This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
It's time to dine al fresco and enjoy the outdoors. Food just seems to taste better when served on an outdoor patio or deck, surrounded by flowers, a fountain and a breeze. Of course, restaurants located at Utah ski resorts have built-in views, but if you're looking for something more urban, here's a list of some the best patios with a city view.
Em's Restaurant • This charming eatery on Capitol Hill has a shaded terrace that is big enough for pairs and large groups to dine next to each other without feeling cramped.
271 N. Center St., Salt Lake City; 801-596-0566. Tuesday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wednesday to Sunday, 5:30 to 9 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; http://www.emsrestaurant.com.
Green Pig Pub • The pub has Salt Lake City's first rooftop patio, offering a view of City Hall and the Wasatch mountains. With a maximum capacity of just 50, it's sure to be crowded on warm summer evenings.
31 E. 400 South, Salt Lake City. Monday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (open Sundays 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. once football season starts) Call 801-532-7441 or visit http://www.thegreenpigpub.com.
Café Trio Cottonwood/Downtown • Depending on your mood, both Café Trio locations offer fantastic patio dining. For beautiful river views and green landscapes, try Cottonwood. Head downtown for an urban garden feel.
3405 S. 3000 East, Cottonwood Heights; Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Downtown, 680 S. 900 East, Salt Lake City; Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; http://www.triodining.com.
Caffé Molise • In the summer, this Italian restaurant expands onto the brick courtyard of adjacent Dinwoody Plaza. The semi-secluded patio offers a bit of greenery and an urban feel.
55 W. 100 South, Salt Lake City; 801-364-8833. Monday to Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday to Thursday, 5:30 to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5:30 to 10 p.m. Call 801-364-8833 or visit http://www.caffemolise.com.
The Dodo Restaurant • Regulars love the spacious south-facing patio, with great views of Sugar House Park and the Wasatch mountains. Awnings offer a welcome bit of shade.
1355 E. 2100 South, Salt Lake City; 801-486-2473. Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. 801-486-2473 or http://www.thedodo.net.
Fresco Italian Cafe • The tiny trellised patio offers a serene escape that invites diners to linger.
1513 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City; 801-486-1300. Monday to Thursday, 5 to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 5 to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 5 to 9 p.m.; http://www.frescoitaliancafe.com; 801-944-8746.
Grappa Italian Cafe • Get a one-of-a-kind view of Park City's Main Street from the patio of this historic building.
151 Main St., Park City. Open nightly, 5 to 9:30 p.m.; 435-645-0636; http://www.grapparestaurant.com.
Market Street Grill Cottonwood • Spacious patios and decks offer views of the Wasatch Mountains and Cottonwood Creek.
2985 E. Cottonwood Parkway, Cottonwood Heights. Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday, 5 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 4 to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 4 to 9 p.m. Call 801-942-8860 or visit http://www.ginc.com.
Ruth's Diner • The patio at this legendary Emigration Canyon restaurant has recovered from last month's flood and is ready for summer dining.
2100 Emigration Canyon, Salt Lake City; 801-582-5807. Daily, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; 801-582-5807; http://www.ruthsdiner.com.
Tuscany • This secluded patio lined with trees and ivy is comfortable and romantic.
2832 E. 6200 South, Holladay; 801-277-9919. Monday to Thursday, 5:30 to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; 801-227-9919; http://www.tuscanyslc.com.
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It's outdoor dining season — tell us about your favorites
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