Portland Patios: Drinking and Dining Al Fresco

Okay, so we haven't been experiencing the steamiest "Wet Hot American Summer" so far this year. Lately, the morning grey skies and chilly night gusts have it feeling more like October in July. But with warm afternoons and bright, extended evenings—plus a few sweaty heat waves (fingers crossed for at least a few more spikes in the mercury)—it is still decidedly summer in Oregon. And how do we take advantage of our oh-so rare and treasured sunny days? Why, with plenty of patio livin', of course!

Indeed, nearly every Portland restaurant and bar finds a way to take their service outside this time of year, whether it's with a dedicated garden or deck, roll-up garage doors, or just a few tables scattered on the sidewalk. They polish up the patio sets, spruce up planters with bright and cheery flora, fill up those doggie water bowls, and get ready for the lazy hangouts of the season. But with a limited number of rain-free days to enjoy these al fresco happy hours and dinners, you simply can't waste your time on a bad patio. To minimize the blahs and maximize your fun, we've scouted out Portland's best outdoor spaces, well-designed to take advantage of the lovely weather (and seriously, that a.m. cloud cover leaves us with perfect patio conditions: gorgeous diffused sunlight, refreshing breezes, and mellow temps) and fit a variety of styles, from rowdy group parties to intimate dates. Read on for the inside scoop and discover your new favorite place to chill during the dog days of summer.

 

Northwest Portland

21st Avenue Bar & Grill

Decidedly on the low-brow end of the chi-chi Northwest spectrum, 21st Avenue Bar & Grill isn't much to look at from the street. But like the best mullet, it's all party in the back! Walk through the dive-y bar and you'll be rewarded with a huge deck dotted with lush hydrangea, hostas and Japanese maple. 

Forecast: Large space and plenty of picnic tables make it great for groups—and everyone knows it. Since it's nearly always packed, stake out a spot early on weekend afternoons.
Atmosphere: Quite a variety of characters, from after-work corporate types loosening their button-ups to hipster kids enjoying their first legal-drinking summer to quirky neighborhood old-timers, and everyone in between. Sitting there in the heat of the day might remind you of those wacky family reunions at grandma's house.
Advisory: Pups are welcome. Smoking permitted.
SPF: Surrounded by walls and wtih plenty of trees, the back deck gets perfect light—both sun and shade during the long, hot summer days.
Barometer: Keep it simple. It's PBR all the way here, baby!
On the Radar: The same goes for food—stick with the burger. And what goes better with beer than a burger anyway? The $3 happy hour menu is available all day on Sunday, when spring rolls and oyster shooters prove quite popular.

721 NW 21st Avenue
Portland, OR 97210
503.222.4121
Hours: Monday-Friday 3 p.m.-2:30 a.m., Saturday-Sunday 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m.

Meriwether's

Drawing on the history of the high-in-the-alphabet Northwest District (i..e the 1905 Lewis & Clark Centennial Exposition), Meriwether's Restaurant evokes a charming old-world class that makes it seem like it's been around much longer than the last six years. This is sophisticated yet unpretentious garden dining at its best; surrounded by colorful annuals and ornamentals, it's the perfectly sweet space for dates as well as special events like weddings and anniversary parties.

Forecast: Surprisingly comfortable wrought-iron tables and chairs can seat up to 100 on the patio, so there is usually only a short wait, if any. You may consider making a reservation (for parties of any size) during busier times like weekend brunch and dinner.
Atmosphere: A mix between traditionally fancy and Northwest rustic. You'll see business lunchers, ladies brunching, families celebrating birthdays (yes, there is a kids' menu), and out-of-towners all enjoying the farm-grown fare and relaxed refinement.
SPF: Truly year-round, with so many options, depending on your and Mother Nature's moods! The covered patio has a sunroof, radiant gas heaters and a sweet Italian fountain. The gazebo offers an intimate space with 15 bar-height stools that surround a gas fire pit and the bar. The patio and the fire pit are open on all sides (but are protected from the wind and cold during winter months with handy canvas walls).
Barometer: The wine list features both regional and international glasses, most under $10. Five Oregon beers on tap, imported bottles. Classic house cocktails run the gamut from martinis and white wine sangria to the Rose City Sidecar (featuring Clear Creek pear brandy), Cadillac Margarita, and a knock-your-socks-off Mai Tai.
On the Radar: The seasonal menus detail which ingredients come directly from their Skyline Farm and other local purveyors. Brunch favorites include the Dungeness Crab Omelet (with freshly grown herbs, $18) and the Vanilla Crepe (with Oregon mixed berries, $12). Dinner entrees, which hover in the $20s, go a bit global with highlights like the Wild Musroom Gnocchi (get the morels while they're in season!) and Lamb Osso Bucco with fennel and feta. Definitely order a salad as well to sample all the farm has to offer.

