8 New Patio Hot Spots for the Summer

New aluminum patio furniture adds a European touch to Taberna de Haro in Brookline.

By Naomi Kooker

Whether it’s a restaurant that opened over the winter or a newbie just putting out the chairs and tables, we have a few hot spots for alfresco dining on the patio or sidewalk.

Cru Nantucket: Fair to say this Waterfront seafooder on Nantucket has a dock for a sidewalk and some mighty fine lounge furniture to make you feel comfy cozy catching an ocean breeze (508-228-9278).

Kitchen: This old-school American-French find in the South End has a nice setup on the sidewalk with a few umbrella tables and flower boxes for a gardenesque quaintness. There's a nice omelet for brunch too (617-695-1250).

Met on Main: Tucked behind this American, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, there’s a courtyard with a garden setting, and in the evening there’s a glow from faux votives (508-325-5111).

Moksa: You can sit in the courtyard and enjoy your ramen noodles with pork belly and a nice spicy Eye of the Tiger, a single malt scotch with mango and habanero, at this funky izakaya in Central Square Cambridge from Patricia Yeo (617-661-4900).

Nubar: This American's alfresco dining flanks the entrance of the Sheraton Commander Hotel in Harvard Square, so you can feel continental and people-watch at the same time (617-234-1365).

Sweet Cheeks Q: If it’s game day for the Red Sox, run don’t walk to grab a picnic table on the sidewalk along Boylston Street at this BBQ haven run by Top Chef's Tiffani Faison; or if you’re lucky enough, snag a seat at the alfresco bar in the back (617-266-1300).

Taberna de Haro: This romantic Spanish cafe in Brookline has just expanded its patio dining from 24 to 36 seats, and features shiny new aluminum chairs and tables - just what they use to dine outdoors in Spain, says chef-owner Deborah Hansen. Muy chic (617-277-8272).


West Bridge: This spots recently opened outdoor seating on a private space that overlooks the courtyard of One Kendal Square is limited to about 14 seats; the setting is simple - no plants, no umbrellas - but it’s outside, and more seats are likely on their way by August (617-945-0221).