Phoenix Outdoor Dining: Top Al Fresco Locations

It’s the perfect time of year for outdoor dining in Phoenix. Our home is known for its beautiful weather, and what better way to enjoy it than dining al fresco? Here are our top picks in Phoenix with outdoor seating.

The Best Phoenix Outdoor Dining Spots to Enjoy the Beautiful Weather

Chelsea’s Kitchen: Fresh and Local

Chelsea’s Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves fresh and local cuisine. The restaurant has a rustic yet modern ambiance with a spacious outdoor patio. This patio is one of our favorites. It’s always bustling, and the tree cover makes it a little cooler than other open-air patios. The menu features seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as their Deviled Eggs ($15), the Brussels Sprout Salad ($18), and the Vegetarian Black Bean Burger ($17). The most popular dishes include the Blackened Hawaiian Swordfish tacos ($28), the Green Chile Burger ($18), and the Organic Chicken ($26). With most dishes ranging from $17 to $48, it’s a moderately to high-priced place to enjoy Phoenix outdoor dining.

PB Recommends: We love the Grilled Whole Branzino ($44). The blackened fish is accompanied by a pesto that has a southwestern flair, and the presentation is a showstopper for sure.

Ocotillo Restaurant: A Desert Oasis

Ocotillo Restaurant is a desert oasis that serves New American cuisine. The restaurant has a modern yet rustic ambiance with a beautiful outdoor patio. The menu features seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as the Lightly Smoked Beets ($13), the Dry Aged Beef Tartare ($21), and the Wood Fired Beef Ribs ($44). The most popular dishes include the Eggplant “Meatballs” ($13), and the signature Mesquite Grilled Ocotillo Chicken ($23). With its moderately to high price range, most large plates range from $20 to $59. Enjoy a unique dining experience at Ocotillo Restaurant, where the desert meets contemporary cuisine.

PB Recommends: We’re going to go for the Sunchoke Ricotta Agnolotti for the perfect blend of flavors and freshness.

Postino WineCafe: Wine and Bruschetta

Postino WineCafe is a wine bar that serves bruschetta and other small plates. The restaurant has a cozy yet chic ambiance with a beautiful outdoor patio. The menu features a variety of bruschetta toppings, such as the Prosciutto Di Parma with figs & mascarpone, the Brie with Apple & Fig Spread, and the Smoked Salmon with Pesto. The most popular dishes include the bruschetta board combinations (4 for $16.25), their paninis ($14.50), and the prerequisite Chef’s Charcuterie Board ($18.25). The price range is moderate, with most dishes ranging from $10 to $20. Enjoy a relaxing evening with some wine and great food at Postino WineCafe.

PB Recommends: We are Bruschetta Board-ers for life!

Quiessence at The Farm at South Mountain: A Farm-to-Table Experience

Quiessence serves organic, seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine curated by renowned Chef Dustin Christofolo. The menu features freshly harvested vegetables, edible flowers, eggs, and herbs picked within hours from the on-site Soil and Seed Garden, as well as locally sourced produce and meat. The refined-yet-rustic menu is rounded out with a delightful selection of cheeses, artisan bread, and handcrafted pasta, plus desserts featuring fruit from the Farm’s own trees. There are three set prix-fixe menu options ranging from three to five courses and range from $109 to $129 per guest with wine pairings at an additional cost. Indulge in some farm-to-table goodness while enjoying the Phoenix weather.

PB Recommends: Go all out with the five-course tasting menu. Go big or go home, right?

The Gladly: Craft Cocktails and Comfort Food

The Gladly is a restaurant that serves craft cocktails and comfort food. The restaurant has a modern yet cozy ambiance with a spacious outdoor patio. The menu features classic dishes with a modern twist, such as the Fresh Raw Oysters from the raw bar ($MKT), the Commander Hamburger ($20), and the Chimichurri Chicken ($27). The most popular dishes include the Original Chopped Salad ($17), the Deep Red Crab Cakes ($32), and the Pan Seared Scallops ($40). The price range is moderate to high, with most dishes ranging from $8 to $60. With its unique take on comfort food and craft cocktails, The Gladly is a must-visit restaurant for outdoor dining in Phoenix.

