Gear up for a refreshing experience when you dine at these Michigan restaurants with outdoor seating.
If there’s one thing we know about Michigan, it’s that the weather here is unpredictable. This isn’t such a great thing when snow and slush linger during the spring months, but it does have its perks for those who aren’t ready to say goodbye to summertime. After all, the Great Lakes State has been known to experience solidly summer-level temperatures well into September and even October.
Another perk of these flexible seasons? There’s still plenty of time to enjoy an outdoor meal before things get too chilly—and our state capital has some of the top options for eating in the fresh air. Whether you’re in town to drop a loved one off at college or just to explore the area, check out our list of the best restaurants with outdoor seating in Lansing.
1. People’s Kitchen
Location: 2722 E. Michigan Ave.
If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, People’s Kitchen has you covered. With locally sourced fare and a menu that’s decidedly creative, there’s something here for every member of the family to enjoy. From battered Alaskan fish to baked brie and vegetable tempura, the options are endless and delicious. Enjoy your meal at a covered table on the People’s Kitchen’s outdoor dining deck, which only adds to the experience.
2. Lansing Shuffle
Location: 325 Riverfront Dr.
Looking for a side of shuffleboard with your next meal? We can’t recommend Lansing Shuffle highly enough. This food hall and social club is more than a traditional restaurant. Instead, it offers several on-site food vendors alongside bars and—you guessed it—shuffleboard. Favorites include Kin Thai and University Wiener, where all your hot dog dreams will come true. What’s more, you’ll find open-air dining alongside the shuffleboards, so you can dig into a meal while watching loved ones play.
3. Lansing Brewing Company
Location: 518 E. Shiawassee St.
There’s no shortage of breweries in Lansing, but Lansing Brewing Company boasts classic laid-back vibes and locally brewed beer galore. The restaurant’s patio is part of its charm, with playful red picnic tables and umbrellas to block the sun on hot days. Bring along a few pals and dig into a unique burger (there’s even a peanut butter burger on the menu!) or poutine appetizer as you enjoy the fresh air.
4. Dagwood’s Tavern
Location: 2803 E. Kalamazoo St.
Dagwood’s is proof that no-frills eateries often offer the best experiences. From the outside, it might look like your standard dive, but the tavern’s charming patio adds another layer of fun for diners. Of course, you’ll find all the classics here, from burgers to Bloody Marys, so come hungry and spend some time catching up with friends in the cozy outdoor space. The best part? Dagwood’s has been around since 1947, so you’ll be indulging in a slice of Lansing history.
5. One North
Location: 5001 W. Saginaw Hwy
How do string lights and blue skies sound? That’s what you’ll find when you stop at One North for a meal. The eatery is well-known for its brunch, but it also offers fare like bourbon salmon, build-your-own pizzas, and delicious desserts like flourless chocolate torte. The spacious patio is the showstopper at One North, offering a combination of tables, couches, and comfy seating areas for larger dining parties.
6. Peanut Barrel
Location: 521 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing
If you’ve spent any time in the Lansing area, you’ve almost certainly enjoyed a meal or two at The Peanut Barrel. This downtown East Lansing mainstay dates back to the 1970s and has maintained an emphasis on crisp, cold beer and sizable burgers for all those years. At the heart of the Peanut Barrel is its outdoor patio area, which comes to life with conversation and merriment during the warmer months. Of course, as the restaurant’s name suggests, you’ll also enjoy an endless supply of peanuts with your meal. What’s not to love?
7. The Cosmos
Location: 1200 N. Larch St.
You’re in for an eclectic experience at The Cosmos, a friendly and colorful eatery centered around wood-fired pizza and vibrant artwork. It’s not your ordinary pizzeria or diner: The Cosmos serves fare like hot honey burrata pizza, black truffle burgers, and duck fat fries. Regardless of what you select, you’ll enjoy eating in the restaurant’s welcoming outdoor space, complete with colorful tables and a grassy area to stretch your feet.
8. Jollof Afro Caribbean Lounge
Location: 221 S. Washington Square
Dive into the flavors of the Caribbean at Jollof Afro Lounge, a friendly space where authenticity abounds, and spice is the name of the game. Menu favorites include beef stew, pineapple chicken, jerk chicken, oxtail, and catfish—all served best with a side of plantains. Jollof features a small but charming section of outdoor tables, perfect for people-watching while you dig into your new favorite local meal.
9. Kewpee Sandwich Shoppe
Location: 118 S. Washington Square
For fans of the traditional diner experience, Weston’s Kewpee Sandwich Shoppe is an excellent choice. Take a look at an impressive collection of vintage Kewpie dolls as you decide between classic deli sandwiches and fresh-ground burgers (best washed down with a root beer float, of course). Once you’ve placed your order, snag one of the restaurant’s outdoor tables to round out a decidedly charming visit. It’s no wonder this Lansing gem has been feeding hungry customers since 1923.
