The Top 5 Patios in Grand Rapids

When you live in the Midwest these summer months are meant to be savored. So when it comes to choosing a restaurant a patio is a must to enjoy a lovely evening outdoors.

Here are my top 5 patios in Grand Rapids:

1. Mangiamo!

If you’re in the mood to grab a drink with friends and enjoy a pizza outdoors then Mangiamo! is the perfect spot for you. Enjoy happy hour from 3-6PM and share a $10 three topping pizza with a $4 house wine. While you’re waiting for your pizza challenge your friends to some corn hole on the lawn or just enjoy the view. This is also a great spot to grab lunch with a client or out-of-town guests Monday-Friday where you can soak up some sun with a fresh salad or sandwich.

2. Reserve

Did you know Reserve has a top patio area? This patio off the loft is one of my favorite spots to enjoy drinks after work with friends and get a little view of downtown Grand Rapids. Reserve has an extensive wine list (cheers) with some great small plate options or my go-to cheese plate to share. I would highly recommend a wine flight to get a taste of a few types of your favorite variety of try something new.

3. Nonna’s: The Trattoria

Those who loved Nonna’s Cafe in Ada are going to love Nonna’s: The Trattoria across the street even more. After spending some time in Italy during collage I appreciate some truly authentic Italian food and the penne pasta brought me right back to Rome. The Trattoria has an extensive patio so you can sip your wine and eat your pasta alfresco. With a focus on local ingredients and family recipes this is a great spot for a family dinner or date night this summer.

4. Terra

When it comes to amazing food, great wine and a cozy patio Terra takes the win. I truly appreciate a restaurant that centers on farm-to-table ingredients and seasonal menu items that cater to both meat eaters and vegetarians. A glass of wine paired with a wood-fired pizza on the patio is my idea of a perfect night (PS they also have gluten free crust available). I’m also a fan of the Apple & Cheddar Salad and the Smoked Trout Spread as a really good appetizer to share.

5. Donkey Taqueria

You just can’t go wrong with a margarita, chips & guacamole and a fun patio am I right? Donkey is my pick for best margarita in town (try to prove me wrong) and I absolutely love their authentic Mexican food. This is a great spot to have dinner alfresco with friends or stop by for an after-dinner drink to enjoy the outdoor patio lights.