Despite these uncertain times, there are still ways to take advantage of the warmer weather without putting your health at risk.
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Throughout the Miami Valley, restaurants are opening their patios to the public and offering a safer way to dine on your favorite Dayton staples. Unsure of where to start? We have come up with a list of the best restaurant patios in the Miami Valley, from Blind Bob’s Bar to Franco’s Ristorante Italiano. These are the best restaurant patios in the Dayton area.
Please research each of your favorites before you go, as restaurant hours and dining policies are rapidly evolving amid the coronavirus pandemic.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
While dining at these establishments, masks must be worn by customers while they are dining inside (or outside, on the patio), except when they are actively consuming food or drink. Masks must be worn when customers are not seated at their table.
🌞🍔BARGOS
Locations: 588 Miamisburg Centerville Road, Centerville and 7105 Dixie Highway, Fairfield
Hours: Centerville location: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. and Sunday from noon to 2:30 a.m.; Fairfield location: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday from noon to 1 a.m.
Why it rates: The patios features an outside connection to the bar so you can stay outside in the sunshine.
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Credit: Bargos Grill & Tap
Credit: Bargos Grill & Tap
🌞🍔BLIND BOB’S
Location: 430 E. 5th St., Dayton
Hours: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight
Why it rates: This patio is very laid-back and chill and a prime people-watching spot in Dayton's Oregon District. Enjoy that people watching with a nice cold beer and a famous Bob's burger.
🌞🍔CARILLON BREWING COMPANY
Location: 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton
Hours: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Why it rates: This spacious patio overlooks the gorgeous Carillon Historical Park. It overlooks the park. it's spacious. Enjoy a peaceful evening with some really old-school brews.
🌞🍔CARMEL'S BAR & GRILL
Location: 1025 Shroyer Road, Dayton
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from noon to 11 p.m.
Why it rates: The best part of Carmel's is its patio, if you ask us. Unwind with a cool refreshing margarita and Tex-Mex eats on this casual patio that makes everyone feel instantly welcome and relaxed.
More info: Facebook
Credit: Jim Ingram
Credit: Jim Ingram
🌞🍔CARVER’S STEAKS & CHOPS
Location: 1535 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Centerville
Hours: Sunday and Monday from 4-8 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 5-9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4-9 p.m.
Why it rates: A casual place to enjoy a fine meal.
Pro tip: Carver’s hosts parking lot and patio parties that are always a huge hit.
🌞🍔CHUY'S (AUSTIN LANDING)
Location: Austin Landing, 10445 Innovation Drive, Miamisburg
Hours: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Why it rates: The perfect margarita is best enjoyed on the perfect patio that overlooks the beautiful Park at Austin Landing.
Credit: MICHELLE FONG/STAFF
Credit: MICHELLE FONG/STAFF
🌞🍔COCO’S BISTRO
Location: 250 Warren St., Dayton
Hours: Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 5-11 p.m. and closed on Sunday
Why it rates: Those in search of a little romance need not look further than Coco's cool, inviting covered patio. It's perfect for date night.
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🌞🍔DAYTON BEER COMPANY
Location: 41 Madison St., Dayton
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 4-10 p.m., Friday from 4 p.m. to midnight, Saturday from noon to midnight and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
Why it rates: A variety of games, locally-crafted brews and the buzz of the city make this spot a patio favorite.
Credit: JIM WITMER
Credit: JIM WITMER
🌞🍔DOUBLE 18 LOUNGE
Location: 1818 Brown St., Dayton, above Timothy's Bar
Hours: Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to midnight and Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Why it rates: Timothy's Bar near UD has a hidden treasure: a rooftop patio that's part of the Double 18 Lounge located above Timothy's.
🌞🍔DUBLIN PUB
Location: 300 Wayne Ave., Dayton
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: This is one of the most chill patios in the city. Sit under an umbrella and order a pint and a side of ooey-gooey Pub fries.
🌞🍔EL MESON
Location: 903 E. Dixie Drive, Dayton
Hours: Thursday from Saturday from 4-9 p.m.
Why it rates: Escape with a little help from El Meson, its delicious drinks and tapas and its famous patios. Yes, patios plural.