PB Recommends: If you go to The Gladly and don’t get the OG Chopped salad, like, did you even go?

The Henry: A Modern American Eatery

The Henry is a modern American eatery that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant has a casual yet sophisticated ambiance with a beautiful outdoor patio. The patio is light and bright with plenty of umbrellas for when the heat is on and a fireplace for when the temps dip a bit. The menu features classic American dishes with a modern twist, such as avocado toast, burgers, and salads. The most popular dishes include their Braised Short Rib ($33), the Hot Honey Crispy Chicken sandwich ($17.5), and the Seared Tuna Chop salad ($19). With its moderate price range, most dinner entrees range from $18 to $51.

PB Recommends: The Seared Ahi Tuna ($33) is perfectly paired with green curry rice, shiitake mushrooms for umami, fresh veg for crispness, but it’s the spicy coconut lemongrass broth that brings it all together, making bite after bite a delightful ride.

The Montauk: A Beachy Vibe in the Desert

The Montauk is a beachy restaurant that serves seafood and cocktails. The restaurant has a laid-back ambiance with a beautiful outdoor patio with comfortable seating, string lights, and fire pit. The menu features fresh seafood dishes, such as the Crispy Rock Shrimp ($15) and the Warm Lobster Roll ($26). The most popular dishes include the Burrata ($15), the Crispy Fish Tacos ($16), and the Ahi Poke Chopped Salad ($16). The price range is moderate to high, with most dishes ranging from $12 to $26. If you’re looking for a beachy vibe in the middle of the desert, head to The Montauk for a unique outdoor dining experience.

PB Recommends: We love the House Potato Chips + Dip ($9) to start. There’s just something to be said for a perfectly fried thin potato, Parmesan cheese, and truffle oil!

The Vig: A Neighborhood Hangout

The Vig is a neighborhood hangout that serves American comfort food and craft cocktails. The restaurant has a laid-back ambiance with a large outdoor patio complete with lawn games. The menu features classic dishes with a modern twist, such as the Smoked Mac and Cheese ($16), the Braised Beef Dip ($20), and the Blackened Tuna Salad ($22). Some of the most popular dishes include the Crisp Calamari ($16), the Grilled Chicken Chopped Salad ($19), and the Blackened Mahi Mahi tacos ($19). The price range is moderate, with most entrees ranging from $16 to $29. Make sure to visit this outdoor spot for an enjoyable Phoenix dining experience.

PB Recommends: We are all over the Grilled Hanger Steak ($29), every time. The classic combination of chimichurri and roasted potatoes screams comfort and joy in our eyes.

The Yard: A Gastropub with a Patio

The Culinary Dropout at The Yard is a gastropub located in Phoenix, AZ, known for its relaxed, soulful ambiance and uniform-free staff. The restaurant is a converted motorcycle garage and is also known as The Yard. The menu features classic bar food and drinks, including ice-cold beer and famous soft pretzels with provolone fondue. The most popular dishes include the 36 Hour Pork Ribs ($29) and their Fried Chicken ($20.50). The price range is moderate, with most entrees ranging from $18 to $31.50. The Yard has a true backyard feel with big couches, ping pong, and cornhole games, making it a great place to hang out with friends or family.

PB Recommends: The Crispy Chicken Katsu ($17) is the perfect blend of texture, spice, and freshness.

Indulge in an Unforgettable Phoenix Outdoor Dining Experience

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, these restaurants offer the perfect outdoor dining experience. Soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful weather in Phoenix while indulging in delicious food and drinks. Don’t miss out on these top restaurants with outdoor seating for an unforgettable Phoenix outdoor dining experience.