Ballentine, Eton Place Are Destinations for Outdoor Dining

Wednesday was the official beginning of summer, and the kickoff on our spotlight on outdoor dining

Right now the sun is shining, it’s not too hot and you are ready to shake off the traces of the cold, wet spring we had. You’re ready to go “out” to eat. Alfresco dining or just a disguised smoking area, it’s hard to beat being outside in the summer.

The list of restaurants and pubs in the area that boast patio dining seems endless until you are ready to head out the door. Here is a partial list you should save. There are lots of places out there, just be quick before the snow flies again.

Not too far from the Hillcrest area there are three patio destinations. The closest is Willoughby. Many restaurants from Arabica to Ballentine set up chairs and tables, open their gigantic windows and let the sun shine in. This is a downtown right out of a Norman Rockwell painting, but with some panache and patios thrown in.

A bit further south is Eton Place off Interstate 271 on Chagrin Boulevard. It’s more eclectic than Legacy Square. You can play gigantic Alice in Wonderland-type chess outside of Barnes and Noble as you wait for a table. Although it looks expensive (and can be) there are deals to be had for lunch and happy hour. While you're there don’t miss the new restaurant on the block; Flour is on the corner of SOM Center Road and Chagrin, about a mile down the road.

A classic example of “Can’t get there from here” is Little Italy. Take Mayfield Road west or GPS your own way but the patio selection is peerless. Old Blue Eyes blares and competes with light opera and clinking wine glasses. This is a summer classic and worth every red light. It's amore at first sight.

If you want a specific destination, here is a short list of restaurants previously reviewed or listed in Hillcrest Patch.

Next week we’ll feature a list of other local choices within about half an hour’s drive. Do you have a favorite? Share it with other Patch readers.

This summer we’ll also feature outdoor-only eating, farm markets and pick-your-own fruits and vegetables (along with what’s in season). Click on the follow this link for more updates.