Patio season is in full swing, and some of the best ones in the area are “DARTable” – meaning they’re mere footsteps away from a transit stop. Whether you’re meeting friends after work or spending a Sunday afternoon chilling, here are some DARTable al fresco options. 

by Tricia White

Stackhouse

The phrase “burger house” usually doesn’t mean an actual house, but that’s just what this cozy Baylor-area spot is – a comfy, refurbished home. The burgers are juicy, ad the rooftop deck offers sweeping views of the Dallas skyline. Any way you stack it, this burger house satisfies. It’s a block from Baylor University Medical Center Station at 2917 Gaston Ave.

Ginger Man

This Uptown stalwart has more than 70 beers on tap and a great menu, but the best part is the patio where a huge pecan tree creates a canopy over the picnic tables. It’s a great place to settle in for an afternoon. Located near the M-Line Trolley at 2718 Boll St.

Vetted Well

Not only does this recent arrival to the Cedars neighborhood have scratch-made food and 32 beers – it’s got a rooftop bar featuring one of the most stunning downtown views in the city. It’s a couple of blocks from Convention Center Station at 1005 S. Lamar St.

Ten Bells Tavern

Ten Bells is the perfect place to have a brew and hang out. There’s a great beer selection, way-better-than-it-has-to-be bar fare, and plenty of picnic tables in a backyard-style setting. Located near the D-Link, and soon the Bishop Arts District stop of the Dallas Streetcar, at 232 W. Seventh St.

Italian Café

This family-friendly Irving favorite is known for its homemade sandwiches, pasta, and seafood. Patrons appreciate the big screen TVs for game-watching, and the restaurant’s outside patio is a popular spot for enjoying the sights and sounds of Las Colinas. It’s a short walk from Las Colinas Urban Center Station on the Orange Line, at 387 E. Las Colinas Blvd., Suite 120.

Aparicio’s Restaurante Mexicano & Tequila Bar

Things are always hoppin’ here, with a great happy hour, a disc jockey on Friday nights, and weekend brunch. From reliable Mexican standbys to more adventurous entrees, the food here satisfies, and the patio is awesome. It’s a short walk from Downtown Plano Station at 1001 18th St.

Intrinsic Smokehouse and Brewery

Garland’s excellent answer to the brewpub craze is within easy walking distance of Downtown Garland Station. Intrinsic has dozens of seasonally selected beers on tap, exposed brick walls, as well as a super-cool industrial-chic rooftop patio.  Located at 509 W. State St.

To find special event happenings across North Texas, visit DART.org/specialevents.