Groovy Spring Patio Dining
By Medicare Jet-Setters, Neil Johnson, and Shelley Stutchman
Something about spring in Oklahoma makes us want to dine outside. The breeze is warm, mixed with a cool touch as the evening approaches. Nature is coming alive again with colors that rival an artist’s painting. An Oklahoma sunset has a brilliance unique to anywhere else.
Medicare Jet-Setters Neil and Shelley have reviewed and tested the following patio dining spots around OKC and Edmond that are senior citizen-friendly. That means the chairs are comfortable and have backs, the patio is clean and pretty, it is physically easy to enter, and the acoustics are good.
ü Pearls Oyster Bar: 5641 N. Classen Blvd, OKC, OK 73118
Pearls has a large patio with a New Orleans atmosphere. Jazzy blues piped outside, and the volume is just right, loud enough to create the mood but does not interfere with conversation. Pearls also have a rooftop patio; however, you need to climb the stairs to enjoy that one. We enjoy sitting out on the deck on Tuesday evenings. That is because, on Tuesdays, you can get their fresh oysters on the half shell for only one dollar each.
ü La Baguette Bistro: 7408 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Do you ever have the yearning to get away and take a vacation, but you don’t have the time? Then check out the patio at La Baguette. You can sit under the shadows of the Eifel Tower anchored to the roof. A canopy of twinkle lights set the mood on a Spring evening. The food is always good and oh so French. You may want to wear your beret.
ü The Cheesecake Factory: 5600 N Penn Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73112
The Cheesecake Factory has two patios to enjoy. What could be better than sitting on their sunny terrace, with piped-in music, and enjoying your favorite slice of heaven, I mean cheesecake, with a cold glass of iced tea? My favorite is the original cheesecake topped with fresh glazed strawberries.
ü Flip’s Wine Bar & Trattoria: 5801 N Western Ave, OKC, OK 73118
A lazy spring Saturday afternoon is the perfect time to visit Flip’s Wine Bar & Trattoria and sit on their charming patio. A late European-influenced lunch menu and an excellent wine or sparkling water turn a regular Saturday afternoon into a mini escape. Get some sun, unwind, and enjoy Flip’s patio, no better way to celebrate spring.
ü Louie’s Grill & Bar: 9401 Lake Hefner Pkwy., Oklahoma City, OK 73120
On these spring days, do you want to take a walk around Lake Hefner with your dog in tow, then enjoy a drink and bite to eat? Louie’s lakeside patio is the perfect spot. You can dine outside with a beautiful view of the lake, and your dog is welcome. Try out the patio at Louie’s Grill & Bar this spring to relax with your best furry friend. PS..you don’t have to own a dog to enjoy this outdoor dining paradise.
ü Inspirations Gifts Décor & Tea Room: 2118 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, OK 73003
To sit outside, dine, enjoy the beauty of nature, and relax is what patio partaking is all about. The patio at Inspirations Tea Room provides all those ingredients. This patio will sweep you away from your everyday cares. I suggest a lovely brunch on the deck with one of their specialty coffees or teas.
ü Your own backyard: Out your back door.
The best outdoor patio dining of all may be your backyard located right outside your backdoor. Buy a few decorations from Dollar Tree and create your personal oasis. Grill yourself the perfect steak and pour your favorite drink. Then sit back, enjoy the spring breeze, and while you are at it, ask Alexa to play “Feelin Groovy,” (the 59th Street Bridge Song) by Simon and Garfunkle.