Sip into Summer: The Best Outdoor Patios and Summer Drinks in Staunton
As the summer sun heats up in Staunton, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than by sipping on refreshing drinks at some of the city's best outdoor patios. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated cocktail, a locally crafted beer, or a vibrant mocktail, Staunton's drink scene has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some must-visit spots for summer drinks!
Second Draft Bistro: A Taste of Elegance
Located within the picturesque grounds of The Blackburn Inn and Conference Center, Second Draft Bistro offers an inviting patio perfect for a leisurely afternoon or a romantic evening under the stars. Our summer drink menu includes local wines and beers, and refreshing non-alcoholic options. Come try out Second Draft Bistro while you’re here. We’re open for breakfast daily, brunch on the weekends, and Fridays and Saturdays for light bites and drinks. During brunch, don't miss out on breakfast classics like eggs and bacon with toast, as well as healthy alternatives like yogurt parfaits and our NEW tofu scramble. If you want more lunch options, try our turkey club, Cuban, sandwich, or flatbreads. And it wouldn’t be brunch without mimosas- taste our classic mimosa with juice of your choice, our man-mosa, or our barbie-mosa!
Dine Out in Downtown: A Celebration of Flavors
One of Staunton's highlights this summer is the "Dine Out in Downtown" event, where local restaurants bring their culinary and mixology talents outdoors. With streets closed off to traffic, you can enjoy a unique al fresco dining experience in the heart of the city. Many participating venues offer special summer drink menus featuring local ingredients and creative concoctions.
Participating Venues and Their Standout Drinks:
- Yelping Dog Wine: Try a refreshing summer rose, a Blood Orange Cider, or even non-alcoholic Cucumber Melon kombucha, all perfect for summer!
- Byers Street Bistro: Sip on their new Sour Patch Margarita, combining Tequila, Peach Schnapps, Black Raspberry Liquor, Lemon Juice, Lime Juice, and some Simple Syrup for a perfect summer drink!
- The Split Banana: Known for their artisan gelato, they offer a delightful Gelato Milkshake using seasonal fruits.
Other Notable Patios and Drink Spots
Staunton’s charming streets are dotted with various spots perfect for enjoying summer drinks outdoors. Here are a few more to add to your list:
Famed for its farm-to-table approach, Zynodoa features a quaint patio where you can savor their innovative cocktails or an extensive list of wine.
- Summer Drink Special: The Rhu-berry Fields. This cocktail creation consists of Strawberry Peppercorn Beefeater Gin, Rhubarb Sour, Rockbridge “V d’Or”, and garnished with strawberry powder and peppercorn.
A favorite among craft beer enthusiasts, Redbeard Brewing Company’s outdoor space is perfect for enjoying a cold pint of their summer seasonal brews.
- Must-Try Summer Beer: Build-Your-Own Shandy. A 50/50 blend of hard lemonade & a beer of your choice!
New to the Scene
Staunton’s vibrant culinary scene continues to evolve, welcoming new and exciting establishments that bring fresh flavors to the city. This summer, two standout newcomers are making waves with their innovative offerings:
Nestled in Staunton’s Wharf district, Ramulose Ridge Vineyards’ new tasting room offers a chic urban lounge and a beautiful patio with a wrap-around fountain, perfect for trying handcrafted wines.
- While You’re Here: Try a glass of their house-made sangria with many flavors to choose from, like Peach, Margarita, Mango, Pink (Cranberry/Orange), Strawberry, Chocolate Covered Strawberry, Pomegranate and Piña Colada.
Situated in downtown Staunton, Cider from Mars creates tasty ciders inspired by their space theme, featuring a modern industrial taproom and a spacious outdoor patio.
- We Recommend: “The Pathfinder” is Cider from Mars’ flagship semi-sweet cider, crafted with a blend of modern and vintage Virginia-grown apple varieties.
Staunton is brimming with wonderful places to enjoy summer drinks in the great outdoors. From the elegant ambiance of Second Draft Bistro at The Blackburn Inn and Conference Center to the festive vibes of "Dine Out Downtown," there's no shortage of spots to explore. Make this summer memorable by discovering the flavors and experiences that Staunton has to offer. Cheers!