The coming of spring and the warming of the weather means several things — yes, layering is a must, driving with the windows down on Dan Allen, and most importantly, eating outside on a sunny spring day is finally an option.
Raleigh boasts a multitude of restaurants with outdoor seating, but when it comes to dinnertime, there are only so many patios that are worth the wait.
Mellow Mushroom (601 W Peace St): Mellow Mushroom is the top pick for many students like Robin Andrews, a sophomore in business management. “It has a fun atmosphere, and on a pretty day it’s nice to be able to enjoy a great meal in a fun, outside environment,” Andrews said.
If the temperatures are in the mid-70s and a cool breeze is in the air, Mellow Mushroom’s deck is guaranteed to be teeming with people, often with nearly an hour wait. But enjoying a gorgeous day and a pizza is always worth the wait.
Armadillo Grille (439 Glenwood Ave): What better way to bask in the sun than while chowing down on a custom burrito or a delicious taco salad? Not only does Armadillo Grille’s outdoor seating offer just enough room to chat with a friend over lunch, it makes for an excellent hour of people watching.
Lilly’s Pizza (1813 Glenwood Ave): Lilly’s sidewalk patio offers a relaxing atmosphere with a perfect musical selection that makes a drink with a friend or an early dinner a deliciously peaceful outing.
“I like Lilly’s because it has a great atmosphere, good music and all types of people,” Colleen Phelan, a senior in communication, said. “It’s one of the best places to sit with lots of people and enjoy your ‘zza.'”
Red Room (510 Glenwood Ave): This downtown location is the perfect spot to gather for a 4 o’clock happy hour before the evening begins. The partially enclosed patio that runs along the side of the restaurant is the perfect medium of sun and coverage. Nothing is more delightful than sipping on a fruity drink without the threat of the strong March winds blowing you away.
Porter’s (2412 Hillsborough St): Convenient for those living on campus or looking for a break between classes, Porter’s outdoor seating is limited, but a great way to unwind after a long day of classes.
Jessica Branson, a senior in communication media, loves to take the opportunity to grab a seat outside.
“I like to eat outside because it’s nice to have a change of pace and get to sit out in the open,” Branson said. “And, it’s just really good food.” Porter’s patio is also an excellent choice for a date night because of the romantic feel it offers that other outdoor options do not.
