Patios Made for Drinking
There’s nothing like a refreshing drink to make Texas summers a little more manageable. Pour in a bit of alcohol and a covered patio, and it’s basically an excuse to grab your friends and spend the evening al fresco at one of Dallas’ premier hot spots.
We’ve spent the past few weeks tirelessly tasting the libation menus at some of our favorite locations in the Park Cities and Preston Hollow, and have compiled a list of not only great patios to relax on, but also cool drinks to beat the summer heat.
Up On Knox
3230 Knox St.
While the cocktail build is pretty simple at this semi-new eatery in the heart of the Knox-Henderson, both the flavor profile and aesthetic surrounding its five-drink menu are total standouts. Trust us, there is not a drink on that menu that doesn’t deserve it’s own Instagram moment (see below). Whether it’s the Dani’s Garden – a gin forward drink with a hint of citrus and herbaceousness from a simple syrup infused with basil – or the bubbly Rose Royal with fragrant hints of warm floral notes, the cocktails are the perfect accessory for a late lunch or happy hour date on the brasseries quaint enclosed patio.
Henry’s Majestic
4900 McKinney Ave.
If there were ever a patio made for day drinking, this would be the one – and not just because happy hour begins at 11 a.m. Tuesday through Friday. The McKinney Avenue hot spot features a spacious, dog-friendly patio full of lush greenery, and most importantly, covered, fanned, and full of misters that we promise will keep you fresh. While the drink menu is abundant enough to hold just about anyone’s interest, our patio favorites include a smokey Mezcal Honey Dew, Honey Don’t (see right) and or our personal favorite, the Watermelon Swizzle (Pst! Click here for the recipe).
Le Bilboquet
4514 Travis St.
There is no better place to be seen drinking a glass of refreshing rosé than the outdoor patio or indoor garden room at Le Bilboquet. The French American fusion eatery hosts a casual, yet elegant atmosphere that easily transports diners from Travis Walk to Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Whether dining from a luxe menu complimented by a hand-selected French/American wine list or enjoying a delectable weekend brunch – think butter lobster rolls and creamy hollandaise accompanied by mimosas, Bellini’s, and Aperol Spritz – there’s always a good time to sit down for a drink.
-Compiled by Bianca R. Montes and Imani Chet Lytle