Austin’s outdoor dining scene combines laid-back Hill Country charm with culinary innovation. From the lakeside views at Hula Hut to the string-lit garden at Lenoir, local restaurants transform Central Texas weather into an opportunity for memorable al fresco experiences.
South Congress’s Perla’s serves fresh oysters on its oak-shaded patio, while East Austin’s Oseyo offers modern Korean fare in a serene courtyard setting. Matt’s El Rancho’s sprawling terrace continues a decades-long tradition of outdoor Tex-Mex dining.
Discover ATX’s finest open-air dining spots below!
Featured Outdoor Dining Spots in Austin
- Perla's Seafood and Oyster Bar
- Otopia Rooftop Lounge
- Azul Rooftop
- Hula Hut
- Birdie’s
- Loro
- Lenoir
- Oseyo
- Better Half Coffee and Cocktails
- Matt’s El Rancho
Casual Outdoor Dining in Austin
Better Half Coffee and Cocktails
What to Expect
Dog-friendly patio
Description
Better Half Coffee and Cocktails offers a versatile outdoor dining experience with a large dog-friendly patio. Located just west of downtown Austin, it serves a diverse menu ranging from breakfast to dinner, including creative comfort food and a variety of drinks. The casual, airy space transitions seamlessly from morning coffee to evening cocktails.
Where: Austin | More Info: Better Half Coffee and Cocktails
Birdie’s
What to Expect
Fully Enclosed Heated Patio
Description
Birdie's is a family-run restaurant offering simple, seasonal American cuisine with French and Italian influences. It features a fully enclosed and heated patio, where leashed pets are welcome. The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with a thoughtful wine list that evolves seasonally. Birdie's is particularly noted for its casual yet sophisticated dining experience.
Where: Austin | More Info: Birdie’s
Loro
What to Expect
Asian-Texas BBQ fusion
Description
Loro combines Asian flavors with Texas barbecue, offering a unique dining experience. The restaurant features a relaxed atmosphere with ample outdoor seating under shaded oak trees and fans. It is well-suited for casual gatherings and offers a variety of dishes, including smoked meats and creative vegetable options. Loro is dog-friendly and provides a spacious patio area, making it ideal for outdoor dining.
Where: Austin | More Info: Loro
Matt’s El Rancho
What to Expect
Historic Tex-Mex cuisine
Description
Matt's El Rancho offers a blend of traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine in a lively setting. The restaurant features a spacious patio for outdoor dining, complemented by a diverse menu that includes chicken fried steak, fajitas, and their famous Bob Armstrong Dip. With a rich history dating back to 1952, Matt's El Rancho is a family-run institution known for its homemade dishes and warm service.
Where: Austin | More Info: Matt’s El Rancho
Fine Dining Outdoors in Austin
Lenoir
What to Expect
Expansive outdoor wine garden
Description
Lenoir is a romantic, vintage-chic restaurant in South Austin, featuring a creative menu with Mediterranean and Indian accents. It offers an expansive outdoor wine garden, perfect for dining amidst a lush setting. The restaurant emphasizes seasonal Texas ingredients and serves a variety of wines from around the world. Lenoir's intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for outdoor dining with a sophisticated ambiance.
Where: Austin | More Info: Lenoir
Perla's Seafood and Oyster Bar
What to Expect
Oak-shaded patio with oyster bar
Description
Perla's Seafood & Oyster Bar offers a unique dining experience with Austin's prettiest oak-shaded patio and a spacious dining room featuring a large saltwater fish tank and an open kitchen. It specializes in fresh seafood and oysters sourced from both coasts, with a focus on Gulf of Mexico catches. The restaurant provides a laid-back yet chic atmosphere, ideal for outdoor dining amidst the bustling South Congress Avenue.
Where: Austin | More Info: Perla's Seafood and Oyster Bar
Rooftop Dining in Austin
Azul Rooftop
What to Expect
Tallest rooftop bar in Austin
Description
Azul Rooftop is the tallest rooftop bar and lounge in Austin, offering stunning views of Lady Bird Lake and the Texas Hill Country. It features a vibrant daytime pool scene and sunset vibes with handcrafted cocktails and a selection of local beers. The menu includes Mexican and Southwestern-inspired dishes, making it a standout for outdoor dining with a cityscape view.
Where: Austin | More Info: Azul Rooftop
Otopia Rooftop Lounge
What to Expect
Elevated rooftop with city views
Description
Otopia Rooftop Lounge offers stunning views of Austin's skyline from its elevated outdoor space. It features a modern, stylish ambiance with live music and a full bar serving craft cocktails and light bites. The lounge is dog-friendly and provides valet parking, making it a convenient spot for both casual and special occasions.
Where: Austin | More Info: Otopia Rooftop Lounge
Garden or Park Restaurants in Austin
Oseyo
What to Expect
Garden Courtyard Seating
Description
Oseyo is a modern Korean-American restaurant offering a blend of traditional and non-traditional dishes in a warm, rustic setting. It features a garden courtyard perfect for outdoor dining, providing a cozy atmosphere for dinner, drinks, and small plates. Reservations are available for parties of up to 10 on the patio.
Where: Austin | More Info: Oseyo
Waterfront Dining in Austin
Hula Hut
What to Expect
Waterfront dining with handmade tortillas
Description
Hula Hut offers a unique blend of Mexican and American cuisine with a Polynesian twist, set on the shores of Lake Austin. The restaurant features a casual atmosphere with outdoor seating on piers extending over the lake, providing scenic views. Their menu includes a variety of dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and seafood plates, all made with fresh ingredients, including handmade tortillas.
Where: Austin | More Info: Hula Hut