The Best Patios in St. Louis
100+ alfresco spots to unwind
Neatly tucked between two buildings, the patio at Billy G’s is a slice of nirvana in the heart of Kirkwood. Start with drinks by the fire pit table. Then eat beneath the strings of lights in the main dining area (ideally with friends in one of the covered cabanas). Finally, enjoy a nightcap and a game on the TVs at the outdoor bar. 131 W. Argonne.
The Rock Hill staple wasn’t always known for its sprawling patio. In 1993, nearly 25 years after opening, the owners added an eight-table outdoor area. An instant hit, la terraza has continued to evolve and now boasts lush landscaping, covered seating, overhead heaters, and a full bar that cranks out the margaritas. 9748 Manchester.
Ted and Katie Collier ingeniously use every square inch of the two locations’ patios, placing planter boxes to separate the seating from the parking lots and planting produce for über-local ingredients.
Already a popular hangout, the Valley Park location just got a major upgrade, with a two-tiered, enclosed patio complete with a pergola and flat-screen TVs.
The laid-back rural setting, grapevine-canopied arbor, rustic brick floor, and New Orleans–influenced menu combine to make J. Fires one of the area’s most gracious patio dining experiences. Order the crawfish étouffée and enjoy the sunset. 725 N. Market, Waterloo.
Late last year, Baileys’ Chocolate Bar begat this Cajun-Creole bistro. The Chocolate Bar moved upstairs—but its former back porch is as romantic as ever. 1915 Park.
Shaded by mature trees, Braddens’ courtyard offers the perfect place from which to survey the scene on historic Main. Start with a bottle of merlot and Brie with apples and bread and unwind to the sound of the gurgling fountain. 515 S. Main, St. Charles.
The CWE location’s patio is spacious, secluded, and intimate, with brick and ivy. Consider visiting during happy hour, 5–7 p.m. Monday–Friday.
At the original Ballwin location, a side patio is open to the elements, and a rear portico overlooks a pond. In Des Peres, a covered deck doubles as the front porch.
Next door to Circle 7 in Ballwin, Marcella’s also offers a serene view of said pond. Don’t overlook the Peppercorn Burger—an unexpected surprise at an Italian restaurant. 14426 Clayton.
St. Louisans and out-of-towners alike have long enjoyed drinks and dining on the patio overlooking The Chase Park Plaza’s famed Mediterranean-style pool. After a dramatic makeover last year, the Chase Club (formerly Café Eau) offers fireside seating on one of the most elegant, storied patios in town. 212 N. Kingshighway.
One of the city’s iconic alfresco dining experiences has taken a different tack. Under the guidance of chef Jack MacMurray and Sugarfire Events, the restaurant now serves a menu of proven hits. On busy weekends, look for additional items from guest restaurants and food trucks. 6101 Government.
It’s almost impossible to round the corner at Maryland and Brentwood on a temperate evening and not be drawn in by the soft seating, stainless steel fire sculpture, and (occasional) live music. Park the car and join the party. 8100 Maryland.
Hofbräuhaus St. Louis–Belleville
The interior is spectacular, but nothing says German Bierhalle like the Biergarten, which seats 200. 123 St. Eugene.
The brick-floored, ivy-walled courtyard is a secret garden: tranquil, genteel, where the CWE’s bustle recedes. On hot summer nights, it remains cool (and offers a limited evening menu); on weekend mornings, it’s a glorious place to start the day. 48 Maryland Plaza.
Sunday brunches are terrific. Think poached eggs with cornbread Benedict, eggplant involtini, and seafood frittata along with live music and restorative Bloody Marys. With its own bar and tranquil atmosphere, the covered patio will quickly become a favorite haunt.13 Maryland Plaza.
Mark Twain was still alive when the building that houses Hendel’s was constructed. He’d have adored the rustic courtyard, with its widely spaced tables shaded by mature oaks in a quiet Florissant neighborhood. 599 St. Denis.
All three locations offer great specials. The best spot to enjoy said deals? The cozy patio at the West County location.
In Creve Coeur, EdgeWild’s intimate patio is neatly tucked below the hustle and bustle of Olive Boulevard. Go on Thursdays, when drinks are half-price. 12316 Olive.
Vito’s Sicilian Pizzeria & Ristorante
Enjoying a meal at Vito’s before the symphony is a St. Louis tradition. Dining on the streetside court is a warm-weather joy. The pizza’s thick; specialties, pastas, and salads are Sicilian-accented. A small outdoor bar adds to the relaxed, unhurried atmosphere. 3515 Lindell.
Upscale alfresco dining at T3 has all the essentials: an outdoor bar, live music, a crackling fireplace, a menu ranging from appetizers (duck confit flatbread) to full meals (paella). Located across from The Wildwood Hotel, the outdoor space is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. 16765 Main, Wildwood.
The sprawling multi-level outdoor dining space, filled with umbrella-topped tables, is a destination for Cajun specialties. Oyster shooters make a good beginning. When the live music starts, get serious with po’ boys and seafood jambalaya. (And don’t forget Sunday brunch, when it’s smart to arrive before 11:30 a.m.) 816 Geyer.
