It’s springtime in Manhattan. The weather is getting warmer, the sun is coming out and the flowers are finally blossoming again.
With the change of season, restaurants have reopened their patios for customers to indulge in good eats and great weather. If you’re looking for some outdoor dining spots for when it’s sunny and 75 degrees in Manhattan, look no further.
Bluestem Bistro
If you’re looking for a chill place to lounge around and study or meet up with friends, Bluestem Bistro in Aggieville is the place for you.
The local bistro is known for its exceptional coffee and made-from-scratch pastries, and it is one of the more popular local restaurants among college students in Manhattan. Now that the weather is warmer, you can order an iced coffee or a glass of wine to enjoy while chatting with friends on the patio as the sun sets.
The cafe’s relaxed and cozy atmosphere is only enhanced with the presence of warm weather, so be sure to stop by if you’re looking for a spot to dine outdoors.
Tallgrass Taphouse
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Known for its variety of local and specialty craft beers on tap, Tallgrass Taphouse is a super popular restaurant in Manhattan. Located downtown, the pub offers plenty of indoor seating, but the rooftop deck offers a stunning view overlooking the downtown district.
The atmosphere of the Taphouse differs from any other restaurant in Manhattan, and with the variety of food and drink options on the menu, you’re bound to find something you enjoy.
Taco Lucha and Gordo’s Restaurante Mexicano
If you’re in the mood for Mexican food or margaritas, let’s “taco” ’bout Taco Lucha and Gordo’s Restaurante Mexicano. Both restaurants are located in Aggieville and specialize in Mexican cuisine.
Taco Lucha is probably the more popular of the two, and it is known for chipotle raspberry and black bean dip (which sounds questionable, but is actually fantastic). It has varying weekly specials, too.
Taco Lucha has a colorful patio, which is the perfect place to relax in Manhattan’s spring weather and enjoy a house margarita if you’re of age. Taco Lucha’s wait can be 30 minutes or more when it is busy, especially on weekends, so just keep that in mind.
Gordo’s Restaurante Mexicano is more of an honorable mention because of their rooftop patio — an ideal spot to bask in the sun and chat with friends. The patio is also pretty Instagram-worthy if you’re looking for a place to take a few golden hour snapshots.
Ana’s Burger Shack
If you’re in the mood for a big burger and fries, add Ana’s Burger Shack to your list of places to try.
Formerly named Big D’s Burger Shack and located off Tuttle Creek Boulevard, the small joint specializes in big, greasy burgers. The name “Burger Shack” is definitely fitting for the atmosphere: there are a couple of places to sit inside and only a few more located outside, but don’t let the size of the restaurant fool you.
The serving sizes are huge, and while the prices can be a bit steep, it’s without a doubt worth it if you’re in the mood for some quality comfort food. Ana’s Burger Shack seems to be a lesser known dining spot, but it definitely doesn’t disappoint, and the outdoor tables make it the perfect spring and summer joint.
Emma Snyder is a junior in mass communications. The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Collegian. Please send comments to opinion@kstatecollegian.com.
