KC's Coolest Patios

With spring in full swing and summer on its way, here's our cheat sheet for the most charming terraces on which to soak up the sun, sip a cocktail or scope out the local "scenery."

For people watching: Gram & Dun

   A destination patio and KC fave, this gastropub is known for its neighborly vibes, craft libations, and magnificent view of the Country Club Plaza and its stylish denizens. 600 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, Mo. gramanddun.com

 

For a backyard feel: The Farmhouse

   Slightly shrouded by trees, the wooden deck at this farm-to-table, tip-to-tail  restaurant in the River Market gives the sensation of lounging in your own backyard. At night, the soft glow of string lights and a gentle breeze creates a pleasant setting for relaxation over a glass of wine and the artisan local cheese plate. 300 Delaware St., Kansas City, Mo., eatatthefarmhouse.com

 

For a date: Trezo Mare Restaurant and Lounge

   During the day, Trezo Mare’s spacious patio is the perfect place to enjoy wood-fire grilled small plates while gazing out at Briarcliff Village. At night, take advantage of the happy hour menu and cozy up around the romantic fire pit. 4105 N. Mulberry Drive, Kansas City, Mo., trezomare.com

 

For bringing the pooch: Lidia’s Kansas City

   Despite overlooking the parking lot, the surrounding trees and fragrant herb garden at Lidia’s will transport you and your pooch to Italy, creating the perfect scene for al fresco patio dining over lobster arancine and a bottle of barbera. A new glass-enclosed terrazza provides shelter when the raindrops fall. 101 W. 22nd St., Kansas City, Mo., lidias-kc.com

 

For European ambiance: Aixois Bistro

   Nestled in the corner of the Crestwood Shops, the shaded patio at this Brookside staple oversees a lush green lawn. Luxuriate and let time slip away while dining on moules marinière with a glass of Vouvray — and perhaps even catch a game of boules. 251 E. 55th St., Kansas City, Mo. aixoisbistro.com

La Bodega on Southwest Boulevard

 

For socializing: La Bodega

   Sip refreshing white wine sangria and share sexy tapas underneath La Bodega’s oversized umbrellas. Live or piped-in music sets a festive mood for socializing. Two area locations, labodegakc.com

 

For meeting new friends: The Westside Local

   Well-known for its lengthy and diverse roster of craft beers, as well as the community-style oversized picnic tables that inhabit the beer garden, The Westside Local is an obvious choice in the downtown area for lounging with friends and making new ones. 1663 Summit St., Kansas City, Mo., thewestsidelocal.com

 

For a garden setting: Renée Kelly’s Harvest

   Enjoy delectable seasonal fare at the historic Caenen Castle, home to Renée Kelly’s Harvest. The castle is charming, but the peaceful and beautiful garden patio is an equal draw for sipping a Farmer’s Margarita or sampling the sweet potato gnocchi. It is the perfect venue for an intimate gathering  or a Mother’s Day brunch. 12401 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, Kan., reneekellysharvest.com