It’s summertime and the living is easy—especially when we have the chance to enjoy a meal or cocktail with loved ones on a warm day in Omaha. There are plenty of sun-splashed patios to enjoy the season around town, ranging from dive bars to French groceries and upscale eateries. We rounded up 13 unbeatable restaurant patios in Omaha to check out this summer because, in our opinion, things just taste better al fresco!
Please note: this post was updated as of May 20th, 2021 to reflect the most up-to-date information.
1912 Benson
Photo courtesy of 1912 Benson
Benson is one of our favorite neighborhoods to wander on any given weekend. In fact, it’s easy to spend an entire day there without getting bored! And the rooftop patio at 1912 is definitely one of the neighborhood’s highlights, offering a sunny space to people watch, enjoy a refreshment and take in views of the surrounding scenery. The menu features shareable bar snacks (including mouthwatering Wagyu oxtail sliders), as well as a wide array of soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and more. The bar menu is even more impressive, featuring nearly 20 beers on tap, a selection of rare bombers and cellared beers, a full cocktail list, and wine options. As 1912 would say, “Come get High On Benson!”
Jaipur Restaurant & Brewery
Jaipur is an inspired Indian restaurant and craft brewery combo in the heart of Rockbrook Village. From their cozy dining room or cozy, covered patio, you can order Pakora (deep-fried vegetable fritters) for the table, Tandoori Shrimp for yourself, and the locally famous Jalapeño Ale! If beer with a bite isn’t your favorite, try the raspberry or classic Nut Brown Ale.
Bärchen Beer Garden
Photo courtesy of Bärchen Beer Garden
Beer, sandwiches, sausages, pretzels, a killer patio and a festive atmosphere — Bärchen Beer Garden is the place to be if you’re looking for a casual and delicious meal out! Reviewers gush about the quality of the beer and food, and many say that it feels like a bar straight out of Germany. Make sure to take some time to hang out on the patio before summer comes to a close.
Jams
1101 Harney Street, Omaha AND 17070 Wright Plaza, Omaha
Jams is a contemporary American grill with locations in Legacy, Old Market and central Omaha. Their menu may be short and concise, but every option is savory and creative, and sure to satisfy every craving. Their patio at their Legacy location is a local favorite, offering two sprawling spaces compete with couches, covered tables and even string lights to add a nice ambiance to twilight dinners.
Blatt Beer & Table (North Downtown)
Photo courtesy of Blatt Beer & Table
The community atmosphere at Blatt Beer & Table can’t be beat. Gather around a wooden table with friends or family and split an order of the bar’s famous buffalo chachos (potato chips, bacon, sriracha, buffalo, blue cheese and chives), mac and cheese bites, or Bavarian pretzel bites. Of course, we think everything tastes better on the rooftop beer garden, which features spectacular views of downtown Omaha. This location (the original Blatt Beer & Table) is also just steps away from TD Ameritrade Park and the CenturyLink Center, so it’s an ideal place to grab a beer before the big game or concert.
Mister Toad
The patio at Mister Toad is nothing short of legendary. Located on the bustling corner of 10th and Howard Streets in the heart of Omaha’s Old Market, the patio features wooden booths, comfortable chairs and tables sprawling across the outdoor space. It’s the best spot in the area for people watching, for Sunday jazz and for catching up with friends.
Corkscrew Wine & Cheese
10924 Prairie Brook Road, Omaha AND 3908 Farnam Street, Omaha
Corkscrew Wine & Cheese is a wine bar and retail shop mashed into one incredible concept. With more than 700 wine options at every price point and an excellent selection of snacks and accouterments, the shop has gained a glowing reputation among Omaha wine aficionados. Corkscrew has two Omaha locations, each with a fantastic patio for enjoying your wine and cheese selection. The Blackstone location boasts a fire pit — which is perfect for enjoying after the sun sets and the air gets crisp. But the Rockbrook location comes complete with lush greenery, a cozy atmosphere and a fireplace. You really can’t go wrong with either!
Upstream Brewing Company
Since 1996, Upstream Brewing Company has been providing Omahans with high-quality, craft brews and an unbeatable atmosphere. In fact, it was the first brewpub to open within the city limits! Grab a flight and an appetizer to share outside. The space sits in the heart of Omaha’s Old Market and is the perfect perch for people-watching.
LOCAL Beer, Patio and Kitchen
902 Dodge Street, Omaha AND 4904 South 135th Street, Omaha
Photo courtesy of LOCAL Beer, Patio and Kitchen
The best part about the beer selection at LOCAL Beer, Patio and Kitchen is that a large portion of them were brewed right here in Omaha! Pick from more than 100 options on tap (and one of four different sizes), and enjoy your selection on the spacious patio. Pass the time by playing a giant game of Connect 4, and don’t miss trivia night every Tuesday.
La Buvette Wine and Grocery
There are so many possible reasons to visit the lush patio at La Buvette — a morning cup of espresso, a glass of rosé on a hot summer evening or a midday charcuterie board. But honestly, we could go just to enjoy the atmosphere. The gorgeous patio is surrounded by ivy and ferns, and is shaded from the sun on particularly hot Omaha days. Before sitting down, browse the onsite grocery and wine selection — you might just find a good bottle to enjoy at the table.
Nite Owl
This fun and funky Omaha bar has certainly made a name for itself with its inventive craft cocktails and friendly atmosphere. When it’s warm, we recommend enjoying your bevvie al fresco, where you’ll find the same quirky decor that the bar is known for in addition to a pergola for just the right amount of shade. If you’re hungry, the menu features a mouthwatering selection of house-made burgers, tots and more.
Note: Even during daytime, the bar is 21+, so leave the kiddos at home!
Inner Rail Food Hall
Inner Rail Food Hall is Omaha’s newest food hall! The area, which is situated on the grounds of the old Aksarben racetrack, offers an indoor/outdoor food court situation allowing you to order at the counter of a restaurant of your choice and are able to take it to eat wherever you’d like on the grounds. Here you’ll find Omaha classics like Culprit Cafe, Nolis Pizzeria, Hola and so many more. And the patio, which overlooks Aksarben Village, is an absolute dream.
Rose and Crown Pub
Photo courtesy of Rose and Crown Pub
This bar just celebrated its 10th anniversary and is a popular option for a casual sipper and great conversation on a warm day! The back patio is shaded by a gigantic tree, which just adds to the summertime atmosphere of the place. The beer is affordable, the food is hearty and the community is unbeatable — what more can you ask for from your friendly neighborhood bar?
Cheers to patio season!
Where are some of your favorite summertime hangouts in Omaha? Share your recommendations with us in the comments!