BLACK FOREST INN
This German hot spot has the most verdant beer garden in town for savoring a juicy bratwurst and cold Hefe Weizen. 1 E. 26th St., Mpls., 612-872-0812, blackforestinnmpls.com
BRIT’S PUB
Sidewalk seating and a sprawling rooftop garden, complete with lawn bowling, make this fish-and-chips favorite a summer must. 1110 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-332-3908, britspub.com
DOCK CAFE
Perched above the St. Croix River, this Stillwater seafood spot has a popular deck with beautiful views. 425 E. Nelson St., Stillwater, 651-430-3770, dockcafe.com
ENJOY!
An elegant wrap-around terrace with views of pathways and gazebos makes this upmarket patio a winner. 15435 Founders Ln., Apple Valley, 952-891-6569, enjoy-dining.com
LA GROLLA
Escape to Italy and dine by candlelight at this trattoria’s two-tiered patio with gardens and a bubbling fountain. 452 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-221-1061
BAR LURÇAT
This small, funky patio feels more like Miami than Minneapolis with its preen-and-be-seen crowd, but the Loring Park neighborhood and reinvented upscale bar fare make it a favorite. 1624 Harmon Pl., Mpls., 612-486-5500, cafelurcat.com
LORD FLETCHER’S OLD LAKE LODGE
This multilevel lakeside restaurant is the place for people- and boat-watching, with its busy bar and multitude of menus. 3746 Sunset Dr., Spring Park, 952-471-8513, lordfletchers.com
SOLERA
Spanish tapas, cool cocktails, and great views make this downtown rooftop a sizzling destination from sunset to late into the night. 900 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-338-0062, solera-restaurant.com
THE VINTAGE RESTAURANT & WINE BAR
Spring and summertime diners at this old mansion, known for its extensive wine list, spill out onto a vast patio. 579 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-7000, thevintagerestaurant.com