Patios, decks and verandas are opening at restaurants across Lehigh Valley and the local dining scene has you covered. Lehigh Valley has entered the yellow phase of Governor Wolf's reopening of Pennsylvania plan, just in time for the warm weather, which also means al fresco dining. And in Lehigh Valley, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

While seating will be limited and indoor areas will remain closed, if you’re looking to soak up the sun (or the stars) while dining in Lehigh Valley, you'll need to know where to go before making your reservations. Some regional cities are closing downtown streets to expand outdoor dining spaces. In Downtown Allentown, seating will flow into select streets from 4-10 p.m. Fridays and noon to 10 p.m. Saturdays. Both Easton and Bethlehem are also working through street closures to expand outdoor dining space.

Here’s a short list of some of the best outdoor dining options in the region—the ones you should run to when the summer breeze beckons. Double check restaurant websites, social media pages or simply call ahead first as modifications or adjustments may crop up. Many have seating limits of 1.5 hours and suggest wearing a mask till you are seated. Restaurants will be following CDC and Department of Health guidelines for the safety of staff and guests. Check out the updated spreadsheet for how-to easily enjoy your favorite Lehigh Valley dishes and beverages. We welcome your suggestions in the comments below. Please be kind as we navigate this new time together. 

blue Grillhouse
4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem Township
Patio mojitos await at Blue Grillhouse's 1,500-square ft. covered patio with ceiling fans, ceiling heaters and a fire pit. Tables are available on a first come, first served basis. The restaurant is encouraging guests to call on your desired dining date for availability.

The Loft at Grille 3501
3501 Broadway, Allentown
Known for its fusion cuisine and elegant libations, Grille 3501's The Loft serves its version of fun food and a sophisticated selection of drinks, with martini variations a specialty.

McCarthy's Red Stag Pub
534 Main St., Bethlehem
The patio at McCarthy's Red Stag Pub allows diners to enjoy the activity of Downtown Historic Bethlehem’s North Side without being bothered by too many passersby.

Detzi's Tavern
570 N. Lehigh Ave., Wind Gap
A 60-year-old Slate Belt institution, Detzi's Tavern isn't content to rest on its laurels. The bar debuted its deck a few years ago, adding a chill outdoor spot to enjoy Detzi's classic fare.

The Bayou Easton
64 Centre Square, Easton
The Bayou in Easton combines traditional southern flavors with modern American cooking to create a unique take on Nola soul food. It is located right off of the center circle in the heart of downtown Easton. A large outdoor dining area provides for seasonal people-watching.

House and Barn
1449 Chestnut St., Emmaus
Both of the restaurants at this bucolic property feature outdoor seating, each overlooking a peaceful field. The Barn, the more rustic option, offers small wood-topped tables on a stone gravel area. The House, the more upscale of the two, has larger, metal-topped tables on a paved patio.

ZEST bar+grille
306 S New St., Bethlehem
Treat yourself to rooftop views while dining on mouth-watering new American cuisine and top-rated cocktails. Outdoor balcony seating offers breathtaking views of the SouthSide district, from the main thoroughfare of Third Street to the Fahy Bridge and the ArtsQuest campus down the road.

Brü Daddy's Brewing Company
732 Hamilton St., Allentown
Enjoy from-scratch cooking and beers from the on-site brewery in the newest beer garden to be welcomed to Downtown Allentown. The beer garden features overhead heaters, retractable awnings, potted plants and authentic beer garden tables from Germany.

Melt
2880 Center Valley Pkwy, Suite 624 (Promenade Shops), Upper Saucon Township
Whether dining or gathering for a cocktail, the covered outdoor patio at the luxe Italian grill Melt allows diners to enjoy their summer favorites, including a brand new menu of house-made pastas and signature Italian dishes. The restaurant is encouraging guests to call on your desired dining date for availability.

Social Still
530 E 3rd St., Bethlehem
Grain to glass local spirits and tasty South Side dishes are on the outdoor menu at Social Still. The crew can accommodate parties of up to four guests for their designated out front dining experience.