12 Allentown, Pennsylvania Restaurants Offering The Best Outdoor Dining In 2026
Allentown, Pennsylvania shines when meals move outdoors. Sunlit patios, string lights flickering at dusk, and that first cool breeze turning dinner into an event give the city a seasonal glow.
Outdoor dining here is not just about fresh air, it is about mood. Clinking glasses, shared plates, passing traffic humming like background music, and menus that taste better when the sky is part of the table.
Call it open-air comfort, call it patio season perfection, call it dinner with a view that actually matters.
In 2026, Allentown restaurants lean into that energy with rooftops that catch the sunset, courtyards that feel like secret gardens, and sidewalk tables that make people linger.
Timing feels right, pacing slows, and conversations stretch naturally when the walls disappear.
Some spots bring vibrant city buzz. Others offer calm corners that feel almost cinematic once evening settles in.
I have always judged outdoor dining by one simple test. If I forget to check my phone because the air feels good, the food lands just right, and time stops being loud, then the place has done its job.
1. Union and Finch
Farm-to-table excellence meets sophistication at this Union Street gem located at 1528 West Union Street in the West End.
The patio wraps around the corner of the building, giving diners prime people-watching real estate while they dig into seasonal dishes that change with what local farmers deliver.
Exposed brick walls and large industrial windows create a contemporary vibe that extends seamlessly to the outdoor space.
The roasted beet salad with goat cheese has become legendary among regulars, while the pan-seared scallops practically melt in your mouth.
I once watched a couple get engaged here over dessert, which tells you everything about the romantic ambiance.
String lights crisscross overhead, casting a warm glow as the sun sets. The cocktail program features house-made syrups and fresh herbs from their garden boxes, which sit right on the patio railing.
2. Grille 3501
Premium cuts and panoramic views define this upscale steakhouse at 3501 Broadway in West End Allentown.
Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a spacious terrace where carnivores gather for some of the finest beef in the Lehigh Valley.
The building’s sleek contemporary architecture includes clean lines and a neutral color palette that lets the food take center stage.
Their signature filet mignon arrives perfectly charred on the outside and butter-soft inside, paired with truffle mashed potatoes that could convert a vegetarian.
The lobster mac and cheese works as either an appetizer or a main course, depending on your appetite and ambition.
Comfortable cushioned chairs and proper table spacing make this terrace feel more like a private club than a public restaurant.
The outdoor bar serves craft cocktails and an impressive wine list. Heat lamps keep things cozy when temperatures drop, extending the patio season well into autumn.
3. Notch Modern Kitchen & Bar
Patio vibes reach full stride at 5036 Hamilton Boulevard, where this modern eatery has carved out a standout outdoor dining spot in the area today.
The spacious patio lets you linger outside while you work through a menu that bounces between American comfort food and global influences.
Industrial chic design dominates the interior, with exposed ductwork and polished concrete that continues toward the patio space.
Korean BBQ tacos bring serious flavor with gochujang aioli, while the Notch burger stacks up as one of the juiciest in town.
I brought my brother here for his birthday, and he still talks about those truffle fries months later.
The outdoor bar becomes a social hub on weekends, with craft beers and creative cocktails flowing freely. Fire pits scattered around the patio create cozy gathering spots.
Live music occasionally fills the space, turning dinner into a full evening experience.
4. Jay’s Local
Neighborhood charm radiates from every corner of this community favorite at 2301 W Liberty Street near Muhlenberg.
The garden patio feels like dining in someone’s beautifully maintained backyard, complete with flowering plants and a laid-back atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.
Rustic wooden accents and vintage-inspired decor give the space a homey feel that extends outdoors through mismatched chairs and colorful umbrellas.
Locally sourced ingredients drive the menu, with standout dishes like the maple-glazed pork chop and butternut squash ravioli earning devoted fans.
String lights and lanterns create magical evening ambiance without feeling overdone. Kids actually behave better here thanks to the relaxed vibe and menu options that appeal to smaller appetites.
Weekend brunch on the patio has become something of a West Park tradition, with mimosas flowing and french toast disappearing fast.
5. Sports & Social Allentown
Entertainment meets elevated bar food at 645 Hamilton Street, where the massive outdoor space rivals the sprawling interior.
Giant screens broadcast every game imaginable while you tackle a menu that goes way beyond typical sports bar fare.
Contemporary industrial design includes shipping container bars and modern lounge furniture that creates distinct zones across the patio.
The Nashville hot chicken sandwich brings legitimate heat, balanced by creamy coleslaw and pickles.
Loaded tots come piled high with pulled pork, cheese, and jalapeños, easily feeding two people despite being listed as an appetizer.
Yard games like cornhole and giant Jenga keep groups entertained between courses. The outdoor bar stretches nearly twenty feet, ensuring you never wait long for a refill.
I’ve watched more playoff games here than I can count, always impressed by how the staff handles massive crowds without losing their cool.
Heat lamps and covered sections mean weather rarely shuts down the party.
6. Jack’s Slice
New York-style pizza finds a proper home at 3400 West Tilghman Street, where oversized slices and patio seating capture easygoing golf-course energy.
The no-frills patio consists of a few tables outside, perfect for grabbing a quick slice while watching golfers head past all day.
Minimalist storefront design with big windows and a clean interior keeps the focus on the pizza itself.
