Skip to main content

Millcreek Journal

Five excellent outdoor dining options in Salt Lake County

Aug 08, 2024 11:20AM ● By Peri Kinder

Outdoor dining is a hallmark of summertime leisure. With several options available, finding a relaxing patio for lunch or dinner is guaranteed. (Stock photo)

Warm weather ushers in the chance to dine al fresco, surrounded by beautiful scenery, friends and family, and good food. Salt Lake County is home to dozens of eateries that feature patio dining and these are some of the best. 

Millcreek Pizza House, 1357 E. 3300 South, Millcreek

Spend a pleasant summer evening sitting on the patio of Millcreek Pizza House. Located at Millcreek Common, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy a meal, have a drink, watch roller skaters and wall climbers, and enjoy local entertainment. Choose from handcrafted pizzas with fresh-made dough and quality meats, vegetables and cheese. Options include a pesto-based mushroom pizza, a classic Margherita with fresh basil and balsamic reduction, and a BBQ chicken pizza with spicy sriracha ranch sauce. There are also gluten-friendly options, garlic bread, salads and refreshing drinks. Learn more at Millcreekpizzahouse.com.

Tuscany, 2832 E. 6200 South, Holladay

For something more upscale, the patio seating at Tuscany creates a romantic dining experience with beautiful flowers, stone walls, intimate lighting, delicious food and fine wines. Inspired by Italy’s stunning landscape and captivating cuisine, Tuscany’s patio is a hidden treasure where diners can enjoy a summer meal. The menu includes a fried green tomato appetizer, chicken pesto pizza, beef entrees, lamb chops, house made pasta and specialty cocktails. Top off the meal by sharing a slice of Tuscany’s decadent chocolate cake with chocolate ganache layers and vanilla bean gelato. For more information, visit Tuscanyslc.com.

Oasis Cafe, 151 S. 500 East, Salt Lake City

Visiting Oasis Cafe is about taking a step back from busy schedules and into a retreat for the senses. Its flower-filled patio, or the covered breezeway, are calming places to enjoy a friendly brunch, a scrumptious dinner or cold-pressed juices on a warm summer evening. Brunch options include coffee cake, breakfast burritos, omelets and applewood smoked bacon. Tasty appetizers, creative salads and hearty dishes can be found for dinner. The dessert menu features chocolate cheesecake and lavender panna cotta. Oasis Cafe also supports local breweries and merchants. Visit Oasiscafeslc.com to learn more. 

Royal on Ridge, 14886 S. Traverse Ridge Road, Draper

Executive Head Chef Carlos Padilla invites diners to elevate their experience by enjoying an evening on the patio at Royal on Ridge. Located at Suncrest, high on the East Bench in Draper, the Ridge offers spectacular mountain views to accompany brunch, lunch or dinner. Favorite menu items include Royal Short Rib Pasta, chicken enchiladas and handmade pizza fired in a Stefano Ferrara wood-fired brick oven. Live music every Thursday night and for Sunday brunch creates a fun atmosphere. An extensive drink menu features cocktails, wine and beer. To learn more, visit RoyalOnRidge.com. 

Ruth’s Diner, 4160 E. Emigration Canyon Road, Salt Lake City

Just a few minutes up Emigration Canyon, Ruth’s Diner’s outdoor patio offers live music at 6:30 p.m., from Thursday through Sunday. This year marks the 94th anniversary of the diner, where locals go for Mile High biscuits and cinnamon roll French toast. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served with hearty items like chicken fried steak, grilled Idaho red trout, butter squash carbonara and Ruth’s famous dessert menu. The diner offers soda, wine, beer and specialty drinks like Ruth’s Killer Bloody Mary. Visit RuthsDiner.com for more information.