News
New Outdoor Dining Options in Merriweather District
If you’re in the mood for good food, fun and fresh air, Merriweather District has even more options to feed your appetite. Warmer days and nights mean it is the perfect time for lunch or dinner with a view. With fantastic menus, plenty of space for live music and engaging community events, your favorite restaurants are opening their patios and ready to kick off the season.
Whether you’re hanging out during a Staycation, visiting the splash pad with the kids, or need a bite to eat before the show at Merriweather Post Pavilion, check out our list of restaurants with outdoor dining options, and pull out a chair.
GameOn Bar + Arcade
This old-school arcade bar is a new addition to Merriweather District, and the perfect place to visit for a fun night. And if you leave without trying the Mac and Cheese Bites and a TMNT Ice Pop, we’re obligated to encourage you to stop back.
- Outdoor seating options
- Fun cocktails
- Vibrant graffiti and wall art
- New and retro video games
Medium Rare
Medium Rare brings its welcoming steakhouse atmosphere and mouthwatering menu to its outdoor patio every spring and summer. Visit for brunch or dinner, or simply unwind with a refreshing cocktail during happy hour. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply getting out for a meal before the concert, this is a good stop.
We recommend:
- The Award-Winning Culotte Steak
- Secret Sauce ⚡️
- Grandma’s Apple Pie
Banditos Tacos & Tequila
Banditos beckons with its bold Mexican flavors and a lively atmosphere. Start with some Mexican Street Corn before enjoying their famous Al Pastor tacos, and don’t forget to sample one of their famous margaritas (the Spicy Rita beckons, watch out). Whether you’re fueling up before a concert or getting out for a night with friends, this Mexican restaurant promises delicious fare and a festive outdoor dining experience.
Black Wall Barn & Lodge
This popular destination at Merriweather District in Downtown Columbia, MD just got a little bigger, thanks to its expanded outdoor space. Stop by to enjoy this coastally-inspired cuisine filled with seasonally-driven foods and fresh produce. The restaurant’s other location is in Gambrills, MD, but this venue is perfect if you’re visiting Merriweather Post Pavilion or looking for a great night closer to Baltimore. P.S. Kids eat free every Sunday from 5pm to close.
Dok Khao Thai Eatery
Dok Khao has a great, shaded outdoor dining spot for visitors looking to enjoy the taste of fresh, local Thai cuisine on a great summer evening. While we know you already love Volcano Seafood and Fried Branzino, we also encourage you to taste their famous Spicy Daisy cocktail and the Thai beer, Singha.
Desserts you won’t want to miss include:
- Mango Parfait
- Bubble Thai Tea Mousse Cake
- Lychee Cheesecake
Toastique
Enjoy a great meal on a warm day on Toastique’s outdoor patio. This popular destination for breakfast, brunch, and lunch serves up popular items like the Acai Bowl or the Avocado Toast, and we find it hard to leave without also grabbing a freshly squeezed juice or smoothie. Whether starting the day with a wholesome breakfast or grabbing a quick bite, Toastique at Merriweather District is a great place to stop.
Busboys and Poets
Outdoor seating at Busboys & Poets is open again! Stop by the largest Busboys and Poets location in the DMV area to nourish your mind and soul, and have a bite to eat in the summer sunshine. Don’t forget to check out the upcoming events calendar to see if there’s something that piques your interest!
Clove & Cardamom
Indulge in the exotic flavors of Indian cuisine in the relaxed atmosphere of Clove & Cardamom’s outdoor dining area. With a focus on traditional recipes and quality ingredients, the restaurant offers a menu that delights the senses.
Bring friends! We think they’ll like:
- Chat Samosa Naan Pizza
- Tandoori Shrimp Tacos
- Mint Lychee Smoothie
Peter Chang
The outdoor dining is <chef’s kiss> at Peter Chang (much like the authentic Szechuan cuisine). Call ahead for seating and enjoy the atmosphere of Merriweather District while joining the legion of followers who adore Peter Chang and the empire he’s established.
Cured and 18th and 21st
Enjoy an inviting ambiance every night of the week in the heart of Columbia’s Merriweather District. If you enjoyed hanging out inside at Cured and 18th & 21st, you’ll love the outdoor patio. Stop by to have a drink from the extensive craft beer list, or dine while enjoying live music without the crowds of Merriweather Post Pavilion.
The Food Market
Stop by The Food Market’s new outdoor dining and TV area, centrally located on Merriweather Row. This unique space by Chef Chad Gauss has made a name for itself in Columbia, and it’s a great place to visit for lunch, dinner, or group gatherings.
The Collective Offshore & Encore
Enjoy outdoor seating at the Columbia lakefront and enjoy the atmosphere as you look out over Lake Kittamaqundi. From its lakefront views and special meals — including their popular saffron scampi seafood pasta — this is a great place to gather on date night or before the concert. Make note: Thursday’s all-day special is $1 oysters!
Smashing Grapes
Now open on Valencia Lane, Smashing Grapes a new culinary destination that blends global flavors and fine wines. With a diverse menu celebrating world cuisines, each dish is expertly crafted to excite the senses and is paired with an extensive selection of wines from top vineyards worldwide.