Summer is just around the corner, meaning lots of sun, seasonal drinks, festivals and concerts galore. When you have to be in the office, it’s hard to ignore the thrill of summer right outside your window.
Luckily, Atlanta is overflowing with some of the best patios for you to relocate that lunch meeting or catch an after-work happy hour to discuss an upcoming project. We’ve put together a list that covers the city from east to west, north to south, and matches every occasion and personality you might need to please. And don’t worry, we’ve checked — all of these restaurants have wifi.
For the skyline-loving team: JCT Kitchen and Bar
Getting antsy cooped up in a windowless cubicle? Check out the views at this low-key patio. JCT is quickly becoming a staple for comfort food seekers, with regulars raving about the fried chicken and deviled eggs. The upstairs bar serves select entrees, cocktails, and small plates. If your after-work meeting goes well, stay for some live music starting at 6 p.m.
For the competitive coworkers: 9 Mile Station
Are you the group constantly shooting desk-side basketball shots, yelling over March Madness, and pushing for an office pool table? Get your game on at the putt putt outside of this patio found atop bustling Ponce City Market. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy entrees inspired by Southern and European fusion and a drink list specializing in local and German brews.
For the Tech Square crowd: Cypress Street Pint and Plate
This Midtown patio serves up all the American fare you can think of. You can usually find them offering a deal of the day, such as half off appetizers or bottles, and don’t forget Beer Geek Tuesdays.
For a budget-friendly night: Six Feet Under
When you want a great view for not a great amount of money, head to Six Feet Under, recently named among Travel + Leisure magazine’s Top 30 American Outdoor Bars. The seafood staple for many Atlanta natives offers a happy hour, but even during normal hours, this place won’t break the bank. There’s also locations in West Midtown and Grant Park.
For a team of picky palates: Raging Burrito & Taco
Got a coworker with dietary restrictions? Look no further than Raging Burrito for cheap eats and drinks on this spacious garden patio. There are plenty of options for vegetarian and vegan meals, and an entirely gluten free menu.
To celebrate that promotion: Barcelona Wine Bar
Let your recently-promoted VP treat everyone to tapas at this upscale Inman Park spot, right off the BeltLine. With an extensive, spanish-inspired wine menu, this bar is great for large groups. Share some ceviche over a discussion about the latest project and enjoy the people watching afforded by warm summer nights.
Pro tip: Barcelona also has a location in West Midtown near the Westside Provisions District. Though the patio isn’t quite as large, the wine list is just as lengthy.
For the best darn cocktails: Ration & Dram
This Kirkwood patio offers many options for comfort food, with everything from pot pies to poutine, with a fun and playful drinks list that has been recognized in Travel + Leisure, Thrillist, and Eater. Have a seat on the upper deck for some relaxing views of nature while indulging in a cocktail or local brew.
For a client you’re wooing: King + Duke
This wildly popular patio gets its notoriety from its literature theme and chic decor. The upscale Buckhead spot has a gorgeous patio that’s great for an after-workday sunset. Regulars rave about the quality of the steak and, of course, those pimento cheese hushpuppies.
For when you need to order dessert first: Poor Hendrix
The head chef of this East Lake bar and restaurant featuring, of course, a great patio, used to be a top pastry chef. So it makes sense that the dessert menu is tempting and thoughtful, with items like chocolate-coffee mousse, bourbon caramel, and a creme brûlée of the day gracing the changing menu. The bar and restaurant also have two separate menus, both with Southern fare like quail eggs and French dumplings.
For the true outdoors enthusiasts: The Midway Pub
Enjoy a night under the stars in East Atlanta’s Midway Pub. The patio is illuminated with sprawling lights in this neighborhood gastropub. After a successful week, have a drink and enjoy their bocce and cornhole leagues.
