Enjoy Summer at These Boston Restaurants with Outdoor Seating

There’s no shortage of Boston restaurants with outdoor seating, and dining al fresco is simply one of the best ways to enjoy summer. Whether you’re looking for a cozy, hidden terrace or a large, airy patio, there’s something that will meet your needs. Here are a few great options in and around Downtown Crossing.

Marliave: Opened by Parisian immigrant Henry Marliave back in 1885, the restaurant is truly a Downtown Crossing landmark. It’s now owned by Scott Herritt, chef and owner of Grotto, a romantic Italian restaurant in Beacon Hill. Soak in the history on Marliave’s lovely patio, surrounded by a wrought iron fence and the facades of old buildings. Every single night, you can indulge in their signature oysters and clams, and wash them down with one of Marliave’s legendary (and strong) cocktails, such as the Boston Tea Party, which contains tequila, Earl Grey tea, ginger beer, and lemon. Add cheese and charcuterie plates for a perfect evening outdoors.

Battery Park Bar & Lounge: Nestled between two Financial District buildings, the brick-lined Battery Park patio can seat 50 diners or fit a total of 100 people—perfect for events. It has its own bar, too, so patrons don’t have to go back inside to refill. Wood paneling and stunning vertical gardens adorn the walls, and there are plenty of tables with umbrellas for those who want some shade. You’ll find a nice variety of bar food on the menu; try the bourbon-marinated steak tips, and leave room for the fresh-baked cookie dough pie. Additionally, Island Creek Oysters representatives will be shucking oysters on the patio between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. every Thursday throughout the summer.

Bistro du Midi: The stately upstairs dining room is only open for dinner, but there’s a quaint cafe connected to a small outdoor terrace that serves a special lighter menu all day. Right across the street from the Public Garden, there’s hardly a prettier option for patio dining. There are no reservations and tables are few, so be prepared to wait a bit on a beautiful summer day. Try a croque monsieur or croque madame, Provençal lamb cannelloni, or a classic steak frites, served with truffle vinaigrette. Be sure to pair your selection with wine from the impressive list (featuring French, Italian, and American selections).

Sip Wine Bar & Kitchen: A spacious patio wraps around two sides of this newcomer to Downtown Crossing, letting diners relax while they watch the bustling activity on Washington Street and beyond. Sip’s focus is wine, and providing manageable samples (“sips”) of it. Most wines are available in 2-ounce, 6-ounce, or 10-ounce servings, in addition to bottles. The menu is meant to be accessible to even the most novice wine drinkers; it features categories like “buttery whites” and “spicy reds.” To eat, try the short rib quesadilla, polenta fries, or margherita flatbread.

When the weather is warm, these Boston restaurants with outdoor seating are in high demand, so be sure to make reservations, if possible. Be aware, though, that patio seating is frequently first come, first served, but it’s worth the wait!

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