It’s summer, and we’re moving our dinner parties outdoors. What sounds more heavenly than an evening in sweet relief from the heat, a glass of wine in hand, and the fireflies dancing among the darkening trees? We’re waiting… You’re going to love these small outdoor backyard patio dining ideas. If you’re looking to make your patio a wonderful experience for all who visit it (as well as yourself), then look no further. Scroll on, be inspired, and improve your outdoor space today!
15. CERTAINLY CURTAINS
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Mr. Kate What is it about sheer white curtains that just make everything so elegant? Whatever it is, give us more! This is a fairly inexpensive way to dress up an outdoor dining area. And if your design steers you away from the sheer white, it’s still going to look amazing. See how cozy and intimate that table appears, nestled in the arms of curtains? Go for it.
14. LINGER UNDER LIGHTS
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Domain Adding rope, globe, or even holiday lights above your outdoor dining table is probably one of the easiest ways to make your space beautiful. Your family and guests will feel like they’re eating under stars. You might even add lanterns or candles. Mix and match. The possibilities are endless.
13. DINNER AND A MOVIE
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ViralNova The classic date night, right? Ah, dinner and a movie. And you can bring it all to your own patio. Lounge on cushions as you sup and sip. Don’t forget to bring the popcorn. Wrap up in a blanket as the moon rises, and steal a kiss whenever you can.
12. IT’S A PIZZA CAKE…
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Recipe Girl Mmmm… Can’t you just taste that wood-fired pizza already? Outdoor pizza ovens are the perfect companion to a grill. Dazzle your friends with cocktails and homemade pizza, baked over flames to perfection. Your patio will be synonymous with
delicious.
11. A PATIO BAR NONE
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Consort Patio bars come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Find what suits you, but just remember: a patio bar is a must-have for all outdoor dining spaces. Nothing says “unwind” like the image of your outdoor bar at sunset. You might have to pry people away from this beloved patio feature. Go big or go small with it. The important thing is that you
go.
10. PEACE, LOVE, AND LOUNGE
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Outdoor Rooms Yes, we’re talking about outdoor dining, and yes, we mean tables, chairs, and meals. But lounge areas are terrific for pre-dinner socializing, appetizers, and cocktails. Bookend your evenings by chatting around the fire. Pure relaxation awaits!
9. YOUR GRILLING SIDEKICK
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Popular Mechanics Every grill master needs a sidekick, and the mobile grill station above can go wherever you go. These are especially great to own if your grill is mobile. If you’re a person who likes to change things up and keep people guessing, don’t install stationary outdoor kitchen features. Keep it fluid, and let it all evolve with your mood and setup.
8. SNAZZY CHANDELIERS
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Made in the Shade You can hang these beauties from trees or pergolas. You can buy them new or search for them in antique shops. There’s no wrong way to “chandelier.” These fixtures bring a space together. They’re often perceived as more formal than string lights. They definitely bring the
wow factor.
7. RUNNING GREAT LENGTHS
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Pinterest If you’ve got a rectangle (and especially long) outdoor dining table, dress it up with a table runner. This will make your table look even longer and impressive. Further, add flower arrangements or plants to give your dinner parties that special vibe. Even when we aren’t necessarily celebrating something specific or major, we can celebrate life, beauty, and happiness anytime.
6. LET THE EVENING ROLL ON
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Citrine Living An outdoor bar cart is an extension of that patio “bar none” that we mentioned earlier. As the night goes on and on (and possibly on some more), bring the drinks to your guests. You can roll the cart anywhere: to the pool, to the lounge, to the gardens, etc.
5. NEXT-LEVEL PICNICKING
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Pinterest You can find DIY tutorials for a picnic table like this across the web. And how handy: an icebox in the center of your casual dinner table? Yes, please. When we sit at picnic tables, it’s as if we’re climbing onto a shuttle that will transport us to good times, literal closeness, and many memories.
4. TANTALIZING TEXTURE
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This Old House Bring on the brick, stone, gravel, grass, turf, and mosaic masterpieces! The flooring in your outdoor dining area can make a statement right along with the tables, chairs, and plants. Have fun designing with different, unique textures. We approve of conversations that start at the ground level and work their way up.
3. LUXURY OUTDOOR KITCHEN
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NE Kindesign If you love entertaining guests while you cook, then an outdoor kitchen may be what your heart truly longs for. You can add bars, carts, lights, bells, and whistles, but maybe you’ll never be satisfied until you can bring your love for cuisine out into the bright afternoons or night air. Serve up hot meals and crafted cocktails. Bring the heart of the home onto the patio.
2. JUST A SWINGIN’
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Pinterest Transport your dinner companions back in time, perhaps to childhood days. These swinging chairs and table make meals interesting and outright fun. You can host dinner parties with new friends (and old), and somehow, the swinging aspect takes the edge off. The movement breaks the ice and invites everyone to be playful after a long week.
1. UNBELIEVABLE UMBRELLAS
Finally, our number one outdoor dining recommendation! We can’t say it enough: Poggesi’s large and luxurious residential umbrellas are #goals, as the kids say. They’re practical and elegant. You and your guests won’t be able to resist sitting under the wings of these fine, Italian-crafted canopies.
Reach out to Poggesi Concierge today. We’re here to help you find the residential patio umbrella that suits you, your space, and your needs. Make your outdoor dining area top-notch with simple, sleek, durable Poggesi designs. 
