It’s patio season, which means taking advantage of these long days and warm nights by dining outdoors. Here’s a round-up of some family-friendly, must-try restaurants that feature great outdoor dining.
Fifty West
Pack your beach bag, we are heading to Fifty West! Burgers, tenders, shakes and secret fry sauce may keep bellies full, but the sandy picnic table areas make our kiddos the happiest. Beach shovels are encouraged as little ones can kick off their shoes and play in the sand while slurping up a delicious shake. Conveniently on the bike trail of the Little Miami River, finish up your meal with a ride over to Bass Island for skipping rocks. 7605 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati
Fireside Pizza
When the tall sliding door opens up at Cincinnati’s oldest standing firehouse, you know it’s sweet summertime. With gluten-free options available, Fireside Pizza is home to authentic wood-fired pies. A bookshelf of activities and coloring contests make this a perfect dinner spot before a trip to the nearby Eden Park playground. 773 E McMillan St., Cincinnati
Jimmie’s Ladder 11
For your aspiring firefighter, Jimmie’s Ladder 11 makes dreams come true. Authentic firehouse memorabilia fills the walls of the highly rated burger, pizza and wing joint with a beautifully landscaped covered patio. Buttered noodles and chicken fill up our pickiest young eaters. 936 Brown St., Dayton
Little Miami Brewing Company
A family-friendly brewpub overlooking the Little Miami River, Little Miami Brewing Company serves brick oven pizza, salads and appetizers that will please the whole family. The outdoor patio has communal picnic tables and a whole cart of board games to keep the kids entertained, as well as a lineup of live music. 208 Mill St., Milford
Local Post
Settled into a historic post office building, Local Post is a short half mile drive from Lunken Airport’s viewing area, a favorite amongst aviation-loving kids. Whether you’re indulging in Post Fries or an (absolutely amazing) Emerson salad, kids eat free pizza on Mondays with an adult meal! The pet-friendly patio is a perfect spot for the entire family, fur babies included. 3923 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati
Putz’s Creamy Whip
Under the tall shade trees of Putz’s Creamy Whip, cool down with a Westwood-famous chocolate soda and Queen City Sausage chili cheese footlong. The Kings Island-esque blue ice cream is a family favorite. 2673 Putz Pl., Cincinnati
Rita’s of Kettering
Rita’s Italian ice gelati is a hidden gem for Swedish fish-loving kiddos! Layers of Italian ice and creamy custard paired with delicious flavors like dragon fruit, pear, key lime and s’mores. Rita’s is a light yet filling dessert under the red and white striped umbrellas. 3371 E. Stroop Rd., Kettering
Senate
Steps away from Summit Park’s impressive playground, Senate’s gourmet hot dogs and location keep us coming back for more. Blue Ash’s Summit Park is a hotspot for flying kites, dabbling into the water nature scape and spending time with family. Burn off that extra energy and replenish with Senate’s delicious duck fat fries, hot dogs and famous poutine. Senate is located in Summit Park and is our featured photo! 1100 Summit Ave A, Blue Ash
Sugar n’ Spice Diner
Nostalgia meets summertime with pops of pastel at Cincy’s most colorful diner. Whisk your cares away with an immediate serotonin boost from tasty, wispy thin pancakes and a family-friendly atmosphere. Everyone goes home with their choice of rubber ducky. For a kiddo, outdoor dining doesn’t get any better than that. 1203 Sycamore St., Cincinnati
Sunrise Cafe
We love the true village feel of Yellow Springs with great hiking, boutique shops, fresh coffee and beautiful courtyard patios perfect for outdoor dining. Known for their breakfast, Sunrise Cafe keeps it local and from scratch. The impressive kids menu offers healthy options like veggie burgers, grilled chicken and organic macaroni and cheese. 259 Xenia Ave., Yellow Springs
