John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Cleveland patio guide 2017: Best bars and restaurants to toast summer

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Some provide a secluded getaway from the world. Some pair stellar views of the skyline and the water with dinner and drinks. Others offer a place to party outdoors.

Patio season is upon us.

Here are 77 spots where you can raise a glass to summer. Enjoy the views, the drinks and the company.

Story and photos by John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Yuzu

13603 Madison Ave., Lakewood; 440-799-8343: Humans will no doubt say, ‘This patio has gone to the dogs.” The dogs will respond with a happy yap. This wildly unique Japanese gastropub – rice bowls, Godzilla flicks and monster drinks rolled into one corner bar -- also boasts a dog-friendly patio. It comes with a menu complete with “dog beer” and a “dog biscuit flight.” Get along li’l doggies…

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Batuqui

12706 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland; 216-801-0227: This Brazilian bistro-bar feels like home – and not just because it’s located in one. There's also an easygoing vibe that runs freely on this quaint patio, which runs from the porch of the house to the sidewalk to around in the back. One Caipirinha, please…

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

East 55th on the Lake

5555 N Marginal Rd, Cleveland; 216-431-3349; clevelandmetroparks.com/Main/e55-on-the-Lake.aspx: The Cleveland Metroparks has brought new life to this area. But the patio at this bar-restaurant -- and, yes, bait shop -- is all about letting life pass by over a drink. The place rolls out a wide list of elixirs to go with a menu and live music on Saturdays. But it’s the views of the marina and its proximity to the lake that makes it feel like an island.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Bar 32 at the Cleveland Hilton Downtown

100 E. Lakeside Ave., Cleveland; 216-413-5000: The views stir the drink at this spot on the 32nd floor of the Hilton hotel. Yes, there are martinis, but also lots and lots of windows and views of the skyline, Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Bruno's Ristorante

2644 West 41st St., Cleveland; 216-961-7087: No surprise that “Al fresco” is Italian. Check out Bruno’s. The pressed-concrete patio is adorned with flowers, ivy, iron gates and colorful umbrellas — to go with a fountain in the back and this cappuccino on the table. When in Cleveland, do as the Romans...

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Collision Bend

1250 Old River Road, Cleveland; 216-273-7879: This just-opened spot on the old part of Old River Road is located in the 19th-century building that once housed the storied Watermark restaurant. It also boasts that beloved Watermark patio, whose views helped make the Flats a magnet for generations of partyers.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Creekside

8803 Brecksville Road, Brecksville; 440-546-0555: The creek down below trickles along as the wind rustles through the leaves… Yes, this place is a secluded, leafy getaway, where peace of mind and a delightful food and drink menu reign, and every visit doubles as a staycation.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Guarino's

12309 Mayfield Road, in Cleveland's Little Italy; 216-231-3100: This is a deal you can’t refuse. Check out the old garden, those soft lights, the statutes, flowers and greenery at this circa-1918 Little Italy institution. So peaceful, no wonder Dino loved this joint.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Fire Food and Drink

Shaker Square, 13220 Shaker Square, Cleveland; 216-921-3473: Ah, summer in the big city. The al fresco dining set-up and menu give it urban sophistication. Ditto for the views of bustling Shaker Square. Ah, but the vibe is laidback… So, um, wanna meet for weekend brunch and a sip of summer?

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

La Dolce Vita

12112 Mayfield Road, Cleveland; 216-721-8155: The back patio is snazzy and manicured and provides an intimate vibe. But the café-style seating on the sidewalks at this lively eatery offers an close-up view of the life of Little Italy, and more than a little of the vibe of Rome -- where you can meet strangers on the sidewalk or play voyeur over a cappuccino. Like Fellini said, “The Good Life.”

