Check, please: 3 beautiful patios

Updated: July 28, 2012 - 4:22 PM

Relax at these three Twin Cities eateries, whose beautiful patios are as inviting as the food.

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Russell and Desta Klein in the doorway of Meritage.

Photo: Tom Wallace, Star Tribune

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The leafy, sheltered patio at Heidi's is a fine warm-weather platform for lapping up every morsel of chef Stewart Woodman's innovative cooking and pastry chef Heidi Woodman's equally striking desserts. The bar shakes up some wicked-good cocktails and Sunday brunch is a treat.

2903 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls., 612-354-3512, www.heidismpls.com

Meritage sure makes the most of its gorgeous location -- in the landmark Hamm Building, near Rice Park -- with a stretch of sidewalk seating that definitely ranks at the top of the food chain. Chef Russell Klein knows his way around seafood -- there's no better oyster bar in the Midwest, period -- and co-owner Desta Klein keeps the front of the house humming. Don't miss the weekend a la carte brunch.

410 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651-222-5670, www.meritage-stpaul.com

Watch the world (well, some of downtown, anyway) stroll by from a well-appointed sidewalk perch outside Vincent. Chef Vincent Francoual deftly caters to many tastes and budgets -- from a six-course, $74 tasting menu to a superb $11 daily omelet -- and service is first-rate. Closed Sundays.

1100 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-630-1189, www.vincentarestaurant.com

RICK NELSON