2601 NW Vaughn Street
Portland, OR 97210
503.228.1250
Hours: Lunch served Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; brunch served Saturday-Sunday 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Weekend afternoon snacking 3-5 p.m.; Dinner served every night at 5 p.m.

Metrovino

Like its amazing food, Metrovino's Pearl District patio is a bit under the radar—but not for long. Since their burger was named Portland's best by Willamette Week, people have been lining up before they even open the doors. The simple outdoor seating area is now more bustling than ever, though still a nice balance of calm urban living tucked away on the north end of the Pearl.

Forecast: Right now—and for the next several weeks—it may be more challenging to score a spot on the patio (it seats roughly 36 guests). Until the burger buzz wears off a bit, get there early or make a (dinner) reservation for an outdoor table.
Atmosphere: Refreshingly free of any "scene," while still featuring sleek design and memorable cuisine. It feels like you've discovered the next hot spot before anyone else (a great way to impress dates!). The Willamette Week article may now be attracting more crowds, but owner Todd Steele, who is usually there to take your order, makes sure everyone gets the most genuine attention.
SPF: The patio gets plenty of late-afternoon sun, but some shade from red umbrellas, building shadows, and a few trees keep you from roasting. On the flip side, there are also heat lamps for those chilly evening breezes.
Barometer: With its Enomatic machines serving over 90 bottles by the glass, this is a wine lover's paradise. Many varietals aren't otherwise available by the glass. A whole array of tasting flights are available; try the the perfect-for-summer Sparkling or Rosé Smackdowns. Happy hour, with glasses of house select red, white, and bubbly for just five bucks, is served on the patio (weekdays, 4-6 p.m.).
On the Radar: It's also a foodie haven, with fresh, local ingredients combined in incredibly creative dishes. That much-discussed burger features two patties of house-ground beef, gooey fontina cheese, onion, iceberg lettuce, and "fancy sauce" ($13 on the Bar Menu). Get adventurous even on a budget with the Chef's Three Course Tasting Menu, which includes a paired wine flight for only $35 (Sundays only).

1139 NW 11th Avenue
Portland, OR 97209
503.517.7778
Hours: Dinner nightly at 5:30 p.m.

Southwest Portland

Journeys

The friendly service at Journeys makes you feel right at home—no wonder it's a favorite with Multnomah Village locals. The converted bungalow and its front patio offer a warm, cozy setting for casual drinking and snacking. On super duper nice days, you’ll find Adirondack chairs waiting for you on the front lawn as well.

Forecast: The sprawling yard can seat over 60 people, so you'll probably have no problem strolling in and camping out. You can make reservations for larger groups the day before.
Atmosphere: Like the best backyard party, you'll probably make new friends hanging out here. In fact, we hear it's a bit of a destination for the single ladies! Since the outdoor seating overlooks Multnomah Village, it's also a fantastic perch for people watching on First Fridays.
Advisory: Well-behaved pooches are welcome, fitting the playful vibe.
SPF: Soak up the rays! The south-facing patio gets summer sun until nearly 8 p.m. every night. Table umbrellas provide some shade as well.
Barometer: Beer and wine only—not that you'll need more to choose from than the more than 50 beers and 75+ international wines.
On the Radar: It seems that no one can resist the grilled cheese bites, which come with bacon and BBQ sauce. Happy hour deals go every day until 7 p.m., so you really can't go wrong here if you have the munchies.

