Top 10 Best Outdoor Dining and Drinking Spots in Philadelphia

Philly Alfresco: A Guide to the City's 10 Best Outdoor Dining and Drinking Spots

When summer arrives in Philadelphia, the city's world-class dining scene spills out onto its beautiful patios, enchanting gardens, and stunning rooftops. There's no better way to savor the season than by enjoying a meal or a cocktail outdoors. From chic, sky-high lounges with panoramic views to lush, hidden gardens and lively waterfront beer gardens, Philadelphia offers an incredible array of alfresco experiences. This guide will lead you to ten of the best restaurants and bars for making the most of a perfect summer day or night in the city.

1. Suraya (Fishtown)

• The Vibe: An absolute gem, the garden at Suraya is a breathtaking urban oasis that transports you to a chic courtyard in Beirut. With its beautiful tilework, soothing water features, and lush greenery, it's arguably the most stunning outdoor dining space in the city.

  
  
  

• The Experience: This nationally acclaimed Lebanese restaurant is famous for its incredible brunch and dinner. Enjoy their spectacular mezze platters, fresh-baked pita, and flavorful grilled dishes in an unforgettable, transportive setting. Reservations are essential.

2. Talula's Garden (Washington Square West)

• The Vibe: A true farm-to-table experience in a magical garden setting. Talula's Garden, from restaurateur Aimee Olexy, is an enchanting spot next to Washington Square, filled with twinkling lights and beautiful floral arrangements.

  
  
  

• The Experience: The menu is a celebration of seasonal and local ingredients, with beautifully plated dishes that are as delightful as the atmosphere. It's a perfect destination for a romantic dinner or an elegant weekend brunch.

3. Morgan's Pier (Delaware River Waterfront)

• The Vibe: The quintessential Philadelphia summer hangout. Morgan's Pier is a massive, casual, and energetic beer garden right on the Delaware River, offering fantastic, up-close views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

  
  
  

• The Experience: With a menu of classic American cookout fare, an extensive list of craft beers, and a full schedule of live music and DJs, it's the perfect spot to gather with a large group for a fun, sunny afternoon or a lively night out.

4. Parc (Rittenhouse Square)

• The Vibe: For a taste of Paris in the heart of Philly, the bustling sidewalk cafe at Parc is an iconic destination. Overlooking the beautiful and historic Rittenhouse Square, it is the city's premier spot for people-watching.

• The Experience: This classic French brasserie is perfect for any meal of the day, from a morning coffee and croissant to a celebratory dinner of steak frites and seafood towers, all while soaking in the vibrant energy of the city.

5. Irwin's (South Philadelphia)

• The Vibe: Perched on the rooftop of the Bok Building, Irwin's offers a stylish and sophisticated dining experience with some of the best skyline views in the city. The plant-filled patio has a chic, modern feel.

• The Experience: This James Beard Award-winning restaurant serves up a menu of modern Sicilian cuisine. It's a fantastic spot for enjoying creative, expertly prepared dishes and fantastic cocktails while watching the sunset over Philadelphia.

6. Frankford Hall (Fishtown)

• The Vibe: A massive, German-style Biergarten, Frankford Hall is a year-round favorite that truly shines in the summer. Its sprawling, open-air courtyard is filled with long communal tables, ping pong, and a fun, social energy.

• The Experience: This is the ideal place to go with a big group for giant, doughy pretzels, sausages, and, of course, large steins of German beer.

7. Assembly Rooftop Lounge (Logan Square)

• The Vibe: Located atop The Logan Hotel, Assembly is a chic and sophisticated rooftop lounge with breathtaking, panoramic views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

• The Experience: With its modern design and cozy fire pits, it's a perfect spot for an upscale, celebratory drink. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, champagne, and elegant small plates in a stunning, sky-high setting.

8. Harper's Garden (Rittenhouse Square)

• The Vibe: Tucked away in Rittenhouse, Harper's Garden is a contemporary bar and restaurant with a beautiful, greenery-filled outdoor space. The open-air veranda and vibrant garden provide a unique escape from the bustle of the city.

• The Experience: The menu features approachable Italian-American fare alongside unique signature cocktails, making it a great spot for a relaxed dinner or a lively happy hour.

9. Independence Beer Garden (Old City)

• The Vibe: A sprawling, 20,000-square-foot, all-American beer garden overlooking the Liberty Bell and Independence National Historical Park.

• The Experience: With its reclaimed timber, Tivoli lighting, and classic lawn games, it offers a relaxed, backyard-party atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy local craft beers and casual food with a historic backdrop.

10. Bok Bar (South Philadelphia)

• The Vibe: This seasonal rooftop bar, located on top of a former school building, provides unparalleled 360-degree views of the entire Philadelphia skyline. Bok Bar has a relaxed, casual, and always-buzzy atmosphere.

• The Experience: It's the perfect spot for a craft beer or a refreshing cocktail as you watch the sunset. The bar often features different food pop-ups throughout the season, offering a variety of delicious eats to accompany the incredible view.

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Written By: Philly Bite Magazines Staff

Philadelphia Best Of Series consists of a round-up of the best places to find great food, entertainment, and more in Philly.

Best Philadelphia Outdoor Dining