The Best US Cities for Outdoor Dining During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Outdoor dining is in high demand amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic as Americans seek out a safe place to eat and drink that isn't lacking in atmosphere. For travelers hoping to experience a new destination in one of the best ways possible in 2021-through its local food and beverage-these diner friendly cities offer exceptional outdoor dining experiences.

The Texas capital and the Live Music Capital of the World certainly doesn't disappoint when it comes to mouthwatering al fresco dining options. BBQ lovers will gravitate toward the amazing Terry Black's Barbecue and other pitmaster favorites like Franklin Barbecue (grab a to-go order before they sell out and chow down at nearby Lott Pocket Park) while craft beer fans can't go wrong at Banger's Sausage House and Beer Garden on lively Rainey Street.

Miami's plentiful sunshine and comfortable temperatures make it an ideal destination for socially distanced outdoor dining. But where to start? Miami Beach's iconic Ocean Drive is the perfect place to catch some fresh air and sea breezes while you people-watch beachside with a seafood snack and tropical cocktail in hand.

The Music City is beloved for its rooftop bars (Jason Aldean and Dierks Bentley are among the country music superstars with namesake spots on Broadway) and patio dining venues ranging from the ultra-unique like Pearl Diver in East Nashville to the spacious and equally entertaining 6th & Peabody in the city's SoBro neighborhood.

Santa Barbara more than lives up to its nickname as the "American Riviera" as it's arguably the most scenic destination in America to break bread under the sky. Parts of bustling State Street have been closed to vehicle traffic amid the pandemic, allowing restaurants to safely set up more outdoor seating for hungry visitors. Whether heading to or from historic Stearns Wharf, travelers won't want to miss out on fresh air eats at spots like the waterfront Santa Barbara Shellfish Company and nearby Finney's Crafthouse & Kitchen. Santa Barbara Craft Ramen is another satisfying spot.

Restaurants throughout Denver are having to get creative when it comes to keeping diners warm and, more importantly, safe, amid the pandemic, from the dining domes at My Brother's Bar to the cozy greenhouses at tasty Bar Dough. Ace Eat Serve is another foodie favorite in the Mile High City offering diners a unique igloo experience to escape the cold without sacrificing the trendy al fresco vibe.

There are plentiful patio dining options in San Antonio, especially along the tourist-friendly and bucket-list-worthy River Walk. For phenomenal Tex-Mex and awesome margaritas, be sure to check out Casa Rio, a San Antonio staple that's been a favorite for outdoor diners for decades. This city is also a hit for brews and bites in epic beer gardens like Burleson Yard and The Aquaduck.

Visitors to Key West have no shortage of outdoor dining options. Be sure to bring your appetite to Duval Street, where delicious restaurants like DJ's Clam Shack (one of Guy Fieri's favorites!) and Old Town Mexican Cafe are sure to keep you filled up on your walk from the Southernmost Point to Mallory Square. For breakfast, venture to the corner of Thomas and Petronia Streets to dine under the trees at the super-chill Blue Heaven.

On average, the temperature in San Diego surpasses 60 degrees 344 days out of the year, making America's Finest City one of the best in the country for al fresco dining. While the city's outdoor offerings have been hindered by COVID-19 restrictions similar to other perennial al fresco dining favorites like San Francisco and Chicago, San Diego remains unparalleled when it comes to pairing breakfast, lunch or dinner with stellar ocean views and laid-back vibes.

The famous Las Vegas Strip features plenty of inviting patio and shaded outdoor dining options for visitors looking to rest their legs and reward their taste buds this winter. Can't-miss stops like the Cabo Wabo Cantina and Beer Park won't be easy to get into but are perfect for chowing down in the desert while you take in the iconic Fountains of Bellagio.

The coronavirus pandemic has certainly wreaked havoc on New York City businesses and the city's tourism industry as a whole but visitors willing to undergo COVID-19 testing to bypass the state's mandatory quarantine order will still find plenty of incredible outdoor dining options throughout the five boroughs, from Brooklyn to the Bronx, with the help of heaters and large tents, including Brooklyn Chop House.