PATIOS: downtown/uptown
downtown:
IRON CACTUS
where: main street downtown, across from sol irlandes & next to the new joule
why it rocks*: well,"rocks" may be a little generous, but typically this is one of the few places in dallas where you can snag a decent margarita in an almost-scenic part of downtown, and the chips and salsa are always yummy.
www.ironcactus.com
LEE HARVEY'S
where: beaumont & gould near south side on lamar
why it rocks: picnic tables, firepits, ring game, incredible food, cheap drinks and the deafening lack of pretentiousness that is oh-so-refreshing within such close proximity to uptown. lee harvey's - i heart you.
www.leeharveys.com
NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER
where: arts district, caddy corner from the belo mansion pavilion
why it rocks: saturdays are free entry until 2pm, where you can grab a glass of wine at the cafe' and enjoy a beautiful day amongst the green grass, fountains and sculptures.
www.nashersculpturecenter.org
SOL IRLANDES
where: downtown, between main & elm across from the new joule hotel
why it rocks: this patio is part of a long breezeway that is likely the single coolest thing about dining downtown. it is canopied by trees & has a long cobblestone walkway connecting about five different restaurants. while the food & drink are only decent, the atmostphere on this patio on a sunny afternoon (and also inside of this well-aged space) is unbeatable.
www.solrilandes.com
STEPHEN PYLES
review coming soon
www.stephenpyles.com
uptown:
JAKE'S BURGERS
where: next to idle rich off of mckinney
why it rocks: 24/7 $3 frozen margaritas - every hour is happy hour on these bad boys. and frankly, the burgers are incredible... almost as incredible as the fried pickles. and the patio is truly one of the best in uptown - misters in the summer, tvs for your favorite sports game & plenty of seating for those wanting shade or sun - you pick!
www.jakesburgers.net
HAPPY HOUR - PATIOS - BRUNCH - CHEAP - 'SPENSIVE - LATE NIGHT - THE SUCK LIST