Discover the Best Patios in Cleveland: Your Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Dining Excellence

Cleveland, Ohio, is celebrated for its dynamic dining scene, and nothing encapsulates this vibrant culinary spirit quite like the patio dining experiences scattered throughout the city. Whether you’re seeking a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively venue for social gatherings, Cleveland’s patios offer the perfect backdrop.

This guide showcases Cleveland’s top outdoor dining spots, where you can enjoy a meal and a memorable experience under the open sky. From the banks of the Cuyahoga River to the bustling streets of Ohio City, these patios are quintessential for anyone looking to indulge in the full flavor of Cleveland’s outdoor dining scene.

Top 10 Cleveland Restaurants with Stunning Patios

Alley Cat Oyster Bar

Alleycat Oyster Bar is a Cleveland-based seafood restaurant known for its prime waterfront views along the Cuyahoga River. It features a diverse menu, including specialties like lobster rolls, crab legs, and lobster tails, complemented by cocktails, wines, and beers. This venue is perfect for a romantic date night, offering a relaxed atmosphere with the option to reserve a table for a unique dining experience. The restaurant also hosts private events and has an online gift card option. It operates Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 9 PM, Saturdays from 11:30 AM to 10 PM, and Sundays from 11:30 AM to 7 PM, with a happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM on weekdays.

Merwin’s Wharf

Merwin’s Wharf, located on the East Bank of the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland’s Flats neighborhood, offers diners an immersive experience combining urban greenspace with fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced cuisine. It provides spectacular river views and includes features like reservable day-use boat slips, making it an ideal spot for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts. The restaurant offers a diverse menu that changes with the seasons, enhancing the dining experience. Merwin’s Wharf operates Tuesday to Thursday from 11 AM to 9 PM, Friday to Saturday until 10 PM, and Sunday until 9 PM. This venue also hosts various events, integrating nature and community engagement.

Lago East Bank

Lago East Bank is a renowned Italian restaurant in Cleveland, deeply rooted in the Salerno family’s traditions and values. Established in August 2006 and relocated to the Flats in 2013, Lago combines a love of food with a familial atmosphere, inviting guests to partake in their dining experience as part of the family. The restaurant prides itself on its connection to family history. It has won multiple accolades, including several “Best of Cleveland” awards from Cleveland Magazine and an “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator. Lago offers a varied menu spanning brunch to dinner, including private dining options, making it a popular venue for everyday dining and special events.

Pier W

Pier W, established in 1965, has become a landmark restaurant in Cleveland, celebrated for its five-star dining, exceptional seafood, and fine wines. This esteemed restaurant in Lakewood, Ohio, offers breathtaking views, enhancing its dining ambiance. Recognized nationally, OpenTable named it among the Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in America in 2024. It has received multiple accolades, including the Diners’ Choice Award and the Silver Spoon Award from Cleveland Magazine. Pier W also prides itself on its wine selection, earning the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator in 2023. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a premier dining experience by the lake.

Market Garden Brewery

Market Garden Brewery, located in Ohio City across from the historic West Side Market, is a vibrant brewpub known for its fresh, award-winning craft beers and a seasonal gastropub menu that champions local and organic ingredients. The brewery offers a lush beer garden and indoor and outdoor fireplaces to enhance the dining and social experience, reflecting a festive après ski vibe. Market Garden serves a wide array of beers and ciders and engages the community with tours and tastings at its production facility. They operate Wednesday through Sunday with extended weekend hours to accommodate brunch and late-night patrons.

Luxe Kitchen & Lounge

Luxe Kitchen & Lounge is a Mediterranean-Italian bistro located in Cleveland, offering a well-rounded menu that is both contemporary and accessible. The restaurant emphasizes high-level service without pretension, aiming to provide a luxurious atmosphere for food, music, and social gatherings. They offer handcrafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients and uphold a strong commitment to recycling, reusing, and repurposing, reflected in the eclectic design of the venue. Luxe is open from Wednesday to Sunday, featuring a popular weekend brunch and happy hours. Reservations are accepted for parties of six or more, emphasizing a welcoming environment for walk-ins.

Collision Bend Brewing Company

Collision Bend Brewing Company, located in Cleveland’s Flats area, offers a unique blend of artisanal beers and a food menu inspired by local street cuisine. Named after the tricky bends along the Cuyahoga River, this brewery features a contemporary dining environment with a wood-burning pizza oven, three bars, and outdoor seating that provides stunning riverfront views. Boats can dock right on the patio, and there’s convenient valet parking. The brewery crafts over 12 different beers on-site, ensuring fresh flavors are always on tap. It’s a vibrant spot for casual dining and hosting private events, making it a staple in Cleveland’s craft beer scene.

