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Best Patios In St. Paul

For a couple of cities that see twice as many winter months than summer, it's truly awesome that we have such an overwhelming selection of patios to soak in those brief summer rays.Too many outdoor choices, in fact, that it seemed only fair to separate our lists into one for Minneapolis and another for St. Paul.

And even then, it was a difficult process to narrow it down to just 10. Now, I'll admit, I definitely haven't visited every patio in St. Paul, but thanks to viewer recommendations and suggestions from within the newsroom, we've managed to share some of our favorites.

However, this, like any other list, is in no way the be-all, end-all compilation. So we want to hear about your favorites, as well. And please feel free to comment if you agree with us -- we're just looking to start the conversation.

We took a look at the patios with character, mixed in some well-known favorites and threw in a few fun spots that we've enjoyed over the years.

The Liffey

175 W. 7th St.
St. Paul, MN
651-556-1420
Directory | Website

No matter what the occasion -- post-Wild game or pre-Xcel concert -- the patio at The Liffey always seems to be packed. Good thing this place has a large space -- enough to fit 150 of your closest friends. A big bonus of this perch is the great view of St. Paul.

McGoverns
credit: patmcgoverns.com

Patrick McGovern's

225 W. Seventh St.
St. Paul, MN
651- 224-5821
Website

With multiple tiers and murals galore, Patrick McGovern's is a great spot for dining or wining. Grab a seat by the man-made waterfall or cozy up to the crackling fire at night.

Happy Gnome
credit: Tony Anderson

Happy Gnome

Happy Gnome's Website
498 Selby Ave.
St. Paul, MN
651-287-2018
Directory | Website

The Happy Gnome's patio is a popular spot when the sun is shining -- or when the twinkling lights pop on after the sunsets. Either way, you can't go wrong. The deck has a great mix of shade and sun, thanks to a few tall, leafy trees that offer a great infusion of nature.

W.A. Frost
credit: wafrost.com

W.A. Frost

374 Selby Ave.
St. Paul, MN
651-224-5715
Directory | Website

It's been hailed as the king of kings when it comes to outdoor dining. W.A. Frost's patio is not only gorgeous but it's all about comfort. Cozy chairs and romantic love seats make W.A. Frost the perfect place for any occasion.

Salut
credit: salutbaramericain.com

Salut Bar Americain


917 Grand Ave.
St. Paul, MN
651-917-2345
Directory | Website

Located along Grand Avenue, Salut Bar takes its French influences beyond the cuisine to its patio perch. The checkered blue and white tablecloths and black metal fencing nearly has the ability to transport you to a European feeling of bistro lunching.

LaGrolla
www.lagrollastpaul.com

La Grolla

452 Selby Ave.
St. Paul, MN
651- 221-1061
Directory | Website

The patio at La Grolla is quite charming with simple furniture and a vine-growing wall. It's secluded yet open enough to enjoy the St. Paul views, making it a must for a lovely Italian affair.

SwedeHollow
credit: www.swedehollowcafe.com

Swede Hollow Cafe

725 E. 7th St.
St. Paul, MN
651-776-8810
Directory | Website

A viewer had high praises about Swede Hollow Cafe's outdoor dining spot, and it's easy to see why. There's a great view of the St. Paul skyline, mixed perfectly with a nature-fabulous blend between patio and park. And to top it all off, a historic fountain provides a wonderful centerpiece to summer.

Sweeneys
credit: www.sweeneyssaloon.com

Sweeney's Saloon

96 N. Dale St.
St. Paul, MN
612-396-0701
Directory | Website

Sweeney's patio is more like an expansive piece of art. The walls are colorfully decorated in advertisement murals, making it a unique spot for outdoor indulgence.

Muffuletta
credit: muffuletta.com

Muffuletta

2260 Como Ave.
St. Paul, MN
651-644-9116
Directory | Website

The Muffuletta patio is one of the hottest spots to be in the summer months. The tables fill up quick on this gorgeous patio, which is a nod to its elegant seating, hanging flowers and beautiful views. An upgrade from teal to orange umbrellas helps this patio pop even more.

Meritage
credit: www.meritage-stpaul.com

Meritage

410 St. Peter St.
St. Paul, MN
651-222-5670
Directory | Website

Located in the center of downtown St. Paul, Meritage combines elegant dining with fantastic views in a cozy space. At night, this quaint patio really comes to life as the lights of the city provide a romantic backdrop.

Honorable Mentions:

Great Waters Brewing Company

426 St. Peter St.
St. Paul, MN
561-224-BREW
Directory | Website

Billy's

Billy's Website
857 Grand Ave.
St. Paul, MN
651- 292-9140
Directory | Website

-Sara Boyd is a Web Producer at WCCO.com.

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