Photographs: Dish courtesy of Paloma
Grab your sunglasses and head outside! It’s time to get a taste of summer in Stamford. From garden patios and waterside views to bustling streets, city lights and even rooftop bars, these 10 popular restaurants offer some of Stamford’s finest outdoor dining around.
Celebrity chef Aarón Sánchez has opened the doors to an authentic Latin-inspired dining experience at Harbor Point. Relax on Paloma’s section of the boardwalk and try out the chef’s favorite dish, a whole tomahawk chop bone-in rib eye and bone marrow enchilada!
This award-wining Italian tapas restaurant is reminiscent of the urban eateries found throughout Rome. Gather over great food paired with a choice of 400+ wine labels in Cotto’s outdoor seating area, which can get crowded in the summer months, so be sure to make a reservation.
Known for its modern American cuisine, Hudson Grille is the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, small plates and after-work drinks. Its outdoor bistro on the always-bustling Bedford Street downtown, offers the ideal social setting for the summer.
The patio is finally open at Madonia, where neatly set tables surrounded by hanging lights and beautiful flowers accompany magnificently prepared Mediterranean recipes. Sunday Brunch is a popular time to indulge in this tranquil outdoor oasis. A private lot with valet parking is available.
A rustic yet sleek environment greets patrons of Harlan Social, an up-scale pub dining experience, which is described as Harbor Point’s neighborhood meeting place. Unwind with coworkers on the patio and take a bite out of the popular “Harlan Burger”—a must-try item on the menu!
Located in the heart of Stamford, Barcelona’s outdoor atmosphere epitomizes the energy of downtown in the summertime. Share authentic Spanish tapas with a glass of sangria and other drink specials every Monday-Friday from 4-7 PM.
Antique lovers unite! Only at Long Ridge Tavern can you shop for antiques while savoring classic American comfort foods in a New England country inn setting. Grab a table outside, and listen to live music every weekend from 8:30-11:30 PM.
If you’re driving along E. Main Street, the bright yellow exterior, expansive front patio and outdoor bar at Brasitas are hard to miss! Grab some friends and enjoy a half-priced bottle of wine, which is offered every Sunday and Monday.
This trendy Italian restaurant welcomes the warm breeze off the coast with a waterside rum bar and walls of glass that open to embrace the elements of summer. Dolce’s brunch menu is available every Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, and yes…bottomless drinks are served!
Play a game of cornhole at Stamford’s only rooftop bar! If you’re looking for a laid-back beach vibe with high-end American pub food, Sign of the Whale is the place to go, especially during its High Tide Happy Hour,” every Monday-Friday from 4-7 PM.