When the weather’s right, there’s nothing better than dining outdoors. We found the best patios and outdoor dining spots in Tyler and East Texas—places where the atmosphere matches the food.
From lakeside views to brewery gardens, here are 5 restaurants where you’ll want to grab an outdoor table.
1. The Porch at ETX Brewing
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 4.4 · 97 reviews
The name says it all. ETX Brewing’s spacious porch is the perfect spot to enjoy craft beer and elevated pub food. The atmosphere is laid-back and the crowd is always good.
🍽️ Must-Order: ETX Brewing Burger, Beer-Battered Fish and Chips, Smoked Brisket Nachos
💡 Insider Tip: Thursday evenings often have live music on the porch—arrive early to snag a good seat.
2. Boathouse Bar & Grill
📍 Athens (30 min from Tyler) · ⭐ 4.2 · 168 reviews
Overlooking the water, Boathouse offers the best lakeside dining in the region. The sunset views are spectacular, and the Southern-inspired seafood hits the spot.
🍽️ Must-Order: Blackened Catfish, Shrimp and Grits, Fried Green Tomatoes
💡 Insider Tip: Request a patio table when you make a reservation—they fill up fast on weekends.
3. Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery
📍 Harleton (40 min from Tyler) · ⭐ 4.2 · 102 reviews
Nestled in the East Texas countryside, Enoch’s Stomp combines vineyard views with upscale dining. The terrace overlooking the vines is perfect for a special occasion.
🍽️ Must-Order: Grilled Ribeye with Red Wine Reduction, Pan-Seared Salmon, Cheese and Charcuterie Board
💡 Insider Tip: Book a table for sunset—the golden hour over the vineyard is unforgettable.
4. The Grove Kitchen & Gardens
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 3.7 · 333 reviews
Set within a beautiful garden nursery, The Grove offers a unique dining experience surrounded by plants and greenery. The farm-fresh menu changes with the seasons.
🍽️ Must-Order: Grilled Chicken Club, Garden Salad with Seasonal Vegetables, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich
💡 Insider Tip: Arrive early for brunch on weekends—it’s a local favorite and tables go fast.
5. Kiepersol Estates
📍 Tyler · ⭐ 4.5 · 63 reviews
This winery estate features beautiful outdoor seating areas with views of the grounds. It’s upscale but relaxed—perfect for a leisurely afternoon or evening.
🍽️ Must-Order: Ribeye Steak, Grilled Salmon, Loaded Baked Potato
💡 Insider Tip: Try their house wines—the estate produces excellent bottles on-site.
How We Picked These Spots
We looked for restaurants with genuine outdoor dining experiences—not just a few tables on the sidewalk. Each spot on this list has outdoor seating that adds to the dining experience, whether that’s waterfront views, vineyard landscapes, or lush garden settings.
Last updated: January 2026