While Phoenix may conjure up visions of dry, parched miles of desert radiating with oppressive heat, those who live in the Valley of the Sun (like us) know it as a balmy, beautiful resort city boasting stunning mountain views and world class sunsets. 

Although Arizona can reach oven like temps a few months out of the year, October through May is prime patio season. When the rest of the country is wrapped in heavy coats and thick blankets, Phoenicians can be found kicking back alfresco while playing golf in breezy shorts and lightweight tees. 

So if you’re planning a trip to the Valley or just moved to the Phoenix Metro area, or are a long time resident check out these top twenty favorite restaurants with fantastic outdoor patios perfect for enjoying those 75 degree days.

BEST PATIOS | CAREFREE

The Grill Kitchen & Bar at Boulder’s 

Located at the Boulders Resort, this expansive outdoor terrace overlooks gorgeous green fairways along with picture perfect panoramic mountain views. Diners can enjoy tasty American fare while watching friendly wildlife dart across the course and abundant bird sightings - the region boasts one of the highest diversity of birds in the state!

BEST PATIOS | CHANDLER

Sivlik Grill at Whirlwind Golf Club

This indoor/outdoor clubhouse is equipped with charming patio string lights and oversized canopy umbrellas restaurant and features fare inspired by Southwestern and Native American flavors. Diners can take in beautifully manicured fairways of the golf course, as well as panoramic views of Estrella Mountain and South Mountain.

BEST PATIOS | GILBERT

Joe’s Farm Grill

This family friendly fast-food-style spot offers classic American fare fresh from the garden in a sleek space set on a working farm. The picnic-table paradise is set among towering trees, perfect for the kids (both two-legged and four-legged) to romp around. 

BEST PATIOS | PARADISE VALLEY

El Chorro

This historical hotspot is the ultimate iconic Arizona dining experience. Set at the base of Camelback Mountain, the 1937 landmark is known for its famous sticky buns as much as its expansive yet still intimate patio complete with lush local landscaping and cozy fire features. 

BEST PATIOS | PARADISE VALLEY

Lon’s at The Hermosa Inn

Hailed as Arizona’s Most Romantic Restaurant by Food & Wine magazine, this AAA Four Diamond restaurant serves up globally inspired Arizona fare. Secluded and serene, the grounds are covered with lush landscaping and surrounded by mountain views. 

BEST PATIOS | PHOENIX

The Churchill

This industrial-chic, open-air food court features diverse foods, cocktails & craft brews from not one, but several eateries. At the heart of the space is a 9,000 square foot courtyard full of picnic tables for drinking, dining & socializing. Grab a board game or catch the game on a collection of big screen tvs. 

BEST PATIOS | PHOENIX

Different Pointe of View

Poised 1,800 feet above the Valley of the Sun, this is the longest consecutively awarded AAA Four-Diamond restaurant in Phoenix featuring a culinary experience just as memorable as its stunning mountain top views. Enjoy elegant eats atop North Mountain, as you savor the city’s twinkling lights and Arizona’s colorful sunsets. 

BEST PATIOS | PHOENIX

Gertrude’s Restaurant

Nestled inside the Desert Botanical Garden, this unique spot offers a fresh new food experience focusing on ingredients directly from growers in Arizona and the surrounding region. Dine among songbirds, squirrels and stunning flora and fauna at this super special eatery. 

BEST PATIOS | PHOENIX

Quiessence at The Farm at South Mountain

Set on a farm with tree-shaded picnic tables, this lovely spot is a true “farm-to-table” experience, that uses locally sourced produce, meat and wine, to create a refined rustic menu. Enjoy organic and seasonal sandwiches, salads & soups under a canopy of trees and twinkle lights. 

BEST PATIOS | QUEEN CREEK

Queen Creek Olive Mill

Family owned and operated, this 100-acre farm is Arizona's only working olive farm and mill with over 7000 olive trees. Guests can taste and shop their way through the gourmet marketplace full of locally made goods. The Italian inspired eatery features old world family recipes with garden-sourced ingredients. 

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

Café Monarch

Expect sophisticated, prix-fixe New American meals in an elegant, chandelier-lit space with outdoor tables at this Old Town Scottsdale gem. Named one of the Top 25 Restaurants in America, the intimate and dreamlike setting is complemented with vines, fountains and glowing lanterns. 

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

Diego Pops

Inspired by taco and tequila-fueled conversations on the beaches of the Yucatan, this playful dining spot takes a modern twist on authentic Mexican favorites. The Old Town Scottsdale eatery offers an airy patio with a bar, roaring fireplace, glowing string lights and bright patio furniture. 

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

Fellow Osteria ​​

An ultra chic, contemporary restaurant that offers classic Italian specialties. Enjoy a craft cocktail, or a light bite while being surrounded by lush greenery on the climate-controlled patio space. After dinner, check out the community garden just south of the patio, where herbs and garnishes are sourced fresh.

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

The House Brasserie

Set beautifully in Scottsdale's second-oldest home this haunt evokes a bygone era with candlelit, cozy vintage-chic vibes. Tucked away in a shaded corner in Old Town Scottsdale, The House offers a garden party-esque shaded patio perfect for sipping hand-pressed cocktails and fine wines.

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

Isabella’s Kitchen

Take in a colorful Arizona sunset and desert landscape at Isabella’s sprawling backyard patio. Snuggle up to the fire pits with a variety of pizzas, pastas, salads, sandwiches, bruschetta, antipastas and more, while sipping on libations from the restaurant's long list of fine wines and craft cocktails.

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

Lou’s at Papago 

Lou’s dining room sits on a rich green golf course and gives off a cool-clean, stone-and-steel feel in a wide-open space. Take in spectacular views of the setting sun gleaming off Papago Buttes when the massive garage-style and wall-sized sliding doors are opened.

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

Prado at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Touted as one of the Valley’s finest resorts, Omni’s Prado dishes up authentic Spanish tapas and wood-fired entrees paired with fine wines and signature sangrias. The patio is heated by a massive rustic fireplace with stunning Camelback Mountain looming in the background.

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

Rita’s Kitchen

Located inside the gorgeous J.W. Marriott Camelback Inn, this casual upscale contemporary Southwestern inspired cafe offers fire pits, twinkle lights and sunset views all set among lush resort grounds. A must-visit for happy hour margaritas or Sunday brunch Huevos Rancheros.

BEST PATIOS | SCOTTSDALE

The Vig McDowell Mountain

If you like yard games, great views and live music this is the patio for you. The upscale neighborhood tavern boasts breathtaking views of the McDowell mountains and a menu bursting with contemporary chef-driven favorites. The Vig McDowell Mountain joins five other locations across the Valley.

BEST PATIOS | TEMPE

House of Tricks

Cozy up on the patio of a 1920’s cottage complete with grape-covered arbors, towering trees, potted flowers and café lights. The award-winning eatery is nestled in the heart of downtown Tempe near popular Mill Avenue and Arizona State University and features creative contemporary American cuisine with lots of seasonal options.

Which of these desert dining destinations is first on your list? Don't forget a pair stylish shades from an Arizona-based company while you sit back and soak in the superb Phoenix climate.