Best Outdoor Patios

Beaver Creek Boathouse

Designed to look like a boat waiting at a dock, this restaurant offers one of the more distinctive outdoor eating experiences in the Tomball/Magnolia area. Patrons can choose to sit indoors, outdoors on the boat or on the large shaded patio in the front or along the side. The restaurant itself specializes in seafood dishes, but also offers daily lunch specials ranging from chicken fried steak to spaghetti and meatballs to tilapia and shrimp.

34616 Hwy. 249, Pinehurst. 281-259-4166, www.beavercreekboathouse.com

Berryhill Baja Grill and Cantina

Berryhill at Market Street in The Woodlands provides diners a relaxed, spacious patio that features live music ranging from Spanish-style flamenco guitar to well-known classic rock hits. Berryhill is known for their fish tacos, but their a la carte fajita tacos, combined with their impressive margaritas on a warm afternoon on the patio, makes for an ideal break from a day of shopping.

9595 Six Pines Drive, Ste. 240, The Woodlands. 281-298-8226, www.berryhillbajagrill.com

Bulldogs Sports Pub & Grill

This Magnolia-based sports bar may be known for its indoor seating, where sporting events are broadcasted on 27 televisions, but its spacious outdoor patio is not to be glossed over. The deck sits beside a scenic wooded area, offering an aesthetically pleasing spot for outdoor viewing and a bit of fresh air. The venue also has its own live music schedule, which can be found on its website.

7214 FM 1488, Ste. 101, Magnolia. 281-259-2174, www.bulldogssportspub.com

Cisco’s Salsa Company

Cisco’s outdoor patio wraps around the restaurant, offering ample seating for both large groups or intimate gatherings. Tables are positioned beneath big red umbrellas, which prove crucial in keeping patrons cool during hot summer afternoons. The best time to take advantage of the patio is during Cisco’s Party on the Patio—free evening concerts every Thursday from 7:30–10:30 p.m. Strings of lights and tiki torches illuminate the deck for a variety of sublime performances.

209 Commerce St. Tomball. 281-351-7572, www.ciscosalsa.com

Cypress Station Grill

At this country-style grill, two separate patios offer outdoor dining options for patrons. The rear patio is partially covered and seats around 25 people, while the larger uncovered side patio can serve more than 60. When the weather begins to cool, an outdoor brick fireplace provides warmth and ambiance for guests as they enjoy classic cocktails, casual service and comfort food.

26010 Hempstead Road, 281-304-1290, www.cypressstationgrill.com

The Goose’s Acre Bistro and Irish Pub

The Goose’s Acre brings Old World Irish charm to the upscale Woodlands Town Center with a spot perfectly situated along The Woodlands Waterway, across from The Waterway Lofts. The first floor patio gives customers the opportunity to relax with a signature cocktail or beer from their vast selection, along with traditional Irish fare. While dining, you can check out the scene along the Waterway, which features joggers, the Waterway Cruisers, Town Center shoppers and couples strolling along the river taking in the night life scenes.

21 Waterway Ave., Ste. 140, The Woodlands. 281-466-1502, www.thegoosesacre.com

Kilburn’s Tavern and Grille

This Cypress eatery has a large patio area out front from which patrons can enjoy beer, wine, champagne or a mixed drink. Customers walk through the patio area, which has a relaxed atmosphere, before entering the restaurant. Kilburn’s, which was designed to emulate the San Francisco Bay Area, offers dishes such as burgers, crab cakes and fish and chips.

12910 Malcomson Road, Houston. 281-257-3747, www.kilburnstavern.com

Landry’s Seafood

The Woodlands location of Landry’s Seafood is located on the eastern edge of Lake Robbins, across from The Woodlands Mall. The restaurant has received accolades for its spacious patio, which boasts a spectacular view of the lake, the Anadarko Corp.’s high-rise towering over Town Center to the south and the Waterway Cruisers and Town Center trolleys passing by. Landry’s gets bonus points for occasionally providing dining experiences aboard the Cruisers as they make their way down the Waterway.

1212 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands. 281-362-9696, www.landrysseafood.com

Mamacita's Mexican Restaurant and Cantina

The patio at Mamacita’s provides bar and food service along with live music featured two days a week. A trio band plays classical music on Sunday mornings and Thursday afternoons. Beginning at 7 p.m. on Saturdays, a dj encourages dancing on the large covered terrace. The full-service patio is complete with cushioned bench-style seating and tables.

15335 Hwy. 290, 281-876-3663, www.mamacitasmexicanrestaurant.com

Rooster’s

Located in Fairfield, this new restaurant combines food and golf and has a large, covered outdoor patio that overlooks a driving range. Visitors can play golf, eat and drink, all while taking in the neighborhood scenery. The restaurant has a full bar and offers hamburgers, salads, sandwiches and appetizers. 20011 Cypresswood Drive, Cypress. 281-758-2448, www.roosterscypress.com