7771 SW Capitol Highway
Portland, OR 97219
503.245.4573
Hours: Monday-Thursday 5-11 p.m., Friday 4 p.m.-12 a.m., Saturday 5 p.m.-12 a.m.

Violetta

After months of opening delays, Portland foodies are flocking to this new Downtown destination, the flagship of Director Park. In fact, Violetta is considered part of Portland Parks & Recreation's "programming" for the city's newest public space, providing quality food and a social gathering spot for the city's core. Talk about a snack bar! Fresh and local ingredients are served from morning 'til night in the beautifully stylized concrete, metal and glass courtyard in front of Fox Tower.

Forecast: Plenty of tables—most are actually on the patio rather than inside. No reservations for the casual order-at-the-counter restaurant, but considering this is "Slow Food Fast," the turnover is usually quick enough, even with the fawning crowds, to snag a seat. And if not, you have the whole park to choose from! Wheelchair accessible.
Atmosphere: Casual and lively, always something to watch from this Downtown vantage point. Breakfast and lunch cater to the downtown working crowd on weekdays, shoppers taking a break on weekends, and evenings find a mix of families enjoying the handmade ice cream sandwiches and dates indulging in pre-theater dinners or post-movie drinks. Also plenty of curious foodies who have been reading about this, the former Roux owner's latest project.
Advisory: It is a public space, so some cigarette smoke may waft over and dogs may come by for a sniff.
SPF: Lots of direct sun, though the buildings cast cooling shadows in the evenings. For hot, hot, HOT days, you'll find umbrellas at many of the tables and a fog misting machine to cool you down. A glass awning lets in the light but will protect from showers later in the year.
Barometer: You simply must try the mouth-watering strawberry-citrus sangria! Also various Northwest beers, house wines, and bloody Marys and mimosas on the weekends. You may even forgo the booze to sip the irresistible fresh-squeezed lemonade.
On the Radar: Before the restaurant opened, they were dishing out what some called Portland's best burger from the roaming Etta truck, and it's still a hit. Enjoy the early-morning sun with coconut cream oatmeal; midday warmth with a farmers market salad; and the sunset with the signature slow-roasted chicken.

877 SW Taylor Street
Portland, OR 97205
503.233.3663
Hours: Monday-Thursday 7 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

 

Northeast Portland

Autentica

Tucked away in the small but hopping Northeast corner of town known as Fox Chase (quite the foodie mecca in its own right), Autentica is a Mexican restaurant of deliciously fine proportions. Their somewhat new back patio transports you to the tropics, with vibrant colors, large leaf plants and cacti, festive strings of lights, and a mural painted by server and artist Rachel Olsen.

Forecast: It's somewhat cozy, with seating for only 30 people, and since it's closed in inclement weather, you may have to cross your fingers and get lucky. They do take reservations for groups of six or more and for private events.
Atmosphere: A vacation without the plane ticket. Such a festive atmosphere for parties and fun-loving dates. Still, it's mellow enough to be relaxing and romantic.
SPF: The patio is shaded and breezy during dinner service, and plenty of greenery make you feel refreshed. Umbrellas recently popped up to shield brunchers from direct sun.
Barometer: There's a full bar, with over 20 tequilas to choose from for your Cadillac margarita ($11, but worth the large pour).
On the Radar: The menu is inspired by owner/chef Oswaldo Bibiano's hometown favorites from Guerrero, Mexico—hence, the "authentic" moniker. Brunch features Huevos Rancheros and Chilaquiles, of course. At dinner, sample both signature moles (red and green) on the Platillo Mexicano.

5507 NE 30th Avenue
Portland OR 97211
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 5-10 p.m.; brunch served Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Echo Restaurant

Sneak away from the rush of busy NE MLK Boulevard to Echo's narrow yet sunny back patio. So unexpected, this secret, open-late sweet spot in the Eliot 'hood feels a bit like a speakeasy, thanks in no small part to the circa-1892 brick building (which used to house a brothel). The only things missing are the secret code word and bathtub gin.