Classic pepperoni arrives with crispy, curled edges and just enough grease to prove its legitimacy, while the white pizza with ricotta and garlic showcases simplicity done right.
The Sicilian square slices are thick, fluffy, and dangerously addictive.
Street-side dining here feels urban and energetic rather than fancy or formal. You’ll likely eat off paper plates with plastic forks, but that’s entirely the point.
Late-night hours make this a go-to spot after concerts or events. The casual vibe attracts everyone from business professionals on lunch breaks to college students fueling study sessions.
7. Westside Grill
Family-friendly dining thrives at 621 Grange Road, where the deck patio welcomes everyone from toddlers to grandparents.
This Lehigh Valley staple has been serving reliable American fare for years, building a loyal following that returns week after week.
Traditional roadhouse styling with dark wood and vintage beer signs creates a comfortable, unpretentious atmosphere.
The crab cake sandwich stands out as surprisingly excellent for a landlocked location, while the prime rib special on weekends draws serious crowds.
Burgers come cooked exactly as ordered, topped with whatever combination your heart desires.
The deck wraps around the side of the building, providing plenty of space for larger groups. Picnic-style tables and benches encourage a communal, relaxed dining experience.
I’ve celebrated more birthdays here than anywhere else, mostly because everyone in the family can find something they love. The bar stays well-stocked with local craft options alongside familiar domestic choices.
8. Wild Turkey Grill
Chill garden vibes dominate at 3625 Shankweiler Road, where the sprawling outdoor space rivals any traditional German biergarten.
Picnic tables stretch across a large patio area that can accommodate serious crowds during peak season.
Casual tavern decor with sports memorabilia and neon signs sets a laid-back tone that continues outside.
Wings come in every sauce imaginable, from traditional buffalo to exotic flavors like mango habanero and garlic parmesan.
The Turkey burger (naturally) arrives juicy and flavorful, topped with bacon and avocado. Nachos come loaded on a platter big enough to share with your entire table.
Live music fills the beer garden on summer weekends, turning dinner into an event.
Cornhole tournaments happen regularly, adding a competitive element to your meal.
String lights and tiki torches create a festive atmosphere as evening approaches, making you forget you’re in a parking lot off a busy road.
9. Hops Paddock
Gastropub excellence defines this beer destination at 1945 W Columbia Street, where the outdoor patio adds fresh air to every meal.
The menu elevates bar food to an art form while maintaining approachable pricing and atmosphere that keeps regulars coming back.
Contemporary design with clean lines and modern fixtures creates a polished yet comfortable environment.
Paddock pizza favorites and homemade pierogies keep things hearty, with burgers and sandwiches rounding out the daily options.
Buffalo chicken egg rolls bring flavor, served hot and crisp, and they disappear fast at tables. The rotating tap list features rare releases and limited editions from respected breweries.
Greenery views add natural beauty to your meal, especially during sunset. The patio furniture is actually comfortable, not the cheap plastic stuff that leaves marks on your legs.
Fire pits extend the season into cooler months. Trivia nights and special events keep the calendar full throughout the year.
10. Red Robin – Tilghman Square
Bottomless fries and reliable favorites anchor this family chain location at 4688A Broadway, Allentown.
The patio might not win design awards, but it delivers exactly what families need: space for kids to move around, quick service, and food that pleases everyone at the table.
Standard corporate design with bright colors and booth seating extends to the outdoor area through branded umbrellas and matching furniture.
The Royal Red Robin burger remains the gold standard, stacked impossibly high with all the fixings.
Bottomless steak fries keep arriving until you physically cannot eat another bite. The whiskey river BBQ chicken wrap offers a lighter option that still satisfies.
The patio sits far enough from the parking lot to feel somewhat removed from traffic. High chairs and kids’ menus make this genuinely family-friendly rather than just tolerant of children.
I’ve stopped here countless times when traveling through, appreciating the consistency and knowing exactly what to expect. The outdoor heaters work surprisingly well on cool evenings.
11. Copperhead Grille – Allentown
Aviation enthusiasts and food lovers unite at this Airport Road destination that blends great views with even better food.
Located at 1731 Airport Road, Allentown, Pennsylvania, Copperhead Grille delivers a unique dining experience where you can watch planes take off while enjoying your meal.
The spacious patio features comfortable seating arrangements, making it perfect for both lively group gatherings and relaxed romantic dinners.
Menu highlights include perfectly grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and creative appetizers that pair beautifully with their extensive drink selection.
Service stays attentive without feeling intrusive, which makes it ideal for celebrations or business dinners that need a memorable setting.
Sunset hours are especially popular, when the runway views and warm lighting elevate the entire experience.
12. The Shelby
Tucked away at 707 North Krocks Road, Allentown, Pennsylvania, The Shelby surprises first-time visitors with its polished atmosphere and creative menu.
The outdoor space feels like a secret garden, with thoughtful landscaping that creates privacy while keeping things open and airy, especially inviting during warmer evenings.
Chef-driven dishes change seasonally, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to try.
From relaxed weekend brunch favorites to refined dinner entrées, the kitchen delivers consistent quality that keeps locals coming back, whether they are celebrating or simply enjoying a night out.
The drinks program deserves special mention, featuring inventive drinks that complement the food perfectly and make happy hour something worth planning around.
Combined with warm, attentive service, the experience feels both elevated and comfortably familiar from start to finish.