New Orleans has some interesting weather. Some days are just
so hot and humid that you can't stand to be outside for long. Some days are so
bitterly cold that even people from northern climates get chilly. Then there
are those days when the weather is just perfect: not too hot, not too cold,
sunny with a light breeze. Those are the days that you just have to drop everything
and get outside in the fresh air!
It is highly recommended that you enjoy these perfect
weather days at an upscale local bar or restaurant with a patio. You can fill your belly while
feeling yourself unwind and enjoy the day. These are the best restaurants to
dine in the fresh air. Let us guide you to the most lovely patios in New Orleans.
Where To Eat Outside In New Orleans
1. Nice Guys NOLA
7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404
niceguysnola.com
Nice Guys NOLA continues to be a popular spot for outdoor dining and delicious New Orleans cuisine. Their patio remains a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Brunch at Nice Guys NOLA features a DJ and an array of seafood dishes like Crawfish Crabcakes, Bayou Seafood Pasta, and Chargrilled Oysters. Served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays, brunch is complemented by Screwdrivers, Bloody Marys, and $5 frozen margaritas.
Want to try some oysters?" We recommend the "Ohh Lala Oysters." These are chargrilled oysters topped with a decadent combination of shrimp, crawfish, crab, and lobster cream. They're available by the half dozen or dozen, perfect for sharing or indulging solo.
2. Cafe Amelie
900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065
cafeamelie.com
Cafe Amelie is a charming New Orleans gem nestled in the French Quarter, offering a serene escape from the bustling streets. The restaurant's crown jewel is its enchanting courtyard, an Instagram-worthy setting with its lush greenery and romantic ambiance.
Cafe Amelie offers happy hour from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday with $5 house wines, $6 well cocktails, and $3 draft beers. Their signature cocktail, the Amelie Sparkler (made with champagne, St. Germain, and fresh lemon), is a must-try. The Shrimp and Grits is a standout dish, featuring Gulf shrimp in a rich, flavorful sauce over creamy stone-ground grits. For a lighter option, the Amelie Salad with mixed greens, goat cheese, and candied pecans is a refreshing choice. Don't miss their famous Chicken and Andouille Gumbo, a perfect representation of New Orleans' culinary heritage.
3. Barracuda Taco Stand
Multiple Locations
eatbarracuda.com
Barracuda, with locations in Uptown (3984 Tchoupitoulas St.) and Westbank (446 Pelican Ave.), is a popular spot among local Tulane students and is known for its great tacos and bowls. This spot offers outdoor seating only, creating a unique dining experience. The lovely backyard patio provides a perfect setting for those who prefer to enjoy their Tacos al Fresco. Even on warm days, the atmosphere remains pleasant thanks to strategically placed fans, making it a delightful place to relax and savor your meal.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the Crispy Fish Taco, featuring Louisiana beer-battered catfish, shredded cabbage, homemade crema, spicy salsa macha, and a surprising touch of pomegranate. The combination of great food and the charming outdoor setting makes Barracuda a must-visit.
4. Copper Vine
1001 Poydras St., (504) 208-9535
coppervine.com
Whether you want to have some elevated food and drinks before the big game or you're just hanging out in the CBD, Copper Vine is an elegant respite in this more corporate part of town. Despite the high-rise buildings on every side of you, Copper Vine's patio is line with green, viney plants that keep the concrete jungle out. It's often called one of the best outdoor dining spots in the city.
Serving lunch, brunch, and dinner, Copper Vine has a fantastic menu and contemporary décor. The Wagyu Burger and Cornflake-Fried Chicken Sandwich are great for lunch, but you'll want to have something like Short Rib Ragu & Pappardelle or Bourbon-Glazed Pork Chop for dinner.
5. The Country Club
634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742
thecountryclubneworleans.com
Have dinner and cocktails in this historic cottage with an accompanying pool and cabana bar. Enjoy dinner and drinks at the restaurant or come back for Drag Brunch, which they do every Saturday and Sunday. The Country Club is known for its contemporary Creole cuisine but has many different options so everyone can find something that they like on the menu.
Get through the New Orleans humidity by taking a dip in their beautiful pool and don't forget to grab a drink at their cabana bar!
6. Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar
1114 Constance St., (504) 381-5079
sidecarnola.com
Sidecar is a charming spot known for its delightful patio and refreshing cocktails. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with its patio being a particular highlight.
Sidecar keeps things interesting with its weekly specials, including $5 margaritas, $7 for select wine glasses, and half-off shucker's dozen oysters. Mondays feature half-off wings from 7 to 10 p.m., while Thursdays feature half-priced bottles of wine.
7. Bratz Y'all
617-B Piety St., (504) 301-3222
bratzyall.com
Finding its start in 2012 as a festival food booth, Bratz Y'all has since become of the best places in New Orleans to experience authentic and high-quality German food. All kinds of German classics can be found on the menu including Bratwurst, Schnitzel, Sauerkraut, and much more.
Bratz Y'all's also has outdoor biergarten seating that is perfect for outdoor dining and is dog-friendly, so make sure to bring along your furry friends! Check the restaurant's website and social media pages for upcoming live music performances.
8. Saba
5757 Magazine St., (504) 324-7770
eatwithsaba.com
Under the helm of Chef Alon Shaya, Saba is located in a beautiful Uptown building that looks more like a home than a traditional restaurant. Chef Shaya wants all of his guests to feel like they're dining with family; the name of the restaurant translates to "grandfather" in Hebrew. Like at any family dinner, some people will prefer to dine outside on the street-side patio or inside in the dining room.
Saba's menu is full of Middle Eastern fare.
To start, there are numerous types of hummus: Louisiana Blue Crab, Spicy Lamb
Ragu, Mushroom, Classic Tahini, and more. The entrees are a mix of Middle Eastern
and Louisianian. Charred Cabbage, Whole Roasted Fish, and Grilled Louisiana
Shrimp are popular menu items.
9. Shaya
4213 Magazine St. (504) 891-4213
shayarestaurant.com
Shaya has proven itself to be a new New Orleans classic. People come back here on a regular basis because they adore the small, but always tasty, menu offerings. Most of Shaya's diners stay inside, but the small patio is a wonderful place to be. It's quiet because it is surrounded by lovely white brick walls that keep the sound of cars traveling down Magazine Street out.
Israeli cuisine meets southern food at Shaya and some dishes get an extra helping of flavor when they go into the wood-fired oven.Try the Gulf Shrimp Kebab for a totally new take on locally-sourced shrimp.
10. Val's
4632 Freret St., (504) 356-0006, valsnola.com
This upbeat taco spot on Freret has become a true Uptown favorite. Take advantage of the daily happy hour and snack on elote while sipping on a Paloma.
Vals has vibrant patio seating with a standing bar area. If you're a fan of Mexcal, try the Oaxacan Old Fashioned, a cocktail featuring Mal Bien Mezcal and Reposado Tequila. Pair any drink with fish, chicken, steak, or pork tacos.
The Prettiest Outdoor Dining Spots In New Orleans
Even if it's not the best weather on record, you are still
welcome to enjoy these beautiful New Orleans restaurant patios. Many of them
have umbrellas, shade, fans, and heaters to keep their customers comfortable in
any kind of weather. You really don't want to miss out on the best outdoor dining experience for
anything.
Is there a restaurant with a patio that is not mentioned
here? Let us know what we're missing out on, and we'll check it out!
