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Tucked away in a 1950s Allandale shopping center lies Little Deli, a sweet little afternoon and evening spot for families, dogs, and (naturally) sandwich lovers. And the white pizza -- topped with sausage -- is so good it's criminal. Claim the gazebo here, or sit on one of the park benches among your fellow puppy and toddler neighbors.
This is Four Seasons style, baby, so your outdoor dining is guaranteed to be kinda fabulous. Whether you're relaxing in the hammock (champagne in hand) or staying for a full dinner, the views of Town Lake and meticulous landscaping are one of the quickest ways to feel like an Austin VIP. Bonus: free valet parking during weekday happy hour.
Paggi House appeals to the ritzier, West Austin or downtown condo-dwelling demographic, but if you're a scrappy east sider or college student, keep this one in mind for a Parent Visit. The front deck really is gorgeous, and housed in a historic former home that predates the Civil War, its history, Continental menu and lake views will have Mom and Dad squealing.
To be fair, any seat at this cozy bistro is a good seat -- but on a sunny, cool day, please make it a point to head to the the small courtyard out back, where huge palm fronds sway in the breeze, lights twinkle overhead, and neighborhood kitties stop by to say hello.
With a huge open deck and equally gargantuan food and wine menu, The Grove is the perfect place for West Austinites to let their hair down. Round up a group of girls and start with Flight One, "There's a Sparkle in Your Eye," a sample of three European bubblies.
Hookahs, belly dancers, BYOB wine policy -- Phara's is an exotic, weird, and totally delightful Middle Eastern joint on North Loop. Go where all the fun is (outside), and don't get too bashful when a sexy, jangly-skirted lady sashays up to your table.
Not only is Perla's the only seafood restaurant for a good stretch on South Congress, but it's huge front wooden deck makes for a fancy group happy hour during the week. There's also the temperature-controlled benefits on the deck, which make ample use of heaters when it's cold, and misters when it's hot.
A rustic, outdoor-only spot that specializes in small, expertly prepared Hill Country fare, the twinkly lights make it Date Night-appropriate -- and the long, stranger-filled picnic tables are an effective field test for your date's social skills.
