The Best Restaurants For Dining Alfresco

Now that the April holidays have passed, it's officially time to start fantasizing about the warmer months coming up just around the bend. One surefire way to tell that spring is on the horizon is the outdoor furniture and expanded alfresco dining rooms at restaurants around town.

The Best Restaurants for Dining Alfresco Slideshow

Plenty of restaurants offer outdoor seating during the spring, summer, and fall, but some do a better job with it than others. Alfresco service can be tricky because restaurants have to make sure customers don't feel crowded by diners waiting to be seated, they can't take up too much precious sidewalk space, and they must offer comfort against impending poor weather conditions.

Of course, some of the most important factors for great alfresco dining are the view and surroundings — restaurants that offer stellar food and a unique, breathtaking skyline view or waterfront setting make the experience of dining outside extra special.

Click through to see the collection of restaurants across the country serving up the best outdoor dining experiences. Think we missed your favorite alfresco spot? Leave a comment below with your thoughts.