Out(side) to Eat

Drink and dine alfresco at these unique Columbia venues.

Warmer weather brings booked social calendars. After brunch with friends, pool parties, or an afternoon of T-ball games, eating outside as the golden hour turns to sunset is an ideal way to end a long day in the sun — especially if you leave the cooking to the pros.   

Columbia is home to many different restaurants, with options to speak to nearly everyone’s tastes. Those with pleasant outdoor spaces for patrons — and in some cases, their furry companions — only add to the delicious summer fun.  

Here are some of the more distinctive restaurant patios in Columbia, with tips and recommendations for enjoying alfresco dining season this spring and summer:  

Beer Garden 

Günter Hans  

Right in the hustle and bustle of downtown, a larger-than-expected courtyard sits behind Günter Hans, complete with hanging lights, thriving greenery, and ample seating for large groups or intimate dining for two. The European pub and cafe offers shareable charcuterie boards, calzones, and waffles that go down well with its array of imported beer or mixed drinks.    

During Mom’s Weekend for the University of Missouri sororities, a group of students and their moms enjoyed the laid-back space with its picturesque outdoor seating. The character of the brick buildings surrounding the garden add an Old World feeling, transporting diners to a quaint, historic town in Germany.  

• What to Know: While the charming beer garden is overflowing with good vibes, it does not offer fans or heaters. Bring a jacket if the temperature drops on spring nights and wear breathable clothing on humid summer days.  

• What to Try: German-style bretzel with Boursin cheese and a liter of Hofbräu, a wheat beer, to share. 

Communal Yard 

Logboat  

The local brewing company is a fun place to bring the family on a Saturday afternoon. The fenced-in and manicured lawn is an excellent way of containing the kids (and dogs) while you enjoy a local brew and camaraderie. The massive two-story seating area is shaded and comes complete with heaters for cooler weather. Although Logboat does not serve food itself, it has a schedule of food trucks that offer an array of tasty fare during the busy hours.   

Suzanne Rothwell, associate vice president for alumni relations, community relations, and development at Columbia College, said while hosting an event there, “Columbia College and Logboat have a great relationship together. It’s a great place to walk to after the work week is over.”  

• What to Know: Bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and cornhole to make full use of the spacious grassy area. Also, remember a plastic bag for picking up after your pets.   

• What to Try: High Tide (5.5% American Wheat with Orange) is an easy-to-drink choice with Citra hops, while the seasonal Giraffe (3.8% Tropical Ale with Mango) brings the taste of spring with a light, fruity, and fresh finish. 

Elevated Urban Patio 

Kampai  

Situated off the street within Alley A, Kampai sushi restaurant offers two levels of outdoor dining, with the upper patio being open on Fridays and Saturdays. Nestled between the brick buildings, the restaurant sets the mood with glowing string lights that go well with its cold drinks and upscale food. In the evenings, most of the patio space is shaded, providing respite from a day spent in the sun, especially for furry friends.   

In addition to fresh fish, stir-fried noodles, bento boxes, and tempura meals catch the eye of many guests. Customers enjoy people watching from the walkable alley, whether they’re savoring fresh sushi with friends or relaxing as a couple.   

• What to Know: Umbrellas are not available when dining outside. In the early evenings, a pair of sunglasses or a hat make the experience more pleasant when the sun is out.   

• What to Try: For an appetizer, the Brussels sprouts are a fan favorite, paired with the Cucumber Breeze cocktail. The rainbow roll is suggested as a light and refreshing meal.   

Tree Canopy Patio 

Flat Branch  

Flat Branch has a large patio that is great for warmer days. Mostly shaded underneath trees and umbrellas, the experience feels almost like you’re dining in the comfort of someone’s well-landscaped backyard. The pub’s menu dishes up a plethora of burgers, brats, chops, and brick oven pizzas — just what you might make on the grill at home, but without the cleanup. It also has a vegetarian menu for diners who wish to avoid meat or are looking to diversify their palate.  

While Flat Branch does not take reservations, the restaurant can accommodate large groups and is within walking distance of campus. Many customers appreciate the casual atmosphere and wide-ranging menu for whatever American food they find themselves in the mood for. In a large group, each person can find something to satisfy their hunger.   

• What to Know: During Mizzou’s football season, the restaurant can experience a high volume of customers, making service slower than normal. Be sure to budget enough time to enjoy a meal on these busier days.  

• What to Try: The house-brewed Green Chili Ale hits the taste buds with a slight kick and goes well with the Green Chili Chicken Tenders. 

Lakeview Deck 

Las Margaritas   

The covered deck at Las Margaritas on Southampton Boulevard provides double the dining pleasure: a view of a beautiful lake with a fountain and delicious Mexican food. Given the restaurant’s large square footage, customers typically don’t have to wait long for a table, even on a busy day. A cool breeze drifting off the lake onto the deck makes a table outside delightful on warmer days. The menu offers a range of authentic Mexican to Tex-Mex food that any customer can appreciate.  

Diners enjoy the scenic views under the shade during the warmer months, even spotting some water birds and turtles as their dining entertainment. Many also compliment the hot food and the speed with which it is brought to the table, as well as the refreshing margaritas.   

• What to Know: No heaters or fans are provided on the deck. For cooler nights, bring a jacket, and for warmer days, light clothes are suggested.  

• What to Try: Maya’s dip, a ground beef and cheese dip, paired with a skinny margarita to unwind from a long week.  

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Hungry for More? 

Check out even more restaurants with notable outdoor seating: 

• Barred Owl Butcher & Table  

• Cafe Berlin  

• COMO Smoke and Fire  

• Dive Bar  

• Irene’s  

• Nourish Cafe & Market  

• Ozark Mountain Biscuit & Bar  

• Shiloh Bar & Grill  

• The Heidelberg