Patio dining in Houston isn't quite the rage it is in more temperate cities. In fact, even cities like Chicago -- which arguably enjoys the same amount, perhaps even less, of patio-appropriate weather as we do -- seem to clamor for outdoor dining more than Houston does. Despite that fact, we are in the midst of ideal patio weather and Houston has no shortage of enjoyable outdoor space in which you may enjoy the next 17.5 days before we find ourselves in 90 degree-plus weather once again.
With glorious, short-lived patio weather in mind, here are our top 10 (give or take) patios in Houston:
10. The Creeks
Everyone in Houston has thoughts on the Creek family of restaurants -- good, bad or otherwise. Luckily for Houston, we have four to choose from. Since no two Houstonians can seem to agree on which one is best, we lumped all four here. Because all of the Creeks sit within a five-mile radius of one another, we've made it easy for you by picking all of them. For a more laid-back social vibe, we like the simplicity of Onion Creek or the so-called Austin-esque, sprawling hodgepodge that is Cedar Creek. If you prefer to BYOB, Dry Creek's small front patio is the way to go. If you can't be bothered with crushed granite gravel on your nice shoes, Canyon Creek is a far tidier if more stark patio.
9. El Pueblito
Surely you've seen the curious little cabanas and banana trees on Richmond. It's a just another random sight-- this oasis of white and green -- on the patchwork strip of Richmond home to rebuilt Talk of the Town porn shop and just blocks from the Menil. Stepping onto the greenery-draped patio, we wouldn't be surprised if you forgot you were in Montrose at all, even if it is just for a moment.
8. Jasper's and 1252 Tapas
With shopping, restaurants, bars and even a theater ringing its central green,The Woodlands Market Street offers something for most everyone. That central green area really is the highlight here and to that end, Jasper's and 1252 Tapas both offer enjoyable views on their patios. While we prefer 1252's fare to the curiously stacking-obsessed platings at Jasper's -- seriously, go look at its Facebook page -- you can't deny that Jasper's slate- and steel-lined patio is stellar.
