The 5 Best Patios in Raleigh

When the weather cooperates, Raleigh is a patio city. A good outdoor table can turn an ordinary dinner into a long evening with friends—and these five spots give you particularly good reasons to stay outside.

1. Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing

Few Raleigh patios deliver a better downtown backdrop. Sitting above Boylan Heights, Wye Hill gives diners a postcard-worthy look at the skyline alongside beer, cocktails and a crowd-friendly menu. Come around sunset to understand why this patio has become a Raleigh favorite.

2. Madre

Lush greenery and contemporary design give Madre one of the city's most polished outdoor spaces. Add a strong cocktail program and dinner menu and you have a patio equally suited to date night and drinks with friends.

3. Crawford & Son

Crawford & Son’s patio is more intimate than sprawling, and that's part of the appeal. The tucked-away outdoor seating complements the restaurant's thoughtful, chef-driven cooking and makes this an excellent choice when dinner—not simply being outside—is the main event.

4. Wilson’s Eatery

Wilson’s shares a large outdoor space with Lynnwood Brewing Concern, making it an easy pick for casual lunches, beers and laid-back group gatherings. There's room to spread out, and the outdoor area is dog-friendly, too.

5. Whiskey Kitchen

In the Warehouse District, Whiskey Kitchen brings its whiskey-heavy bar and Southern-inspired food outdoors. The spacious patio has the energy you want for drinks with a group while still working perfectly well for an unhurried lunch or dinner.