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New Yorkers 1st Choice
University City's best

Food with outdoor seating

Eating a meal outside in the fresh air makes the food taste better.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
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Updated May 2026
01
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Restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a relaxed atmosphere with chill local vibes and a beautiful view. The patio is dog-friendly and suits gatherings of family and friends. Portions tend to be large, encouraging sharing, while prices lean toward the higher side.

Food here is consistently fresh and authentic, with daily specials that add variety. Dishes come out well prepared and tasty, showing clear care in cooking.

A good size patio offers a relaxed atmosphere with chill local vibes. Outdoor seating feels lovely and suits breakfast or casual drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and surprisingly good."

"You've got to try the shawarma and hummus; it's the best Mediterranean food."

"The outdoor seating has a great, relaxed atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 5pm on weekdays with drink specials.

2

On Wednesdays, enjoy wine and pizza specials.

3

The restaurant has a small parking lot and street parking available.

02
Cargo Cafe - La Jolla Reserve image 1

Outdoor cafe cantilevers over a manmade pond with waterfalls, pine trees, and shaded seating. Atmosphere feels relaxing and peaceful, enhanced by water features and natural surroundings. Space attracts people looking to work, study, or enjoy coffee in a calm setting.

Variety of food and beverage choices exists, with drinks and smoothies rated as excellent. Food availability decreases later in the day, and overall quality ranges from just okay to excellent.

Outdoor seating features a shaded patio with a mini waterfall and a pond nearby. Covered areas include outlets and wifi, creating a pleasant spot to relax or work.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and the vibe was super cute."

"It's a beautiful, peaceful place with waterfalls, perfect for working."

"The food here has a serene, zen vibe by the pond."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $3 per 20 minutes, but validation is available for one hour.

2

The food tends to run out as the day progresses, so arrive early.

3

Wifi is available for customers throughout the cafe.

03
Green Acre image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a garden-like setting with quiet atmosphere and contemporary design. Seating options include both indoor and outdoor areas, with a focus on relaxation and casual dining. The venue is known for its varied drink selection and small food menu with some vegetarian choices.

Food features locally grown produce with a small but varied menu and a larger drink selection. Fries stand out as a repeat choice, and the overall food is good and well served.

Outdoor seating offers a garden-like setting with great tables. The space feels beautiful and relaxing for coffee or lunch.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was fantastic."

"I loved the tasty drinks and lively atmosphere during Happy Hour."

"The outdoor seating here is beautiful with a garden-like setting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Thursday and Friday with special drink prices.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 8pm with varied topics.

3

Parking can be challenging due to ongoing construction nearby.

04
Amardeen Lebanese and Mediterranean Cuisine image 1

Small Mediterranean restaurant offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with a fresh, modern design and authentic Middle Eastern buildout. Outdoor patio features beautifully decorated seating with heaters, providing a more delightful dining option than the indoor area, which tends to be noisy and dim.

Food here offers authentic Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine with outstanding quality that rivals dishes from Lebanon and Crete. The dolmas stand out as a delicious specialty worth trying.

A quaint small patio offers beautifully decorated outdoor seating with heaters. The space feels more delightful than inside and works well for dining or takeout.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the hummus and kebabs, is authentically delicious."

"The food here is outstanding, especially with the outdoor seating."

"The Lebanese food here is authentic and rich in flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating during peak hours.

2

The restaurant is currently undergoing renovations, affecting the dining experience.

3

Expect to pay around $100 for lunch for four without drinks or tips.

05
Lucrezia La Jolla image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers beautiful outdoor patio and lovely bar with live music and romantic lighting. Atmosphere feels crowded yet lively, attracting diners seeking an authentic and vibrant experience. Dog-friendly outdoor seating adds a relaxed, inclusive touch.

Food features amazing flavors and consistent quality. Service matches the food with outstanding attentiveness.

Outdoor seating includes a gorgeous patio with options for semi-private areas that accommodate groups. The space is dog friendly and offers a pleasant setting for casual conversations.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and fresh."

"The service during dinner was attentive and warm."

"The food and drinks here are amazing, especially the pasta."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Live music is featured on Wednesdays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

06
egglet image 1
Restaurant

Small, clean space with modern rustic decor and a cozy, homey vibe. Atmosphere feels like a family kitchen, welcoming but sometimes stuffy inside. Regulars enjoy Korean-infused breakfast sandwiches with perfectly cooked eggs and a slight sweetness.

Food offers amazing flavor and consistent quality. Staff provide welcoming service and outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio.

