
I’ve learned to truly appreciate the beautiful warm summers that bring life back into the Twin Cities after months of cold weather. One of the best things to do while out and about is to check out the outdoor patios of some of our favorite local Twin Cities restaurants.
Whether you want to have a romantic date night or spend some time outdoors with your family, there are great restaurants with great outdoor patios in the Twin Cities!
W.A. Frost and Company | 374 Selby Ave #1825, St Paul

Located on the historic Cathedral Hill, W.A. Frost and Company is a great option for a romantic date to get some time away from the kids. The patio is surrounded by beautiful greenery with different types of flowers and plants everywhere you turn. W.A. Frost’s has a great contemporary American menu with many things to try.
The Handsome Hog | 173 Western Ave N, St Paul

If you’re a fan of southern-style food, The Handsome Hog is the place for you. Chef Justin Sutherland is well known for making enjoyable plates, famously known for winning the Iron Chef America.
The Handsome Hog recently moved to a new location that provides a beautiful outdoor patio. I love that you can sit near the picturesque flowers that line the perimeter of the patio or sit towards the front and do a little people-watching. Serving its infamous chicken and waffles as well as shrimp and grits, that is to die for, The Handsome Hog’s patio brings the south up to the Midwest.
6Smith | 294 Grove Ln E, Wayzata
If you want to get out of the city for a little, 6Smith Restaurant in Wayzata offers beautiful views of Lake Minnetonka on their patio. This steak and seafood restaurant has a ton of outdoor seating. The staff is very welcoming and it really does make you feel like you’re on a vacation. You can make reservations online.
Smack Shack | 603 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis
The Smack Shack’s Minneapolis location offers an outdoor, family friendly patio. Indulge in casual coastal seafood and make sure you try their Smack Shack original lobster roll.
Although you can walk right in, I recommend making a reservation online to ensure you aren’t waiting too long for a seat.
Sweeney’s Saloon | 96 Dale St N, St Paul

Sweeney’s Saloon definitely has one of the best patios in Saint Paul. There are plenty of trees and plants to take in while enjoying the fun atmosphere. Sweeney’s provides delicious bar food including a ‘build your own burger’ option.
Reservations aren’t accepted at Sweeney’s, so we recommend you head there early if you’re hoping for a spot! Especially if you have kids in tow.
And there you have it! So before the weather turns too brisk, be sure to check out some of these incredible options in and around the Twin Cities!
4 comments
Really nice article. I’d love to visit!
This is an amazing post. I hope to visit one day!
Sweeney’s definitely doesn’t take reservations. We get calls about this a lot because there is some misinformation out there.
Good to know! We’ll update right away. We double-checked last summer with a phone call but this is a good reminder to call every summer to confirm. Thanks!