Forecast: With seating for only 18 people, the patio can fill up quickly. You should call in advance (one day's notice is preferred) if you’re planning to descend on Echo with an especially raucous bunch; staff will provide extra seating for large parties. Wheelchair accessible.
Atmosphere: Eclectic crowd of people looking for delicious but not-so-expensive dinners—groups of friends, couples taking a break from cooking. Attentive service makes you want to hang out and stay a while.
SPF: While the patio is on the shady side of building—it's actually sandwiched between two buildings—there’s plenty of afternoon sun. There are also table umbrellas when the sun gets too intense. (Yes. Too intense. It happens.)
Barometer: Classic cocktails like a Singapore Sling and Pimm's Cup are served in vintage glassware, completing the Prohibition-era feel. Drink specials every night from 10 p.m. to close, and $10 off bottles of vino on Sundays.
On the Radar: A new owner has maintained favorite dishes but now uses more fresh, local ingredients. We've heard raves for the mac & cheese, stuffed piquillo peppers, and the Echo burger (one of our favorite picks on the eastside!), each of which is on the $4-$6 happy hour menu (weekdays 4:30-6 p.m. & weekends 3-6 p.m.)

2225 NE MLK Boulevard
Portland, OR 97212
503.460.3246
Hours: Sunday-Wednesday 4:30-11 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 4:30 p.m.- 12 a.m.

Firehouse Restaurant

You know Northeast Portland's Dekum Street is quite the hotspot, yeah? The Firehouse Restaurant's flagstone patio provides respite from the buzz of foot and car traffic now consistently pulsing through the evolving Woodlawn neighborhood. Herbs, flowers and native grasses grow around the intimate al fresco setting. Combined with amazing Italian food and wine selections, you'll feel transported to the rustic Tuscan countryside.

Forecast: With seats for only about twenty people and no reservations, you may have to wait a bit longer for a outdoor table, but it's worth it. Wheelchair accessible.
Atmosphere: The old firehouse exudes a casual charm that creates one large dinner party atmosphere—though couples can certainly tuck themselves away and get cozy on their own. New lights strung over the patio add some glittering nighttime ambiance.
SPF: The patio gets a lot of direct sun until about 7:30 p.m., and there are no umbrellas, so be prepared for a good dose of Vitamin D.
Barometer: Nice array of mostly Italian wines with some French and Oregonian thrown in for good measure. Local drafts and imported bottled beers. Refresh yourself with the house-made lemon or vanilla cream sodas.
On the Radar: The seasonal menu features such fresh ingredients, many are grown right in the neighborhood. Start with olive ascolane (read: Deep. Fried. Olives!) or roasted beets. The wood-fired Neopolitan-style pizzas are a signature you must try. We've been told the romaine hearts salad is "so much more" than just a typical Caesar, and that the rotisserie chicken is "the best you'll ever taste."

711 NE Dekum Street
Portland, OR 97211
503.954.1702
Hours: Wednesday-Thursday 5-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 5-10 p.m., Sunday 5-9 p.m.

Perry’s on Fremont

For over 25 years, Perry’s has been a beacon in the Alameda neighborhood, with the Perrys themselves often presiding over the comfortable energy—there's quite a family feel here. The fenced-in patio is stocked with verdant potted plants and trees, plus a few couches for lounging before your dinner table opens up.

Forecast: As a favorite of families and groups of neighbors, there can be a wait for the outdoor tables (hence the aforementioned couches), which seat about 25-30. Make reservations for parties of six or more; give them at least four hours notice for even larger groups. Wheelchair accessible.
Atmosphere: Like dinner at mom's—if your mother was a talented gardener, even better cook, and well, slightly less neurotic. After so many years in the mostly residential 'hood, it's a place where everybody knows your name if you're a regular. And if you're not, you'll want to be after one visit.
SPF: The patio enjoys full sun in afternoon, but plenty of greenery and shade umbrellas over every table help you keep your cool.
Barometer: There's a full bar of beer, wine, and cocktails—try the fresh ginger and cucumber mojito ($7.50) or strawberry mango margarita ($6.95).
On the Radar: Upscale comfort food that can be addictive. Everyone raves about the Chicken (pot) Pie ($14.75). But you simply can't leave without ordering dessert—plenty of pies, from marionberry to chocolate chip, plus indulgences like the chocolate caramel cake and lemon coconut sponge cake (all $7.50). There is also a $2.95 happy hour menu available at bar patio tables (Tues-Sat 4-6 p.m.)

