Let’s be real—food just tastes better outside. Whether you’re chasing the perfect Instagrammable cocktail, people-watching on a patio, or pretending you’re in Europe for the night (bonjour, Petite Chou), we’ve got the ultimate list of Indy spots that bring the heat and the breeze. So text your group chat, charge your phone, and prepare to eat your way through summer—al fresco style.
Bier Brewery
Bier Brewery has been a family-owned Indiana brewery since 2010. With three locations in Indianapolis, Carmel, and Noblesville, Bier Brewery provides relaxing and inviting outdoor seating at each location, including cozy patios, dog-friendly spaces, biergartens, and other outdoor spaces. Whether you’re seeking a family outing, a place to unwind with friends, or a spot to enjoy the outdoors with your dog, Bier Brewery’s various locations cater to a wide range of preferences, all while serving high-quality, handcrafted beers.
Bluebeard
At Bluebeard, they live by the motto “A great restaurant is like a great story,” and boy, do they deliver. Known for their artisanal bread and James Beard-nominated chef Abbi Merriss, Bluebeard excels at just about everything, including their outdoor dining. From the fairy lights adorning the trees to the beautiful windows, this restaurant is a must-visit this summer.
BODHI
Pronounced “Bow-Di”, this Mass-Ave Thai Bistro boasts of “Craft Cocktails. Amazing Food. Make from Scratch.” And while the food is incredible, the outdoor seating is spectacular. Their cozy chairs, decorative greenery, 21+ standard, and warm lighting make this the perfect date-night spot.
Bru Burger
Awarded “Best Burger in Indy,” and “Top 10 Restaurants in Indy” in 2022, this purely American spot is perfect for a Friday night out on the town — or just exploring Mass Ave. Hurry and make a reservation now, because their outdoor seating is hard to snag.
Flatwater
Flatwater is not only one of the best seafood restaurants in Broad Ripple, but it also has live music Thursday through Saturday. With a beautiful view of the canal and live music to accompany it, what more could you want? Flatwater is the perfect place to kick back and relax, for a meal and a night of fun with friends and family.
Gather 22
Nestled in the heart of Indianapolis at 22 East 22nd Street, Gather 22 is more than just a restaurant. By day, Gather 22 serves as a cozy coffee shop, featuring expertly brewed selections from local roasters like Tinker Coffee and Helm Coffee. As evening approaches, the space transforms into a lively dining destination, offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes and dietary preferences, prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients. With both indoor and outdoor seating—including a laid-back patio with hammocks—Gather 22 is ideal for everything from casual coffee dates to lively evening gatherings.
Iozzo’s Garden of Italy
If you are craving some authentic, family-recipe Italian food, then Iozzo’s is for you. Their outdoor courtyard sports shade and adorable potted plants make any dining experience enjoyable. If you are lucky, they might even have live music if the weather is nice. Winning multiple awards, including “Best Italian Food in Indianapolis”, this eatery is worth checking out!
Juniper on Main
Juniper on Main brings comforting Southern coastal cuisine to the heart of Carmel, Indiana. Located in a restored 1907 bungalow, this charming eatery offers a menu inspired by country classics with dishes like shrimp and grits, deviled eggs, and fried green tomatoes. Guests can enjoy their meals in a cozy indoor setting or opt for the picturesque outdoor patio adorned with string lights and a white pergola.
Just Pop In!
Head on over to Broad Ripple for the most colorful, fun outdoor dining experience in Indianapolis. Just Pop In! has a wrap-around patio that is perfect for any get-together. Want a quick snack? Grab some of their gourmet popcorn. Interested in a light lunch? Check out their salads. Want to grab some drinks with the girls? Take a look at their wine, beer, and cocktail menu. There is something for everyone at Just Pop In!
La Margarita
Unfortunately, La Margarita’s Fountain Square location recently shut down. However, if you are missing their classic margaritas — or even just their chips and dips — there is a new location in Carmel!
La Piedad
Looking for cheap, but magnificent outdoor dining? Check out La Piedad, a family-owned Mexican restaurant nestled in the Broad Ripple neighborhood — and one of my personal favorite Indy Restaurants — for comforting enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, other Mexican classics, and fun with friends.
Livery
Livery is a lively Latin American restaurant in downtown Indianapolis, set in a restored 1890s horse stable. Known for its bold, shareable dishes and creative cocktails, Livery also features a rooftop patio—perfect for enjoying food and drinks outdoors in a vibrant, open-air setting.
Petite Chou
Petite Chou’s outdoor area has the most beautiful cascading greenery that will have any flower-loving girl swooning over this French-inspired eatery. Owned by Martha Hoover, this restaurant has mouth-watering dishes that always source local ingredients. The beautiful scenery makes Petite Chou a great place to sit back and enjoy the beautiful summer weather.
The Rooftop Garden
Perched atop the historic Fountain Square Theatre Building, The Rooftop Garden offers a laid-back, open-air experience with panoramic views of downtown Indianapolis. This seasonal lounge is a local favorite for casual gatherings, date nights, or a relaxing meal after a game of duckpin bowling downstairs.
Wolfies Grill
Wolfies Grill, located on Geist, is a family-friendly restaurant where guests can enjoy outdoor dining with beautiful lakeside views, a beer garden with live music on Saturday nights, and an upstairs bourbon bar with its own patio.
Whether you’re popping in for popcorn, living your best patio life, or sipping something under the stars, Indy’s outdoor dining game is strong this season. So go ahead, romanticize your life—one rooftop cocktail and truffle fry at a time.
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