THE HOT FIVE Restaurant patios were made for June weekends.
ACQUA RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR
Two marvelous outdoor venues: A snug deck off the dining room, and a lovely lakeside patio. Two great deals: A design-your-own three-course dinner for $30, and an early happy hour (4 to 5 p.m.) where all bottled wines are half-price.
4453 Lake Av. S., White Bear Lake, 651-407-7317, www.acquawbl.com
BRODERS' PASTA BAR
This is what warm weather is all about: A seat at the handsome outdoor bar, an enviable Italian wine list and a parade of tasty, inexpensive small plate items.
5000 Penn Av. S., Mpls., 612-925-9202, www.broders.com
CAFE LURCAT AND BAR LURCAT
The bar's great-looking patio, which overlooks beautifully revitalized Loring Park, is tailor-made for enjoying some of the city's best sliders as well as cinnamon-dusted mini doughnuts, miso-glazed sea bass, duck pot stickers and other affordable delights.
1624 Harmon Pl., Mpls., 612-486-5500, www.damico.com
DAKOTA JAZZ CLUB & RESTAURANT
Nicollet Mall's roomiest and best-looking sidewalk cafe is the place to savor chef Jack Riebel's smartly executed New American fare. Select your own three-course dinner (starter, entree, dessert) for $39.