2401 NE Fremont Street
Portland, OR 97212
503.287.3655
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 4-9 p.m., Friday 4-10 p.m., Saturday 12-10 p.m.

Vendetta

Bike commuting along the Williams-Vancouver corridor? Then you should make Humboldt's Vendetta a mandatory pitstop! The backyard offers a variety of picnic tables and benches which lend themselves to a lively and inexpensive happy hour session, with shuffleboard not too far away (inside) once the sun drops behind the front of the building.

Forecast: Tons of seating options and plenty of room, so even if it's crowded with groups of friends, you can still enjoy the fresh air by mingling around. No reservations as this is definitely a bar rather than restaurant.
Atmosphere: Party! Slightly hipster, lots of bike-geeks, and often, singles eyeing up their flirting options. Loud-ish music is piped outside (there are sometimes DJs). This is the place to chill out, let loose, and make new friends.
Advisory: Smoking permitted.
SPF: Some umbrellas and a small covered area (heated in winter), but most of the patio sits smack dab in the sun, a great place to tan those legs in your cut-offs.
Barometer: Order cheap and stiff drinks at the bar (sometimes an outdoor bar is open). The daily happy hour offers $3 wells and $0.50 off beers.
On the Radar: Typical bar food (nachos, sloppy joes) but some more creative leanings and vegan options as well.

4306 N Williams Avenue
Portland, OR 97217
503.288.1085
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

Yakuza Lounge

The small patio at the back of this popular Concordia restaurant is a Zen gem, especially when summer temps reach way up into the 90s. Yakuza's shaded space is a refreshing reprieve on the hottest days—not that the crowds cool down at all. There's always great energy here, with catchy music and tasty food and libations. Get there early to grab a seat and watch a Friday evening unfold around you.

Forecast: Patio seating is in high-demand, but you can always wait for a table at the beautiful bar inside. In summer months, the doors and windows are kept wide open so the interior feels like the outdoors anyway.
Atmosphere: Crisp and modern, it's probably the sexiest patio of the bunch. Good for dates? Heck yes! It makes you want to put on a pair of heels, but this is Portland after all, and flip flops easily fit the breezy and comfortable feel.
SPF: Lots of shade from an overhang, umbrellas, and plants keep you from overheating.
Barometer: Sake, of course! Plus surprising seasonal cocktails like wasabi and snap pea martinis.
On the Radar: Creative Japanese fusion (don't be scared of that word!), including tempura scallops and an unbelievable American Kobe beef burger. Stay cool with a cucumber salad, high-quality sashimi, and the pear avocado roll (seven other rolls available).

5411 NE 30th Avenue
Portland, OR 97211
503.450.0893
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 5-10 p.m.

Southeast Portland

Caldera Public House

Found “on the slopes of Mt. Tabor,” Caldera Public House is more cozy chalet than swanky mountain resort. The historic building, a former pharmacy, is now a casual and chatty neighborhood pub, with a stately mahogany bar, and of course, a summertime back deck and patio that beckons you outside. Spend a lazy afternoon happily enjoying pints with your pals post-kickball tourney.

Forecast: A hidden gem, so even with no reservations available, you'll probably be able to snag one of the many picnic tables in the garden or seats on the covered deck, weather permitting. Plenty of room for groups.
Atmosphere: Beautiful wooden features create a warm setting; lush greenery and twinkling lights continue the charm outdoors. Easy-going neighbors and smiling servers make you want to linger during the warm evenings.
SPF: The sun only gets better at (slightly) higher elevations! Still, there is a covered porch and a few shaded picnic tables tucked under trees so you have options.
Barometer: PBR and local micros on tap, plus a rotating seasonal brew; even more bottle selections. We can't resist ordering the "Bootsy" (gin, strawberry puree, lemon twist, $8)—so fun to say, even more fun to drink.
On the Radar: Better-than-average pub grub like bourbon soaked brie, halibut tacos, shitake linguine, and a marionberry bourbon BBQ burger ($9-$13). Hit up the happy hour menu for Cajun tots ($4), calamari ($6), and that same brie for two bucks off (daily 5-6 p.m. & 9 p.m.-close).

