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.
Pier 6
Eating outdoors at Pier 6 is a cinch since, technically speaking, more of the restaurant is located outside than in. The first floor of the waterfront restaurant is all-patio with a canopied bar; the second floor dining room has open-air drink rails and floor to ceiling windows; and the tables on the rooftop deck offer arguably the best views of the city.
175 River’s Edge Drive
Medford, MA 02155
781-874-9357
The Porch Southern Fare & Juke Joint
BBQ was made for eating out of doors so it’s a good thing the Porch Southern Fare & Juke Joint has a big old patio. Head to Medford to snag one of their umbrella-topped tables and tuck in to all your favorites – everything from ribs and pulled pork to fried chicken and gumbo. Play your cards right and you can enjoy a house-made popsicle or catch some live music.
Posto Somerville
The folks at Posto will bring you all the antipasti, pizza, pasta and dolce you could possibly eat on their patio. They'll be offering a curated menu to start and only seating parties with reservations (to avoid lines and unnecessary congregating) so you can satisfy your carb cravings comfortably and safely.
Precinct
You don’t have to be a guest at the Loews Hotel to enjoy this unique outdoor dining experience. Located in the heart of the Back Bay and just below street level, this fully furnished patio offers both a dining and a lounge option making it a great spot for any occasion from after work drinks with a gaggle or an al fresco dinner for two.
Puritan & Co.
Chef-owner Will Gilson and his Inman Square team bring their a-game (and their sense of humor) out of doors for a season of al fresco dining. The patio at Puritan & Co. may be small but it is mighty - full of fresh air, copious amounts of food and drink, and just a little bit of astro turf.
The Quarry
The Quarry's al fresco space overlooks, well, an actual quarry. The stone-built restaurant boasts a rustic charm that adds to the relaxing and welcoming ambiance. Settle in outdoors for fine dining (and the comforting sounds of nature).
Boston Landing, 96 Guest Street
Boston, MA 02135
617-254-0044
Rail Stop Restaurant & Bar
Brighton dwellers are only a hop, skip, and a jump from Rail Stop's new outdoor patio, which features plenty of room to stretch out, grab some New England eats, and relax in the shade of large umbrellas adorning the space.
Rail Trail Flatbread
The expanded patio at Hudson's beloved Rail Trail Flatbread is the perfect spot for tucking into their award-winning pizzas. Heaters will keep it, and you (and your pie!) warm, even when the weather cools. So pop over whenever you're in the mood for some 'za (or a burger or a salad or a bowl - there's lots to choose from).
Reelhouse
Reelhouse has a surefire cure for springtime fever - their patio. Situated in East Boston, the restaurant's outside seating arrangement boasts breathtaking views of the city skyline. Soak in the glory of the sunset while enjoying fabulous bites and refreshing cocktails.
ReelHouse Marina Bay
Seafood lovers, head to Quincy to grab a seat at Reelhouse Marina Bay for a night out on their waterfront patio. It's first come, first served so you can pop in anytime to satisfy all hankerings for fish and shellfish as you watch the boats cruise by.
Ristorante Lucia
Collaborating with their friends and neighbors at St. Stephens Church, Lucia Ristorante & Bar has annexed the little patio space right across the street for your al fresco dining pleasure. They've also got a sidewalk patio right on Hanover Street, too so you've got lots space in which to enjoy the flavors of Abruzzo in the heart of the North End.
Rochambeau
Rochambeau, the Back Bay's go-to for French fare has added a sidewalk patio right on Boylston Street. Grab a spot and pretend you've been transported to Paris over classics like steak frites, french onion soup and crème brûlée.
