New Orleans is full of restaurants with outdoor dining, with many boasting lush patios for a picturesque dining experience. And it seems the options have only grown recently. Whether you're looking for romantic dinner under string lights or brunch with a side of sunrays, sit back, relax, and take in the pleasant surroundings of some of our favorite outdoor dining destinations below. 

Outdoor Dining in the French Quarter 

You’ll find plenty of options for outdoor dining in the French Quarter, with many restaurants boasting balconies, courtyards, and patios. Great for people watching, Muriel’s is located right at Jackson Square. Broussard’s and Brennan’s both have luxurious courtyards to match their upscale menus. When it comes to romantic ambiance, Café Amelie and Napoleon House are two long-standing restaurants with New Orleans charm. Casual diners can take in live jazz at Gazebo Café, enjoy juicy burgers at Port of Call, or dine in the French Market at Meals from the Heart Café.

Outdoor Dining in Downtown New Orleans 

Just outside of the French Quarter, you’ll find even more restaurants with outdoor dining. Visit the Palace Café for a quintessential New Orleans experience. Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar offers a laid-back atmosphere with great eats. Gianna, Vyoone’s, and Meril each offer outdoor dining in the trendy Warehouse District. Check out Tava Indian Street Food for a quick yet flavorful bite. Bearcat is a must for brunch, while you just can’t beat the happy hour at Seaworthy. In the mood for wine? Copper Vine provides a lush oasis in the middle of the Central Business District, just steps from a number of hotels, the Superdome, Smoothie King Center, and a number of Downtown concert venues.

Outdoor Dining in Uptown New Orleans 

Lush greenspace, dog-friendly breweries, and spots along the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Line offer a unique dining experience when in Uptown New Orleans. Visit Port Orleans, Tchoup Yard, or Urban South for a relaxed brewery experience. Nearby, Barracuda has some of the best tacos in town. People watch along the streetcar line at The Delachaise or enjoy Ethiopian cuisine at Cafe Abyssinia. On Carrollton Avenue, Bourré is a fun spot for wings and frozen daiquiris.

Outdoor Dining in Mid-City New Orleans 

Kick back at Bayou Beer Garden on game days. Enjoy Creole cuisine at Neyow’s or fine dining at Ralph’s on the Park. Esplanade Avenue is known for its ambiance, so why not book a table outdoors at Lola’s, Café Degas, or Swirl Wine Bar. Daiquiri lovers should check out Melba’s, an outdoor-seating-only joint on Tulane Avenue, or you can dive into boiled crawfish at Hieux BOIL Seafood House.

Outdoor Dining in Bywater New Orleans 

You won’t go hungry while exploring the Bywater. Galaxie has tacos, soft serve, and plenty of outdoor seating. Grab a slice at Pizza Delicious or enjoy fine wine at Bacchanal. Elizabeth’s is a funky spot for brunch. Take your date to Saint-Germain or N7 and watch them fall in love.