When warm weather makes its long-awaited arrival in 417-land, it’s time to get outside and load up on Vitamin D. Is there any better way to soak up the sun than dining outdoors on a beautiful patio and enjoying a meal or drinks?
If you’re looking for a place to kick back and relax in the fresh air, throw on some shades and look no further. We’ve compiled a list of Springfield’s restaurants with outdoor seating for you to check out—three for each meal of the day. Which patio will be your favorite?
Do breakfast or brunch on the patio
#1. Early Bird Breakfast Pub
If you’re anything like us, this restaurant had you at “breakfast pub.” Not only do you get to choose from amazing breakfast specials like eggs Florentine scrambles and stuffed breakfast burritos, you’ll get to pair your meal with one of their delectable brunch-themed cocktails. Their darling outdoor patio is perfect for your brunch squad to sip on mimosas while relaxing in the sun. Seats are limited, so be sure to get there early!
#2. Aviary at Farmers Park
After you spend a Saturday morning shopping at Farmers Market of the Ozarks, grab a seat on the patio at Aviary Cafe. The French-inspired cuisine is sure to impress, with options ranging from their tasty poulet perdu (chicken and french toast) to their sweet Nutella-stuffed crepes. Enjoying views of the farmers market while dining at a local outdoor-seating restaurant is a perfect way to start the weekend.
#3. Tea Bar & Bites Bakery and Cafe
Head on over to Rountree for one of Springfield’s best breakfasts on one of its best patios at Tea Bar & Bites. Their beautifully draped outdoor space is comfortable and ideal for any spring or summer morning. The fried-egg sandwich with house-made pesto mayo is the perfect way to start the day. If you prefer something sweeter, be sure to stop by Saturday morning for their seasonal caramel-iced cinnamon rolls!
Eat outdoors on a lunch patio
#4. Galloway Grill
Galloway is one of the hottest spots in Springfield, and Galloway Grill is one of the area’s crown jewels. The patio of this bar and grill sits right by the Galloway Creek Greenway Trail, making it a perfect spot to grab a bite or drink after a bike ride or run. If you’re on the hunt for a good burger, you’re in the right place—Galloway Grill is well-known for their amazingly seasoned burgers and tasty sandwiches.
#5. Springfield Brewing Company
You’ll find not just one but two separate patios at this Springfield staple. Choose from the patio flanking the main entrance or head upstairs to their spacious rooftop patio.. With live music, craft beers brewed in-house and one-of-a-kind food offerings, there’s no shortage of reasons to check out the downtown patios at Springfield Brew Co.
#6. Bambino’s Cafe on Delmar
The original Bambino’s location on Delmar Street is nestled in the historic Phelps Grove neighborhood, but that doesn’t stop Springfield residents from all over town from flocking to this partially covered patio. The restaurant makes for a quiet, intimate venue that suits both lunch and dinner goers. Patio lovers will enjoy their patio that offers spots both in and out of the sun, depending on your preference.
Out(side) for dinner
#7. Big Whiskey’s
What began as a few restaurants in the 417 has spread as far out as Las Vegas, Nevada and Birmingham, Alabama. Whether you’re at one of their south Springfield locations or checking out their downtown spot, you’ll find a comfy patio with plenty of seating for you and the whole family. Of course, you can’t miss their expansive menu either, with hits like their buffalo chicken dip or the Rick House Ribeye served with signature steak butter.
#8. Ebbets Field
This home-turned-restaurant is a must-visit in Springfield for fans of sports, burgers and beer. With a big backyard patio that’s perfect for happy hour, two floors and two full bars, there’s lots of room to share with friends and family too. Pick a seat outside and choose from their mouth-watering burgers, wraps, pizzas or sandwiches for a meal that’s sure to satisfy.
#9. Civil
Dine out in the heart of downtown Springfield at Civil. Their conveniently located patio in Park Central Square makes it the perfect destination after First Friday Art Walk or just to breathe in the warm evening air. Stop by for a full meal or head in for one of their expertly mixed drinks to cap off a wonderful night spent downtown.
#10. Progress
What began as a simple pop-up has grown into a unique farm-to-table experience filled with memorable food and beverage selections. Led by Head Chef and co-owner Daniel Ernce, Progress offers an evolving menu of fresh, creative dishes and refreshing drinks for brunch and dinner. Step out onto the patio during the spring and summer for some delicious outdoor dining and even the occasional live performance.
After-dinner downtown drinks
#11. The Golden Girl Rum Club
On the opposite side of the square, Golden Girl is great for grabbing a drink with friends or date-night cocktails. If you like rum, you’ve come to the right place—you can choose from their house concoctions served in creative tiki cups or go for a classic like a daiquiri or hurricane. Grab your drink from the bar and head out to the patio to soak up the sights of downtown Springfield while sipping something tropical and refreshing.
#12: Vantage
Join your friends for specialty drinks and local craft brews high above downtown Springfield at Vantage Rooftop Lounge on McDaniel Street. It’s the perfect place to enjoy seasonal flavors of the Ozarks, with savory sharable plates like Smoked Trout Dip and Candied Smoked Bacon. For an even more enchanting experience, make sure you’re there when the bell tolls at sunset.
#13: Sweet Boy’s Bar
If you’re looking to raise a little hell downtown, head for Sweet Boy’s Bar on South Avenue. Their menu features creative original cocktails, rotating draft beers and even a menu of tasty frozen delights. Our favorite is the frozen Irish Coffee topped with a Fat Boy Ice Cream sandwich. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy with your friends out on the patio.
Bonus: Craft breweries
#14. 4 By 4 Brewing Company
Looking for a thirst-quencher after finishing up your bike ride at Sequiota Park? Hop across the street to 4 By 4 Brewing Company and try one of their tasty house-made beers. This Galloway gem welcomes all to grab a pint or get a flight of their most popular flavors. Take a seat in their unique, stylish taproom or grab a chair on their sun-facing patio for an experience to remember.
#15. Tie & Timber Beer Company
Located in the historic Pickwick Business District in Springfield’s Rountree community, Tie & Timber Beer Company features 18 hand-crafted beers on tap along with live music from local artists. They produce their ales in small batches so the beer is always fresh, with a variety of flavors ranging from the traditional to the adventurous. So snag a seat on the patio and enjoy unique flavors in a friendly atmosphere.
#16. Hold Fast Brewing Company
Located in the former Fire Station #1 in downtown Springfield, Hold Fast Brewing Company is a one-of-a-kind family affair. It’s where you’ll find expertly crafted beers from the easy, breezy Patio Pleaser to the all-American Dad’s Birthday Porter, all created by sisters Susan and Carol McLeod. Bring your friends to enjoy great beer, great company and special events including live music and trivia nights.
If you’re looking for a city where you can embrace patio life with friends and family, Springfield, MO may be the city for you. Download our relocation guide today and find out what makes the Queen City of the Ozarks so special.