It looks less like a restaurant patio than a forest glade. The stone-lined waterfall is spectacular, and greenery surrounds diners. Consider going during happy hour (4–6 p.m. Monday–Friday) for discounted sliders, calamari, and flatbreads. There’s live music some nights; on others, the flowing water provides a relaxing soundtrack. 16125 Chesterfield Parkway W.
Come for the dings, clunks, and thwacks of pinball. Stay for the bright patio murals and vittles from the Byrd & Barrel Nug Shack. 4170 Manchester.
A florid Art Nouveau ironwork structure, a massive tiered fountain, strings of over-head lights, an array of soft seating… Not much can top Sanctuaria’s splendid bar, but this fun, sophisticated patio does. 4198 Manchester.
Seating is actually in Citygarden, an oasis in downtown’s forest of concrete and steel. Pair a cup of joe with a house-baked scone or a savory dish from the breakfast or lunch menu. Morning meetings on this elegant patio are a visual delight. 808 Chestnut.
Breakfasts here are lavish; enjoying them on the partially hidden below-grade patio is a grand way to begin the day. Dogs, who are permitted, give it a rating of five bones. The sandwiches and drinks are great, but let’s be honest: The dessert choices are unbelievable. 5400 Murdoch.
Some know Café Natasha as home to outstanding falafel, hummus, and kebabs. Others go for the unparalleled collection of gins, along with house-concocted tonics. The patio brings the two sides together, offering an umbrella-festooned hideaway that’s romantic and relaxed. 3200 S. Grand.
Though the menu and name recently changed, the former DeMun Oyster Bar remains among the most relaxing places to spend a pleasant evening in Clayton. When the custom-fabricated windows are raised, the corner patio flows seamlessly into the breezy
restaurant. 740 DeMun.
Dinner here is genteel, with a menu of inspired dishes, steaks from the next-door butchery, and a stellar wine list (including an at-cost glass and bottle that change every week). Dining on the patio should be a Ladue tradition—an evening spent in semiprivacy with a glass of tawny port is wonderfully civilized. 9202 Clayton.
Tijuana Street Fries, anyone? The menu’s mostly Mexican fare, and the cerveza’s frosty. Out back, the action is around the fire pit, covered bar, and stage. Prices are refreshingly reasonable. 4140 Manchester.
Situated in St. Charles’ former water works, Hendricks hits all the basics for an enjoyable summer twilight: barbecue (think ribs and brisket), beer and liquor (even flavored moonshine), and a quiet setting with a view (the double deck overlooking the Katy Trail). 1200 S. Main.
An unassuming street corner in U. City is home to one of the most alluring sidewalk patios (and some of the best street tacos) in town. 7405 Pershing.
With One North Group’s 4101 Laclede luxury condos opening across the street this summer, Retreat will likely be hotter than ever. 6 N. Sarah.
Sit at one of the comfortable tables under the striped awning and order escargots, steak frites, and a glass of Bordeaux. 427 S. Kirkwood.
Across the parking lot from Café Provencal, Sapore offers a picturesque fountain and fine Italian dining. 451 S. Kirkwood.
The barbecue and former jail cells inside get all of the attention, but the quaint courtyard is nearly as notable. 2727 S. 12th.
An unassuming storefront gives way to a partially covered courtyard graced with string lights and plants. 5815 Hampton.
Open all day, Avenue’s charming, west-facing sidewalk patio offers welcome respite and a prime people-watching perch in the heart of Clayton. 12 N. Meramec.
It’s like eating in Oxford. Ivy-draped brick walls tower around the intimate courtyard, tucked behind the Seven Gables Inn. Enjoy such Irish classics as stews and potpies, as well as an astounding whiskey and bourbon selection. 26 N. Meramec.
With the courtyard bar and patio adjoining 590 AM The Fan’s studios, you can check the latest sports news with beer in hand. 10312 Manchester.
The perfect remedy after a night spent hopping Soulard’s bars, this neighborhood fixture’s namesake is hidden out back, where regulars gravitate for blueberry cornmeal pancakes and slingers amid a bohemian garden of brick and flora. 909 Geyer.
Just west of Delmar’s main drag, the charming general store–and–more offers a peaceful haven in a quiet part of U. City. It’s open until 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and the patio is especially charming at night, with the lights casting a warm glow on the trees and brick building. 7213 Delmar.
First, outdoor seating encircles the restaurant, so there are plenty of options. Second, Joey B’s also offers alfresco booths for cozy dining. Third, the menu covers everything from pasta-centric Italian fare to such pub eats as steak sandwiches. It’s often crowded and always fun. 14445 Manchester.
The ambience on the sprawling patio in Des Peres is Cancun cool, with reservable cabanas, soft seating near a fireplace, and a louvered roof. The downtown location also offers seating aplenty.
Tucked away just off Wash. Ave., the stylish eatery (fashioned by Lori Olsen McElvain, who also designed both Rosalita’s) boasts a pergola-covered space with fans, hanging plants, and wrought-iron furniture. It’s among downtown’s most pleasant patios. 1301 Washington.
