Read on for a curated list of some of the best decks, patios, rooftops and sidewalk spots where you can enjoy a good meal while maintaining your distance from fellow diners.
You can sort by neighborhood if you’re looking for something nearby or just scroll to see if your regular hang is on the list — we’ll be adding restaurants as they open for the season so stay tuned and definitely check back for updates.
Word to the wise: we’ll be adjusting the info below as needed so it’s still probably your best bet to give the restaurant a ring to make sure they can accommodate you.
Alcove
Located on Lovejoy Wharf, Alcove has a delightful patio right on the harbor walk and boasts a stunning view of the Zakim Bridge AND it's dog friendly! The flowery but sleek patio is perfect for enjoying Alcove's Mediterranean cuisine with friends (two- or four-legged).
B&G Oysters
In the summer months, oyster lovers and seafood fans spill out onto the picturesque little patio at B&G Oysters. Fresh seafood tastes best outside, so seats on the shaded, just-below-grade terrace fill up quickly.
Bar Volpe
Treat yourself to a mini trip to Southern Italy by way of South Boston - just grab a spot on the sidewalk patio at Bar Volpe, right there on West Broadway, and you can soak up some rays, sip on some spritzes and tuck into plates of handmade pasta from chef Karen Akunowicz and her team.
Bistro du Midi
Bask in the glory of summer on Bistro du Midi’s sidewalk patio. The coveted tables on the intimate patio can be hard to come by but diners lucky enough to secure one will enjoy an expertly prepared meal of exquisite French fare looking out over the picturesque and historic Public Garden.
Bostonia Public House
Champions of industry, ladies who lunch and tourists all vie for spots on Bostonia Public House's sidewalk patio. Tucked right in the heart of the bustling Financial District, it's well-suited for an occasion - snacking on after-work apps or sipping one of their 70 premium wines.
Burro Bar South End
The Burro Bar's picturesque patio may be the South End's best kept al fresco secret. Tucked down a rustic walkway surrounded by brick buildings and adorned with flowering window boxes, it has a whole secret garden vibe - just with more tacos.
Buttermilk & Bourbon
Back Bay's New Orleans-inspired Buttermilk & Bourbon gets outdoorsy during Boston's warmer months. Tucked below street level, their patio provides the best of both worlds, offering a cozy spot to cool off in the shade on hot summer days, or to warm up by fire pits on chilly nights.
Capo
South Boston’s mainstay for hearty Italian eats sets up shop outside when the temps start to rise. Head down to West Broadway to post up on the sidewalk patio at Capo where you can tuck in to all your favorites under the summer sun and stars.
Chickadee
You can enjoy chef John DaSilva's award-winning New England-born/Mediterranean-inspired fare rain or shine on Chickadee's outdoor dining area. Just head for the Seaport's Innovation and Design Building to snag a table — whatever the weather, they've got you covered (literally) on their sheltered patio where you can chill out in the shade during the summer or stay cozy by heaters when there's a chill in the air.
Ciao Roma
The folks at Ciao Roma (formerly known as Ciao Bella) have annexed the outdoor space on North Square (the oldest public square in America) so you can enjoy the flavors and feel of Italy a little closer to home. Grab a table, adorned with red and green umbrellas and white tablecloths, and you'll feel like you've just landed in Rome.
Citizen Public House
Whether the Sox are in town or on the road, the outdoor dining area at Citizen is one of the Fenway’s best spots for an al fresco bite to eat. The sidewalk patio provides an out-of-the-way spot from which to enjoy the bustle of Boylston Street and – on a good night – cheers from the ballpark, which is just a couple blocks away.
Coppa
The sidewalk patio at Coppa, which now includes an additional row of two-tops running down Milford Street, pretty much doubles the restaurant’s seating capacity – which might make it a touch easier to get a table. Score one and you can spend the afternoon or evening – whichever you prefer – snacking on Italian small plates, handmade pastas, charcuterie and wood-oven pizzas.
