Hit the deck…
by Jeanie on 02/06/09 at 12:23 pm
Hit the deck… or in some cases, the patio! The time that most Kansas Citians cherish is finally here- when the weather permits us to pleasantly dine outside! The venues are varied and numerous, from the bustling urban overlook at Harry’s County Club ’s patio to the quiet of the tree-lined deck at Parkville’s Cafe des Amis. There is an outdoor spot to compliment every summer mood.
Outside at Aixois, soak up a friendly neighborhood vibe as families stroll by with baby carriages and dogs walk by with owners in tow. The grassy sideyard is cool and comfortable as bright umbrellas shade the sun.
The Plaza is the view for diners on the Grand Street Cafe patio. And across the way, the redecorated deck at the new Cafe Trio, is now ready to welcome back those eager to sip drinks at one of the city’s favorite outdoor locales. For morning coffee, lunch or dinner, re:Verse is another Plaza pick. The sidewalk cafe-like ambiance feels very continental and sitting inside can almost be the same as out, when the large windows are open to the breezes.
If you are in the mood for a little Downtown ambiance, try the patio at City Tavern for spectacular views of Union Station and the expanse of Quality Hill. La Bodega gives you a feel for the Boulevard neighborhood and at Pizza Bella, when the door along the entire front of the restaurant rolls open, the city comes in to meet you.
You don’t always have to leave man’s best friend behind. Dogs are especially welcome on the patios at Lill’s on 17th, with canine happy hours a summer tradition. And tables are outside all year round at Chef Burger and Yummo in the Power and Light, to take advantage of any possible spring-like days.
There is certainly no dearth of choices in the Burbs. In Shawnee, Paulo and Bill’s bright yellow umbrella’s set off the garden-like setting for their popular outdoor area. Yia Yia’s and The Coyote Grill in Leawood, are long-time favorites for al fresco eating. And Joe DiGiovanni, famous for his patio cafe in Brookside, brings this tradition to Zest, one of the newest additions to the area’s great outdoor dining options.
Start making your plans to hit the decks …and the patios. And if it is rainy or too hot, don’t worry. Any of the KansasCityMenus restaurants would be very pleased to have you dine indoors, too.
Happy Dining!