6031 SE Stark Street
Portland, OR 97215
503.233.8242
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 5-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 5-11 p.m.

The Farm Café

Last year, The Farm Café significantly remodeled its signature space in Buckman. The quirky house has been expanded to include a much bigger bar and dining rooms with terrific art and floral arrangements on display. Better still: The elegant brick patio area on the south side of the restaurant is a significant improvement on the cramped space that used to be the only outdoor option.

Forecast: Spaciously arranged tables can seat about 28 diners, so even if you have to wait a bit (and there is now much more room at the bar to do so!), you'll end up with plenty of room for a leisurely dinner in your own pocket of the patio. Reservations for parties of six or more only. Wheelchair accessible.
Atmosphere: Sometimes kooky, sometimes sedate, always a meal to remember. You can have a quiet date or giggle with the girls, take your visiting parents or make it a weekly tradition. The Farm Café is simply endearing.
SPF: Some standing umbrellas and overflowing plants around the perimeter offer some respite from the sun, but the brick and concrete walls can act like a bit of an oven, so consider later evening visits.
Barometer: Full bar featuring many local choices from area vineyards, breweries, and distilleries. Summer calls for strawberry jalapeno margaritas (as they told us on their Twitter). Happy hour brings dollar discounts on beers and select $5 glasses of wine (Mon-Thurs 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m.)
On the Radar: As the name implies, the menu is packed with freshly-sourced ingredients. You could make a meal of appetizers like sautéed, herbed mushrooms ($4 during happy hour) and baked brie with roasted hazlenuts ($8), both of which come with Ken’s Artisan Breads; but also consider the beet carpaccio and the signature Farmhouse veggie burger.

10 SE 7th Avenue
Portland, OR 97214
503.736.3276
Hours: Sunday-Tuesday 5-10:30 p.m, Wednesday-Saturday 5-11:30 p.m.

Tastebud

Drawing on its agricultural origins, Tastebud's small brick patio is flanked by fruit trees and grape vines, a surprisingly bucolic setting behind the Brooklyn restaurant, which began as a farm near Canby. Indeed, there's a mix of farm charm and urban cool here, with simple yet mismatched furniture and refined wood-fired pizzas served on eclectic vintage plates.

Forecast: Only about ten tables on the private patio, so consider arriving early or be prepared to wait a little longer than you would for a seat at the communal tables inside. Reservations available for large parties. Wheelchair accesible.
Atmosphere: A seriously lovely choice for a sweet and casual date; considering pizza is the main focus, you may also find families splitting a pie. It's refined without being snooty, down-to-earth without being lazy.
SPF: Shadows change throughout the afternoon and evening as the sun goes down, so there will always be both sunny and shady spots to choose from.
Barometer: Go with a craft beer like brews from Hair of the Dog or Caldera. There's also a modest selection of wines served in antique glasses.
On the Radar: The thin crust, wood-fired pizza is the star of the show here. And Sunday is all you can eat pizza night. Got that? Oh. My. Tastebuds! Our picks: the braised greens, scallions, farm egg, chili flakes, and pecorino pie ($23), or house pancetta, cherries, mascarpone, and arugula pizza ($25). There are also non-pizza grilled specialities like favas, baby corn, and green garlic ($4-$5).

3220 SE Milwaukie Avenue
Portland, OR 97202
503.234.0330
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 5-9:30 p.m.

 

North Portland

DiPrima Dolci

From morning 'til night, DiPrima Dolci's newly-paved patio is an enchanting summer hangout in Overlook. Walk through the pergola and immediately soak in the breathtaking blooming garden, plus a colorful agrarian mural and soothing fountain to complete the picturesque setting. The family-owned and operated Italian bakery predictably exudes the passion and warmth of Nona's infamous hugs.

