Al Fresco Appetite

The city's best spots for outdoor dining.

Ducca
We officially nominate Ducca as home base for summer happy hour. The big slate patio has ample seating, heat lamps aplenty and, best of all, you can accompany your cocktail with various snacks—from addictive arancini to fried, gorgonzola-stuffed olives. 50 Third Street, 415-977-0271



Metro Kathmandu
You’d never know from looking at it that the narrow hallway at the back of Metro Kathmandu leads to one of the finest patios in town, generously planted and shaded by mature trees. Note, however, that the patio is only open for weekend brunch, when the menu walks the line between American classic (eggs and toast) to Nepalese traditional (momos and curry). 311 Divisadero St., 415-552-0903



B Star Bar
Who among us hasn’t hoped to eat at Burma Superstar, only to be dissuaded by the line snaking down the street? Ever since sister restaurant B Star Bar opened, though, there’s been another option, and this one has a sunny back deck, perfect for a leisurely lunch under the flowering vines. At night, heat lamps combat the chill. Bonus: The pan-Asian menu (with a Burmese flair) features some favorites from Burma Superstar. 127 Clement St. 415-933-9900

Universal Café
Though Universal Café has been around for 15 years, coming upon it on its residential stretch of 19th Street still feels like a happy discovery. A tight knot of four tables flank the entrance—it’s not much, but it’s a great spot to while away a warm night or Saturday morning while working your way through Leslie Carr-Avalos’ farm-fresh California menu. 2814 19th St., 415-821-4608

Sociale
This perennial favorite tops every list of best outdoor dining destinations, and for good reason. The mid-block courtyard, filled with umbrella-bedecked tables, has a charming, European feel, and is open at both lunch and dinner. The great wine list and rustic Italian food are added incentives to pay a visit. 3665 Sacramento St. 415-921-3200

Click here for our comprehensive list of all the restaurants under the sun

Ducca
We officially nominate Ducca as home base for summer happy hour. The big slate patio has ample seating, heat lamps aplenty and, best of all, you can accompany your cocktail with various snacks—from addictive arancini to fried, gorgonzola-stuffed olives. 50 Third Street, 415-977-0271



Metro Kathmandu
You’d never know from looking at it that the narrow hallway at the back of Metro Kathmandu leads to one of the finest patios in town, generously planted and shaded by mature trees. Note, however, that the patio is only open for weekend brunch, when the menu walks the line between American classic (eggs and toast) to Nepalese traditional (momos and curry). 311 Divisadero St., 415-552-0903



B Star Bar
Who among us hasn’t hoped to eat at Burma Superstar, only to be dissuaded by the line snaking down the street? Ever since sister restaurant B Star Bar opened, though, there’s been another option, and this one has a sunny back deck, perfect for a leisurely lunch under the flowering vines. At night, heat lamps combat the chill. Bonus: The pan-Asian menu (with a Burmese flair) features some favorites from Burma Superstar. 127 Clement St. 415-933-9900

Universal Café
Though Universal Café has been around for 15 years, coming upon it on its residential stretch of 19th Street still feels like a happy discovery. A tight knot of four tables flank the entrance—it’s not much, but it’s a great spot to while away a warm night or Saturday morning while working your way through Leslie Carr-Avalos’ farm-fresh California menu. 2814 19th St., 415-821-4608

Sociale
This perennial favorite tops every list of best outdoor dining destinations, and for good reason. The mid-block courtyard, filled with umbrella-bedecked tables, has a charming, European feel, and is open at both lunch and dinner. The great wine list and rustic Italian food are added incentives to pay a visit. 3665 Sacramento St. 415-921-3200

Click here for our comprehensive list of all the restaurants under the sun

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