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From romantic rooftops to if-you-know-you-know neighborhood spots with killer outdoor patios, Philly’s award-winning restaurant scene isn’t afraid to take the party outside during the warm-weather months.
But with countless options for alfresco dining found throughout the city (including a spate of beloved seasonal bars and restaurants), it can be difficult to choose where to catch up with old friends or wow your out-of-town guests.
We passed the mic to five Visit Philadelphia staffers to give us the inside scoop on a few of their favorite spots to soak up the sun over a great meal and delicious drinks.
Read on for some of Visit Philadelphia staffers’ go-to restaurants for outdoor drinking and dining in Philadelphia through the spring, summer and fall.
El Techo in Center City is one of my favorite rooftop restaurants.
When they open the retractable ceiling during the warm-weather months, all the seating is outdoors under twinkling lights. Plus, you’re surrounded by tall buildings, so it gives you fun, concrete jungle, city vibes.
I usually go for happy hour, which tends to be less busy and is great for catching up with a friend. I love their margs, tacos on house-made corn tortillas and ranch water (sparkling water with a really good tequila and lime).
And a pro tip: If you’re looking to mingle and meet people, it’s bumping at night.
Where: El Techo, 1830 Ludlow Street, Philadelphia, PA
My mom has dietary restrictions, so I’m always trying to find fun places that we both can enjoy. Front Street Cafe in Fishtown is one of our favorites.
It has a great variety of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a huge patio space and an outdoor bar.
There’s tons of greenery, and the atmosphere is super welcoming to everyone, even dogs.
Front Street is open all day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but we go for brunch a lot. They have really good buffalo cauliflower and French onion soup. Want something sweet? Try the fried banana bites.
Where: Front Street Cafe, 1253 N. Front Street, Philadelphia, PA
In Riva is a great spot for outdoor dining, and I’m not just saying that because I love East Falls.
This laid-back restaurant overlooks the Schuylkill River, so you can see the water and riverfront bikers and runners while you eat.
And speaking of the food, the menu is delicious! We always get the whipped ricotta and the broccolini Caesar salad, and you can’t beat their pizzas. (I love the Margherita!)
The staff is also super accommodating and kid-friendly, so we love bringing our toddler and loved ones when they visit.
A tip: Sign up for the email list! Each week (mostly Tuesdays), the restaurant sends out a secret password for a half-priced pizza.
Where: In Riva, 4116 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
As soon as the weather warms up, the PHS Pop Up Garden at South Street is my go-to spot.
The location is awesome — right on South Street with easy access to the Broad Street Line and Center City — making it the perfect first stop on a night out.
It’s also a great gathering place for large friend groups. There’s tons of space, large picnic tables, super-fast service (even though it might be packed), and an impressive menu full of vegetarian and vegan options for folks with dietary restrictions, like me.
And don’t miss the Woodermelon cocktail. I get one every time I go.
Where: PHS Pop Up Garden at South Street, 1438 South Street, Philadelphia, PA
Silk City is the ideal place when I want to have great food and a fun atmosphere. Indoors, the Spring Garden restaurant gives you that vintage diner experience, but the outdoor garden has an eclectic, early-2000s, beachy vibe.
The energy is always lively, and the restaurant/bar tends to attract fun people, so it’s great for a festive night out or happy hour with friends.
Just keep in mind that it does get pretty packed, so book a reservation. If you can’t, come prepared to sit at the bar for a bit while you wait for a table.
The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.
Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and priceless peace of mind.