Outside Dining Picks in Boston (2011)

Now that the warm weather is here and it's staying lighter out later, all people want to do is shed clothing layers, people watch and dine outside. Open windows/doors are great, but here, I'm only talking about my favorite outside dining spots that have it all - delicious food, beautiful views, attentive service, and me!

Eastern Standard  :  528 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 02215 (617) 532-9100 (easternstandardboston.com)
     Because: It's opened year round, has lots of tables, hosts fun social events, and attracts a classy professional crowd.

Ristorante Fiore's Roof Deck  :  250 Hanover St., Boston, 02113 (617) 371-1176 (ristorantefiore.com)
     Because:  The best roof deck spot in the North End that has a bit of everything - outside dining tables, bar high-tops, a dedicated bar, and an assortment of naturally infused spirits.

Gaslight Brasserie du Coin  :  560 Harrison Ave., Boston, 02118 (617) 422-0224 (gaslight560.com)
     Because:  For lunch or an after-work drink this is a popular South-End spot. The free parking and occasional social events are an added bonus.

Hamersley's Bistro  :  553 Tremont St., Boston, 02116 (617) 423-2700 (hamersleysbistro.com)
     Because:  You'll feel like your in a Parisian Bistro. They usually have happy hour events, they do a great job with the layout (adorned with lights and greenery), and the service is still as good as it is inside.

Rowes Wharf Sea Grille at the Boston Harbor Hotel  :  70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, 02110 (617) 856-7744 (roweswharfseagrille.com)
     Because: Blues Barge is one of the biggest things I look forward to in the summer that provides fabulous entertainment and cultivates a very fun crowd.

Sam's at Louis  :  60 Northern Ave., Boston, 02110 (617) 295-0191 (samsatlouis.com)
     Because: The beachy-feel with a view of Rowes Wharf is wonderful ... especially at sunset!

Stephanie's on Newbury  :  190 Newbury St., Boston, 02116 (617) 236-0990 (stephaniesonnewbury.com)
     Because:  It's a classic spot with the best people-watching perches around.

The Yard at the Liberty Hotel  :  215 Charles St., Boston, 02114 (617) 224-4000 (libertyhotel.com)
     Because:  This is the place to mix, mingle and shine. It's one of the few places Bostonians still get dressed up to go to and I love that! The chic lounge furniture is a nice add-on too.