5 Bay Area Restaurants Perfect for Outdoor Dining

“Why is she writing an article about outdoor dining in August?” You may ask. “Summer is almost over,” you may think to yourself. Well, we are in the Bay Area. And while everyone’s been complaining about our unseasonally cool summer, I know that memory is short. Every year, people seem to forget that our warmest and most beautiful summer days come in September and October! We still have plenty of time to enjoy some outdoor dining. Here are some great options in the East Bay and South Bay to check out. Let’s go on a dinner date!

1. Lake Chalet (Oakland)

The Lake Chalet is a classic Oakland experience at Lake Merritt. The outdoor dining areas are often shaded, and if not, there are large umbrellas to help. Maybe the lake is not the most stunning view ever, but it is an Oakland staple. Bonus: let’s walk around the lake before or after dinner and enjoy a beautiful sunny day. The menu is mainly delicious seafood with some pasta and meat options.

2. Petiscos (San Jose)

Yes, I do offer dates in the South Bay, as long as you are hosting! Petisco’s in Downtown San Jose is an amazing Portuguese restaurant with a gorgeous outdoor seating option. The food is incredible here. It’s mostly small plates, kind of tapas style. The menu offers playful options like tempura green beans or roasted octopus. It’s yummy and has a bustling atmosphere that makes it feel fun.

3. Farmhouse Thai (Oakland)

Farmhouse Thai’s Jack London Square location has lovely outdoor seating overlooking the water. This is one of the best Thai restaurants I’ve ever been to. Their menu includes the classic Thai dishes. It also has some unique things I haven’t seen anywhere else. I love their herbal rice salad and all the street food options!

4. Honor Bar (Oakland)

I actually have not been to Honor Bar since they reopened about a year ago with a new and improved giant patio complete with a canopy and heaters. But, I used to like coming to this beloved Emeryville spot, and everyone I know who has tried it since they reopened has said they loved it!

5. Waterbar (San Francisco)

Waterbar is deceptive. It kind of feels like a tourist trap with its lovely patio overlooking the Bay Bridge and giant fish tanks inside. But it’s actually really good. They do what they do very well. I’ve been there several times, and each time the service and the food have been amazing. It’s the perfect spot to eat oysters while taking in some Bay views on a sunny summer day.