Best Restaurant Patios in Greater Cleveland

Cleveland's patio season is short, but that doesn't mean the area is lacking in charming "al fresco" dining spots. Some have dramatic views; others are situated in cozy, well-landscaped gardens. All are enjoyable

John Q's Steakhouse

John Q's Steakhouse
55 Public Square in Cleveland
(216) 861-0900
John Q's Steakhouse

Located in the heart of downtown Cleveland, John Q's Steakhouse has been a favorite for quality steaks and seafood since 1979. The wood-paneled dining room is popular before and after Cleveland Browns games and for special occasions, but fewer people realize that the restaurant has one of the best patios in Cleveland. Located in front of the restaurant with a full view of the Terminal Tower and Public Square, John Q's patio is larger and set further away from the traffic than the patios offered by many of its downtown neighbors. It's a delightful setting for an after-work drink--or a full dinner. This patio is also THE place to watch the fireworks over downtown on July 4th weekend.

Beach Club Bistro

Beach Club Bistro
21939 Lake Shore Boulevard in Euclid
(216) 731-7499
Beach Club Bistro

Tucked away in a pair of brick Lake Shore Avenue storefronts, the Beach Club Bistro is an unpretentious eatery with a variety of specialty pizzas, hot entrees, and one of Greater Cleveland's best selection of half bottles of wine (fresher than wines by the glass when you're dining alone or only want a glass or two). The two inside dining areas are pleasant, but it's the brick patio behind the restaurant that shines. Complete with a waterfall garden, this oasis is a romantic place to sip wine or just relax in the middle of the city.

Lakehouse Inn and Winery

Lakehouse Inn and Winery
5653 Lake Road East in Geneva-on-the-Lake
(440) 466-8668
Lakehouse Inn and Winery

You'll think you're in northern California rather than northeast Ohio on the patio at Geneva-on-the-Lake's Lake House Inn and Winery. The large lakefront patio is cantilevered over the winery's private beach, offering spectacular 360-degree views of the shoreline and Lake Erie. The menu includes pizzas, sandwiches, and salads as well as the Inn's hand-crafted wines. The Lake House Inn offers live entertainment on summer weekend evenings.

The Harp

The Harp
4408 Detroit Avenue in Cleveland
(216) 939-0200
The Harp

The outdoor dining area at The Harp, the Irish pub/restaurant on Cleveland's near west side, is actually more of a balcony. It sits high above the ground and boasts a spectacular view of downtown Cleveland and Lake Erie. It's also takes advantage of cool lake breezes, even in the heart of the city's sometimes sweltering summer heat. The menu here features the usual Irish favorites, such as corned beef and bangers and mash, with a sampling of Cleveland staples like pierogis. Of course, The Harp has a good selection of Irish--and domestic--beers.

Gamekeeper's Taverne

Gamekeeper's Taverne
87 West Street in Chagrin Falls
(440) 247-7744
Gamekeeper's Taverne

The cozy, Chagrin Falls oasis is the center of the summer social scene in this upscale east side suburb. The atmosphere is relaxed, the bricked patio and colorful landscaping charming, and the food tasty and diverse. Gamekeeper's is known for its meat dishes--including elk and bison dishes, but they also offer a nice selection of salads and "small plates" for light eaters. The restaurant features live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. It's a good idea to make a reservation for weekend evenings or on sunny weekday nights. This place gets crowded.