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

East End Restaurant and Bar

1330 Old River Road, Cleveland; 216-785-9996: This quaint spot boasts some of the best sightlines of the river, even as the patio retains a secluded vibe. The views go down well with a range of elixirs, like the Summer Squeeze. A breezy hang in between sips and views.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Washington Place Bistro & Inn

2203 Cornell Road, Cleveland; 216-791-6500: Yes, this stylish garden is secluded and intimate, but it also feels like another time. Check out the old rooftops of Little Italy and the towers visible over these walls. Even the modern décor is balanced by the old brick and classic flower arrangements. In other words, come for romance or to romanticize the past.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Merwin's Wharf

1785 Merwin Ave, Cleveland; 216-664-5696: Is there a more unique mix of industry and nature, old bridges and wild greenery anywhere? No. This sprawling Cleveland Metroparks spot also rolls out a peaceful summer vibe to go with a full-on menu and a stony fireplace.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Azure Rooftop Lounge at The 9

2017 East Ninth St., Cleveland, 216-239-1200: The couches are stylishly mod and menu uniquely contemporary. But it’s the view into the past – and Cleveland’s old grandeur – that makes this a top-shelf perch. Azure provides an elevated and stellar 360-degree view of downtown.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Clifton Martini

10427 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland; 216-965-0221; cliftonmartini.com: Raise a glass to The Clifton – one of the area's top vodka cocktails. Gulp. OK, three more of those. But we can't forget the patio – tailor-made for a lazy, sunny afternoon where you sit back and watch the world drive by… Then you think to yourself, "World, you really are clueless if you don't know what you're missing here."

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Felice Urban Cafe

12502 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland; 216-791-0918: This Mediterranean-tinged restaurant boasts a homey vibe – like something out in the country. Check out the walkway, the garden and that restored turn-of-the-century home. OK, now let’s piddle the summer away amid the vibe and tables and that refurbished barn out back.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Brew Garden Strongsville

16555 Southpark Center, Strongsville, 440-234-1002: Whoa, you mean we’re a stone’s skip from South Park Mall? The greenery and pond around this pastoral perch can be deceiving – which is what makes this a go-to stop for partyers looking for a summer getaway without having to leave Strongsville.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Market Garden

1947 West 25th St., Cleveland; 216-621-4000: This spots connects the hustle and bustle of the market with the nouveau party scene of West 25th Street. Whoa, it also looks good in its own right – thanks to a makeover that has turned it into a leafy, green beer hall with vines and shrubs all around.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Nuevo Modern Mexican

1000 East Ninth Street, Cleveland, 216-737-1000: For decades, the Ninth Street Pier has been a go-to spot for lake lovers. This newbie eatery has brought new flair to the area with its fiesta vibes, margaritas, tequilas and views of North Coast Harbor and Voinovich Park.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Jekyll's Kitchen

17 River St., Chagrin Falls; 440-893-0797: Did I just walk into a breathtaking postcard? Nope, I’m still breathing and sipping this Cucumber Smash. But the view of Chagrin Falls is picturesque -- and this patio is among the top in the area for its sightlines, vibe and killer Happy Hour.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Don's Pomeroy House

13664 Pearl Road, Strongsville, 440-572-1111: Check the map -- are we in Strongsville or Georgia? Actually, just bring me a lemonade and forget the geography. The grove of thick old trees, the white picket fence and the luscious plants behind this mid-19th-century mansion make for a perfect setting on a breezy day.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Moosehead Hoof & Ladder

7989 Columbia Rd, Olmsted Falls; 440-235-5511: The rustling of the leaves, crow of the bird and face of the deer reveal that you’re on the most secluded patio in the area. The back of this eatery – housed in a circa-1940s firehouse – juts into the woods overlooking Rocky River. So much so, that you feel cut off by civilization. So long, world, don’t need you now.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Hansa Brewery

2717 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland; 216-281-3177: Nothing like a Black Flag Schwartzbier, some potato pancakes and a night in the biergarten. This two-tiered patio-terrace brings Oktoberfest to Ohio City.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Luca Italian Cuisine

2100 Superior Viaduct, Cleveland; 216-862-2761: This snazz-pad -- located on the site of the Cleveland's first high-level bridge, built in 1878 – offers a glimpse of history. Whoa, it also offers a snazzy Manhattan and an inventive menu, to go with wonderful views of the skyline, the Flats and the Cuyahoga River.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Sarita

14523 Madison Ave, Lakewood; 216-226-5200; sarita-restaurant.com: Is this a patio or a secluded getaway that takes you out of Lakewood or anything resembling a street? Yes, there are umbrellas for the sun. But the immaculate greenery, flowers, vines and trellis overhead do a good job of telling the world: Leave me alone.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Vosh/Georgetown

1414 Riverside Drive, Lakewood; 216-767-5202: Where am I, Central Park? You might think so, lounging around this patio, which serves Vosh and its sister location, Georgetown. The brick walls and tall trees make for a classy retreat. The air is peaceful, the kind you get when summer seems endless. OK, now which way to the Met?