Forecast: Lots of table sets that can accomodate over 30 people mean you'll most likely be able to find a seat during the daytime. Make a reservation to secure your spot on the patio for dinner, though (Thurs-Sat only). The patio is also available to rent for parties. Wheelchair accessible.
Atmosphere: Such a welcoming place to relax with the morning paper over coffee, enjoy lunch with an old friend, or treat yourself to a hearty home-cooked dinner. Perfect for families and group celebrations. Sitting among the flowers, herbs and vegetables is as peacefully pastoral as it gets in our urban space.
SPF: Sitting in the sun's crosshairs during most of the day, you'll be grateful for umbrellas at most of the tables. All the flora ushers in the breeze during the evenings.
Barometer: Drinks here are much more about coffee than alcohol, but they do serve beer and wine at dinner.
On the Radar: Easily Portland's most genuine Italian bakery, everyone who visits becomes a devotee. Choose from breakfast brioche and fritatta; Italian subs heaping with Coppacolla, Genoa, Soppresetta salami and oozing provolone; fresh pastas for dinner ($15 and under); and of course, to-die-for cannoli for dessert (not to mention countless other pastries, cakes, and treats!).

1936 N Killingsworth Street
Portland, OR 97217
503.283.5936
Hours: Sunday-Wednesday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

John Street Café

The patio at the John Street Café is an incredibly verdant oasis in St. Johns, with picnic tables and bistro two-tops tucked in among sweeping branches and climbing vines. With bright flowers and interesting art that will wake you up while waiting for your breakfast, it's the ideal place to start your day or take a break from an epic bike ride. 

Forecast: With only about a dozen tables to host the throngs of Portland breakfast lovers, expect a little wait. No reservations. Wheelchair accessible.
Atmosphere: The interior of the clean and modern breakfast cafe is comfortable but pretty nondescript, which is why the leafy patio is so popular during the summer. Like any good place devoted to the morning meal, it encourages lounging and offers delicous hangover remedies.
SPF: Lots of sun, but also plenty of shade in case you don't feel like sweating so early in the day.
Barometer: Beer, wine, and the usual brunch drinks are available.
On the Radar: Breakfast dishes you'll find yourself craving again all week long. We love the Bacavo (an omelette stuffed with bacon, avocado, and Monterey Jack and topped with melted bleu cheese) and the massive filbert and black currant pancake (seasonal berries also available).

8338 N Lombard Street
Portland, OR 97203
503.247.1066
Hours: Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

The Fixin' To

Not sure you'll get away on a summer vacation this year? After your visit to Mexico at Autentica, consider the oh-so-exotic (seriously) Arkansas, which has found its way to St. Johns at The Fixin' To. The patio's decor is decidedly shabby chic with corrugated tin walls and distressed doors as a backdrop. There are also heat lamps and strings of lights that encourage the raucous fun to lasts well into the wee hours.

Forecast: Space abounds around the crunchy gravel space. Picnic tables and continuous wrap-around benches against the walls welcome large parties. But like any good party, you don't want to sit in one place for too long anyway, and you'll have plenty room here to move about.
Atmosphere: A perfectly curated hipster-homage to blue collar living, thanks to owners who actually grew up in the South. Tongue-in-cheek theme nights (Video DJ Thursdays, Soft Rock Saturdays) and a fun-loving crew ensure a really good time.
Advisory: Smoking permitted.
SPF: Something for everyone: covered, shaded, or downright sunburn-inducing. At least there's no humidity.
Barometer: PBR tall boys—is there anything else?!. Okay, also Rainier on tap. And a full bar when you want to get crazy.
On the Radar: Deee-licious all-American snacks like Ritz-crusted chicken tenders ($7), house-made "Rotel" (cheese dip, $5), meatloaf ($11), and Frito Pie ($9). You know you're still in Portland, though, with a couple fresh salads and many vegan options.

8218 N Lombard Street
Portland, OR 97203
503.477.4995
Hours: Monday-Saturday 2 p.m.-2 a.m., Sunday 2 p.m.-1 a.m.

Liz Hummer and Lynnette Fusilier contributed to this article.

View the slideshow for more images of Portland patios or visit our Flickr gallery:

Photos © 2010 Neighborhood Notes, unless otherwise noted.