With the harsh winters of our home state, most Minnesotans count down the days to summer. It’s a season to spend as much time outside as possible, because you never know what next winter will be like. One of the best ways to enjoy the weather? Eating outside, of course. These restaurants have great outdoor patios that will rekindle your love for summer weather.
1. Little Angie's Cantina and Grill - Duluth
The patio at Little Angie's is a beautiful spot to enjoy a meal. It's outfitted with colorful umbrellas and comfy seats, but you probably won't even notice when you see the beautiful view of Duluth. Address: 11 East Buchanan Street, Duluth.
2. Hola Arepa - Minneapolis
Hola Arepa made a name for itself by serving up delicious arepas from its food truck. Now there's a restaurant, and it comes complete with a large, dog-friendly patio. Go for the tasty food made with fresh ingredients. Stay for the fun patio atmosphere. Address: 3501 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis.
3. Smack Shack - Minneapolis
If you like seafood and eating outside, Smack Shack is probably your perfect restaurant. They're known for their seriously delectable lobster rolls, but the entire menu is full of knockouts. You can dine inside or take your meal to the patio, where you'll enjoy your food with a unique urban view. Address: 603 North Washington Avenue, Minneapolis.
4. Tavern on the Hill - Duluth
Here's another fantastic Duluth restaurant with a view. Tavern on the Hill is known for its flavorful, locally sourced menu offerings. Diners also love the restaurant for its large outdoor patio. It's nice and shaded during the day, and it's especially magical at night. Address: 1102 Woodland Avenue, Duluth.
5. Quarks American Bento - St. Cloud
Here's how it works: you fill your bowl up with veggies, meat, grains, and just about everything you can imagine. Then, you enjoy your customized meal inside or on the Quarks patio. It's a nice spot to take in the hustle and bustle of downtown St. Cloud. Address: 125 5th Avenue South, St. Cloud.
6. The Freight House - Stillwater
The Freight House is located in an historic building that was built over a century ago. The restaurant serves up flavorful American food that is sure to please any palate. You're free to take in the building's history in the indoor dining area. But many opt to head outside to the huge patio where they can enjoy great views of the St. Croix river as they eat. Address: 305 Water Street South, Stillwater.
7. Boat House - Winona
If you're looking for a great meal in Winona, you could do a lot worse than Boat House. This place has a menu packed with flavor, and plenty of drinks to go around. If you want to kick your experience up a notch, go on a warm day when you can dine outside. The restaurant looks out over the Mississippi River. Address: 2 Johnson Street, Winona.
8. The Pickled Loon - St. Cloud
The Pickled Loon is another St. Cloud restaurant that offers great dining in the downtown area. As shoppers stroll down the charing St. Germain Street, you can sit outside on the patio and watch the world go by. Fresh flavors and a menu that changes seasonally make every visit unique. Address: 715 West St. Germain Street, St. Cloud.
9. Harbor House Grille - Grand Marais
Many Minnesotans go up to Grand Marais to enjoy the incredible scenery of northern Minnesota. What better way to take it all in than to eat outside? The Harbor House Grille has a lovely patio that looks over Lake Superior, so you'll be able to enjoy nature while you eat. Address: 411 West Highway 61, Grand Marais.
10. Lola - An American Bistro - New Ulm
New Ulm is a lovely town with lots of great restaurants to choose from. Lola is certainly up there, with great food and a cozy, charming atmosphere. But the real draw may be their patio. It's a great spot to enjoy some great food and conversation outside this summer. Address: 16 North Minnesota Street, New Ulm.
11. Angry Trout Cafe - Grand Marais
We couldn't do an outdoor dining list without including Angry Trout. This place is right on the shores of Lake Superior, so you'll have a stunning view no matter which way you look. Better yet, they have a great menu - including seriously delicious fish. Address: 408 Highway 61, Grand Marais.
Where are your favorite spots to spend patio season? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re looking for more great spots to eat, check out these 10 Minnesota restaurants with amazing river views .
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