As everyone’s incredibly well aware, Minneapolis summers are always too short and to be properly relished by participating in as many outdoor activities as possible – not excluding dining. These four outdoor patio situations are staples in the city’s eating and drinking scene, must-gos for anyone looking to properly enjoy the season. Because, let’s face it, in a few months no amount of patio heat lamps and heavy-duty blankets will cut it. – James Schaak

Pryes Brewery: Literally had to Google, “mndaily pyres brewery james schaak” before writing this reporter’s pick because I can’t believe I haven’t gushed about my favorite Minneapolis brewery before. Pryes’ wide array of quality pizzas and an even wider array of quality draft beers turn the brewery’s simple, outdoor picnic tables into a locationally strategic setting before any night out in North Loop or Northeast. Many good stories have been fueled by a Miraculum-based pregame here. Not to mention it’s a fantastic Surly alternative… – James Schaak

Red Cow: Brunch, tater tots and scenic outdoor views of various locations across the Twin Cities; what more could one ask for? Populating five different locations across the metro area, Red Cow is the perfect place to meet up for summer brunch with a friend on their outdoor patio space. My vegetarianism has forced me to often choose between negligible salads and unsatisfactory black bean burgers at many Midwestern burger restaurants. However, Red Cow sets itself apart from its peers by offering many meatless options alongside their locally-famous burgers. Yet, in the end, it’s Red Cow’s milkshakes that steal the limelight away from their vegetarian-friendly main menu, especially my personal favorite: the birthday cake flavor. – Maya Marchel Hoff

Psycho Suzi’s Motor Lounge: It’s not often we grizzled Minnesotans get to enjoy a beverage adorned with a tiny umbrella. Where better to do it than at a deliciously weird, campy-as-hell retro tiki bar on the Mississippi? Northeast’s own Psycho Suzi’s is, well, the only one I can think of, but that doesn’t make their exquisitely boozy theme cocktails any less delicious, nor does it take away from their utter mastery of tacky tiki decor. Adorned with Moai statues, palm thatch umbrellas and enough distressed driftwood to sustain a small island, their absurdist patio sets the perfect atmosphere for getting absolutely blasted on syrupy, fruity goodness. Not to worry, their wide selection of fried foods and tasty apps will soak it up (mostly). The waterfront view only makes it easier to imagine yourself on a white sandy beach as you guzzle down your fifth Mai Tai. – Bel Moran

Hai Hai: On a corner in Northeast Minneapolis, housed in the space that was formerly home to a beloved dive bar and strip club, sits my favorite patio in the city – Hai Hai. Serving Southeast Asian street food, the space exudes the same vibe as the dishes that decorate its menu: bright, colorful and spirited. It’s an ideal spot to snag a table for a small group or to spend an evening sitting at the bar, perched atop a turquoise stool and taking in the scenery while that Northeast summer breeze oh-so-gently runs through your hair. Order the Water Fern Cakes, Thai Banana Blossom Salad and Hanoi Sticky Rice for a meal that’ll leave you dreaming about the myriad of places that inspired its creation. – Sophia Zimmerman