Credit: Contributed photo by Alexis Larsen
Credit: Contributed photo by Alexis Larsen
🌞🍔ELE CAKE BISTRO & WINE BAR
Location: 3680 Rigby Road, Miamisburg
Hours: Monday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why it rates: This intimate bistro and wine bar at Austin Landing offers the perfect setting for wine al fresco with a perfect view of Austin Landing.
🌞🍔ELSA’S CORNER CANTINA
Location: 6204 Wilmington Pike in the Sugarcreek Plaza
Hours: Sunday through Thursday from 3-8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 3-9 p.m.
Why it rates: This breezy covered patio that also features an outdoor bar includes five TVs perfect for game day. The only thing that will make it better is a Bad Juan.
More info: Website
Credit: Mark Fisher
Credit: Mark Fisher
🌞🍔FIFTH STREET BREWPUB
Location: 1600 E. 5th St., Dayton
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 4-10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 1-11 p.m.
Why it rates: Think of this as a beer garden with homegrown brews and tasty eats in a casual, picnic-table setting.
🌞🍔ELSA’S KETTERING SPORTS GRILL
Location: 1216 E. Stroop Road, Kettering
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: This covered patio is lively, huge and a popular destination on game day, with TVs outside. Again, Bad Juans are required.
More info: Website
🌞🍔FLYBOY'S DELI OAKWOOD
Location: 2515 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Why it rates: Head up the stairs of the deli and find yourself on a balcony with tables and umbrellas overlooking Far Hills Avenue.
🌞🍔FRANCO'S RISTORANTE ITALIANO
Location: 824 E. 5th St., Dayton
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday from 4-11 p.m.
Why it rates: This patio offers great ambiance and is perfect for date night. While you're there, drink some wine and enjoy some of Franco's World Famoso Spaghetti.
🌞🍔JIMMIE’S LADDER 11
Location: 936 Brown St., Dayton
Hours: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Why it rates: Potted plants help set the mood on this beautifully decorated and relaxed patio near UD. There is plenty of room for the entire gang.
🌞🍔LILY’S BISTRO
Location: 329 E. 5th St., Dayton
Hours: Tuesday through Friday from 4-10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-10 p.m.
Why it rates: Lily's has three patios with personality, including two that face Fifth Street. The restaurant's beautifully landscaped back patio is a not-so-secret oasis that can accommodate up to 500 people.
🌞🍔LITTLE YORK TAVERN
Location: 4120 Little York Road, Vandalia
Hours: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. and Sunday from noon to 2:30 a.m.
Why it rates: The spacious outdoor area features charming archways for you to sit beneath as you enjoy pizza and brews. There's a reason this patio is usually a Best of Dayton winner.
Credit: HANDOUT
Credit: HANDOUT
🌞🍔MUDLICK TAP HOUSE
Location: 135 E. Second St., Dayton
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 4-10 p.m., Friday from 4-11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: This cozy little patio offers a great view of the downtown scene and a nice intimate spot to enjoy a cold fancy brew and a pretzel with bier cheese.
Credit: HANDOUT
Credit: HANDOUT
🌞🍔OLD SCRATCH PIZZA
Location: 812 S. Patterson Blvd., Dayton
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: Old Scratch has quickly grown a loyal following for its Neapolitan-style pizzas and its communal hall seating. Step outside to the spacious patio and you'll find your new happy place.
Credit: Contributed
Credit: Contributed
🌞🍔THE OREGON EXPRESS
Location: 336 E. Fifth St., Dayton
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday from 4-11 p.m.
Why it rates: The patio may not no-frills, but you'll get a bird's eye view of the Oregon District that is best enjoyed with delicious pizza.
More info: Facebook
🌞🍔SOUTH PARK TAVERN
Location: 1301 Wayne Ave., Dayton
Hours: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday from noon to 1 a.m.
Why it rates: Some of Dayton's best pizza should be enjoyed in a cozy, friendly setting.
🌞🍔TABLE 33
Location: 130 W. Second St., Dayton
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Why it rates: This is the perfect downtown gathering place for friends to enjoy Dayton craft beer and craft cocktails, delicious coffee and easily shareable small plates.
🌞🍔THAI 9
Location: 11 Brown St., Dayton
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5-10 p.m., Saturday from 5-10 p.m. and Sunday from 5-9:30 p.m.
Why it rates: Sushi and Thai noodles and fried rice are the stars of the menu. But one of the best parts about Thai 9 is that it offers casual outdoor seating and is open for lunch and dinner.
