Dining Al Fresco in Duluth

People eating a patio

It’s easy to work up an appetite after enjoying all that Duluth has to offer. Want to satisfy your taste buds and quench your thirst while also enjoying that Lake Superior fresh air? No problem! Here’s a look at some of Duluth’s outstanding outdoor dining options throughout the city.   

Lake Superior Views

patio at Canal Park Brewing Company
Canal Park Brewing Company

As the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area, Lake Superior provides a vast horizon and refreshing breeze. Looking to dine with a view? Check these places out:

The Boat Club Restaurantlocated in the historic Fitger’s complex, offers views of the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. (While taking in the view, try their famous Lobster Bloody Mary!)

Also in the Fitger’s complex, Mexico Lindo offers lakeside dining featuring classic Mexican fare and refreshing margaritas.

You’ll find some of the best Italian in the region at Va Bene Caffe. From-scratch Italian dishes will delight as the sun sets over the harbor.

Speaking of the harbor, get a front-row seat to a 1,000-foot ship entering port at Silos Restaurant, located at Pier B Resort next to Bayfront Festival Park.

Canal Park Brewing Company invites you and your furry friends to sit on the patio and take in the view while enjoying a pint of their solar-brewed beer.

Sir Benedict’s Tavern on the Lake serves up hot sandwiches on their popular patio near the big lake.

Canal Park

Little Angie's Cantina patio
Little Angie’s Cantina

A visit to Duluth should always include a stop in Canal Park, the city’s waterfront district with lodging, dining, shopping options and access to the Lakewalk, lighthouses and Aerial Lift Bridge.

At the historic Grandma’s Restaurant, you can dine right next to the Aerial Lift Bridge.

Also next to the bridge, Vikre Distillery crafts cocktails which resemble works of art

Enjoy a large wine list and Italian menu at Bellisio’s Restaurant.

Try the fajitas paired with a margarita of your dreams at Little Angie’s Cantina.

Located in the Dewitt-Seitz Marketplace, Lake Avenue Restaurant & Bar highlights inventive New American cuisine and an impressive cocktail list.

Hop to the other side of Canal Park to enjoy the Hoops Brewing Biergarten with views of the William A. Irvin ship.

Northern Waters Smokehaus features a lovely patio right outside its new location on the lower level of the Dewitt-Seitz building.

Chachos Taqueria features handmade Mexican street food with a patio in the heart of Canal Park.

Enjoy a slice of Vitta Pizza on their charming Canal Park patio.

Lincoln Park

Ursa Minor Brewing patio
Ursa Minor Brewing

Are you a craft brew connoisseur? The Lincoln Park Craft District is the place to visit for a tour of local pints. 

Start your day with a brunch cocktail on Duluth Grill’s extensive patio.

Bent Paddle Brewing features a heated dog-friendly patio, as well as an outdoor plaza where they host live music.

Ursa Minor pairs their brew with wood-fired pizza that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Carnivores will need to head to OMC Smokehouse for their world-class BBQ and imaginative whiskey bar.

If you’re a fan of ciders, Wild State Cider and Duluth Cider can both be savored outdoors.

Hungry Hippie Tacos is a newcomer to Duluth’s Lincoln Park, boasting a large patio right out front.

Need an afternoon pick me up? Grab your favorite iced coffee or tea at 190 Coffee & Tea and enjoy on their newly constructed patio.

Soak up the casual café atmosphere with a specialty crafted coffee or beer in hand on the sidewalk patio at Dovetail Café.

Just across the street, grab a spot on the bench and enjoy a fresh scoop of hand-crafted ice cream at Love Creamery.

Downtown Duluth

Spending the day shopping the storefronts of downtown Duluth? Take a break and relax with a cold beverage on one of these downtown patios.

Now in a new location on Superior Street, grab a pint and walk out the opened garage door to Blacklist’s large streetside patio.

Just across the street in the historic Greysolon Plaza, indulge in a specialty crafted martini or choose from a wide selection of classic and contemporary cocktails at the Black Water Lounge.

Down Superior Street a few blocks, be sure to find Dubh-Linn Brew Pub, home to Minnesota’s Largest Whiskey Bar.

West Duluth

Further west, head to the Boreal House to explore 16 rotating taps or their seasonal cocktail menu.

Enjoy the views on Spirit Mountain with dining on the patio at Riverside Bar and Grill.

On the Hill

patio restaurant area
Tavern on the Hill

Up from the waterfront, appreciate the local favorites while taking in the best views of the harbor.

At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café where a farm-to-table menu and quaint setting delights. Want to explore Duluth’s college town side? 

Tavern on the Hill is just across the street from the University of Minnesota Duluth. This family-friendly restaurant offers a massive menu that will excite your whole table with artisan pizzas and creative burgers.

Enjoy the North Shore rustic atmosphere at Burrito Union while indulging in both classic and inspired Mexican cuisine.

Enjoy a slice of Vitta Pizza on the patio at their Duluth Heights location.

Posted on May 18, 2023