Now that we have passed the holiday season but are still dreaming of spring, these are the days when it can be a challenge to find fun, comfortable, and safe options for outdoor dining and relaxation. We have compiled a selection of local restaurants in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville where you can get some fresh air and enjoy tasty offerings while keeping cozy. If we’ve missed one of your favorites, be sure to comment with your recommendations – we love the chance to support local businesses!
Fayetteville
Ozark Natural Foods
The gorgeous new location for ONF is a perfect outdoor gathering place for a fun relaxed date or to bring the family! They have it all – a covered patio with comfy porch swings, dining space, and plenty of room for your kids or pups to frolic. They even feature yard games for some friendly competition. You can get your shopping done inside in their hyper-local organic grocery or grab a fresh smoothie and something delicious from their deli to enjoy outside while you watch the bustle of downtown Fayetteville.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ozarknaturalfoods/
Noodle’s Italian Kitchen
Noodle’s Italian Kitchen has been a Fayetteville staple for 20 years, and their patio game has always been strong. They have a multi-level outdoor dining space that is fully covered and drenched in twinkle lights, but that has so many heaters blazing that you may find yourself taking off layers! Indulge in their homemade Italian favorites and decadent desserts in a comfortable and lovely environment.
Website: https://www.noodlesitaliankitchen.net/
Theo’s
Theo’s in Fayetteville has been associated with fine dining and a luxurious ambiance for years. It’s no surprise they have renovated their patio to reflect those standards. Their covered and partially enclosed patio boasts comfortable group seating, dining space, and enough heaters to keep your focus on the food where it belongs. Theo’s chef serves upscale, modern coastal fare presented with a southern twist, and their craft cocktails are not to be missed.
Website: https://www.theosfayetteville.com/
Springdale
Sassafras Springs Vineyard
With several beautifully cascading patios, it is easy to find a great place to dine outdoors at Sassafras Springs Vineyard. They have fully covered patios, shaded and open areas, plus lots of outdoor heaters so you can enjoy the gorgeous view of the vineyard and estate in comfort. Try one of their signature vine-to-table wines paired with an oven-fired pizza or customized charcuterie board. Sassafras is extremely dog-friendly, and you can expect to see them lounging on the patios or even running on the grounds.
Website: https://www.sassafrasspringsvineyard.com/
Emma Ave Bar and Tap
When you’re in the mood for a relaxed patio experience, Emma Avenue Bar and Tap has you covered. Their spacious outdoor area is a great place to unwind with one of their wide selections of local craft beer and a plate of homemade chicken wings. The friendly staff makes everyone feel like family. You are likely to find local musicians performing on the patio, both as scheduled appearances and as impromptu “jam sessions”, and your pups are always welcome to join in the fun.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/emmaavenuebar/
Odd Soul
Don’t miss this local treasure for a laid-back and friendly outing! The Odd Soul will win you over with their awesome oven-fired pizzas and wings plus rotating local taps this winter. They have opened their new “small but mighty” patio for you and your favorite furry companion to enjoy as you enjoy the scenery of historic downtown Springdale. With seasonal activities rotating as well – like live music, various themed trivia nights, and even chair massages the Odd Soul will keep you full and entertained.
Website: https://theoddsoul.com/
Bentonville
Bentonville Brewing Company and Burg der Gustropub
Bentonville Brewing Company provides patrons a spacious outdoor dining and relaxation space with heated, covered seating, a children’s play area with scooters, and a stage to host live music. Not only is it dog friendly, it has a fenced dog park for your pup to enjoy while you dine. During nice weather, they open the walls of the brewhouse to create a flexible indoor/outdoor eating space. They are known for their selection of terrific craft beers, but they also offer gluten-free and low carb beer options for those with dietary restrictions. Their in-house kitchen, Burg der Gustropub, features wonderfully unique German pub fare with a High South twist.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/bentonvillebrewing
HUB Bike Lounge
Whether you are launching or wrapping up a two-wheeled adventure, the HUB Bike Lounge has you covered. The bike-centric retail, lounge, and restaurant space allows you to rent bicycles for the day, stock up on local vendors’ goods, or refuel with something from the bar and kitchen. Their patio features comfortable lounge furniture surrounded by Japanese maples, bamboo, and other greenery, while a large fire pit keeps things cozy even on cooler evenings. Unwind with their selection of coffee, beer, wine, and cocktails or try something from the kitchen. With upscale takes on soups, salads, and sandwiches, you can fill up without feeling weighed down.
Website: https://www.thehubbikelounge.com/
North Forest Snow Globes at Crystal Bridges
For a unique winter outdoor experience, try the Snow Globes at Crystal Bridges. Set in the middle of the stunning North Forest Lights exhibit (VIP tickets included in the rental price), you and your party can enjoy 3 hours in a see-through snow globe with lights, faux fur blankets, a Bluetooth speaker, and specialty food and cocktails featuring Eleven’s High South fare. Dogs on leashes are allowed in the North Forest Lights exhibit and the outdoor Village but cannot come into the Snow Globes. Extensive sanitation measures are taken between parties to ensure safety.
Website: https://crystalbridges.org/snowglobes/
Rogers
Crabby’s Seafood Bar and Grill
Crabby’s is a great choice to enjoy delicious seafood in a comfortable outdoor area. Their large patio offers dining space, appealing lounge furniture, and plenty of heaters to keep your party warm! They pride themselves on presenting the freshest seafood prepared in elegant and innovative ways paired with high-quality cocktails and wine to provide a memorable culinary experience.
Website: http://crabbysseafood.com/
Yeyo’s at the 1907
Yeyo’s Tacos and Mezcalaria is a well-loved fixture of the 8th St. Market, and their new location in Rogers keeps up the tradition of amazing food in a fun atmosphere. Check out their newly renovated patio area with plenty of seating and twinkling lights to add to the ambiance. All the meat and produce used in Yeyo’s famous street tacos come from local farms in NWA, and their mezcalaria will enchant with a selection of cocktails and more (have you ever tried smoked crickets?) that you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Website: https://www.yeyosnwa.com/
Komodo
If you want the option to dine outside but still enjoy the atmosphere of an indoor space, Komodo has a beautiful covered patio that will meet your needs. Komodo features modern Asian cuisine, fresh sushi, and made from scratch soups to keep you toasty from the inside out this winter.
Website: http://komodonwa.com/