Savoring Summer in Charlotte

Charlotte patio season is officially in full swing—and whether you’re a local scouting your next go-to hangout or entertaining out-of-town guests, these patios offer some of the best outdoor dining experiences in the city and surrounding areas. From breezy lakeside decks and lush garden escapes to rooftop lounges and family-friendly breweries, we’ve rounded up our favorite spots to eat, sip, and relax in the sunshine this season.

Garden + Courtyard Favorites

Dilworth Tasting Room
Dilworth, SouthPark, Plaza Midwood
The speakeasy-style interiors are beautiful, but it’s the garden patio that truly steals the show. Cozy up under twinkling lights with a glass of wine and a cheese board at any of the three locations, though the original Dilworth spot has a special kind of charm.

The Goodyear House
NoDa
Located in a converted 1900s mill house, this local favorite serves up chef-driven comfort food and cozy vibes across multiple seating areas—including a dreamy patio with an outdoor bar.

RuRu's Tacos + Tequila
Myers Park
Set inside a Mediterranean-style mansion from 1926, RuRu’s patio feels like a courtyard getaway. Sip tequila cocktails and enjoy upscale tacos in one of Charlotte’s most unique outdoor dining spots.
 

Wine Bars & Stylish Sips

Sixty Vines
South End
With 60 wines on tap, plus cocktails, cider, and more, Sixty Vines is a must-visit for sipping in style. Their patio features comfortable lounge seating and vibrant South End energy.

LakeHouse Wine Bar & Grill (formerly Port City Club)
Cornelius
A relaxed yet elegant lakefront destination with nautical vibes, LakeHouse offers an expansive deck for waterside dining paired with seafood and American classics.

Napa at Kingsley
Fort Mill
Tucked into the Kingsley development, Napa offers lush landscaping, romantic lighting, and a menu full of California-inspired bites. Their patio is cozy, stylish, and ideal for date night.
 

Breweries & Laid-Back Vibes

Suffolk Punch
South End, SouthPark
Part brewery, part café, part restaurant—Suffolk Punch covers it all. Their expansive patios at both locations are ideal for casual brunches, afternoon beers, or evening catch-ups.

The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
Lower South End, Ballantyne
Charlotte’s original craft brewery brings Bavarian beer garden energy to life. Grab a pretzel and a Copper ale, then settle into one of the Southeast’s largest outdoor brewery spaces.

Camp North End
North End
A creative hub with picnic tables, murals, and rotating food vendors. Grab a bite from Eggroll Company or La Caseta, then head to the Boileryard for live music and cold drinks under the stars.
 

Rooftops + City Views

Merchant & Trade
Uptown
Panoramic skyline views and expertly crafted cocktails make this rooftop lounge a Charlotte staple. Enjoy city sunsets, plush seating, and a refined bar bites menu.

Hestia Rooftop
Ballantyne
Ballantyne’s answer to Uptown glam. Hestia offers sushi, shareable small plates, and sweeping views from its 16th-floor rooftop—perfect for date night or girls’ night out.
 

Lakeside Leisure

Hello, Sailor
Cornelius
This bright and modern seafood spot is known for its playful tiki drinks, fried favorites, and unbeatable lakefront patio. Created by the team behind Kindred, it’s a must for a chill weekend meal with a view.

North Harbor Club
Davidson
This regatta-themed fine dining spot offers a waterfront patio and even boat slips for guests arriving by water. Expect upscale dishes and a polished yet relaxed setting.

Papa Doc’s Shore Club
Lake Wylie
Dock, dine, and drink on the lake. Papa Doc’s brings island vibes and Southern seafood together on its sprawling outdoor deck. A great option for brunch, dinner, or late-night fun by the water.
 

Fan Favorites That Keep Delivering

Seoul Food Meat Company
NoDa, Mill District
Lively Korean BBQ spots with indoor-outdoor flow, dog-friendly patios, and plenty of games (ping pong, cornhole). Their fried chicken and soju cocktails always hit the spot.

Hobo’s
Fort Mill, Rock Hill
Comfort food, live music, and craft beers come together on Hobo’s relaxed, kid-friendly patios. Burgers, shakes, and a cold drink—what more do you need?

The Pump House
Rock Hill
Overlooking the Catawba River, The Pump House offers Southern-inspired dishes, rooftop views, and a serene escape just outside the city.
 

From cozy garden terraces to expansive waterfront decks, Charlotte offers a diverse and ever-growing selection of outdoor dining experiences. Whether you’re after casual bites or elevated fare, there’s a patio to match every mood and moment—especially while the warm weather lasts.