Although Houston's patio weather days sometimes seem numbered, the European-style open-air layout of CITYCENTRE makes al fresco dining a breeze — and a number of restaurants offer just the right deals for guests to enjoy it all season long.
"Our patio seems to be really popular with the lunch and post-work crowd during the workweek, and it's always busy on the weekends," says Chris Fannin, managing partner at The Capital Grille CityCentre, renowned for dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood and award-winning wines.
"The Capital Grille's patio is covered, which provides protection from the elements, however, it still feels open and airy. There's also usually a nice little breeze, so even when it's warmer out, it's still really comfortable."
This calming environment is the perfect place to enjoy The Capital Grille's new gourmet burgers for lunch — try the Kona Crusted Wagyu Burger with Shallot Mayo, served with Parmesan truffle fries — or to unwind with $5 wine specials each weekday. Pro tip: Stop by on a Wednesday, when the chef's selection of complimentary hors d'oeuvres is offered alongside the wine features.
The recently-rooted Seasons 52, a seasonally-inspired grill and wine bar, also offers a great patio with fast seating for weary shoppers and the workday lunch crowd. Don't miss one of the creative cocktails, like the Strawberry-Coconut Skinny Martini or the Mango Jalapeno Crush. This summer, the restaurant will offer a complimentary glass of wine at dinner with the purchase of an entree. (Valid Monday TO Friday only. Please ask your server for the wine list for this promotion.)
The European-style open-air layout of CITYCENTRE makes al fresco dining a breeze — and a number of restaurants offer just the right deals for guests to enjoy it all season long.
At Straits Restaurant, it's the view that will draw you in. Both patios offer prime people-watching at a variety of swanky seating options, like lounge-style couches, high cocktail tables and long dining tables. Plus, overlooking the CITYCENTRE courtyard, guests get one of the best seats for live music and other weekly events.
It's the signature Singapore-style food and drink that will keep you there, though. Try the spicy-sweet Kung Pao Chicken Lollipops, washed down with a Singapore Sling — a confection of Bombay Sapphire gin, cherry brandy liqueur, fresh pineapple and orange, topped with a splash of soda. These are best enjoyed over happy hour each Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., and reverse happy hour on Sunday and Monday from 7 to 10 p.m.
Looking for a place to see and be seen? "Our first cabana by our front entrance is the spot to be," hints John Sikhattana, general manager and executive chef at Straits.
Between frequent live music and a dog-friendly atmosphere, there's nothing not to like about the umbrella-dotted patio at The Tasting Room CITYCENTRE. The provisions in this slice of paradise aren't so bad either: Enjoy house-made sangrias and pizzas from the wood burning stove while taking in the view.
Some say that the patio is at its best on Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m., when guests are invited to partake in the "Saturday Sippers" wine tasting events, but others content that the Tasting Room happy hour is the time to stop by. Offered each weekday from 3 to 6 p.m., the menu includes BBQ brisket sliders, chicken wraps, spicy Cajun fries and deals on Spanish garnacha and Stella Cidre.
If you're craving something a bit healthier, stop by Salata, a new salad-centric eatery where guests can create made-to-order salads and wraps. The shady patio, situated on a breezeway, offers the perfect pit stop for a healthful workday break.
What are you waiting for? It's time to get your patio dining on.
