Warmer weather has arrived in the Queen City which means it's the perfect time to explore all of the outdoor dining Charlotte has to offer. With an expansive variety of outdoor restaurants and patios to choose from, there are plenty of options for locals and visitors alike. From chic rooftop bars to classic Charlotte staples, read on to learn about our favorite outdoor restaurants and patios, and get ready to add some new must-visit spots to your list.
Hello Sailor - Lake Norman
Hello Sailor, located on Lake Norman in Cornelius, NC, is a bright and sunny waterfront restaurant and bar with amazing views of the lake. Enjoy a meal or drinks on their outdoor patio, or inside their spacious restaurant filled with natural light. The menu features seafood, modern takes on classic favorites like their Korean BBQ smoked chicken breast, and handcrafted cocktails and craft beer.
Optimist Hall - Optimist Park
Located in Optimist Park just above Uptown is Optimist Hall, a food hall with 25 different vendors offering bites and drinks from around the world. Their outdoor spaces feature a courtyard in the center of the converted mill building with table seating and benches decorated with string lights and light music. The edges of the building allow for additional outdoor seating with picnic tables and space for patrons of all ages to enjoy.
Goodyear House - NoDa
Goodyear House, located in NoDa, is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, craft cocktails, and inviting atmosphere that offers a unique and elevated dining experience in a renovated historic mill. The patio features comfortable seating, beautiful decor, and a relaxed atmosphere great for unwinding and soaking up the beautiful Charlotte weather.
Merchant and Trade - Uptown
Merchant and Trade is one of Charlotte's premier rooftop eateries. Located in Uptown with stunning views of the city, this restaurant continues to make a lasting impression on all that visit. Featuring expertly crafted cocktails and delicious bar snacks, the rooftop lounge and covered terrace allows patrons to enjoy the views no matter the weather.
Dilworth Tasting Room - Dilworth, SouthPark
Dilworth Tasting Room is a unique wine bar with two locations in Dilworth and SouthPark that provides high-quality wines, cocktails, and curated food menus. For an evening on the patio, we recommend visiting the Dilworth location for its stunning garden-style patio that is accessible no matter the time of year.
The Suffolk Punch - South End
If you’re looking for a little bit of everything, The Suffolk Punch is the place to go. As a brewery, culinary café & taphouse, and coffee bar all in one, The Suffolk Punch blends art and science to inspire thought and challenge expectations. The expansive outdoor space contains both covered and uncovered seating, great for gathering with friends and family during the warmer months. In the winter, the outdoor space is covered with a large tent so that it can be enjoyed all year long.
Reid's Fine Foods Restaurant & Wine Bar - SouthPark
Reid’s Fine Foods Restaurant & Wine Bar is Charlotte's original hometown specialty food store and favorite culinary destination. Visit Reid’s and dine in with the deli and wine bar, or pick up quick take-out items from the prepared foods case and butcher shop. This summer, enjoy the patio seating at the SouthPark location and try out the seasonal menu using fresh, local ingredients.
Hestia Rooftop - Ballantyne
Enjoy South Charlotte skylines at Ballantyne’s Hestia Rooftop. Sitting on the sixteenth floor of Ballantyne Village’s Panorama Tower diners can expect to enjoy a 180-degree panoramic view of Charlotte with indoor or outdoor seating. In addition to their views, Hestia is serving up modern Asian cuisine, specialty cocktails, mocktails, and bottle service.
Hobo’s - Fort Mill, Rock Hill
Founded in 2015 in downtown Fort Mill, Hobo’s has expanded to include a location in Rock Hill. Both locations feature fabulous outdoor spaces for drinks and dining in a family-friendly atmosphere. Stop in at either location and enjoy classic burgers, handspun milkshakes, and an extensive beer list.
Charlotte and the surrounding areas are home to many fantastic outdoor restaurants and patios. Grab your friends or family, and head out to one of these great spots to enjoy some delicious food and drinks in the beautiful Charlotte weather.