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Shooters on the Water

1148 Main St., in Cleveland's Flats, 216-861-6900: The Flats are back? They never left from this vantage point. This west bank institution lets you watch the lake, river and downtown and party like it's 1989.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Lopez

2196 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights; 216-932-9000: Maybe it’s the tequila, the Southwestern cuisine and color scheme, but this place makes Cleveland seem 10 degrees hotter. OK, now, bring me a margarita and one big fiesta on that patio.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

South East Gears & Cheers

23333 Aurora Road, Bedford Heights; 440-232-0029: Fire up the hot dogs and hot rods, the Harleys and hamburgers. This biker-themed superstore of patios does everything from cookouts to bike nights to retro car cruises to live bands.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Porco Lounge

2527 West 25th Street, Cleveland; 216-802-9222; porcolounge.com: This patio proves that, yes, a Tiki bar can be an island. Porco rolls out just enough Polynesian decor to transform West 25th into someplace else. OK, maybe it isn't a garden paradise. Maybe it isn't even "Gilligan's Island." But the tall, exotic drinks on the table and hula girls and Tiki gods dancing in my head are just enough to tell the world to shove off, shut its mouth and get lost.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Greenhouse Tavern

2038 East Fourth St., Cleveland, 216-443-0511: The world rushes by from this rooftop patio. Oh, let it – because the world doesn’t know what it’s missing from this vantage point… So close to the bright lights and far from the nonsense of the crowd.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Graffiti Social Kitchen

1261 West 76th St, Cleveland; 216-651-6969; graffitisocialkitchen.com: It’s leafy and secluded, which adds to the laidback vibes. And, yes, the deep red hues go well with the flowers and this colorful watermelon basil sangria.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Alley Cat Oyster Bar

1056 Old River Road, Cleveland; 216-574-9999: This Flats East Bank perch provides a two-story view of some of the best sites you'll find while dining. Look around: at the city skyline, the river, the bridges, passing trains, the massive freighters navigating the Cuyahoga. Stellar views all the way around.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Edwin's

13101 Shaker Square, Cleveland; 216-921-3333; edwinsrestaurant.org: The patio offers a Parisian feel to go with the French menu at this rising star in the culinary scene. The linens on the tables might strike an upscale note, but the vibe is casual and the sights and sounds of Shaker Square make it feel like a night out in the city.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Hodges

668 Euclid Ave., Cleveland; 216-771-4000; hodgescleveland.com: Yes, it has a snazzy, sprawling patio. But I'm still focused on this fantastic view of the skyline and downtown's vibrant future on a renovated Euclid Avenue. Whoa, check out that bus lane, woohoo.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Barrio

806 Literary Road, Cleveland, 216-999-7714: This chic but simple patio is a fine hang for the summer, especially with a margarita and a taco. Check out the stone fireplace, potted plants, cozy atmosphere and that flapper mural lording over the party.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

100th Bomb Group

20920 Brookpark Road, Cleveland; 216-267-1010: The world stands still even as the planes come and go at this WW II-themed restaurant across from the airport. The vintage décor makes it feel like a flight to the propeller era and the cocktails beat anything on a United flight. And, yes, there's lots of leg room.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Bar Louie

1352 West Sixth St., Cleveland; 216-452-5500; barlouieamerica.com: Since when does a patio seem like an all-out bar? Since you ordered a drink at this sidewalk spot — which wraps around West Sixth and St. Clair and features a full bar, ample seating and a great view of the Warehouse District.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Flannery's Pub

323 Prospect Avenue, Cleveland; 216-781-7782, flannerys.com: Yes, we know about the Irish pints here. But amid the sips and guzzles comes a moment of clarity: This stalwart has a killer sidewalk patio that is spacious, fun and never pretentious. OK, now back to the pint.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Flying Monkey

819 Jefferson Avenue, Cleveland; 216-861-6659, flyingmonkeypub.com: Just because it’s named after those critters in “The Wizard of Oz” doesn’t mean the fun-loving regulars are cowardly lions when it comes to getting down. The lively patio makes sure of that with live bands and party wizards. This round’s on me, Toto.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Hofbrauhaus Cleveland

1550 Chester Ave., Cleveland; 216-621-2337; hbcleveland.com: Whoa, it's like a never-ending Oktoberfest out on this 1,000-seat beer garden, which features rows and rows of picnic tables and partyers doing their best to drink like they're in Bavaria. How did I end up wearing this lederhosen? Oh well... noch ein bier, bitte!

