15 Restaurants to Dine Outside in Burke County

Enjoy Outdoor Dining in North Carolina’s Nature’s Playground—From Patio Bites to Farm-Fresh Experiences

When the weather’s just right, there’s nothing better than enjoying a great meal outside. From casual bites to elevated evenings, Burke County offers plenty of spots where you can dine in the fresh air and soak in the local atmosphere.

Blue 42
A go-to for casual dining in Morganton, Blue 42 offers a laid-back outdoor seating area perfect for meeting up with friends. Their menu features crowd-pleasing favorites like wings, burgers, and hearty appetizers, making it an easy choice for a relaxed evening outside.

Bones Jones
Known for its farm to table philosophy and local meats, Bones Jones pairs great food with a welcoming outdoor space. It’s a fun spot to gather with friends, enjoy live music or pickleball when available, and dig into smoked meats and unique sides in a lively, open-air setting

Fonta Flora Brewery at Whippoorwill Farm
An old dairy farm by Lake James State Park, Fonta Flora’s Whippoorwill location offers one of the most scenic outdoor dining experiences in Burke County. Pair a craft beer with wood-fired pizza from their permanent, on-site food truck and enjoy wide-open views where kids and dogs can play and visitors can see where their food is grown.

Highlands Butchery
Located in Valdese, Highlands Butchery offers a unique outdoor dining experience centered around high-quality meats and thoughtfully prepared dishes. With a focus on local sourcing, their weekday lunches and dinners and weekend brunches are always a hit. It’s a great spot to enjoy a relaxed meal outside while experiencing one of Burke County’s standout culinary gems.

Las Salsas
Las Salsas is an old favorite in Burke County with a new patio to enjoy their delicious Mexi-Cali style food. Their patio is a great place to enjoy classic Mexican dishes, fresh chips and salsa from their salsa bar, and refreshing drinks with friends and family while soaking up the outdoors.

Little Guatemala
Rich in flavor and culture, Little Guatemala offers a unique outdoor dining experience reminiscent of its name sake in Central America. Enjoy favorites like tostadas and traditional plates like the Guatemalan breakfast and single source coffee while dining outside in a welcoming, community-centered setting.

Los Compadres
A local favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine, Los Compadres in Valdese offers outdoor seating that’s perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. With generous portions, friendly service, and all the classics—from fajitas to tacos—it’s an easy spot to unwind and enjoy a meal outside.

Mountain Burrito
Fresh, fast, and full of flavor, Mountain Burrito is ideal for a quick bite you can enjoy outdoors. Build your own burrito, bowl, or tacos and take advantage of their outdoor seating for a casual, no-fuss dining experience that still delivers big on taste.

Myra’s
A longtime local favorite, Myra’s offers a vibrant outdoor space where guests can enjoy classic diner food and ice cream. Known for their Friday night cruise-ins and family friendly environment, its the perfect place to spend the evenings outside in downtown Valdese.

Perry’s Berries
For something a little different, Perry’s Berries offers an outdoor experience surrounded by the beauty of a blueberry patch. Whether you’re enjoying fresh-picked berries, some ice cream, wine or lunch from the Blueberry Bistro, it’s a charming spot to relax near the Lake James area.

Root & Vine
If you’re looking for a more elevated outdoor dining experience, Root & Vine delivers with a refined farm inspired menu and inviting patio space. It’s perfect for date nights or special occasions, offering thoughtfully prepared dishes and a relaxed atmosphere right in downtown Morganton.

Roundhouse Brisket
Serving up bold, smoky flavors, Roundhouse Brisket is a must-visit for barbecue lovers. Their outdoor seating provides a casual, comfortable space to enjoy expertly prepared meats and classic sides in a relaxed, open-air setting.

The Hedge
Tucked away on Queen Street in downtown Morganton, this new restaurant has a cozy and welcoming feel, The Hedge offers an outdoor setting that’s both relaxed and a little off the beaten path. It’s a great place to gather with friends, enjoy a cocktail, and take your time over a meal in a comfortable, open-air environment.

Town Tavern Morganton
A staple in downtown Morganton, Town Tavern features a spacious outdoor seating area that overlooks the Catawba River. Known for its large menu and lively atmosphere, it’s a great place to enjoy everything from pizza to entrees while taking in the live music or sounds of the water.

Treat
Another great upscale restaurant in downtown Morganton, Treat has a small patio that is the perfect extension of their ornate dining room. Known for their wine selection, craft cocktails and weekly chef’s menu, this patio is the perfect place to celebrate special occasions or a nice night out with friends.

From scenic farms to lively downtown patios, Burke County invites you to dine outside and experience the beauty of North Carolina’s Nature’s Playground. Plan your next outing, grab a table outside, and discover your new favorite spot.