Outdoor Dining Rooftop — Courtesy: Image by Brian Patrick Lim from Shutterstock
Gone are the hot and humid nights of summer, because “fall” is upon us in Florida. Although our Florida fall is about a one-degree dip in temperature, this means that outdoor dining season is about to begin.
Just in time for the breezy season, Holidu has conducted a study determining which Florida cities offer the best outdoor dining options.
Orlando is the top-rated city in Florida for outdoor dining according to the study, scoring a strong 10 out of 10 points.
“Orlando is not only busy during the summer, but thanks to the gorgeous Florida weather, it is an attractive destination all year long,” says the website. “Coming in at a little over 670 outdoor dining establishments, and an average rating of 4.32 stars on Google, it is no wonder this city ranked at the top of our list as the most outdoor dining friendly city in Florida this year.”
However, Orlando isn’t the only popular Florida city to make the top 10 list.
Following Orlando came Miami at No. 2, Tampa at No. 3, Jacksonville at No. 4, Fort Lauderdale at No. 5, Miami Beach at No. 6, St. Petersburg at No. 7, Tallahassee at No.8, Boca Raton at No. 9, and Clearwater at No. 10 on their list.
Florida cities with a population of over 85,000 were considered for the study.
- Orlando, Florida
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- Hungry Pants (303 / 4.8)*
- Grape and the Grain Wine Bar (170 / 4.7)*
- Bulla Gastrobar (1905 / 4.5)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
2. Miami, Florida
This southern waterfront gem is famous for its nightlife and array of unique dining establishments. Miami is perfect for anyone’s taste palate with over 630 outdoor dining spots to choose from. Have a drink on a sky-high dining deck or grab a bite by the sand, Miami is the second-best outdoor dining city for a reason.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- Mandolin Aegean Bistro (2124 / 4.6)*
- La Mar by Gaston Acurio (1428 / 4.4)*
- Amara At Paraiso (1363 / 4.3)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
3. Tampa, Florida
Tampa is known for its beloved tourist attractions like Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium, but the city’s unique mix of high-rises and waterfront views offers some phenomenal dining experiences.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- Armature Works (9239 / 4.6)*
- Bartaco (1647 / 4.4)*
- Jackson’s Bistro, Bar & Sushi (4223 / 4.3)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
4. Jacksonville, Florida
Located in the most northwestern part of Florida, Jacksonville is the largest city to snag a spot on the list. Between lush parks and skyscrapers, Jacksonville has over 530 outdoor dining spots.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- The Bearded Pig (3439 / 4.6)*
- Taverna (1118 / 4.6)*
- River & Post (2716 / 4.4)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
5. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
This bustling summer destination is known for its breathtaking beaches and arts. With over 300 beautiful dining locations, you can satisfy your stomach without having to sacrifice a moment away from the Florida sunshine.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- Kaluz Restaurant (3820 / 4.6)*
- Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria (4568 / 4.5)*
- American Social (1701 / 4.3)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
6. Miami Beach, Florida
This barrier island holds some of the most stunning beaches and views from its restaurants. With nearly 300 spots to choose from, these delicious dining locations offer an experience unlike any other. Tourists can embrace the palm-tree-lined shores while sipping on a cool cocktail.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- Ole Ole Steak House (2644 / 4.9)*
- Il Pastaiolo (1501 / 4.8)*
- La Leggenda Pizzeria (1003 / 4.7)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
7. St. Petersburg, Florida
Next is the charming city of St. Petersburg. Located right under Tampa, the city has 270 places to grab a bite or drink. Whether dining waterfront, beachside, or beneath the stars, St. Petersburg meets high expectations.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- CALI – St. Pete (1134 / 4.7)*
- Noble Crust (2646 / 4.6)*
- Casita Taqueria (2024 / 4.6)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
8. Tallahassee, Florida
Coming in at number eight on the list, the Sunshine State’s capital has over 230 dining establishments to explore. Home to the rich history of Florida and Florida State University, you won’t want to miss the uniqueness of this charming city.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- Kool Beanz Cafe (1100 / 4.7)*
- Midtown Caboose (1513 / 4.6)*
- Backwoods Crossing (1430 / 4.6)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
9. Boca Raton, Florida
Boca Raton lies on Florida’s south coast. With over 200 outdoor dining spots to choose from, Boca is primarily known for its fine dining. Sprawling with nature and a luxurious art scene, this vibrant city is perfect for your next fancy night out.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- Seasons 52 (1599 / 4.5)*
- Yard House (1460 / 4.4)*
- Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria (1484 / 4.4)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
10. Clearwater, Florida
The tenth and final destination on the list is the city of Clearwater. Located in Florida’s Tampa Bay, the area is known for its sandy white beaches and wonderful weather. Clearwater is a must-see destination if you are looking for a bustling beach town with a lively dining atmosphere.
Top-rated outdoor dining you can’t miss:
- Ryan’s Island Cafe (1529 / 4.9)*
- Cristino’s Coal Oven Pizza (2436 / 4.7)*
- Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill (10485 / 4.5)*
*number of Google ratings / average score
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Born and raised in South Florida, Krystal is a recent graduate from the University of Miami with professional writing experience at the collegiate and national news outlet levels. She’s a foodie who loves all things travel, the beach, & visiting new places throughout Florida.