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Hoopples

1930 Columbus Road, Cleveland; 216-575-0483, hoopples.com: This blue-collar joint overlooking the Cuyahoga River offers a great view of the skyline and an even better feel for old-school Cleveland. Check out the bridges and raise a glass to the vintage decor. This isn't a T-shirt or a postcard — it really is Cleveland.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Houlihan's Westlake

25651 Detroit Road, Westlake; 440-808-9090: From the street, you wouldn’t think there’s a party tucked away along these woods. Ah, but pull up and check out this massive yet secluded patio, which boasts a bar, trees, an outdoor kitchen, lights and enough people to make it feel like a quaint little village, population 75.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Taverne of Richfield

3960 Broadview Road, Richfield; 330-659-0610; taverneofrichfield.com: The circa-1886 building that houses this quaint rustic spot was originally the home of the West Richfield Hotel. So it's seen a lot of people over the years, decades, centuries. Maybe that's why it's so tranquil. Or maybe it's the iron gates, greenery and spacious layout. Either way, something about this place feels like a 19th novel.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Larchmere Tavern

Larchmere Tavern, 13051 Larchmere Blvd, Shaker Heights; 216-721-1111; thelarchmeretavern.com: This mainstay is nestled among the antique shops of Larchmere, one of the area's most authentic neighborhoods. If this cozy ol' spot was only smaller – make that a lot smaller – you could see it for sale in one of those shops. It's a gem of a restaurant with an eclectic menu located in a building that has housed bars and eateries since the 1940s. The sidewalk seating is reminiscent of some classic spot you might find in Manhattan. Except, even better, this place charges Cleveland prices.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

The Oak Barrel

5975 Canal Road, Valley View; 216-520-3640; theoakbarrel.com: Yes, the location makes it a popular stop before or after a movie at the Cinemark or a hike in the valley. But they also come for the rustic look, casual vibes and eclectic menu – and, of course, the sprawling patio where all these attributes are accented with a fire pit, cushy seating and those barrels all around.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Pura Vida

170 Euclid Ave., Cleveland; 216-987-0100; puravidabybrandt.com: Located in the old May Co. building, this bar-eatery looks out at Public Square. Great for looking out and soaking in the sights of the city and the sound of people hustling about after work. This spot is also fine if you're a vegetarian; the "Big Mac" is one of the best vegetarian offerings in town. Ditto for the African Peanut Stew (sweet potato, kale, curry, peanuts), which is stellar.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Leather Stallion

2205 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland; 216-589-8588; leatherstallion.com: The times have changed since the Stallion opened in 1970 as a leather bar. These days, the joint is casual when it comes to attire and attitude. Especially when it's "Super Sunday" -- when the grill smokes, the beers flow and the DJ spins beat-heavy tunes to the happy-go-lucky summer partyers.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Rusty Anchor at Music Box Supper Club

1148 Main Ave., Cleveland; 216-242-1257; musicboxcle.com: What a lazy afternoon. What a view. This west bank spot rolls out a number of stellar views – to go with a full-on menu and a wide range of beers. Yes, the Anchor also hosts live music during the summer. But let's return to the views... The bridges, skyline, Flats, lake and river.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Prosperity Social Club

1109 Starkweather Avenue, Cleveland; 216-937-1938, prosperitysocialclub.com : The crowd is as wide-ranging as the people who flocked to Tremont throughout the 20th century, from working-class types to artists to scruffy partyers. The patio feels like a backyard party, with retro décor and a vibe that is anything but exclusive. The social club welcomes all sorts, most of which are sociable in this backyard.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Lago

1091 West Tenth St., Cleveland; 216-862-8065; lagoeastbank.com: Lago's patio is a cocktail mixed with spacious layout, chic décor and stellar views of the area. No surprise it gets busy with out-of-towners (staying at the Aloft Cleveland Downtown hotel) and locals alike. The outdoor bar and cushy couches give a club-feel at night.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Nighttown

