DC has reached peak patio SZN

There’s something about dining al fresco in DC that really brings me to peak summer status. It seems like no matter where restaurants are located in DC, they try to make a patio situation happen. That said, some are better than others. Here are a few that I love to frequent, what are you favorites?!

Comet Ping Pong

My most favorite place in DC and my most frequented spot, this patio is tucked away inside a bamboo fence with romantic string lights, classic checkered red tablecloths and a cocktail list that will blow you away. Try the Backspin, a vodka cocktail with cointreau, pressed basil and lemon, and a tonic spritz - peak summer. Pair it with a pizza, they’re all delicious, but keep an eye on the seasonal specials! Under the radar? THE WINGS - best in the city ya’ll!

5037 Connecticut Ave. NW, www.cometpingpong.com

If the Comet patio is full, check out their sister restaurant just two doors down, Buck’s Fishing & Camping for romantic outdoor dining and watermelon margaritas.

5031 Connecticut Ave. NW, www.bucksfishingandcamping.com

Umaya

Umaya has you covered with the best of both worlds - an indoor/outdoor patio. Beat the heat by sitting near the open doors to the patio and staying in the AC, or have fun in the sun noshing on the freshest sushi or traditional grilled skewers, robatayaki.

733 10th St. NW, www.umayadc.com/

El Techo

If you’re into the club vibe on a rooftop patio, El Techo is for you. With live DJs, large format margaritas, and killer tacos, you can live the Miami lifestyle right here in DC. Get there early if you have your heart set on a table, and be prepared for a lot of instagramming.

606 Florida Ave. NW, http://ritoloco.com/el-techo/

American Ice Co.

A DC classic - this candlelit indoor/outdoor hideaway really does it for me. Offering simple food like pickled vegetables and swachos (swine nachos), it’s the perfect atmosphere for my 30 something lifestyle. A shot and a beer combo only sweetens the deal.

917 V St. NW, www.amicodc.com/

Calico

One of the biggest outdoor spaces in DC, get lost in the maze of Blagden Alley to find this “urban backyard.” Sip on adult juice boxes and backyard fare at this neighborhood getaway.

50 Blagden Alley NW, www.calicodc.com/

Salt Line

Where else can you sit at a bar on the water in DC and eat an all seafood charcuterie board while chugging Ketel One Rose & Grapefruit crushes? NOWHERE. Salt Line has been one of my favorite “beach bars” since it opened, and that Nashville hot soft shell crab is mouth watering.

79 Potomac Ave. SE, www.thesaltline.com/

High street Cafe

While not a traditional patio, you can people watch in the floor to ceiling windows of High Street Cafe - Georgetown’s newest modern brasserie. Keep things cool and order the tuna tartare with orange cream.

1303 Wisconsin Ave. NW, www.highstreetdc.com

Mellow Mushroom

I was just introduced to this rooftop retreat in Adams Morgan, and it is an unassuming spot to watch the late night debauchery of Adams Morgan while devouring a slice of your favorite pizza pie. Head up three flights of stairs to experience this mellow terrace.

2436 18th St. NW, https://mellowmushroom.com/

Dirty Habit

Experience a pulsating party around Dirty Habit’s urban campfire in one of the hottest fresh air courtyards in DC. Starting in August, guests can take part in some friendly competition with the installation of their new bocce ball court!

555 8th St. NW, www.dirtyhabitdc.com/

Tiki TNT

Although I typically stay far away from the Wharf on a weekend, I have great luck and delicious tiki cocktails at Tiki TNT. Whether you’re on the first floor sipping out of totems, or on the rooftop with a bucket of beer, there is something for everyone with garnishes to satisfy all of your tiki needs. Snack on some meat on a stick to keep the hangry away.

1130 Maine Ave. SW, www.tikitnt.com/

Kith / Kin

If you want to experience some real class, stop by Kith and Kin for food and drinks to blow your mind. No patio though…

801 Wharf St. SW, https://kithandkindc.com/

★★★