Spring Fever? Dine al fresco

Spring is preparing to rear its head, and as the weather warms, the patio umbrellas unfold. Restaurant-goers pining for a dish in the fresh spring air will eat up what little warmth April offers.

Dining is an entirely altered experience in open air. Whether you’re parked on the patio or picnicking at the park, dining outdoors is a grand experience.

Bloomington doesn’t offer many options to dine outside, but those restaurants that do combine cuisine and the warmer seasons excellently.

The most exceptional al fresco dining can be had at The Scenic View, about 10 minutes south of town. The Scenic View rose from the dust, quite literally.

The formerly untidy restaurant turned into a unique dining experience overlooking beautiful Lake Monroe. The restaurant is now equipped with a full bar, beer garden and an abundance of patio seating.

Huge Oberon and Upland sponsored umbrellas shade diners during the spring, summer and early fall as they look out over wooded areas surrounding the lake.

The Scenic View offers an exciting menu and plenty of local beer and wine to taste. Though their kitchen had trouble after opening, the flavors and offerings now available are reputable and ready to please. If you need an escape from the bustle of Bloomington or need a hot restaurant for your hot date, The Scenic View is the place.

In downtown Bloomington, the Irish Lion offers a quaint patio in front, perfect for warm evenings. The restaurant is always busy at dinner, especially as the week comes to an end, and the patio provides an escape from the noise inside. Cold beer, remarkable food and the pub atmosphere make for a perfect evening at the Irish Lion. Content, rosy-cheeked patrons are sure to stumble out of the bar for your entertainment.

Chomp is a delicious, if somewhat less stylish, eatery. Located behind Siam House on Fourth and Dunn Streets, Chomp is one hell of a burger joint. After continuous attempts and almost immediate closings by previous owners, Chomp seems to have finally filled the niche. Chomp has fantastic burgers. A plethora of toppings and the Chomp challenge promise to satisfy any burger craving. If you’re not enjoying your grilled treat on their sun-drenched patio, you’re not getting the full experience. I wish Chomp great success, as it adds another adventurous burger joint to this fine town.

Last and certainly not least is the frequent favorite, Feast. This off-campus attraction suffers from relatively little seating indoors. Its patio, on the other hand, is spacious and comfortable. Large tables and huge umbrellas shelter patrons from hot summer sun. If you go on a brisk spring evening, there are space heaters as well. Feast has a small menu composed of brave flavors that appeal to mature taste buds and an extensive beer and wine list. If you’re getting one of its legendary desserts, you’ll want to pair it with a Founder’s Breakfast Stout.

As temperatures rise and your hunger for great food and better weather thaws, head to restaurants that offer the blessing of the great outdoors. Fresh air, fresh ingredients and good company will help you finish spring semester strong and coast into summer.

— allshoup@indiana.edu