When it comes to outdoor dining, the Greater Akron area has several excellent options. Enjoy delicious food, drinks and scenic views from the patios of some of Summit County’s top restaurants. Many are even dog-friendly!
El Patron Tequileria
El Patron Tequileria serves authentic Mexican food with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and excellent service. This family-owned restaurant incorporates a Mexico City flair to their extensive menu, offering innovative dishes as well as all of your favorites. Enjoy a summer margarita flight out on their patio, which is open seasonally. It’s a little summer oasis in the heart of Akron. Well-behaved dogs are welcome.
Missing Mountain Brewery
The Greater Akron area is known for its breweries and taprooms, where you can enjoy locally brewed craft beers. At Missing Mountain Brewery, enjoy great beer and great food on the banks of the Cuyahoga River. They offer an extensive draft list, as well as cocktails, wine and liquor, along with a large menu that includes salads, sandwiches, flatbread pizzas and even Sunday brunch. But it’s the view that steals the show. Their large patio overlooks the river, so you can enjoy the soothing sound of the water and the gorgeous trees on the other side. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re kept on a leash.
Michael Angelo’s Winery
Summit County has its share of wineries, too. Enjoy a glass of wine and a relaxing meal as you enjoy the stunning grounds of Richfield’s Michael Angelo’s Winery from their spacious patio. Choose from their list of small-batch wines made from grapes that flourish in Ohio. Their delectable Italian and American cuisine, which includes pasta, pizza and salads, is served family-style and is meant to be shared. While their menu changes seasonally, their crowd-pleasing truffle fries are always available.
Upper Deck Bar and Grille
This lakefront bar on Akron’s Portage Lakes offers remarkable views of the water and the ultimate summer vibes. Upper Deck Bar and Grille’s menu includes pub favorites, made-to-order pizzas, apps, sandwiches and summer-themed cocktails. It also hosts live music several times a week, plus karaoke on Wednesdays and line dancing on Thursdays. It’s the perfect merger of location, libations and atmosphere.
Peninsula Coffee House & Market
For something a bit more low key, Greater Akron has plenty of coffee shops, cafes, and bakeries to start your morning off right. The Peninsula Coffee House & Market in Peninsula overlooks the Cuyahoga River. Stop inside this century-old banking building for locally sourced beverages and pastries and then take them out on the patio to enjoy the peaceful view of the river and surrounding park. You might even see a train go by! Check their calendar for special outdoor events, like live music and deck yoga. Or head downstairs to their Wine Cellar, where you can enjoy a drink and some charcuterie.
Kave Coffee Bar
For a laid-back vibe with an artistic twist, Kave Coffee Bar in Barberton is a must-visit. Kave blends coffeehouse comfort with barroom charm, serving everything from locally roasted coffee and espresso drinks to breakfast and lunch fare. Their inviting rooftop patio is perfect for sipping a cold drink or a warm latte while enjoying open mic nights, art shows, or just some quiet people-watching in the heart of town.
The Lockview
If you're craving comfort food with a creative twist, The Lockview in downtown Akron is the place to be. Popular for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches — think Havarti dill, sun-dried tomato pesto, or applewood bacon with cheddar — this spot pairs nostalgic flavors with a modern flair. Their rooftop patio offers a relaxed setting to enjoy craft beers, wines, and cocktails, all while soaking in views of the city. Whether you’re enjoying the weather on a summer evening or grabbing a bite before a show at the nearby Civic Theatre, The Lockview's inviting atmosphere and inventive menu make it a standout destination for outdoor dining in Akron.
The Twisted Olive
The Twisted Olive in Green blends a welcoming atmosphere with scenic surroundings, making it a great pick for outdoor dining just 20 minutes from the Gervasi estate. Set on a wooded property with picturesque views, the restaurant features a spacious patio where guests can relax over delicious Italian-American dishes like house-made pasta, flatbreads, and steaks. The menu is complemented by local beers, craft cocktails, and wines from the Gervasi Vineyard. It’s the kind of place that works just as well for a casual lunch as it does for a date night, with a setting that feels both comfortable and a little special.
Explore More Dining in Greater Akron
Not patio weather? Summit County offers a variety of dining experiences. Browse our listings to discover your new favorite restaurant.