From time to time, we here at SFist like to step outside and have a drink in the sun before it evaporates into fog and forces us to retreat indoors. Luckily for us in this bleak midsummer, several new outdoor spaces are either currently opening or look to open in time for Indian Summer weather.
Virgil's Sea Room
Although the bar (and the patio) have been open for a while now, Virgil's is finally throwing a coming out party for their expansive outdoor space. Tonight is the official grand opening for the wooden decked courtyard which has been all gussied up with picnic tables, chairs and whiskey barrels as high tops. There are a few heaters spread around and the high walls mostly block the wind so heartier patio goers can tough out those misty summer nights.
3152 Mission Street (at Precita)
Rustic
On 24th Street, which is the new Valencia Street that Divisadero never quite turned out to be, Rustic Pizza brings an approachable version of several current trends: mid- to high-end pizza (hence the name), beer and lawn games. They've installed two bocce ball courts, which is a much classier lawn game than throwing bean bags at a slab of wood like you're in 3rd grade gym class. Eater took a look at around place earlier this week and slices of pizza are $4 - $5, so you'll be paying a tiny premium for the outdoor real estate once it opens in the next few weeks.
3331 24th Street at Mission
La Urbana
Opening in August 14th, the huge new space on Divisadero will feature several different spaces under, and on top of, one roof. In addition to the main dining room and street food-centric back room, there will also a be a second floor space and rooftop terrace. The outdoor portion won't be ready for the big opening in August, but should follow in the next few months.
Divisadero and Grove Street
Ziryab
After a too-long haitus, the underused patio at Ziryab Grill on Divisadero has seen some soft-opening action this week. The whole restaurant re-organized to be more of a cocktail bar with Zachary Taylor of Hog & Rocks in charge of the drinks. Their mediterranean menu has always been a good deal for the money, but their real draw was cheap beers in a semi-outdoor space. The space has been reconfigured to includ a high communal table and two smaller tables under a heated plexiglass roof. You could weather even the worst June gloom on that patio and the TV should get some use in the second half of the Giants season.
528 Divisadero (between Hayes and Fell)
Previously: Roof Deck Report: Take a Look Around El Techo de Lolinda
Best S.F. Bars With An Outdoor Oasis
A Brief List of Bars With Both Televisions and Outdoor Seating