We’re not sure about you, but outdoor patio season is our favorite time of year. Not only do we get to support small, local businesses and restaurants, but we also get to enjoy their tasty offerings from the great outdoors — essentially, two of our favorite things! From morning coffee to evening cocktails, here are eight must-visit restaurants with outdoor seating to add to your Tosa vacation agenda.
1. Camp Bar
Located in East Tosa, Camp Bar is one of our favorite sunny afternoon outdoor hangout spots – and we’re not just saying that because they’re dog-friendly. The camp-inspired interior décor extends to their two-story outdoor patio, which is finished with a moose head and stone fireplace. You can’t go wrong with any item on their extensive beverage list, but we highly recommend their Big Ol’ Bloody Mary.
2. Leff’s Lucky Town
Situated near the The Village of Wauwatosa, you’ll find Leff’s Lucky Town. This casual spot is the perfect place to go for a burger or a few beers. The outdoor patio is almost as big as the restaurant, which allows for ample outdoor seating to spread out and relax while catching a game.
3. Colectivo Coffee
It wouldn’t be right to start the day without your beverage of choice and a sunny Wauwatosa morning. Luckily both the MidTown and 68th & Wells Colectivo Coffee locations have some of the best outdoor seating 9and coffee, of course!).
4. Eldr+Rime
Elegant, sophisticated, and modern, Eldr+Rime is the outdoor date night experience you’ve been looking for. Located at the Renaissance Milwaukee West in the Mayfair and Mayfair Collection District, their full menu is available on their patio, so you can dine away while enjoying the toasty fire pits. With cocktails as beautifully crafted as they are delicious, sit back and enjoy the warmer Wauwatosa weather on a gorgeous evening.
5. BelAir Cantina
BelAir Cantina brings its laid-back Mexican flare to the outdoor dining scene in East Tosa. With countless mouthwatering taco and drink options, their menu is just as fun as their outdoor patio area. This hip taco spot is covered with string lights overhead and plenty of outdoor tables to enjoy their Best of Milwaukee Reader’s Choice 2020 Award-Winning Tacos.
6. 69th St. Plaza
Where the best of both worlds collide, 69th St. Plaza is the perfect outdoor hangout spot where you’re looking for a sweet treat. Situated right next to Rocket Baby Bakery and catty-corner from Cranky Al’s, this park space boasts picnic tables, canopy shade, and giant chairs — perfect for a selfie or for eating your favorite treat. As an added bonus, 69th St. Plaza is located right across from some of our incredible murals.
7. Buckatabon & Café Hollander
Located in The Village of Wauwatosa, Buckatabon pairs a relaxed dining experience and outdoor seating options with Wisconsin’s Northwoods-inspired food options. Allow the twinkling lights strung across the patio to set the scene for a fun outdoor dining experience. Right across the way is Café Hollander, offering incredible European-inspired meals all day long. Check out both the next time you’re in Wauwatosa.
8. Lion's Tail Brewing
Grab a cold one at Lion’s Tail Brewing.Featuring a 15-barrel brewhouse, Lion’s Tail offers over 15 original beers on tap to enjoy on their expansive outdoor Biergarten. Bring your friends, family, and leashed dogs to enjoy the patio.
Header photo courtesy of @abbyparkphotography