Best Local Restaurants for Outdoor Eating.

What says “summertime” better than enjoying fresh, delicious food outside with the warm summer breeze blowing across the table? Being able to eat outside is one of my very favorite perks of summer, and we have some amazing local places that are perfect for just that. With the official start of summer just a few weeks away, I wanted to highlight some local favorites in Peoria on the blog today, and maybe just the nudge you need to plan a summer outdoor dinner party at one of these spots!

• Obed & Isaac’s. Obed & Isaac’s offers an amazing eating experience in one of the most unique local settings! They are a microbrewery and eatery located in a restored 1889 church building. They have extensive outdoor seating to enjoy on these warm summer days, complete with bocce ball!
• Cyd’s in the Park. Located right in Donovan Park, Cyd’s Market and Grill offers an amazing al fresca dining experience for those looking for a fresh and artfully curated dinner. They have put a special emphasis on creating fast, fresh and flavorful food in central Illinois.
• Slow Hand Craft BBQ. If you are looking for an indulgent, comforting dinner, featuring locally sourced ingredients, this is the perfect place to be. They have partnered with several local providers, including Spence Farms and Kilgus Farmstead, and their BBQ highlights true midwestern flavors. You can even sit outside for a second story view of Heritage Square’s outdoor concerts to complete the experience.
• Thyme Kitchen. If you’re looking for an outdoor dining experience right in the heart of downtown Peoria, Thyme Kitchen is the place to be. They offer the ultimate café experience – sandwiches, soups, and salads, for a refreshing summer meal in the city. 
• Brienzo’s Wood Fired Pizza. Wood-fired pizza, paninis, and salad on an outdoor patio – what’s not to love?! Brienzo’s can really deliver on an elevated pizza experience for the whole family. 
• 2 Chez. One of our favorite restaurants – we go here quite often and there is outdoor seating in the front!
• Jim’s Bistro. Another favorite of ours! Their outdoor seating is limited but available, and you can’t go wrong with their steak salad!

There are many other wonderful restaurants with outdoor seating like Let’s not forget Morton Restaurants either – Kemp 208 Main Street Grill, Seasons Gastropub, La Verandah, Dac’s Smokehouse, and more!

I would love to hear what some of your favorite local places with outdoor dining are – I know there are many more than the ones listed above. I look forward to taking advantage of the amazing restaurants in our area in these upcoming summer days and would love to hear recommendations.

Here’s to a wonderful summer, friends!