This elevated respite at The Grandel has a great view, with Powell Hall in the foreground and downtown in the distance. 3610 Grandel Square.
On a weekend morning, few places feel as cosmopolitan as the French bistro’s two-tops on the sidewalk patio. 4580 Laclede.
This Clayton stalwart’s patio rocks on weekends, especially with a cocktail from talented bartender Han Tran. 7754 Forsyth.
Order a pitcher of sangria and a few small plates, and you’ll feel as if you’re enjoying the outdoors on a quaint Spanish street.
34 N. Central.
While waiting for a craft cocktail, check out the different ways in which the patio tables have been painted. 4590 Laclede.
The best place to enjoy Bill Cardwell’s recipes (and a long wine list) might be the patio. It’s quaint, shaded, and ideal after a shopping spree at Plaza Frontenac. 94 Plaza Frontenac.
Situated on a prime corner in the CWE, the Gamlin brothers’ namesake bar has a sun-drenched patio with plenty of four-tops, perfect for double dates and single-malts. 236 N. Euclid.
Grab a seat at one of the myriad picnic tables, and order a savory crêpe and Bloody Mary. Then take in the sights and sounds of the vibrant South City community. 3150 S. Grand.
Longtime St. Louisans have fond memories of Sunday mornings spent on the shaded sidewalk patio outside Duff’s. Today, The Tavern carries on the tradition, serving brunch versions of its popular trio plates.
All four St. Louis locations offer primetime people-watching. Go on a Tuesday, when you can customize a $1 burger.
Rooftop Terrace Bar at the Moonrise Hotel
One of the region’s few public rooftops with an unobstructed view of the sunset, it boasts what may be the world’s largest manmade moon. 6177 Delmar.
It doesn’t get any more St. Louis than the eighth-floor terrace at the Four Seasons, overlooking the Mississippi and the Arch… OK, apparently, it does: Hometown hero Gerard Craft is reinventing the space as Cinder House. 999 N. Second.
Look down into Busch Stadium, over to the Arch, and beyond. It’s not uncommon to witness an engagement—and a bachelorette party—at the ultimate rooftop bar. 1 S. Broadway.
The Budweiser Brew House Deck also offers Wrigley Field–like views of the ballpark—except without those pesky Cubs fans at most games. 601 Clark.
The bistro’s sprawling rooftop was popular even before owners Paul and Wendy Hamilton turned it into practically a four-season dining spot. 2017 Chouteau.
Great for sunset viewing, two building-length patios (off the bar and restaurant levels) offer magnificent west-facing views of the city. 1419 Carroll.
The plants hanging from the ornate wood gables in the summertime make this suburban outpost feel like Baden-Baden. 1600 S. Lindbergh.
With a carefully crafted cocktail in hand, spend an evening marveling at the neighborhood’s historic architecture, including the brick archways above the courtyard. 1000 Mississippi.
Situated beside a lovingly restored century-old Victorian, the hip seasonal space offers an excellent list of cocktails, live music, and a striking atmosphere. 3201 Washington.
In Botanical Heights, Olio’s cozy garden patio out back is populated with planters, some used as centerpieces atop the wooden tables. 1634 Tower Grove.
In the mood for a nightcap? Gerard Craft’s speakeasy-style cocktail bar is foolproof, especially if you can snag a spot on the patio (and maybe a plate or two of those cheese curds).
4584 Laclede.
Pergolas, murals, greenery, lunch specials… The patio at The Royale has it all. (Look for live music announcements on social media.) 3132 S. Kingshighway.
Cork & Barrel Chophouse and Spirits
In St. Peters, consider sipping a fine whiskey from a Norlan glass on the patio beneath one of the cantilevered umbrellas. 7337 Mexico.
The only way to top the weekend Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar at Sqwires? Sipping a mid-morning cocktail on the pooch-friendly patio. 1415 S. 18th.
The all-season glass conservatory boasts eight half-size garage doors. One side offers soft seating, the other picnic tables and a kids’ play area. 17258 Chesterfield Airport.
A recent remodel added a three-season space (and a new happy hour menu) to the existing wraparound patio. 1147 Saint Louis Galleria.
The patio is among the most popular in town—but, with more than 100 seats, you should never have to wait too long for a table. 1601 S. Lindbergh.
Both 801 Chophouse and 801 Fish in downtown Clayton overlook Ruth Keller Schweiss’ spectacular “Still Point” fountain. Both offer
affordable happy hour menus. 801restaurantgroup.com.
The patio at this prime Sunset Hills location has long been a beacon for the resident restaurant, including predecessors House of Maret and Growlers Pub. 3811 S. Lindbergh.
When the bar gets too boisterous, wander a few feet outside to the all-season loggia that runs the length of the building. 10342 Clayton.
The three area locations have large, partially covered patios, including outdoor bars with at-the-bar seating. eatwalnut.com.
How often do you see a patio bedecked with greenery, string lights, a live band, people eating dinner—and dancing? At the Clayton location, it’s a common weekend sight. 1 N. Brentwood.
