Spring Is Here: Where to Dine al Fresco in McLean

Sign up for the McLean Patch newsletter!

Springtime is officially here and while there’s still a chill in the air (not to mention a 30 percent chance of snow tomorrow), let’s look ahead at options for the promised sunshine and warmth headed our way.

DMV foodies are already looking for the best outdoor dining options to enjoy the warmer weather, even if outerwear is still required. The best restaurants in the area are dusting off their umbrellas, and sprucing up their flower boxes in preparation for the influx of guests they are about to serve outside. That includes härth, located at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner, 7920 Jones Branch Dr, McLean

Chef Luc draws inspiration for his menus from seasonal produce sourced from his on-site chef’s garden and local farms, according to a news release. With lounge seating for up to 50, the outdoor patio has a custom firewall and if cigars are your thing, we hear it is the perfect backdrop for blowing smoke rings (cigars are available for purchase at the härth bar). härth is open for breakfast Monday-Friday 6:30am-11am and 7am-1pm on weekends. Lunch is served Monday-Friday 11:30am-2pm, and dinner is served Monday-Saturday 5pm-10pm.

Other outdoor dining options in the McLean area include:

• Greenberrys: Start your morning off right with some coffee with a friend on their patio.
• L’Auberge Chez Francois: Be sure to call ahead for reservations and to find out when the patio opens for the season.
• Bistro Vivant: Serving brunch, lunch and dinner. Check their Facebook page for the latest.
• Sweet Leaf: Healthy dining features sandwiches, salads and smoothies; also open for breakfast.
• Wolf Trap: You’ll soon have your choice of bringing your own picnic or dining at the restaurant, Ovations. Check out their summer concert schedule: Tickets are on sale now.

PHOTO courtesy of harth