Dining Out... Literally
A Few Al Fresco Suggestions for the end of Summer

Al fresco is an Italian phrase meaning “in the open air” and applies to either painting or dining outside. I have very little experience painting outside but loads of experience dining outside, it is the quintessential summer past time. From picnics in the park and backyard BBQs to restaurant patio dining, al fresco is the best way to satisfy hunger during summer. As we are looking into the impending autumn, you should grasp the remaining summer warmth and celebrate it at a few of the best patios in Cleveland; the food is pretty spectacular, too!

Three Birds 18515 Detroit Avenue Lakewood 216.221.3500

The lush and serene patio of Three Birds is an oasis and the perfect back drop for an intimate dinner. The covered cabana, the twinkling white lights, and the sumptuous garden like area created a beautiful ambiance for my Strawberry/Basil martini and Crispy Crab Spring Rolls. After the sun sets, tables with an umbrella get an LED light that is attached near the top to provide extra light while the other tables area set with a candle. This was more than enough light for my Backyard BBQ dessert, a white chocolate brownie with a warm grilled peach and huckleberry sauce that was incredibly sweet and delicious!

The Southside 2207 w.11th Street Tremont 216.937.2288

The year round patio gives you the option of sunny or shaded dining and the fireplace will be sure to warm you into the cooler months. The warm, friendly atmosphere is perfect for meeting friends for happy hour or for bringing the kids to brunch. Be sure to try the Creamy Lobster Bisque and Smoked Gouda BBQ Pulled Pork on flatbread and for brunch the Breakfast Burrito is amazing

Nighttown 12387 Cedar Road Cleveland Heights 216.795.0550

Oh Nighttown, how I love thee! And you should too with all of the live music options, the different dining rooms and the year round glass enclosed heated patio, Stephen’s Green. In summer the walls and ceiling are rolled up to let you take advantage of great weather and great food. The Halloumi Kabobs are firm and flavorful and the Roasted Duck Salad is a lovely balance between flavor and texture. The Bangers and Mash are traditional sausages and mashed potatoes with cabbage and onions, perfect with mustard.

The Harp 4408 Detroit Avenue Cleveland 216.939.0200

I was at The Harp for the first time on an evening that threatened rain. We ordered beers and the Buttermilk Battered Calamari to start and see what the skies brought us to the sturdy brick patio with great views of Lake Erie and Downtown. Though it did begin to rain we hardly noticed because we were enamored with the soda bread, so soft and softly sweet, it made me excited for the rest of our meal! The calamari was on top of zucchini and summer squash spaghetti and was fried to crispy perfection. The Steak Quesadillas were nice but the Crab Cake Portabella sandwich was great. The thick portabella and crab cake were paired with caramelized onions and a kicky jalapeno mayo on a grilled focaccia.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Erin Robinson erobinsonATclevelandart.org

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