A large patio area offers plenty of outdoor seating with a clean and comfortable vibe. The space is dog-friendly and includes covered patio seating for shade and shelter.

People are saying

"I found the egg sandwiches amazingly fluffy and delicious."

"I found the food here delicious, especially the truffle hash browns."

"The Outdoor Seating here is perfect for hearty, filling, and satisfying breakfast."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a slight wait for food preparation.

2

Prices for breakfast sandwiches range around $25, including hash browns and juice.

3

Contactless payment is accepted with no additional fees.

07
Star Anise Thai Cuisine image 1

Outdoor seating offers a pet-friendly patio surrounded by trees, creating a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Interior spaces feel cozy and modern with a clean, comfortable vibe. A hidden garden retreat at the back adds a unique touch to the setting.

Food here is authentic Thai with well seasoned dishes that taste surprisingly fresh. Service is quick and attentive, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

Trees and a quiet environment create a peaceful outdoor seating area. The back patio is calm and pet-friendly, suitable for lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is delicious, especially the Pad Thai."

"The dishes here taste authentic, just like in Thailand."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available outside, making it convenient to visit.

2

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

3

Expect large portion sizes, often enough for another meal.

08
Somisomi image 1
Dessert shop

Outdoor setup includes high top tables and standing long tables with no indoor seating, creating a casual and bustling vibe. Soft serve features Asian-inspired flavors and dairy-free options, attracting those seeking unique dessert experiences. Attention to food allergies and consistent quality add to a reliable, approachable atmosphere.

Food shows good quality and considerate allergy attention. Staff clearly marks orders for allergies, making it safer for sensitive eaters.

Outdoor area features high top tables and standing long tables for casual dining. A small seating plaza offers additional space, with no indoor seating available.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is delicious and not too sweet."

"The taiyaki here is hot, crispy, and delicious."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

There are no tables inside, but plenty outside to enjoy the treat.

2

The mall allows the first 2 hours of parking free.

3

All their soft serve is dairy free.

09
Ujin image 1
Ramen restaurant

Modern interior with open kitchen and bold style sets a romantic, lively atmosphere that grows louder as the space fills. Small and community tables mix with bar and outdoor seating offering views of a clock tower. Attention to detail shows in beautiful bowls and clean, flavorful ramen broths without heavy salt.

Offers authentic Japanese food with a focus on fried chicken that stands out. Prices match the market, and the overall food quality is remarkably good.

Pretty outdoor seating offers a view of the clock tower. Plenty of parking supports easy access to both indoor and outdoor options.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best ramen I've had in San Diego."

"The food here is incredible and the portions are substantial."

"I loved the pretty outdoor seating with a clock tower view."

Good to know

1

Ujin offers only four types of ramen with smaller portions compared to other places.

2

Prices are slightly high, with ramen dishes costing around $20.

3

Expect variable service experiences; some visits may be better than others.

10
Qin West Noodle image 1
Noodle shop

Noodle shop with an open kitchen and modern design offers comfortable seating indoors and a dog-friendly patio outdoors. Atmosphere feels casual and geared toward quick meals rather than lounging. Self-ordering via iPads and table sanitizing wipes add convenience to the experience.

Food here is authentic Chinese and freshly prepared with good quality ingredients. Dishes come at a reasonable price and consistently taste delicious.

A small patio offers dog friendly outdoor seating. It provides a casual spot to enjoy dishes like pan-fried dumplings with a crispy outside and tasty filling.

People are saying

"The authentic flavor profiles here are totally rare and delicious."

"The food here has great authentic flavor and large portions."

"I love the authentic Chinese noodles at this place with Outdoor Seating."

Good to know

1

There is no dine-in service available.

2

Self-service is expected; customers bus their own trays.

3

The restaurant uses iPads for self-ordering.

11
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

Sleek wood decor and minimalist branding create a cozy yet stylish atmosphere with warm-hued lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows. Seating is limited but includes both indoor and outdoor options, with outdoor areas favored for sun and relaxation. The vibe is generally relaxing and airy, suitable for hanging out or working quietly.

Food includes good quality dishes and well-prepared beverages. Both food and drinks maintain a consistently pleasant taste.

Several tables and chairs fill the patio area, creating a nice spot to enjoy the sun. Outdoor seating pairs well with indoor options, though there are no outlets outside for devices.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the high quality coffee, it was amazing."

"This cafe has a bright, airy atmosphere with natural light."

"I thought the food and drinks here were good."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially in the morning.

2

The small coffee costs $8.50, reflecting high overhead costs.

3

Seating is limited, making it less suitable for working on laptops.

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