In Minnesota, warm weather doesn't last forever. With that said, we're leaving the office early for these patios.
Cossetta's/Louis
If you've never experienced the double-decker patio at Cossetta's/Louis, the time is now. The top shelf is the Louis rooftop patio with a full bar and fantastic views of the city, and a level down is the Cossetta patio where you can enjoy a slice of pizza or some pasta while watching the hustle and bustle of West 7th Street.
Spring Cafe
Patio dining at the Como Lakeside Pavillion is back and better than ever with the addition of Spring Cafe. Tasty eats, lakeside views and occasional live music make this patio hard to beat.
Meritage
A little slice of France right here in Saint Paul. Enjoy some of Minnesota's finest oysters and pommes frites (fries) on Meritage's cozy streetside patio surrounded by the gorgeous architecture of downtown.
Ox Cart Arcade & Rooftop
The menu and vibe of Ox Cart has changed since Chef Justin Sutherland turned it into a lively retro arcade bar, but the stellar rooftop remains. Enjoy vintage-inspired drinks and snacks as you enjoy one of downtown's best views.
Saint Paul Brewing
The Saint Paul Brewing (formerly Flat Earth) taproom is located in one of Saint Paul’s oldest buildings and their one-of-a-kind courtyard patio gives you even more reason to check out the East Side.
Sweeney’s Saloon
One of the best patios in town for a casual night out is this charming spot snuggled in on Dale Street. If you’re looking for entertaining animal murals, enchanting fireplaces, amusing patrons and great drink specials, let us know and we’ll meet you at Sweeney’s.
The Happy Gnome
As if we needed a second reason to visit one of the best beer bars in America, The Happy Gnome hosts a legendary Cathedral Hill patio that goes perfectly with its 89 taps. Spend the evening fenced away from Selby in front of the fireplace, chatting about who’s cabin will be the most fun this year.
Bad Weather Brewing
This popular West 7th taproom is one of our favorite brewery-patio pairings. We’ll challenge you to a game of bags—loser buys the next flight.
The Lexington
The iconic Lexington on Grand Avenue is back and better than ever, this time with a rooftop bar. Head upstairs to enjoy the weather and a unique menu offering tiki cocktails and tropical eats.
W.A. Frost
Any “best patios” list that doesn’t have W.A. Frost on it is wasting your time. Not only is this one of the most romantic restaurants you’ll come across—it’s also the best place to settle into a garden with a cocktail and enjoy Minnesota’s prime patio weather.
The Liffey
We’re all Irish at The Liffey on West 7th, especially when you order a Big Ginger (the specialty house drink made with 2 Gingers whiskey). The Cathedral is your backdrop, you’re above the buzz of West 7th and you’re sure to meet some friendly patrons.
La Grolla
If you prefer to indulge in fine Italian cuisine while enjoying the best of a Minnesota summer, La Grolla is your jam. The intimate restaurant on Cathedral Hill features a cozy patio where you can enjoy views of the city beyond its beautiful vine-covered walls.
Burger Moe's
You've likely been to Burger Moe's in the dead of winter before heading to a Minnesota Wild game at the X but, when the temps rise and we swap hockey for baseball, you really need to pay a visit to their patio. Burger Moe's is a guaranteed hit for a delicious burger and a brew in the company of good friends —there may even be live music (if you're lucky).
Billy's On Grand
There's nothing like Grand Avenue in the summertime, and there's no better place to enjoy those iconic sites and sounds than at Billy's. The spacious patio is a perfect hang-out spot before cooling off with some ice cream at Grand Ole Creamery.
French Meadow Bakery & Cafe
Enjoy a lazy weekend brunch nestled in on the patio at French Meadow—their outdoor dining area is just as charming as you'd imagine.
City House
We wait all winter to enjoy a Cubano and a brew while overlooking the Mississippi at City House, and boy is it worth the wait. The only true riverside patio in Saint Paul, you'll definitely want to add this one to your regular rotation of patio spots—just make sure to check if it's open as seasonal hours vary.
Moscow on the Hill
If you like your patio relaxation with a side of authentic Russian eats, this Cathedral Hill staple is the best place to be.
Tom Reid's Hockey City Pub
A popular pre-Wild game spot in the winter, Tom Reid's stepped up their patio game this past year with a completely renovated space featuring a fireplace for those who brave all the conditions.
Want to bring your pooch along? Check out our dog-friendly blog for a list of patios that allow your four-legged friends.
Of course, there are so many more patios in the city, and we want to know which is your favorite. Shout it out to us on Twitter or Facebook, and share your favorite patio photos on Instagram with the hashtag #MYSAINTPAUL.
