Nine Outdoor Patios to Get Cozy At This Winter (2026 Refresher)

It doesn’t get much more Minnesotan than getting cozy on an outdoor patio in the middle of winter! While some favorites have closed their doors, the Twin Cities Gateway scene has evolved with permanent social districts and new heated havens. Here are our top nine picks to embrace the chill this winter.

Courtesy of Forgotten Star

1. 201 Tavern Beer Garden & Grill (Anoka)

A staple of the Anoka Social District, 201 Tavern features one of the best winterized setups in the region. Their outdoor patio is packed with fire pits and high-tops. Because Anoka’s “sip and stroll” program is now year-round, you can enjoy a craft cocktail by the fire or take it to-go in a social district cup as you explore downtown.

• The Vibe: Social, high-energy, and in the heart of the action.

2. Casa Rio Tex Mex (Anoka)

Located right on Jackson Street, Casa Rio offers authentic Tex Mex with a side of winter warmth. Their street-side dining area features fire pits and a special fireside menu. It’s the perfect spot for “winter margaritas” and hot fajitas while watching the snow fall.

• The Vibe: Festive and family-friendly.

3. Serum’s Good Time Emporium (Anoka)

Serum’s doesn’t let the cold stop the fun. Known for having “The Best Wings West of Buffalo,” they keep their expansive patio toasty with a mix of heavy-duty heaters and a tent-covered heated deck. It’s a historic spot (built in 1885) that feels like a classic winter lodge.

• The Vibe: Historic charm and legendary bar food.

4. Bricks Kitchen & Pub (Blaine)

Bricks is the go-to for a more refined “gastro-pub” experience in the winter. Their heated patio in Blaine is consistently warm, allowing you to enjoy upscale pub grub and an impressive craft beer list without needing your heaviest parka.

• The Vibe: Modern, comfortable, and reliably warm.

5. Forgotten Star Brewing Co. (Fridley)

Forgotten Star has truly mastered the Minnesota winter. Located in a historic WWII-era factory, they offer a massive outdoor setup that includes curling lanes, a skating rink, and plenty of fire pits. It’s more of a “winter destination” than just a patio—perfect for “beer poking” (caramelizing your beer with a hot iron) by the fire.

• The Vibe: Industrial-cool with tons of outdoor recreation.

6. 10K Brewing (Anoka)

As Anoka’s first taproom, 10K Brewing offers a unique street-side patio that puts you right in the middle of the downtown festive lights. It’s a favorite for “hearty” locals who want to enjoy a flight of local brews in the crisp winter air.

• The Vibe: Friendly, local, and community-focused.

7. Ambi Wine Bar (Anoka) — New Addition

Ambi Wine Bar is the perfect addition to your winter list. Located on 2nd Avenue, they feature a sidewalk patio with chic fire tables. It’s an ideal spot for a glass of red wine and a charcuterie board while enjoying the ambiance of the social district.

• The Vibe: Sophisticated and intimate.

8. Kendall’s Tavern & Chophouse (Coon Rapids) — New Addition

With a massive stone fireplace indoors and a beautiful patio overlooking the snow-covered Bunker Hills Golf Course, Kendall’s offers a high-end lodge feel. Their outdoor fire pits provide a scenic and “cozy-upscale” alternative for those in the Coon Rapids and Blaine area.

• The Vibe: Upscale lodge with beautiful winter views.

9. The Oaks at Majestic Oaks (Ham Lake) — New Addition

Majestic Oaks isn’t just for summer golf. In the winter, they host Snow Golf and keep “The Oaks Bar & Grill” patio active with fire pits. It’s a great destination for those who want to be active outdoors and then warm up with a hearty meal by a roaring fire.

• The Vibe: Active, spacious, and classic Minnesota.