipping on my favorite cocktail, and forgetting about the worries of the world.

For those of you looking for a top-notch dining experience, I highly recommend Corner Restaurant. With their delicious dinner, helpful servers, and outstanding food, you won't be disappointed. It's a patio restaurant that ticks all the boxes for a memorable evening out in Austin.

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La Piscina

Highlights
Incredible food
Exceptional service
Delicious fajitas
Charming ambiance
Well-curated menu

Let me start by saying that the food at La Piscina is simply incredible. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The flavors were bold and vibrant, leaving my taste buds dancing with joy. The menu offers a diverse range of dishes, each one bursting with flavor and expertly crafted. But let me tell you, their fajitas are a true standout. Tender, succulent meat, perfectly grilled and served with all the traditional fixings. It was a flavorful fiesta in my mouth!

But it's not only the food that impressed me, the service at La Piscina was exceptional. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, making my dining experience both comfortable and enjoyable. They went above and beyond to ensure that every need was met, and their genuine warmth added an extra layer of delight to the meal.

The ambiance on their patio is simply charming. The outdoor seating area is spacious and filled with beautiful greenery, creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner or a lively get-together with friends, the patio at La Piscina sets the perfect backdrop.

With a well-curated menu and an attention to detail that shines through both their food and service, La Piscina is a must-visit for anyone looking for an exceptional patio dining experience in Austin. I can confidently say that this restaurant earns its spot as one of the best patio restaurants in the city.

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