by Katie Carlson
‘Tis the season! No, not Christmas — but we should all feel like celebrating. The sun is shining, the temperatures are rising, and restaurants all over the Fox Cities are opening their outdoor seating for summer. Whether you prefer a quiet table with a river view or a spirited patio with live music, you’re sure to find a spot you’ll enjoy.
Nothing beats gathering with friends or family for a meal at a local restaurant while sitting outdoors. It’s an experience that should be appreciated during our few months of pleasant weather. You can make the most of it by putting away your phone and being fully present with your guests. Take a look around, soak up the sunshine, gaze at the flowers, and breathe in the scents of summer. Be grateful that you get to relax outdoors while sharing a meal.
Here are a few tips to make your outdoor dining experience a good one. Be sure to dress for the weather and the occasion. Bring a light sweater or jacket in case it’s windy or cools off when the sun goes down. You may also want to bring a pair of sunglasses if it’s earlier in the day or evening. Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin. If temperatures are high, try to choose shaded seating if possible. Be mindful of insects and bees, especially if you are dining with children.
There are many benefits to choosing outdoor dining in the summer. For starters, you’re going to get an instant boost to your mental health due to the sun, fresh air, and being around others. You’ll also get to take advantage of fresh, seasonal food, and produce such as tomatoes, berries, corn, herbs, and grilled meats.
You’re not only doing yourself a favor when choosing to eat outside at a local restaurant, but you’re also supporting the local community and businesses. Summer patio season is a win-win for everyone and an experience that ignites the senses and puts a smile on your face. Enjoy learning about some of the best outdoor dining restaurants and patios in the area, and then get out there and take full advantage of the experience!
Pullmans at Trolley Square
You can’t go wrong dining outdoors at Pullmans at Trolley Square, where you will be immediately drawn to the spectacular views of the Fox River. They offer plenty of comfortable seating on the spacious patio. There is a genuine summer vibe and a delightful ambiance. With a broad menu — from seafood and burgers, to specialty salads and cocktails, and happy hour specials — there’s truly something for everyone. Keep in mind that patio seating at Pullmans is first-come, first-served, so if you have a large group, you’ll want to arrive early.
Appleton
619 S. Olde Oneida St.
920-830-7855
pullmansrestaurant.com
Angel’s Restaurant
Angel’s Restaurant offers a classic Wis-consin brunch. It’s a long-time favorite of many people in the community. There’s a family-owned charm that makes its patio dining feel welcoming and relaxed. Being outdoors means you can spread out and enjoy hearty comfort food with less noise. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking sunshine, fresh air, a delicious cup of coffee, and a satisfying brunch. It’s also a great way to kick off your Sunday, leaving you with the good energy that an outdoor patio brings to any meal.
Appleton
1401 E. John St.
920-993-8847
angelsappleton.com
Parker John’s BBQ & Pizza
Parker John’s BBQ & Pizza is yet another outdoor dining establishment to add to your summer bucket list. It’s known for being casual and inviting. There are two patio areas at the Appleton location, so you can spread out and feel comfortable. With a fun and energetic atmosphere, it’s the right choice for a large group or family. The menu offers a variety of foods, including barbecue, pizza, wings, and hearty salads. Picture yourself sitting outside — enjoying generous portions of your favorite foods, a cold drink in hand, surrounded by good company.
Appleton
2331 E. Evergreen Drive
920-815-3264
Menasha
124 Main St.
920-215-6568
The Mad Apple Burger & Billiard Co.
If you’re looking for an area restaurant with big energy, a vibrant atmosphere, and excellent food, look no further than The Mad Apple Burger & Billiard Co. It’s not your average outdoor dining experience — it’s also a hangout spot where you can play cornhole, relax by the fire pit, or listen to live music. It’s the ideal mix of drinks, tasty burgers, and entertainment. The outdoor patio can accommodate large groups and offers a laid-back vibe. It’s the best of both worlds — dining outside and diving into some classic Wisconsin-style bar food.
Appleton
3025 W. College Ave.
920-955-3990
madapplebilliards.com
Michiels Bar & Grill
Another local place for outdoor dining is Michiels Bar & Grill in Menasha. Looking for the supper club atmosphere outdoors? Then this is the spot for you. Many describe the patio as charming and comfortable. It offers a community feel with a more traditional experience featuring stained-glass décor, a propane fire table, and an inviting ambiance that you simply can’t get elsewhere. Enjoy the soup and salad bar before your steak or seafood main course, along with a full bar featuring supper club classics and brunch cocktails. Perfect for date nights or group dinners.
Menasha
1100 Appleton Road
920-722-7885
michielsbarandgrill.com
Stone Arch
This brewpub turns from dim and cozy in the winter, to bright and lively in the summer. There’s nothing like enjoying Stone Arch’s house-brews in an old-world style beer garden with family or friends on a beautiful summer evening. If you have visitors from out of town, consider bringing them to Stone Arch to enjoy the brewery culture, fried cheese curds, fish fry, historic building, and outdoor dining. It’s a casual place to dine, and a trendy spot to grab a drink or bite to eat before heading to a comedy show or going downtown.
Appleton
1004 S. Olde Oneida St.
920-731-3322
stonearchbrewpub.com
Christianos Pizza
Picture this: you’re in the mood for authentic wood-fired pizza but the thought of getting dressed up makes you want to stay home. In this case, check out Christianos Pizza and enjoy a few slices on their casual, comfortable, and relaxing patio. It’s a private setup with a calm vibe. The taste of fresh ingredients combined with warm-weather seating is sure to put a smile on your face and make your taste buds dance. Summer brings live music to their patio, where there is always a wide selection of your favorite beer, wine, or cocktails to sip on.
Appleton
2400 S. Kensington Drive, Suite 500
920-234-9206
christianospizza.com
LaClare Creamery
You may also want to consider taking a short drive to check out LaClare Creamery in Malone. Guests love this countryside gem and their outdoor patio where you’ll be surrounded by good food, animals, gardens, and of course, specialty cheeses. This charming and beautiful farm setting is a must when craving tasty, cafe-style food and the perfect summer scenery. With extended patio seating, there is plenty of room for everyone. It’s a perfect spot for families or for any cheese lover. Be sure to grab an ice cream cone on your way out!
Malone
W2994 County HH
920-670-0051
laclarefamilycreamery.com
Fratellos Riverfront Restaurant
If you’re looking for upscale vibes with a relaxed atmosphere then consider Fratellos Riverfront Restaurant. Enjoy inspiring views of the Fox River and catch the sunset as you finish your dinner and sip award-winning wine. Perfect for special occasions or special guests, it’s the ultimate combination of scenic views, warm evenings, cold drinks, and chef-inspired food, such as pasta, seafood, and wood-fired pizza. The popluar patio is full of character and many consider it one of, if not the best, outdoor dining spots in the Fox Cities.
Appleton
501 W. Water St.
920-993-9087 fratelloswaterfront.com
This article was originally published in the June 2026 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.
