Nothing pairs better with the fresh outdoor air than good food, good wine and good music. In and around Bergen County, there are plenty of wineries with eats, eateries with wine and all of the above with live entertainment. We rounded up some of the tastiest restaurants and wineries around the area with beautiful seating options for dining al fresco, either with the kids or for a much-needed date night.
Outdoor Dining
Locale Ristorante Even before outdoor dining became a pandemic way of life, Locale’s elegant outdoor patio was the perfect way to enjoy a delicious meal. Their menu consists of Italian dishes with a bit of Mediterranean flavor, including home pasta and fresh fish, plus a kids menu if it’s family dinner night. Pair with one of their specialty cocktails, such as the Soho Lychee Martini for a beautiful night out. 208 Piermont Rd., Closter
Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern This historical spot serves seasonal, fresh ingredients sourced from local farms on their Outdoor Bluestone Patio. Enjoy their menu rotation of weekend chef specials, such as fried green tomatoes, plus hand crafted cocktails such as the Blood Orange Margarita. Visit for brunch, lunch or dinner at this buzzy spot. 1 East Franklin Tpke., Ho-Ho-Kus
Café 37 Chef Cesar Sotomayor’s creations of modern American Cuisine range from Asian Barbecued Pork Riblets to Truffle Risotto. Their tented outdoor dining setup mimics the modern food creations, with spaced out tables surrounded by greenery to give you the relaxing atmosphere perfect for date night. 37 S Broad St., Ridgewood
Café Matisse Dining in the fairytale-like garden at Café Matisse is sure to bring immediate Zen to your life. Cozy tables are surrounded by plants and floral life, which pairs perfectly with the ever-changing seasonal menu. All ingredients in their dishes are fresh and locally sourced, such as honeyed oven-roasted beets and duck confit tacos. 167 Park Ave., Rutherford
Portobello Feasts Looking for a serene outdoor dining experience reminiscent of that tropical vacay you’re longing to take? Portobello Feasts has you covered -- literally -- in their expansive, shaded space equipped with waterfalls, greenery and spacious tables. With an outdoor Tiki Bar mixing up specialty cocktails and extensive Italian menu, you may never need to leave NJ to get that vacation vibe. 175 Ramapo Valley Rd., Oakland
Bibi’z Patio dining at this upscale restaurant and lounge is not just delicious, but allergen-friendly and gluten-free. On the menu for brunch, lunch and dinner is a wide range of global American cuisine plus a cocktail menu will delish sips such as a grapefruit martini to tickle the taste buds. 284 Center Ave., Westwood
Outdoor Wineries
There are few things that scream spring and summer daze -- we mean days -- than sitting in the sun sipping some vino. The scenic views and fun ambiance at these outdoor wineries around Bergen County are worth the drive.
Brook Hollow Winery Hit this winery Fridays through Sundays for some late afternoon live music that pairs perfectly with a wine flight. Snag one of their outdoor tables or bring your own chairs to sample some of their whites ands reds, or check out one of their special events during the summer such as the Fish Fry and Clam Bake. 594 State Route 94, Columbia, NJ
Terhune Orchards and Winery Home to plenty of Pick Your Own fruits and farm activities for the kids, Terhune also welcomes the over 21 set for wine tastings and events on the weekends. Sit outside in their expansive seating area to enjoy the weekend music series with jazz, blues, folk and rock musicians on the playlist. 330 Cold Soil Rd., Princeton
Wine Tasting by Tomasello Winery at Alstede The NJ farm you all know and love for its weekend farm fun and pick your own seasons also hosts daily wine tastings by Tomasello Winery. Enjoy five to eight pours plus glass to keep of their Pinots, Chardonnays, Moscatos and more. With plenty of activities for the kids, you can swirl and sip while they play. 1 Alstede Farms Ln., Chester
Torne Valley Vineyards A short drive over the NJ border brings you to this hidden gem, which hosts wine tastings, seasonal chef specials and live music every Saturday and Sunday. Be sure to grab a table early at the first come first served patio, and take a walk around the gorgeous grounds while you’re there. Torne Valley Rd., Hillburn
Warwick Valley Winery Live music is back on the weekends at this popular winery, so be sure to come early as it tends to fill up. Wine, cider and spirits, plus a delish menu at the cafe (think: wood-fired pizza, truffle fries and locally grown produce) can be enjoyed on the spacious patio or garden. 114 Little York Rd., Warwick
