Spring is finally here and the streets are bustling as Seattleites come out of winter hibernation. We’ve likely got a couple of cold days ahead of us yet, but it’s time to get prepared for warm weather and the ever persistent question – “do you know of any good patios in the area?” Here is a selection of some of our favorite outdoor spaces, with breathtaking views and excellent eats, that will impress anyone.
photo credit Ray’s Boathouse
RAY’S BOATHOUSE Shilshole Bay
Early Spring, on a sunny day, is the best time to come to Ray’s Boathouse Café. If you get cold, they’ve got outside heaters and blankets on request, so don’t worry about that, even with erratic Spring temperatures and unruly winds from the Sound. Truly, it’s a great patio at any time during the warmer months, but early Spring you will find the Olympics still covered in snow and sparkling in the sunlight. With a fine dining area as well, this is the perfect spot for a fancy evening out or a casual fish and chips for lunch.
WESTWARD North Lake Union
Westward is a relatively new addition to the North Lake Union patio circuit, but their imaginative water-inspired menu and lakeshore location made them an instant top contender for the best patio in the city. Pull up to their 100-foot long dock by boat or kayak and step directly into their outdoor dining space, complete with outdoor fire pits and unique views of the city skyline from every seat. Beyond dining, Westward offers classes and events surrounding their most popular dish, oysters. One of the only places in Seattle you can eat and learn, set against an incredible view.
DANIEL’S BROILER LESCHI Leschi
Daniel’s Broiler is one of the longest standing steakhouses in Seattle and has multiple locations in the Pacific Northwest, all with unique views – but none compare to the unbelievable view at their Leschi location. With a deck situated just above Lake Washington, the unobstructed view of Mount Rainier and the Bellevue skyline is something that draws as much praise as their Wagyu Filet Mignon. Despite being renowned for their steaks, they also have a complete Vegan menu, so it’s friendly to everyone!
ELLIOT’S OYSTER HOUSE Downtown Waterfront
As you can probably guess, Elliot’s is know for their Oysters, but they also have one of the most killer patios in Downtown Seattle. Situated at the end of the pier, overlooking the Puget Sound and Olympics, and with 40 plus years of dining experience it’s evident why this renowned oyster house is considered one of the best in the nation – not to mention the best happy hour deals on oysters in the city!
photo credit Marination Ma Kai
MARINATION MA KAI West Seattle
Marination ma kai is the most casual dining patio on our list, but also one of the busiest. Make sure to have someone get in line for food, while someone else scopes a spot because this place is both a local and tourist favorite. Their Pacific Islands and Asian influenced street food menu has resulted in five incredibly successful locations throughout the city, but none have the view that ma kai has. Looking out from your table at the full west facing expanse of downtown Seattle, from Magnolia to Georgetown, it’s easy to see why the New York Times listed them as must-visit whenever in the Emerald City.
IVAR’S SALMON HOUSE North Lake Union
Ivar’s Salmon House is one of the most popular patios in the city. With a deck that sits almost flush with the water, the view of the Skyline from North Lake Union is an iconic Seattle sight. Ivar’s, a local chain, holds this space as their company flagship and has an excellent happy hour in addition to their long-standing seafood dining menu. If you’re coming for the patio, be prepared to put your name in early, because despite the wait, it’ll be worth it.