We love an outdoor patio with ambiance! As the weather begins to warm, Californians are eager to soak up the sun. There are many restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating in Northern California. These outdoor dining areas are places you’ll want to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal.

1. Smith Flat House– Placerville

This rustic fine dining restaurant in the Gold Rush town of Placerville has a large outdoor space called The Courtyard.

They regularly host live music acts from April to October on The Courtyard, plus weddings and events. The Courtyard is partially covered by a gazebo and dogs are welcome.

2. The River’s Edge– Knights Ferry

The beautiful stone building that houses The River’s Edge fits in perfectly with the lovely riverfront setting.

This restaurant feels like you’re at someone’s very spacious river house. Their back deck overlooks a large lawn and the river. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal.

3. Sugar Barge Waterfront Bar & Grill– Bethel Island

This restaurant sits on the river on a larger property that also contains a resort and marina.

Sugar Barge Waterfront Bar & Grill has beautiful views of the Delta from Bethel Island. Sit outside under an umbrella and enjoy those cool delta breezes.

4. Espana’s Southwest Bar & Grill– Los Banos

This beautiful Spanish-style restaurant in the Central Valley serves delicious food in a charming setting.

The outdoor patio is like a little oasis, with a fountain and decorative tile work. They also have heaters for chilly evenings.

5. Trailside Cafe & Beer Garden– Carmel Valley

Trailside Cafe & Beer Garden is a cozy and contemporary cafe is located in the small town of Carmel Valley.

Sit outside in their beer garden. With a tall wood fence, umbrellas, and string lights, it feels like you’re in a cozy backyard.

6. Calistoga Inn, Restaurant & Brewery– Calistoga

We love this unpretentious and relaxed outdoor dining space at Calistoga Inn, Restaurant & Brewery.

The outdoor dining area is next to the Napa River. Start your evening with a drink and sit in Adirondack chairs by a fire pit. When you’re ready to eat, sit at one of the tables outside underneath the string lights.

7. View 202- Redding

This contemporary restaurant has a patio with unbeatable views of the Sacramento River and Trinity Mountains.

The patio is open and comfortable all year round. In the summer, they have misters outside to keep guests cool. And in the winter, they have heaters.

8. Left Coast Seafood & Marketplace– Ukiah

This charming restaurant with delicious seafood in Ukiah has a small outdoor patio overlooking a downtown street.

The patio is a comfortable spot to enjoy drinks, food, and people watching, especially when the weather is warm.

9. Beachcomber Cafe– Trinidad

Enjoy the organic food and this cafe outside on the patio.

Seating is in front and next to the restaurant, where you can enjoy the crisp ocean air and their locally-sourced cuisine.

Are there any great spots for outdoor dining in Northern California we missed? Tell us in the comments! This is your chance to share your local business with us!