Sips & Bites: Discovering the Best Patio Experiences in Panther City

The Archibald

Whether it’s the let-loose feel of gravel that invites kicking off shoes or the rare mild summer day, Panther City patio season offers something special.

Heirloom at Archie’s 

It’s easy to miss Heirloom’s location off Camp Bowie Boulevard but hard to forget your first visit. The food trailer is the vision of Chef Kevin Martinez of Tokyo Cafe fame, and the menu defies poor eating choices. Centered on seasonably available ingredients, the healthy offerings won’t leave you hungry, and the view is a welcome reminder of nature’s bounty. Nestled inside Archie’s Gardenland — yes, you can grab that lemon tree to-go — the spacious patio serves garden-inspired dishes. (Pro tip: The drinks serve as mixers, so bring a flask or bottle of hooch and bruunch it up.) 

The Archibald

Downtown’s newish rooftop patio offers areas for lounging and high-top tables for casual conversations. On a recent visit, we ordered espresso martinis and the Cheesy Sleezy (mozzarella, parmesan, pecorino, oregano). The caffeinated cocktail had a lovely head, rich java flavors, and a pleasant sweetness. The pie, perfectly baked with a lightly charred crust, was perfetta. 

Freeplay Fort Worth 

Rooftop patios offer the pleasures of open-air dining and unparalleled views. Freeplay Fort Worth’s 10,000-square-foot rooftop patio — surrounded by live oaks and prime West Magnolia Avenue views — boasts brews, mixed drinks, food, and tiki cocktails that you can order from the rooftop bar, Slushy’s (no relationship to Boozie’s, we think). The rarely overcrowded patio tops dozens of classic and recent arcade games below. (ABACABB for those who know.)

Tinie’s Mexican Cuisine

Fort Worth’s best view of downtown happens to serve immaculately plated Mexico City cuisine and some of the best Latin-inspired cocktails in town. With two patio options (one facing South Main District Micro Park and the other on the second floor), your mezcal-fueled socializing won’t lack scenic views. Topside, you’ll find a lovely view of downtown to the north and bustling South Main around every corner. The Flor Oaxaqueña, a lovely lavender chamomile margarita, is a smoky, citrusy delight.

Hotel Drover 

Hotel Drover is a short breezy walk from nearby popular spots like the recently revamped Star Cafe, Side Saddle Saloon, and Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall. The back patio boasts fire pits for cozy gatherings and top-notch beverage service. Several area bars keep the classic and custom cocktails flowing, largely using locally-made spirits like TX Whiskey and Blackland Distillery.  

Truck Yard Alliance

The Alliance area’s notable entertainment destinations like Fred’s Texas Cafe, Kava Culture Kava Bar, and Truck Yard Alliance make that neck of Fort Worth a top destination for nearby suburbanites. Unpretentious backyard vibes lent a playful feel to the sprawling space that boasts food trucks, several bars, and ample outdoor seating.