Outdoor Dining in Federal Way

Around May, I start getting antsy if I spend too much time inside, and any time we go out to eat, I require outdoor seating. For a long time, I thought there were only two or three options in Federal Way (which is understandable given that most restaurants in town look out over a parking lot). However, there are quite a few places which have gotten creative with their patios and even more that decided to embrace the parking lot view and set up a few tables to take advantage of the sun and summer breezes.

This post is a little different from my other reviews, but it seems necessary for my sanity in summer. So here it is: the totally incomplete guide to outdoor dining in Federal Way! Unlike my other posts which stick to locally-owned businesses, this is a list of anywhere I know of which has outdoor seating. I have thrown in fast food chains, burger joints, and cafes, as well as my original search for more upscale places where I could enjoy a glass of wine al fresco. If you know of any restaurants which should be added to this list, let me know in the comments and I'll add them!

Verrazanos - Easily the best view of the bunch. Enjoy upscale Italian food and a nice wine list on their water view deck.

The Rock - The view here is of Fatburger's patio but it's tucked in between the buildings so it's a little private. They have tasty wood fired pizza, microbrews, wine, or you can order a cocktail in a bucket. So that's a bonus.

Fatburger - As you probably guessed from above, their patio has a view of The Rock and its patio. You can enjoy a giant burger, fries, and, yes, a cold beer, tucked down in their little patio.

The Ram - This patio faces the parking lot but they have a nice little wall in between you and the cars and it's on the low traffic side of the building so it's a pleasant spot to enjoy a microbrew and a hearty dinner.

Red Robin - The deck faces the Commons Mall so you can get in some good people watching with your bottomless steak fries.

Panera - Their patio has a few umbrella tables next to the building and also faces the Commons. It's more of a pleasant lunch option than a lingering cocktail hour/dinner spot.

Costa Vida - In front of the Commons, this has good sidewalk seating and feels like a festive place to enjoy a burrito.

Five Guys - This is the newest restaurant at the Commons and they are right next to Costa Vida, sharing a sidewalk style patio.

Los Bigotes de Villa - This place and its teeny, comfortable deck feel like a beachfront taco stand that has been airlifted to a little shopping area tucked away along Pacific Highway. It feels private and relaxing despite the proximity to the highway, and the food is outstanding.

Poverty Bay Cafe - The outdoor seating for this coffee shop turned full service restaurant usually consists of a few tables and a water bowl for dogs just outside the front door. It's a great spot to enjoy breakfast in the summer.

Puerto Vallarta - They have a private little patio around the back of the restaurant that just begs you to enjoy a cold margarita on a hot day.

Burger Express - The deck here looks out over Pacific Highway and feels like a lively place to enjoy burgers and one of the best selections of shakes in Federal Way.

Ivar's - This branch of the local seafood chain has a few tables out front to enjoy your fish and chips in the fresh air.

Menchies - On a hot day, this is a recipe for happiness. A place that sells frozen yogurt by weight and has sidewalk seating is my kind of place!

Cold Stone Creamery/Jimmy John's - These restaurants are next to each other and there are a few tables on the sidewalk out in front. Dinner and dessert?

Starbucks (various locations) - I think most Starbucks locations have some sort of outdoor seating options.