Brian Nagele
Rochester, a city known for its vibrant culinary scene, offers a delightful treat for those who savor their meals with a side of fresh air and scenic views. In our quest to uncover the top outdoor dining experiences, we explore the charming eateries and restaurants that invite diners to savor their meals amidst the beauty of nature. Rochester’s outdoor dining options suit a wide range of preferences and events, whether you’re having a romantic dinner outside under the stars, a laid-back brunch on a bustling patio, or a casual lunch with picturesque views. Join us as we discover the open-air gems of the city, where gastronomic delights fuse with the organic environment to create enduring memories and flavors that linger long after the meal.
Lento
274 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607
585-271-3470
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The first restaurant I recommend checking out is Lento, located on North Goodman Street, minutes away from the Memorial Art Gallery. This upscale eatery offers the best seafood in the Neighborhood of the Arts, but there are several menu options for people who prefer other farm-to-table specials to enjoy during a night out. In my opinion, their best entrees are Grilled Steelhead Trout, Braised Pork Ragu, Lento Pumpkin Ravioli, and Seafood & Sausage Stew. Be sure to stop in on Tuesday for their Dollar Oyster Night. They also have beer and cocktail discounts with no corkage fees on Thursdays, so I recommend sampling their Balanchine, Devil’s Sour, or Sapling cocktails.
Pane Vino
Multiple locations
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You can find Pane Vino on North Water Street or in Pittsford Colony on Monroe Avenue. I recommend this restaurant for anyone looking for quality Italian cuisine while enjoying the best outdoor dining in Rochester because of its sophisticated and tranquil atmosphere. Each location has a different menu. So, if you’re dining on Monroe Avenue, I recommend their Pizza Burrata, Boneless Shortrib, or Chicken Roulade. On the other hand, if you’re interested in the best outdoor dining in Rochester by the Genesee River, try their Scallop Risotto or Aukra Salmon. Don’t forget to start with their lamb lollipops or charcuterie board if you invite your friends for dinner.
Trata: The Restaurant At The Armory
145 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14620
585-270-5460
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If you’re in the mood for classic American fare in an upscale environment, then book your next reservation at Trata: The Restaurant At The Armory. It’s conveniently located on Culver Road, near Lake Riley, and sports a rustic yet modern aesthetic. Their outdoor terrace and bar are the perfect private party backdrop for enjoying their specialty dishes on a bright, warm day. I recommend starting with their nachos or buttermilk chicken fingers when dining with friends and ordering their Nashville Crispy Chicken, Wagyu Beef Burger, Chicken Milanese, or Thick-Cut Berkshire Pork Chop as your main course. Their best cocktails are Kentucky Tea and Strawberry Spritz.
The Red Fern
283 Oxford St, Rochester, NY 14607
585-563-7633
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If you’re struggling to find a Rochester restaurant that offers outdoor seating and vegan menu options, your search is over. Consider visiting The Red Fern, located off the corner of Oxford Street and Park Avenue. This restaurant has a casual environment and offers limited outdoor seating during the spring and summer. They also provide catering and special-order baked goods. The Red Fern’s menu offers gluten-free options and foods without common allergens, such as nuts, soy, and onions. I recommend ordering their Lentil Loaf, Compost Plate, Tofu Egg Sandwich, or Kale Detox. During my visit, I enjoyed their Mixed Berry Matcha smoothies. However, if that’s not your style, try their tea, draft kombucha, or fresh juice.
Genesee Brew House
25 Cataract St, Rochester, NY 14605
585-263-9200
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You can find Genesee Brew House on Cataract Street, near Genesee River and High Falls Terrace Park. This cozy restaurant is the best place to enjoy fine 16 taps of craft beers in an outdoor setting by the riverside. They have an outdoor terrace and a rooftop patio with a scenic view of the area. The best dishes you should start with are their loaded fries or potato chip tenders. Then, you can try their Alfredo Pizza, Bangers and Mash, or Beer Blush Raviolis with a side of macaroni salad or artisan-style kettle chips. If you’re in a hurry, they also offer curbside pickup!
