Dining has come back, and summer is in full swing. The intense heat has eased up a bit, so it's time to start enjoying summertime dining al fresco again. Book a spot at one of our favourite summer patios.
photo from The Bull and Claw
The atmosphere of this restaurant is absolutely magical, with fairy lights above and tall tables outdoors. There are many spaces, both indoor and outdoor, and each offers a different atmosphere and feeling. It is closed on Mondays, and while they accept walk-ins, it’s best to call if you’re planning on going in a large group.
Address: 110 Fenyang Road
Tel: 3356 7608
Photo from Frasca (thehousecollective.com)
If you’re looking for Italian food in the heart of the city, look no further. There is nothing not to love, from the artistic interior to the line of tables outside, hidden away from the streets by greenery. Currently, they do not accept walk-ins, so call ahead of time to reserve your spot!
Address: The Middle House, 366 Shimen First Road
Tel: 3216 8168
Photo from Dianping
Both the artistic interior and the garden-like patio are dreamy. The wooden tables, surrounded by plants, create an amazing atmosphere for a meal or just a chat. It’s best to call in advance, as they are busy these days.
Address: 132 Anting Road
Tel: 6433 7995
Just like its twin on Anting Road, the patio of Cotton’s on Xinhua Road creates a beautiful atmosphere of nature in a large city. They’re open, and there is no need to make a reservation!
Address: 294 Xinhua Road, Changning District
Tel: 6282 6897
Photo from Geneva
Located in its own private garden, Geneva is a perfect place for every occasion and crowd, from business associates to families with little kids. They accept walk-ins, but are very busy these days, so try to call in advance to make sure you’ll get in!
Address: 112 Jinbang Road
Tel: 5239 9197
Photo from Dianping
This French inspired restaurant has a prime location on Huashan Road that is great for people watching. Snag a seat outdoors, or in their sunroom with large windows facing the street for summer vibes but with aircon.
Address: 855 Huashan Road
Tel: 6212 8085
photo from Ginger
This multi-story Thai restaurant is situated right on the edge of a quaint park in the leafy old Xuhui neighborhood. With indoor and outdoor seating, Ginger provides a relaxing oasis. Plus, it's a romantic spot for a date night. They take walk-ins, or you can call ahead and make a reservation.
Address: 91 Xingguo Road
Tel: 3406 0599
Photo from Commune Social Facebook
Commune Social is contemporary restaurant known for fine dining catering. It has a small but lovely outdoor seating, a wide terrace on the second floor, and a great atmosphere. They also have a weekday lunch set and weekend brunch.
Address: 511 Jiangning Road
Tel: 6047 7638
Photo from La Maison Facebook
La Maison’s entrance opens into a spacious courtyard in-front of a three story house. The atmosphere is very laid back and casual, perfect for meeting friends and family get togethers. Given the size of the place it’s also ideal for birthday parties and large family gatherings.
Address: 210 Jinxian Road
Tel: 6258 2801
Photo from Abbey Road
The Beatles inspired Abbey Road is a great place for drinks with friends and catching the game. The ample extended outdoor patio is prime for large gatherings and running into people.
Address: No. 3 Taojiang Road
Tel: 5466 2069
Photo from Dianping
A beautiful patio right on the Bund, where you can eat international cuisine in New York bistro style decor. It is the anchor venue for the W Hotel. Very picturesque, and a great place to eat food and chat with friends!
Address: 66 Lvshun Road
Tel: 2286 9960
Photo from Dianping
Focused on the Meditarranean cuisine, along with Italian and Spanish foods, Calypso is a beautiful patio restaurant, that also has an indoor first floor as well. Located inside the Jing'an ShangriLa complex, the beautiful building has large bay windows for excellent dining views.
Address: 1218 Middle Yan'an Road
Tel: 2203 8889
Photo from Dianping
Everyone loves thai food, the spicy, sweet, and sour! All the good stuff, is available at the Thai Gallery. The restaurant overlooks the Jing’an Park pond, which is in the middle of a busy shopping/tourism district. It gets packed during summer, great time to go!
Address: 1649 Nanjing West Road, Inside Jing'an Park
Tel: 6217 9797
Photo from The Fellas Facebook
Italian cuisine with New York mob decor! Their main selling point is the terrace upstairs, The Fellas, that looks out over the Huangpu and across to Lujiazui; actually quite an underrated spot for a dinner on the Bund. The price range is about 300-400rmb per person with drinks.
Address: No.7 Yan'an East Road
Tel: 6323 2188
Photo from Dianping
Located in Taikoo Hui Mall, Cafe Grey has some big name chefs. The name comes from New York-based Chef Gray Kunz, who headed up Cafe Gray Deluxe in Hong Kong. The one in Shanghai has amazing ambience and outdoors, and good prices!
Address: 366, Shimen First Road
Tel: 3216 8088
*All restaurants require at least a 72-hour negative PCR test result.