As August wanes and autumn begins to descend on our little corner of WNY, we find ourselves scrambling to enjoy the outside before some of our favorite spots close their patios and welcome us inside to ride out the winter.

Having lived much of our adult lives in the mid-Atlantic, patio dining was a year-round luxury for two people from Western New York. When we purchased the Shirt Factory in 2018, it was my #1 desire to create a place where people could relax in the morning with their coffee and enjoy an evening cocktail under bistro lights. And since selling it last year, we’ve become loyal patrons and now we get to enjoy it even more. When it comes to patio season – we’re all in. Dinner and drinks just taste better when you’re doing it al fresco.

While Medina might not be the size of Buffalo or Rochester, we have more than a robust outdoor dining scene. From more intimate seating to a rooftop overlooking the Erie Canal, this quaint village has you covered. If you’re looking to make a few outdoor memories, here are a few of our favorite options in Medina, NY: (*all photos are my own*)

Shirt Factory: 115 West Center Street

The patio we know the best is located adjacent to the indoor space. With bistro lighting and tree coverage, it’s a great place to sip cocktails and watch the sun set. The ivy that clings to the brick is one of the most photographed backdrops in town, and I’m lucky enough to have had it as a permanent photo prop for 6 years of life at the Factory. We’ve also seen the patio come alive with outdoor events and celebrations, so if you’re looking for a spot I know how to get you in touch ;)

Shirt Factory patio is an ideal place for events in Western New York. Especially in Medina, NY.
Shirt Factory patio is an ideal place for events in Western New York. Especially in Medina, NY.
Al Fresco dining in Medina, NY at the Shirt Factory cocktail bar. The Shrimp Tacos are perfect on the patio.
Even though the Shirt Factory is known for cocktails, they also have a local WNY beer menu. Shirt Factory lunch is open to the patio too.
Sandwiches on the patio before the temperatures fall too much in WNY.

Zambistro: 408 Main Street

At Zambistro, consistency is key and we’ve never had anything but a fabulous time. Long before we had the Factory to occupy our every night and weekend, we had the luxury of a small town gem like Zambistro to host all of our date nights. With the addition of the Bistro room and the renovated dining room, it’s hard to decide just WHERE to enjoy your meal – but in summer, we highly recommend the downstairs patio or head upstairs to their rooftop bar. With a view of the Erie Canal, it’s an absolute must if you haven’t been (photos from our visit with the kiddos – DELICIOUS. Those crabcakes, ya’ll…).

Zambistro in Medina, NY continues to be a favorite of ours. The patio dining option is perfect for the warmer months. The crabcakes the best starter.
The kids menu at Zambistro is worth the trip. They don't shortchange the offerings and we highly recommend the grilled cheese and French fries.
Zambistro in Medina, NY continues to be a favorite of ours. The patio dining option is perfect for the warmer months.
Is the Chicken Cutlet the official dish of Medina? Zambistro has been offering this dish for years and it's almost impossible to order something else.
Zambistro has the main dining room, the Bistro Room, a patio, and a rooftop bar. If you're looking for a unique dining option, they have it in Medina, NY.
Patio dining at Zambistro in Medina, NY.

Mariachi de Oro: 11417 Maple Ridge Road

If you’re looking for some of the best Mexican cuisine in the area (that just so happens to be owned by a wonderful family), this is your place. Their bar opens up to the largest patio in Medina for parties of all sizes. We’ve had some of our favorite dates at Mariachi, and my phone houses dozens of photos of memories in this place (specifically, every bowl of guac I have consumed…) We love everything about this place, especially that their covered patio ensures outdoor seating no matter what the weather.

Leonard Oakes Estate Winery/Steampunk Cider: 10609 Ridge Road

Oh LOEW, you’ll earn a spot on my list forever and ever. Scott and I believe that businesses can be good, but the people behind them make them great. The Oakes family are among some of our dearest friends, but even so the outdoor space on the Ridge is a beautiful scene to kick back with a glass of Steampunk or an LOEW wine. This coming Wednesday evening enjoy it for yourself with the last concert of the summer for their Wednesdays on the Lawn series. Wine slushies, Steampunk Cider, and of course, a great selection of wine and other local brews complete the lineup. We will see you there!

Other great outdoor options in Medina:

Harvest: 444 Main Street – You can have the white tablecloth experience inside or find an intimate table for two outside. Located at the four corners of Medina, Harvest includes outdoor fireplace features as well.

Fitzgibbons Public House: 429 Main Street – Options along Main Street are an added benefit to our small town and we love that Fitzgibbons has a seating option in the back that looks out at the Erie Canal. Grab a drink and enjoy the view!

Coffee Pot Cafe: 114 East Center Street – It’s always nice to have a comfortable option to sip coffee both inside and out, and Coffee Pot ensures you get your pick! But make sure you are ready for one of their incredible pastries (or ten) to enjoy with your coffee.

Sourced Market & Eatery: 12195 Maple Ridge Road – You can enjoy outdoor seating here, whether it’s with local ingredients, baked goods, ice cream, or some of the best sandwiches in the area. Despite being slightly east of the Village of Medina, it’s still a popular spot for lunch. Be sure to check out their weekly lunch specials!

Vintage Cigar: 513 Main Street – Cigar connoisseurs deserve an outdoor option as well. The lounge has a growing number of cigars and seating options inside and on their back patio.

Now it’s time to make the rounds and enjoy late summer nights and early autumn dates at some of these beautiful outdoor spaces. Cheers, friends.

-Alix