The Gate House
274 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607
585-473-2090
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Next on the list is The Gate House, a casual yet lively restaurant specializing in wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers found on North Goodman Street. They have a spacious outdoor patio where you can take in Rochester’s fresh air as you dine with your friends or family before going to the theater. My favorite menu options are their Hoffman Burger, Blackened Beef Tenderloin Tips, RPO Pizza, and Vegetarian Lasagna. If you follow a gluten-free lifestyle, ask for their pizza with a cauliflower crust substitute. They also offer a kid’s menu for children ages 12 and under and host brunch every weekend.
Blu Wolf Bistro
657 Park Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
585-270-4467
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If you believe sidewalk seating is the ideal way to enjoy restaurants with the best outdoor dining in Rochester, Blu Wolf Bistro might be perfect for you. Located on the corner of Park Avenue and Berkeley Street, you can’t miss its stylish blue exterior. Stop by to unwind on Tuesdays at 7 PM and listen to live music every Tuesday at 7 PM. My go-to menu options are their Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese, Cajun Chicken & Shrimp Pasta, and Lawful Waffle Burger with a cocktail or milkshake. Feel free to stop by between 3 PM and 6 PM for their weekday happy hour.
Fiorella
5 Rochester Public Market, Rochester, NY 14609
585-434-5705
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Fiorella, a chic yet minimalist Italian restaurant on Rochester Public Market, is another excellent outdoor dining option for anyone exploring the North Marketview Heights neighborhood. Chef Gino Ruggiero uses the finest ingredients to create a menu with authentic flavors for everyone to enjoy in this casual setting. Fiorella offers seasonal menu options throughout the year. They serve the best Malfadine, Ziti, Sicilian Sausages, and Diavola Pizza in the city. Don’t forget to order a side of house-cut fries or creamy polenta. I also recommend browsing their wine and beer menu to complement your meal. If you want dessert, try their seasonal crossata or gelato.
Bar Bantam
The Metropolitan, S Clinton Ave, Rochester, NY 14604
585-454-1052
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Last on my list is Bar Bantam, located in The Metropolitan overlooking South Clinton Avenue, in the heart of downtown Rochester. If you’re in the mood for sampling some of the city’s best cocktails, this sleek and casual restaurant is the best option for you. Their outdoor patio is also an ideal spot for enjoying food with friends. Indoor and outdoor seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so you don’t have to reserve for smaller parties. I recommend trying their salmon burger or bacon scallops with a Cougar Juice or Lincoln cocktail. They also offer weekly specials for their drinks, including half-price tea on Tuesdays and free corkage on Thursdays.
Why Trust Us?
When it comes to local restaurant recommendations, we pride ourselves on being a reliable and trustworthy resource. Our suggestions are not just based on our personal experiences, ensuring a more authentic and well-rounded perspective, but also on extensive online research. We diligently searched the internet and reviewed 5 credible sites and blogs, including Tripadvisor.com and Visitrochester.com.
We compiled all the findings in one location and sorted them by the frequency of mentions to ensure you receive top-notch recommendations. We strive to present you with a curated list of establishments that truly stand out, allowing you to enjoy the best dining experiences possible.
Interested in the sources we consulted? Check out the list of all 5 sites we referenced below this paragraph, offering transparency and an opportunity for our readers to explore further. Our commitment is to deliver trustworthy and unparalleled recommendations, helping you make informed decisions on your culinary journeys.
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g48503-zfp6-Rochester_Finger_Lakes_New_York.html
https://www.visitrochester.com/blog/post/outdoor-dining-in-rochester-ny/
https://wanderlog.com/list/geoCategory/66141/best-outdoor-dining-in-rochester
https://www.stewartteam.com/blog/5-Restaurants-in-Downtown-Rochester-with-an-Outdoor-Eating-Area
https://restaurantguru.com/outdoor-Rochester-m9640