12387 Cedar Rd., Cleveland Heights; 216-795-0550, nighttowncleveland.com: This Cleveland Heights club-bar-restaurant-institution might have a jazzy vibe. But it's pure picnic time on the patio — spacious, quiet and mellow and just right for a pint. Or two. Or…

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

L'Albatros

11401 Bellflower Road, Cleveland; 216-791-7880: A lot of places roll out stylish décor. But this French eatery in University Circle makes it part of a larger cocktail – one that’s topped with a leafy garnish and served in a setting reminiscent of South Beach.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Pier W

12700 Lake Ave., Lakewood; 216-228-2250: Raise a glass to the skyline, the sunset and the lake. This place boasts some of the best sights in town, along with a stellar drink list and the feeling that you’re on the deck of a ship.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Stone Mad

1306 West 65th St., Cleveland; 216-281-6500: Is there a spot more enchanting or meticulous or stony? Check out the cobblestone, those stone tables, the masonry and that fireplace. Who's stoned? Not me.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Rivals Sports Grille

6710 Smith Road, Middleburg Heights; 216-267-0005: Whoa, it's like a clubhouse for partyers, families and sports fans. Behind the black gate is a sprawling 4,000-square-foot patio lined with greenery and lanterns. In the middle of it all is a cabana that doubles as a summery sports bar, with multiple TV sets.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar

28601 Chagrin Blvd., Suite 900, Woodmere; 216-896-9020; paladarlatinkitchen.com: This laidback patio provides shelter from the shopping sprees around Eton make this a go-to stop in the area. The "Latin Street Food" menu makes it all the better – fine selections when the sun is beating down and you're sipping a summery elixir and checking out that El Cubano under the umbrella.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Table 45

9801 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland; 216-707-4045; tbl45.com: Call it a leafy getaway in the city, catered with sangria, naan and mod décor. Yes, it still feels like the city – you can see the buildings and the cars drive by. But the flowers and greenery balance the white décor and obscure the volume of the world. The watermelon sangria sure helps...

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Johnny's Bar

3164 Fulton Rd., Cleveland; 216-281-0055; johnnyscleveland.com: There's more to this quaint bar than a cool name. Check out the classic vibe, sophisticated list and patio that looks like something you'd find on an estate in Europe. Whoa, those sculpted bushes reminded me of Italy. Bravo, Gianni!

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Burnham at Cleveland Hilton Downtown

100 E. Lakeside Ave., Cleveland 216-413-5000; tinyurl.com/q4a7fte -- Bar 32 might be crown jewel of the hotel, but check out The Burnham. The smart-casual restaurant boasts a locally-focused menu, spacious bar and a patio that looks out at the Mall. The sprawling public park -- which was conceived of in 1903 and features the grand Abraham Lincoln statue and Fountain of Eternal Life fountain -- is a underappreciated gem in the heart of the city.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Edison's

2373 Professor Ave, Cleveland; 216-522-0006; edisonspub.com: Cleveland’s worst-kept secret gets all types: rockers, yuppies and Tremontsters. Even Scarlett Johansson stopped by when “Avengers” was in town. And yet, it never seems too crowded. Edison's, you see, is an institution that manages to stay hip while maintaining an “everybody’s welcome” attitude.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Rocky River Brewing Company

21290 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River; 440-895-2739; rockyriverbrewco.com: Beer is the calling card for this gastropub, no doubt. But the patio is hardly just a place to gulp suds – and not just because it's called Fin's Island Bar. Yes, there's a bit of a Tiki vibe. But it's more like some woohoo outpost you might find in the Florida Keys – where you can sip a brew, lap up summer, talk about Cleveland sports.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Luxe

6605 Detroit Ave., Cleveland; 216-920-0600; luxecleveland.com: It's sleek and mod and sunny – a tad like some pad you might find in South Beach. Except that you never feel like you're crashing someone else's party. Welcoming and stylish without being pretentious.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Velvet Dog

1280 West Sixth St., Cleveland; 216-664-1116; velvetdogcleveland.com: The mood at this Warehouse District mainstay is always party-hearty. The exotic decor and spectacular view of downtown from this rooftop patio are even better. The lights, the sights — life is a party, yippee.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Town Hall

