As spring transitions into summer, outdoor dining once again becomes a staple of the local dining experience, offering people a chance to enjoy both the warm weather and the delicious restaurants around town.
Over the past several years, outdoor dining has become a staple part of summer, especially since COVID-19 hit 6 years ago. It creates this ambiance that everyone loves, and encourages people to come outside and really enjoy the outdoors a little bit more. This lively time is where diners can enjoy the sunshine, while still enjoying the delicious food.
Several popular Darien-area restaurants are preparing for what they expect to be a busy outdoor season. The local favorites, which include The Goose, 1020 Post, and Bodega have reopened their outdoor spaces, while nearby destinations like Rowayton Seafood continue to attract diners with the beautiful waterfront seating and stunning views.
Each restaurant is a bit different, but that’s what people like about them. 1020 Post offers a more modern setting with a pergola in the back, which opens up to more shops lining Post Road. Margaret Ward, a freshman at Darien High School, says that her favorite restaurant is “1020 Post – the food is great and the outdoor environment is great on a sunny day”.
Bodega relatively recently opened up their “parking lot” seating, with twinkling lights and space heaters for when it gets chillier at night. This adds to the general ambiance of the area, before there was no pretty outdoor seating options in that pack parking lot. This has been a huge success for them over the past few years and has gained more attention from visitors.
Rowayton Seafood speaks for itself and remains a standout restaurant for seafood lovers looking for a gorgeous and delicious waterfront meal. Outdoor seating is becoming increasingly common among all age groups, including the young generation of high schoolers. Marine Samame, a sophomore at DHS says that “being outside boosts everyone’s mood and it makes me enjoy being at the restaurant even more”.
It’s a collective agreement that the outdoor setting enhances their overall experience. Customers often describe any patio dining as more relaxing and enjoyable, with the fresh air and pretty surroundings. It is proven by many studies that being outside can significantly improve your mood. The service can feel a bit more laid back, but still the same quality and attentiveness from indoor seating. Junior Audrey Brooks thoroughly enjoys Rowayton Seafood because “the dining area is gorgeous right on the water and service is excellent”. People from around Darien start to migrate to places like these, especially located near the water.
For restaurant owners, outdoor dining can bring several benefits. They are able to serve way more people now with the bigger space, especially during the busiest hours. However, it can also bring some challenges with the weather, and additional staffing. Despite these challenges, the outdoor dining scene remains an important part of Darien’s restaurant culture. It supports small business owners, encourages residents to stay local, and adds to the ambiance around town. Whether for a casual lunch or an evening out, Darien’s outdoor spaces are once again offering residents a chance to enjoy both the season and the town’s growing restaurant scene.
