As Massachusetts continues to reemerge from the shutdown, restaurants are getting their al fresco areas up and running for dine-in patrons. 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 social 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 on-site dining so stay tuned and definitely check back for updates.
Word to the wise: we’ll be adjusting the info below as the situation continues to evolve and restaurants figure out what works for them (and you!) so it’s still probably your best bet to give the restaurant a ring to make sure they can accommodate you.
Sycamore
This summer, chef-owner David Punch and co. extend their hospitality beyond the confines of their Newton Centre dining room and onto their new al fresco seating area. A collection of two-tops, the patio is an ideal spot on which to enjoy their seasonally-inspired menu, complemented by grower wines, local beer & craft cocktails.
Tony & Elaine's
You can tuck in to all your favorite Italian American eats out-of-doors on Tony & Elaine's North End patio. They've annexed a little brick-lined alleyway right off North Washington Street and transformed it into a quaint and cozy spot that's ideal for al fresco dining.
Toro
During the summer months, the flavors of Spain spill out onto Washington Street with the opening of Toro's sidewalk seating area as well as their new-for-2020 secluded and quiet and back patio. Find your spot and sit back and relax with a glass of cava and an assortment of small plates from chef and restaurateur Ken Oringer who brings his own take on traditional tapas to the South End.
Tresca
In addition to their legendary Table 77 (a two-top perched on a balcony overlooking Hanover Street), Tresca has added a sidewalk patio for the season. Snag a spot on a balmy summer night to tuck in to all you Italian-American favorites from the center of North End.
Troquet on South
The team at Troquet on South is taking their wine-loving ways out onto the street with their brand new sidewalk patio. Head down to the Leather District and grab a table to at lunch or dinner paired with something from their extensive (and award-winning) list.
29 Hudson Road
Sudbury, MA 01776
978-443-1400
Twenty Nine Rustic Mediterranean
Right in Sudbury, Twenty-Nine Rustic Mediterranean has a spacious patio that serves as the perfect spot to grab a bite with friends and relax under the shade of Twenty-Nine's big orange umbrellas. Twenty-Nine Rustic not only offers outdoor dining options, but also an outdoor lounging option for those looking to spend their summer nights socializing and comfortably sipping on cocktails.
Uni
Enjoy the best of Chef Tony Messina's creative sashimi, sushi, and Japanese fare on UNI's patio facing Mass Ave while you sip down boozy treats like beer slushies and nitrogen cocktails.
Urban Hearth
Annexing the parking spaces in front of the restaurant and some sidewalk real estate from their lovely neighbors, the folks at Urban Hearth have opened an expanded seasonal patio with room for as many as 24 diners (weather permitting, of course). Reservations are recommended, masks are required and sunglasses are totally optional.
Viale
In addition to the al fresco dining area right out on the sidewalk in front of their Central Square spot, Greg Reeves and his team have added a new secret patio where you can have a socially-distant dinner down a hidden alley surrounded by graffiti and street art.
Ward 8
The folks at Ward 8 invite diners to join them on their recently-opened outdoor dining area, located in the formerly-vacant lot to the left of the restaurant. Snag a table under the sparkling lights to enjoy menu of New American fare, craft cocktails and local micro-brews.
The Wellington
Belmont diners have another idyllic destination for al fresco eats - The Wellington has set up their patio for the season, inviting folks to join them for contemporary (yet classic) American fare whenever the mood strikes (and the weather permits).
Woods Hill Pier 4
Woods Hill Pier 4 debuts their spacious waterfront patio which boasts some of the most beautiful views of Boston Harbor. The harborside oasis is serving a new all-day summer menu with chef Charlie Foster's signature sustainable and nutrient-rich dishes including East coast oysters, Little Leaf mixed green salad with seasonal veggies, lobster popovers, and more.