1909 West 25th St., Cleveland; 216-344-9400; townhallohiocity.com:

This magnet pulls all kinds to Ohio City, thanks to a diverse menu and cocktail list and party themes. A crowd of many types, no doubt – but they can all argree that this stylish yet casual patio is where it's at come summertime.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Spice

5800 Detroit Avenue, Cleveland ; 216-961-9637, spicekitchenandbar.com: This locale has been so many things, everything from a Mac & Cheese spot to modern taqueria. The one constant has been the patio — a secluded getaway from the street and the city. Spice has one-upped previous tenants, with an array of colorful flowers to go with a list of drinks and small plates that make you want to get all lazy on a sunny afternoon.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

The Harp

4408 Detroit Ave., Cleveland ; 216-939-0200, the-harp.com: The Harp reminds me of winter — maybe it’s the fireplace and rich polished woodwork, the whole cottage vibe. Then you walk out onto the patio, see Lake Eire, er, I mean, Erie and you realize its summer and it’s breezy and it’s fun.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Olesia's Place

11204 Royalton Road, North Royalton; 440-877-9054; olesiasplace.com: Wait, is this North Royalton or some European country inn? You'd be hard-pressed to tell the difference at Olesia's Place – and not just because the eatery rolls out a worldly yet traditional take on Ukrainian-American cuisine. The patio has a pastoral, Euro feel about it, from the green surroundings to the presentation of the food. Let's hear it for casual yet worldly.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Dante

2247 Professor Ave, Cleveland; 216-274-1200; dante.danteboccuzzi.com: If you didn’t know that this Tremont stalwart had a patio, you wouldn’t be alone. That’s the point. It’s secluded and quiet, thanks to a brick wall and array greenery that sets it apart from the hustle of the neighborhood. Remember: People-watching is a two-way street… This is where you go for privacy.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

The South Side

2207 West 11th Street, Cleveland; 216-937-2288, southsidecleveland.com: You don't need a weatherman to tell you where the wind blows here — because the patio is open year-round. It features two sides, indoor/outdoor, along with a stone fireplace, comfy seats and tables that put plastic picnic fare to shame.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Treehouse

820 College Ave Cleveland; 216-696-2505; treehousecleveland.com : The toucan mural on the wall says "Lovely day for a Guinness." No doubt, judging by the crowds that pack and drink on the patio. It's leafy and lively, not to mention a regular stop for locals and bike hounds. Yup, the bird is the word.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Coastal Taco

1146 Old River Road, Cleveland; 216-727-0158: The tacos might be the featured item at this summery spot, but it’s the views and bellowing horn of the freighters navigating up the Cuyahoga that make this patio popular.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Tremont Taphouse

2572 Scranton Road, Cleveland; 216-2984451; tremonttaphouse.com: This once-quiet area started buzzing when Tremont Taphouse brought a buzz to this old spot. You can credit the impressive beer list. Or the food and homey vibe. But the patio is stellar, too, and it serves all of those things to boot.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Trentina

1903 Ford Dr, Cleveland; 216-421-2900; restauranttrentina.com: The umbrellas, greenery and location set it apart from activity in and around of University Circle. Yes, the tables come with white linen, but the patio has a breezy, casual vibe – not to mention a wide-ranging drink and food list to accent the vibe.

Don't Edit

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Great Lakes Brewing Company

2516 Market Ave., Cleveland; 216-771-4404; greatlakesbrewing.com: Eliot Ness was supposedly involved in a shootout here. Yes, there's bullet slug in the wall, but most patrons couldn't care less – except maybe when they're ordering an Eliot Ness Amber Lager. Beer, after all, is the draw at the epicenter of the Cleveland's beer scene.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Twist Social Club

11633 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland; 216-221-2333: This West Side institution manages to be a gay-friendly club and a laid-back corner bar. But Twist also boasts a patio that spills life out onto the sidewalk of Clifton Boulevard and back into the club, especially when it’s summer and it’s party time.

Don't Edit

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Momocho

1835 Fulton Road, Cleveland; 216-694-2122, momocho.com: Ah, you can't beat sipping away summer day with a blood-orange margarita on this Ohio City patio. Well, actually you can. The guava margarita is even better. The neighborhood vibe and that big Day of the Dead mural are pretty good too.