Nuevo Cleveland

Nuevo Modern Mexican & Tequila Bar, located in downtown Cleveland, offers a fresh take on traditional Mexican cuisine. Since its opening in July 2016 near landmarks like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Nuevo has become known for its innovative dishes and extensive selection of artisanal tequilas, handcrafted cocktails, and boutique wines. The restaurant boasts a vibrant decor featuring mosaic tiles and bold colors, with dining options that include an open concept room and a scenic patio overlooking the harbor. Additionally, Nuevo offers a private event space on the second floor with stunning views of Downtown Cleveland and Lake Erie, which are ideal for weddings and corporate events.

The Plum Café & Kitchen

The Plum, located at 4133 Lorain Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio, offers a unique dining experience with its innovative menu. While the specific menu details are not provided on their website, The Plum is known for its contemporary approach to cuisine, likely featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere at The Plum is designed to be relaxed yet sophisticated, making it a good choice for both casual outings and special occasions. The restaurant also engages with its community on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, sharing updates and interacting with patrons. Further details about their offerings and hours are accessible through direct contact or by visiting their website.

17 River Grille

17 River Grille in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, offers a quintessential American grill experience with a simple yet refined menu featuring steaks, seafood, and salads. Located at 17 River Street, the restaurant boasts a picturesque view of the Chagrin River Falls, providing a scenic backdrop for dining either on their deck or inside the dining room. This establishment is celebrated for its handcrafted cocktails and classic American cuisine, designed to complement the natural beauty of its surroundings. 17 River Grille is open daily, with extended hours on weekends, making it a prime location for both casual lunches and elegant evening meals.

Additional Noteworthy Patios in Cleveland

• The Academy Tavern: A historic Cleveland spot with a year-round entertaining patio featuring a fire pit and vibrant social scene.
• All Saints Public House: A secluded, beautifully landscaped patio in Battery Park, ideal for enjoying a fire pit and outdoor bar.
• Astoria Cafe & Market Wine: This venue’s charming floral patio is perfect for enjoying craft charcuterie and Mediterranean fare.
• BrewDog Cleveland Outpost: A dog-friendly patio in the Flats with riverfront views, games, and a bustling outdoor bar.
• The Cleveland Chop: Offers a secret deck amidst downtown, making it an urban retreat for steakhouse lovers.
• The Fairmount: Features a large patio with frosé and an outdoor fireplace in Cleveland Heights, perfect for any weather.
• Forest City Brewery: This beer garden in Duck Island is known for its historic vibe and live music under century-old trees.
• The Garden of Eden Rooftop: A rooftop bar that offers a luxurious outdoor drinking experience with stunning city views.
• Guarino’s Restaurant: Serves authentic Italian cuisine on one of the most charming garden patios in Little Italy.
• LockKeepers: Features fine Italian dining with a view on a scenic patio overlooking the Cuyahoga River.
• Momocho: Known for its intimate and artistically vibrant patio, offering innovative Mexican cuisine.
• Porco Lounge & Tiki Room: A unique Tiki bar with an elaborately themed patio that transports guests to a tropical paradise.
• Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens: Notable for its varied patio settings with elegant water and fire features.
• The South Side: A cozy, tech-equipped Tremont patio perfect for sports fans and outdoor diners.

Experience Cleveland’s Premier Patio Dining

Cleveland’s patio dining scene is as diverse and flavorful as the city, offering everything from serene riverside retreats to vibrant rooftop gatherings. Each patio listed provides a unique way to enjoy the city’s dynamic atmosphere and exceptional food and drink offerings. Whether looking for a romantic evening under the stars, a lively night out with friends, or a tranquil afternoon enjoying nature, Cleveland’s best patios promise memorable experiences that cater to every taste and occasion.

As the city continues to evolve, these patios remain a cornerstone of Cleveland’s culinary culture, showcasing the creativity and community spirit that define our local dining landscape. So, grab your friends and family and make the most of Cleveland’s beautiful seasons by visiting these top dining spots. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, experiencing these patios is the perfect way to dive deep into the heart of Cleveland’s food scene.

Looking to explore these exceptional patios in style and comfort? Contact Platinum Party Bus to customize your tour of Cleveland’s top patio restaurants. 

Remember, every meal is an opportunity to create a moment, and what better backdrop than the vibrant, diverse settings of Cleveland’s best patios? Step out and taste the essence of Cleveland — one patio at a time.