This time of year is prime time for patios. Whether you’re enjoying a drink with great views, or grabbing a bite with friends, there are tons of great options all over Rock City. We’ve tried to narrow down the long list with a few exceptional patio paradises.
- Ciao Baci – 605 Beechwood Street – This Hillcrest staple is dreamy with fairy lights, making it the perfect romantic space to sip a drink on a nice day.
- La Terraza Rum & Lounge – 300 Kavanaugh Blvd – Catch some of the prettiest views in Hillcrest from the tiered patio with a Spicy Mojito in hand.
- The Fold: Botanas & Bar –3501 Old Cantrell Road – Funky, eclectic tables and chairs provide a hip aesthetic, but be warned – this smallish space fills up quickly on a nice day.
- Rebel Kettle Brewing Co – 822 E. 6th st. – The new brewery in town made a huge splash early with one of the best patios in town. The huge area offers plenty of seating and views of the Clinton Library and Heifer international.
- Casa Manana – 6820 Cantrell Road – For an unsuspecting hidden oasis, head here. The front may not look like much, but the back outdoor space is lush, green and the perfect place to enjoy a Margarita.
- Forty Two – 1200 President Clinton Avenue – For views of the Arkansas River amongst a modern vibe, head here.
- Loca Luna – 315 Old Cantrell Road – The patio feels like a hidden courtyard you’re likely to find in New Orleans. It’s small, though, and can fill up pretty quickly on a pretty day.
- Izzy’s – 5601 Ranch Dr – Izzy’s patio flies under the radar, mostly due to location. It is a huge space that allows you to quickly forget you are in WLR.
- U.S. Pizza Co. Hillcrest – 2710 Kavanaugh – The Hillcrest location has always been a hot spot during great weather, plus they’re dog-friendly.
- Trio’s Restaurant – 8201 Cantrell Road – The covered patio is breezy and covered with plants that the owner tends to herself.
Faded Rose 
Rebel Kettle - The Faded Rose – 1619 Rebsamen Park Rd – The Rose’s patio saw a huge upgrade last year with the addition of a covered space. It is small, but it is the place to be in Riverdale.
- Baja Grill – 5923 Kavanaugh Boulevard – Small, but covered, this space offers a great view of the hustle and bustle of the Heights neighborhood.
- Buffalo Grill – 1611 Riverdale Park Road – The spacious, wrap-around porch is a lovely place to hang. Plus, the nursery next door offers great green views, and makes it feel like you’re in the secret garden.
- Scallions – 5110 Kavanaugh Blvd – If you’re wanting a cool, breezy spot, head down to Scallions’ patio and enjoy a nice lunch.
- The Root Café –1500 South Main Street – For a fresh, farm-to-table atmosphere stop in SOMA at The Root.
- Damgoode Pies in the River Market – 500 President Clinton Avenue – If you want more River views, park it at Damgoode. It’s especially a nice place to hang when there are outdoor concerts going on in the nearby Amphitheatre – think upcoming River Fest.
- Cheers in the Heights – 2010 North Van Buren Street – Small, but covered and ready for any crazy Arkansas weather, this patio is quaint, cozy, and the best way to eat a leisurely lunch.
- Milford Track – 10809 Executive Center Drive – Yes, this eatery is located in an office building, but if you take a step outside you’re met with a gorgeous patio setting that makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a calming, spacious yard.
- Local Lime – 17185 Chenal Parkway – This covered outdoor space is a lovely paradise in The Promenade.
La Terraza 
The Fold - Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro –17711 Chenal Parkway – Another lovely space in The Promenade to enjoy a meal. You can also occasionally catch some music.
- Big Orange West & Midtown – 17809 Chenal Parkway, 207 North University Avenue – Both locations are perfect seating for a good day. West offers a secluded space in The Promenade, and Midtown offers a brilliant space that transitions seamlessly from the main dining.
- Cajun’s Wharf – 2400 Cantrell Road – Again with the River views. This one takes the cake.
- Capers Restaurant – 14502 Cantrell Road – You really can’t beat this patio. You feel like you’re in a completely separate, serene world when you sit down.
- Cache – 425 President Clinton Avenue – This downtown spot isn’t necessarily large, but it’s an elegant place to lounge while grabbing a drink. Plus, the upstairs balcony patio offers pretty views of the every-busy River Market.
- Dugan’s Pub – 401 East Third Street – This River Market staple has a bit of an underrated patio. Covered and dotted with flowers in the spring, it’s a great place to slow down and have a pint.
Noteable mentions: Stone’s Throw Brewing, Brave New Restaurant, ZAZA’s, Maddie’s Place, Chi’s, Copper Grill, SO, Pantry Crest, Heights Taco and Tamale Co
