Cafe do Brasil
440 N.W. 11th
525-9779
Even if it’s still warm out, the rooftop terrace catches all the cool breezes before they flutter down on to the rest of the city. Here you’ll find authentic cocktails, delicious snacks (especially its chocolate chip muffins) and usually a live performance from a local musician.
Flip’s Wine Bar & Trattoria
5801 N. Western
843-1527
Situated conveniently in the Classen Curve area, this sometimes-overlooked trattoria has all the ingredients for a topnotch night. Step one: Grab a patio seat under one of the umbrellas. Step two: Order the Italian nachos. Step three: Order a tasty beverage. Step four: Relax and enjoy your evening.
The Museum Cafe
415 Couch
235-6262
Recently the downtown cafe at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art updated its menu. Its extraordinary cuisine won a few national awards this year, so it’s the perfect patio option before taking in a film or art exhibit.
Sauced on Paseo
2912 Paseo
521-9800
If you want some of the best pizza in the city and you’re anywhere near Paseo, you’d be remiss not to stop into Sauced on Paseo. “Friendly and eclectic” best describes the clientele and ambience. Strings of lights hang outside, and if you face north, you’ll take in a delightful mosaic on the side of the building. This patio has plenty of room for larger groups, too.
The Mont Restaurant
1300 Classen Blvd., Norman
329-3330
Norman loves this longtime hot spot for outdoor dining, and over the years the patio has grown to accommodate a sizable crew. There are umbrellas to shade from heat and direct sun, and a misting system if it’s just too darn hot. Plenty of vegetation surrounding the space makes you feel as if you’ve found a secret, yet welcoming, hideaway.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
208 Johnny Bench Drive
602-3899
Right along the always-happening Bricktown canal, this spot is perfect for people-watching and drink-imbibing, as well as enjoying a delicious taco dinner. It’s a stone’s throw away from the Harkins Theatre, so it’s great for pre- or post-movie relaxation.
The Wedge Pizzeria
4709 N. Western
602-3477
This patio is covered when it needs to be, but always open. Is it raining but still a lovely day? You can sit out on the patio and enjoy your favorite pizza (made with local produce) as well as the breeze under the cover of a painted ceiling. Bring the kiddos, because there is a brand-new play space for them beside the bocce ball pits.
Photos by Shannon Cornman and Mark Hancock
