Eight Must-Visit Outdoor Patios in Wauwatosa

Discover Wauwatosa

We’re not sure about you, but outdoor patio season is our favorite time of year. Not only do we get to support small, local businesses and restaurants, but we also get to enjoy their tasty offerings from the great outdoors — essentially, two of our favorite things!

From morning coffee to evening cocktails, here are eight must-visit places to add to your Tosa staycation agenda.

Camp Bar

Located in East Tosa, Camp Bar is one of our favorite sunny afternoon hangouts — and we’re not just saying that because they’re extremely dog-friendly.

The camp-inspired interior decor extends to their two-story outdoor patio, which is finished with a moose head and stone fireplace.

You can’t go wrong with any item on their extensive beverage list, but we highly recommend their Big Ol’ Bloody Mary — 22 oz. of their secret house recipe and garnishes galore.

Leff’s Lucky Town

Situated near the Tosa Village, you’ll find Leff’s Lucky Town. This casual spot is the perfect place to go for a burger or a few beers.

The outdoor patio is almost as big as the restaurant, which allows for ample space to spread out and relax. You can find Leff’s where W State Street meets N 72nd Street — the corner lot creates some great green space, too.

Hot tip: If you’re visiting during the week, stop in on a Wednesday for their exclusive, Wednesdays-only Hot House Chicken Sandwich.

Colectivo Coffee

It wouldn’t be right to start the day without your beverage of choice and a sunny Wauwatosa morning. Luckily, both Wauwatosa Colectivo Coffee locations have outdoor seating (and coffee, of course!).

The Swan Boulevard location in our MidTown District is another corner unit space with floor-to-ceiling windows and plenty of outdoor seating options.

If you’re in Tosa’s 68th & Wells District on the other side of town, Colectivo’s 68th Street location is the perfect casual coffee shop with an adorable outdoor patio space with a firepit.

Eldr+Rime

Elegant, sophisticated, and modern, Eldr+Rime is the outdoor date night experience you’ve been looking for.

Located at the Renaissance Milwaukee West in the Mayfair and Mayfair Collection District, their full menu is available on their patio, so you can dine away while enjoying the toasty fire pits.

With cocktails as beautifully crafted as they are delicious, sit back and enjoy the warmer Wauwatosa weather on a gorgeous evening.

BelAir Cantina

BelAir Cantina brings its laid-back Mexican flare to the outdoor dining scene in East Tosa.

With countless mouthwatering taco and drink options, their menu is just as fun as their outdoor patio area. This hip taco spot is covered with string lights overhead and plenty of outdoor tables to enjoy their Best of Milwaukee Reader’s Choice 2020 Award-Winning Tacos.

69th St. Plaza

Where the best of both worlds collide, 69th St. Plaza is the perfect outdoor hangout when you’re looking for a sweet treat.

Situated right next to Rocket Baby Bakery and catty-corner from Cranky Al’s, this park space boasts picnic tables, canopy shade, and giant chairs — perfect for a selfie or for eating your favorite treat.

As an added bonus, 69th St. Plaza is located right across from some of our incredible Tosa Murals!

Buckatabon

Located in The Village, Buckatabon pairs a relaxed dining experience with Wisconsin’s Northwoods-inspired food options.

Allow the twinkling lights strung across this dynamic district — including Buckatabon’s outdoor patio — to set the scene for a fun brunch or relaxed evening dinner on their outdoor patio.

Café Hollander

Another great outdoor patio option, Café Hollander is right next door to Buckatabon in Tosa Village.

You’ll still experience the magic of the district and gorgeous Wauwatosa nights, but this spot offers incredible European-inspired breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch options.

Check out both of Tosa’s Lowlands Grand Cafe’s outdoor patios — and don’t forget to order a bloody!

Currently, Buckatabon and Café Hollander are undergoing outdoor renovations to remove their winter dining options to make room for warmer weather patio seating. Please call the restaurants prior to visiting for more information regarding the timing of their outdoor patio seating options.

Discover Wauwatosa wants to ensure you have a safe and healthy travel experience. Learn more about where to stay, where to eat, and things to do while you’re here in Wauwatosa.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, please check the local hotel and travel restrictions and retail and restaurant hours/menus before you go.

Header photo courtesy of @abbyparkphotography