With the return of mask mandates and recent spikes in COVID-19 case numbers, many are looking to return to outdoor dining, particularly as summer temperatures wane. Here’s a look at several spots that offer unique al fresco dining experiences.

Havana’s, 1 N. Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach
Havana’s offers a large outdoor dining space overlooking North Lake Park Boulevard and the boardwalk area of Carolina Beach. With distanced tables and a new patio bar, this space offers plenty of room for the whole family to relax, complete with games like cornhole for the kids. It’s also a great spot for viewing the Thursday night fireworks, which are scheduled to run through mid-September. Diners can choose from a variety of fresh seafood as well as steaks and several “south of the border” options. Havana’s opens daily at 3 p.m., and brunch is served Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy live music on the patio every Wednesday and Saturday.

East Oceanfront Dining, Blockade Runner Beach Resort, 275 Waynick Blvd., Wrightsville Beach
Stepping out from the Blockade Runner onto East’s patio feels like a trip to the tropics. A lush green lawn surrounded by colorful gardens overlooks the ocean where guests can roam the grounds before or after dining. Led by chef Jessica Cabo, East creative fare features locally sourced seafood and vegetables influenced by Cabo’s travels to California, Mexico, Asia and the Mediterranean. For a lighter meal or cocktail, check out the Sea Escape Pool Bar that offers appetizers, handhelds, salads, tacos and desserts.

Grand Cru Food & Wine, 1904 Eastwood Rd., Suite 109, Lumina Station
With a spacious patio overlooking the courtyard at Lumina Station, Grand Cru Food & Wine is an ideal setting for a relaxing happy hour or romantic evening. The menu covers everything from cured meats and cheeses to small plates, salads, flatbreads and entrees such as Spanish Iberico pork tenderloin, blackened salmon and grits, braised short ribs and squid ink linguine a la caprese. With hundreds of wines to choose from, as well as a full bar, choosing a beverage may be your biggest concern. Service begins daily at 4 p.m. and reservations are accepted. Check out Grand Cru’s social media pages for updates on live music on the patio.

Quanto Basta Italian Eatery & Wine Bar, 107 N. Second St., Wilmington
One of downtown’s newer establishments, Quanto Basta has a lovely outdoor courtyard just steps away from Second Street yet secluded enough to feel cozy. Several outdoor tables surround a bubbling fountain, lending it a bit of a European feel. The menu features traditional Italian dishes, as well as appetizers, pizzette, salads and dessert. Dinner is served Monday through Saturday beginning at 4 p.m. and reservations can be booked online. 
 
Smoke on the Water, 3704 Watercraft Ferry Ave., Riverlights
With live music on the riverfront patio three days a week, Smoke on the Water is an ideal spot to watch the sun set while catching up over a bite to eat. The boardwalk patio includes fire pits and communal seating as well as individual tables. But outdoor seating is first come, first served. Smoke offers a full bar as well as appetizers, salads and entrees as well as seafood boils. Open Monday through Friday beginning at 4 p.m. and 11 a.m. on weekends.
 
Mariposa Tapas Bar, 1502 S. Third St., Wilmington
Mariposa Tapas Bar aims to transport you to Spain with its authentic Spanish tapas and intimate outdoor dining spaces. Whether seated on the covered porch or backyard patio, you’ll be surrounded by color and light. Sip sangria and sample some of the many offerings hand-selected by chef and owner Bobby Zimmerman to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Mariposa opens at 11 a.m. Monday through Saturday and at 10:30 a.m. Sunday for brunch.

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