125 E National Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53204
La Merenda is delicious anytime of the year, but summertime is when they really shine. Diners will flock to this multi-ethnic tapas joint in Walker's Point early to get a spot outdoors in their large fenced-in backyard complete with a planter-lined raised patio and pergola, an outdoor bar, a stone fireplace, and a vegetable garden from which they source some of their ingredients.
Best Dish: Sambal Goreng Udang, but don't pass up on the Tres Leches for dessert
430 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Like La Merenda, Morel offers next-level cuisine and is home to another beautiful patio in Walker's Point. Though smaller, it is charmingly enclosed by historic buildings covered in green ivy. You can even get a glimpse of the historic haunted cigar bar Shaker's, adding a historic aesthetic that is oh so Milwaukee.
Best Dish: The Lamb Carpaccio
1955 S Hilbert St, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Barnacle Bud's is the spot to be when you want to feel fully invested in summer and all things boats, and for us, a little reminder of our time when we called Florida home. Fitting with the theme, the menu leans mostly seafood, offering various fish options, crab cakes, oysters, and Po Boy's.
Best Dish: Fried Grouper Sandwich
2011 S 1st St, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Along with a vast patio, the Bridgewater boasts several boat slips along the Kinnickinnic River in Bay View. You'll often find a saxophone player or live music on deck as well, adding to the classy vibes that accompany a classic menu that specializes in wood-fired cuisine.
Best Dish: Smashed Crispy Fingerling Potatoes
346 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Benelux might be one of Milwaukee's most popular patios, located on a rooftop directly across from the famous Public Market in the third ward. The European Grand Cafe was recently renovated and now open again for breakfast, lunch and dinner. To add to the fun, Benelux is a great place for any Bloody Mary or beer lover, especially if you're into Belgian-Style Ales.
Best Dish: Sprocket Burger
550 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Formerly known as Pieces of Eight, this now Bartolotta-owned restaurant sits on one of Milwaukee's most coveted pieces of land on Lake Michigan, sandwiched between the captivating Milwaukee Art Museum and Discovery World, with a vast view of the city and the lake. With a delicious menu (especially at brunch), Harbor House might have landed even higher on the list, but the plastic patio furniture is a little less than comfortable for actual dining.
Best Dish: Salmon Rillettes for brunch, Alaskan Halibut for dinner
1007 N Cass St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Walking in the Cafe at the Plaza, you might think this is just any run-of-the-mill diner at a hotel, and maybe even a little outdated at that. But once you walk out the back doors of the restaurant, you'll see that it's anything but. Tucked inside their ivy-covered red brick building, you'll find yourself in a beautiful French style courtyard. This is a spot where dining outside is definitely worth the wait, and a local go-to for a simple breakfast on any beautiful day Milwaukee might have to offer.
Best Dish: Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes
909 W Layton Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53221
El Beso might initially come off as a bit kitschy, which can sometimes signify that the food might not be all that great. But honestly, we always leave pretty happy (though part of that could be attributed to the giant margaritas served with an upside-down Corona). When we visit El Beso, it's for that breathtaking patio that surrounds a large tropical stone-tiered fountain and transports you right to Mexico for the evening.
Best Dish: Steak fajitas
600 S 6th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Movida was actually previously number 4 on our list for its cultural aesthetic, blanketed in Spanish tapestries and hanging rugs that separate the tables. Movida recently did a large refurb to expand their patio, but unfortunately it meant the charm had to go and it leans a little more simplistic if not commercial. But, Movida is still a great spot for brunch or dinner and the best place in town to get some craveable Spanish tapas.
Best Dish: Pan con Tomate
2200 W Mt Vernon Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233
As far as the menu goes, City Lights offers some solid but very casual dining options, but we go for the beer. This brewery's patio offers plenty of space, and a great view of their unique century-old building that is the former home of the Milwaukee Gas Light Co. Milwaukeeans are proud of their historic buildings, and this "beer plant" is no exception.
Best Dish: Cheese Curds
5901 W National Ave, West Allis, WI 53214
With Milwaukee, we could easily mention 15 different beer gardens you can enjoy on any summer day, but we're here to talk about the food. Kegel's makes it easy, offering a large beer garden right outside their historic post-speakeasy restaurant in the summer months. Mimicking Munich's Oktoberfest, Kegel's beer garden is complete with authentic Hofbrau tables and umbrellas and overhead lighting. Check their website for a local live music schedule as well.
Best Dish: Gotta be that fish fry!
1758 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Located in Milwaukee's Lower East Side, Tauro Cocina offers a unique selection of Mexican-Italian fusion dishes, but also a very pleasing to the eye patio. The charm can be attributed to its red brick deck, cute furniture and umbrellas, and most notably a gorgeous fountain centerpiece.
Best Dish: The Carne Asada Pizza
1200 W Canal St, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Similar to Barnacle Buds, Twisted Fisherman conveys beachy vibes that make you feel like you're not in Wisconsin anymore. Twisted Fisherman's patio takes it even further, with a sandy beach surrounding the elevated deck. The food also leans mainly to seafood, with slightly more variety than Barnacle Bud's.
Best Dish: Crab Bisque
1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Lakefront is a must-do for any visitor no matter the season, but their patio has become an especially enjoyable gathering place over the years. Located in Brewer's Hill there is ample space along the Milwaukee river to enjoy a beer and some snacks. Afterwards, enjoy a walk along the River Walk and soak in some rays. Lakefront also introduced their "Curd-Wagon", so diners won't even need to go inside to grab a snack.
Best Dish: Specialty Cheese Curds on Thursdays.
2317 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
GTO is popular to the point that they have earned themselves a nickname among Milwaukeeans. Located in the heart of Bay View, diners often seek this spot out in the summer for their large covered patio. We love GTO for a simple taco dinner that includes solid rice & beans and the best steak tacos in the city.
Best Dish: Steak Tacos