Baby, it’s cold outside, but for those of us who are not quite ready to brave dining indoors amid the pandemic, outdoor dining is still the safest option. We’ve rounded up a few places that are going the extra mile to make sure you can comfortably enjoy a drink or a meal outside right now.
La Bodega
La Bodega (703 Southwest Blvd., KCMO) has always had one of the best patios in town, but in recent months, this long-standing tapas joint has really upped the ante. The patio wraps around the restaurant and runs a full block down Southwest Boulevard. Tables are tucked into cozy alcoves separated by wooden structures, plants and umbrellas, and outdoor heaters are everywhere. There’s even a partially enclosed private dining room with a rolling garage door large enough for a group of ten. Don’t forget to order the Spanish Coffee—the boozy coffee cocktail, set aflame at your table, will warm you right up.
The Restaurant at 1900
If you need a heat lamp to call your own, the Restaurant at 1900 (1900 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Mission Woods) has you covered. The patio at this elegant restaurant is fully shaded by umbrellas, blocking out any condensation that could threaten to rain (or snow) on your parade. Even better, each table has at least one dedicated outdoor heater (sometimes two). Dress up and settle in.
Harry’s Country Club
In pre-Covid times, you could always walk past Harry’s Country Club (112 E. Missouri Ave., KCMO) and find evidence of a good time. These days, the good times are continuing, but from inside a massive wind-blocking white tent that has fully enveloped most of the patio. Inside the tent, you’ll find distanced tables and, of course, heat lamps.
Bar K
Bar K (501 Berkley Parkway, KCMO) caters to both dogs and humans, and even before the pandemic, it had a well-established outdoor bar system. Bring your pup and let ’em run free while you belly up to the bar under the tent with all the heat lamps. If you get chilly, you can always pop inside for a few minutes to Bark K’s indoor area, where you’ll find high ceilings and a wraparound indoor-outdoor balcony. Entry is ten to fifteen bucks if you’re bringing your dog and free for humans by themselves.
