Whether it’s a sunny-day lunch or a moonlit dinner you’re after, Westport has no shortage of restaurants with outdoor spaces. Here are locales with comparatively larger patios to increase your chances of scoring a spot.
Acqua Ristorante Mediterraneo
Ok, you may be essentially sitting in a parking lot, but the restaurant has done a commendable job of camouflaging that fact. Bordered by topiaries and studded with market umbrellas, the patio is a lovely oasis during a busy day, and a quiet riverside site in the evening. Offering lunch, express lunch, midday, and dinner menus, this restaurant is the perfect place for refreshment while shopping.
Bartaco
Angled perfectly to capture the downtown lights shimmering on the Saugatuck River, the patio of this festive and casual spot is a happening place. While you wait for your outdoor table in the sectioned-off seating area, you can enjoy a cocktail overlooking the water on the roomy “boardwalk.”
Little Barn
You may not remember you are on Post Road as you sit in the bright red chairs on the covered patio, flanked by a large stone fireplace and surrounded by a low stone wall. Your focus will be on the colorful plantings and tasty American Pub fare, instead of the cars going by.
The Spotted Horse Tavern
Nestled on Church Street in the Sherwood House (1808), this restaurant knows how to turn historic into hip. The covered patio is the perfect spot to share lobster macaroni and the Arthur Ave Spring Roll, or sample the Spotted Horse Pasta or “Dr. Pepper” Grilled Pork Chop.
Terrain, Westport Garden Cafe
Is it a store with a restaurant or restaurant with a store? It doesn’t really matter since it’s a pretty cool place. The tables are arranged in the outdoor nursery venue, crowned by stringing lights, allowing a little shopping with the eyes while you enjoy the local, organic dishes. Brunch and dinner are offered daily, and the menu changes seasonally.