🌞🍔THE TROLLEY STOP
Location: 530 E. 5th St., Dayton
Hours: Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: It is a hidden garden in the middle of the city where you can read a book over lunch, a chill place to catch up with friends or a place to be seen by anyone who wants to look. It's the reigning champ for best patio in Best of Dayton for good reason.
Credit: HANDOUT
Credit: HANDOUT
🌞🍔RAY’S WINE SPIRITS GRILL
Location: 8268 N. Main St., Clayton
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Why it rates: This retail wine shop also doubles as a restaurant with a patio. It's worth getting on the radar.
🌞🍔RIP RAP ROADHOUSE
Location: 6024 Rip Rap Road, Dayton
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to midnight, Saturday from 9 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: This biker bar is a great place to enjoy outdoor live music on a spacious bar/patio.
🌞🍔ROOST MODERN ITALIAN
Location: 524 E. 5th St., Dayton
Hours: Wednesday and Thursday from 5-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5-11 p.m. and Sunday from 5-9 p.m.
Why it rates: This patio is more of a four-season dining room with an open-air feel that's perfect for date night or a night out with friends.
🌞🍔WHEAT PENNY OVEN AND BAR
Location: 515 Wayne Ave., Dayton
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: Nothing goes better with vino and pizza than outdoors. The covered patio is great for groups, too.
🌞🍔BASIL’S ON MARKET
Locations: 312 N. Patterson Blvd., Dayton and 2729 Fairfield Mall Rd., Beavercreek (coming soon)
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and closed on Sundays
Why it rates: Few things are better than beautiful, delicious drinks and food overlooking the Great Miami River and the Riverscape fountains all summer long.
GREENE COUNTY
🌞🍔BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE
Location: The Greene, 4459 Cedar Park Drive, Beavercreek
Hours: Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: This is the best patio at The Greene when it comes to a perfect view of Towne Square. Sip on some wine and enjoy some bites or a hearty Italian meal while soaking up all of the action.
Credit: Mark Fisher
Credit: Mark Fisher
🌞🍔PASHA GRILL
Location: The Greene, 72 Plum St., Beavercreek
Hours: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Why it rates: This gorgeous covered patio overlooks The Greene. Try some authentic Turkish cuisine including hummus, baba ganoush, falafel and feta cheese rolls.
🌞🍔PEACH’S BAR AND GRILL
Location: 104 Xenia Ave., Yellow Springs
Hours: Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.
Why it rates: Chill out with good food, good beer and people watching with a visit to this Yellow Springs covered patio.
🌞🍔THE PUB BEAVERCREEK
Location: The Greene, 39 Greene Blvd., Beavercreek
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: With two patios to choose from, this is a great spot to hit before the weather cools — or after — for its European-inspired bar and delicious English grub.
🌞🍔THE WINDS CAFE
Location: 215 Xenia Ave., Yellow Springs
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, serving lunch from noon to 4 p.m. and dinner from 4-9 p.m.
Why it rates: This patio combined with the amazing food will make you feel like you're at a European bistro.
Credit: Amelia Robinson
Credit: Amelia Robinson
MIAMI COUNTY
🌞🍔THE CAROLINE
Location: 5 S. Market St., Troy
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 4-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4-9:30 p.m. and closed on Sunday and Monday
Why it rates: Enjoy the perfect view of Troy's fountain and picturesque public square while sipping a scrumptious craft cocktail or enjoying a fine meal. This patio is small but mighty.
Credit: Jim Ingram
Credit: Jim Ingram
🌞🍔LA FIESTA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Location: 836 W. Main St., Troy
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Why it rates: La Fiesta always draws a crowd and one of the reasons why is its adorable rooftop patio. Grab a giant margarita, frozen, and some fajita nachos and you're set for a fun night with friends.
🌞🍔SMITHS’ BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT
Location: 439 N. Elm St., Troy
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 4:30-9 p.m.
Why it rates: Seafood is meant to be enjoyed outdoors with a river view. That's what you get at this restaurant.
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
🌞🍔TJ CHUMPS
Locations: 1100 East Dayton-Yellow Springs Road, Fairborn | 12 E. Linden Ave., Miamisburg | 559 S. Main St., Englewood | 7050 Executive Blvd., Huber Heights
Hours: Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Why it rates: One of the best features of this family-friendly sports restaurant chain is its covered patio and bar, TVs and fans.