The 10 Best Summer Patios in Central Ohio
Summer in Central Ohio always seems to disappear too quickly. One minute you're making Memorial Day plans, and the next you're pulling sweatshirts back out of the closet. That's why we believe every warm evening deserves to be spent outside.
Whether you're planning a date night, meeting friends for happy hour, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a great meal in the sunshine, Central Ohio has no shortage of incredible patios. From lush garden courtyards to rooftop lounges and neighborhood favorites, these are the outdoor dining destinations we think every local should experience at least once this summer.
Best Garden Patio
Lindey's
Location: German Village
If there were a patio hall of fame in Columbus, Lindey's would be its first inductee. Tucked behind the historic restaurant is a beautifully landscaped brick courtyard surrounded by mature trees, fountains, and seasonal flowers. It feels removed from the city despite being in the heart of German Village and has become one of Columbus' most iconic outdoor dining destinations.
Don't Miss: Weekend brunch or dinner on a warm summer evening.
Best Hidden Courtyard
Barcelona Restaurant & Bar
Location: German Village
Barcelona's intimate courtyard feels like something you'd stumble upon in Europe. String lights, lush greenery, and a relaxed atmosphere make it one of the city's favorite date-night destinations. Pair that setting with an extensive wine list and Mediterranean-inspired menu, and it's easy to understand why locals return year after year.
Don't Miss: Tapas and a bottle of wine shared outside.
Best Patio for Food Lovers
Comune
Location: Schumacher Place
Minimalist design meets seasonal cooking at Comune. Its thoughtfully designed patio is the perfect extension of the restaurant's modern aesthetic, creating a peaceful setting for one of the city's most celebrated dining experiences. Even dedicated meat lovers will find plenty to appreciate on the ever-changing menu.
Don't Miss: The chef's seasonal offerings paired with one of their natural wines.
Most Romantic Patio
Basi Italia
Location: Victorian Village
Hidden behind an unassuming building sits one of Columbus' best-kept secrets. Basi Italia's cozy courtyard is intimate, charming, and consistently ranks among the city's most romantic places to dine. Fresh pasta, candlelight, and an inviting outdoor space make it an easy choice for anniversaries, birthdays, or simply a memorable evening out.
Don't Miss: A reservation around sunset.
Best Classic Columbus Patio
The Top Steak House
Location: Bexley
The Top has been a Columbus institution for decades, and its patio has only made the experience better. The retro steakhouse atmosphere, timeless cocktails, and classic menu feel refreshingly unchanged in the best possible way. If you're looking for old-school Columbus charm, this is it.
Don't Miss: A classic martini before dinner.
Best Patio with a View
Café Istanbul
Location: Bridge Park, Dublin
Overlooking the Scioto River and Riverside Crossing Park, Café Istanbul offers one of the most scenic dining experiences in Central Ohio. The Mediterranean menu pairs perfectly with the relaxed riverfront atmosphere, and after dinner you can stroll across the pedestrian bridge or explore Bridge Park.
Don't Miss: Dinner just before sunset.
Best Rooftop Restaurant
Goodale Station
Location: Short North
Located atop the Canopy by Hilton, Goodale Station offers sweeping views of downtown Columbus from one of the city's most inviting rooftop patios. Comfortable seating, fire pits, creative cocktails, and an elevated menu make it just as suitable for a casual happy hour as it is for an evening celebration.
Don't Miss: Cocktails around golden hour.
Best New Rooftop
Astra Rooftop
Location: Arena District
One of Columbus' newest rooftop destinations, Astra has quickly become a favorite for skyline views and elevated dining. The stylish atmosphere, fire-inspired menu, and expansive rooftop patio make it an ideal place to start—or end—a summer evening downtown.
Don't Miss: A reservation during sunset for panoramic city views.
Best New Date Night Spot
Cento
Location: German Village
Cento brings contemporary Italian dining to one of Columbus' most beloved neighborhoods. Its Garden Terrazza creates an elegant outdoor setting where handcrafted pasta, wood-fired dishes, and thoughtfully selected wines feel right at home. It's quickly become one of the city's most sought-after reservations.
Don't Miss: The outdoor terrazza on a warm summer night.
Best Neighborhood Patio
Littleton's Market
Location: Upper Arlington
Part neighborhood market, part café, Littleton's has become one of the area's favorite places to spend a relaxed afternoon. Grab breakfast, lunch, coffee, or a glass of wine and settle into the outdoor patio, where the atmosphere feels more like a community gathering space than a traditional restaurant.
It's the kind of place where you'll often stop for a quick coffee and end up staying for lunch.
Don't Miss: Coffee and pastries in the morning or a casual lunch on the patio.
Start Planning Your Patio Tour
One of the best parts about summer in Central Ohio is how many incredible places there are to enjoy a meal outdoors. Whether you're sipping cocktails on a rooftop, sharing pasta beneath string lights, or spending an afternoon on a neighborhood patio, each of these destinations offers its own unique experience.
The only challenge is deciding where to start.
Our advice? Pick one you've never been to, invite a few friends, and make the most of patio season while it lasts. Before long, the leaves will be changing, and you'll already be looking forward to next summer.
The Mancini Group
mandy@themancinigroupsells.com
614-796-5077
Sources:
NBC4 Columbus. Columbus ranked seventh most livable city in U.S. Retrieved from: https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/columbus/columbus-ranked-seventh-most-livable-city-in-u-s/
RentCafe. Most livable metro areas in the U.S. – Annual report. Retrieved from: https://www.rentcafe.com/blog/rental-market/market-snapshots/most-livable-metro-areas/
