As the days grow longer and the evenings warmer, there's never been a better time to experience the best alfresco dining in Lincoln. Whether you're looking for a relaxed picnic, a canal-side lunch, tapas in the sunshine or a pub garden with stunning cathedral views, Lincoln has an outdoor dining spot for every occasion.
From independent cafés to award-winning restaurants, here's our guide to some of the best places to enjoy outdoor dining in Lincoln this summer.
Nonna Juana
Named after the owner's beloved grandmother, Nonna Juana is a Burton Road favourite serving authentic Argentinian and Spanish-inspired deli delights.
Expect generously filled focaccia sandwiches made fresh each day with a range of delicious fillings, including plenty of vegetarian options. If you have a sweet tooth, don't leave without trying one of their famous homemade cookies, available in irresistible flavours including Oreo and Biscoff.
Enjoy your lunch in their stylish café or pick up a takeaway and wander down to nearby West Common for the perfect gourmet picnic in the sunshine.
Slow Rise Pizza
A firm favourite with locals, Slow Rise Pizza has built a loyal following thanks to its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and fully vegetarian and vegan menu.
Using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, every wood-fired pizza is packed with flavour, from Italian classics to inventive seasonal specials.
During the summer months, grab a takeaway from the hatch and enjoy your pizza on one of Slow Rise's branded picnic blankets overlooking St Martin's Square. Their popular picnic deal makes outdoor dining even easier.
No visit is complete without trying the homemade tiramisu, lovingly made by the owner's Mum. The Biscoff version is a must!
The Lion & Snake
One of Lincoln's oldest trading pubs, The Lion & Snake is the perfect place to enjoy classic pub food with spectacular views.
Their menu features everything from hand-battered fish and chips to gourmet burgers and indulgent desserts, alongside an excellent selection of local ales, beers and cocktails.
The real highlight during summer is the spacious beer garden, one of the largest in the Bailgate area where you can enjoy alfresco dining in Lincoln while taking in views of Lincoln Cathedral.
Ole Ole
Bringing the flavours of Spain to the heart of uphill Lincoln, Ole Ole is an authentic family-run tapas restaurant located within The Lawn.
Run by Lanzarote-born owners with decades of hospitality experience, the restaurant offers a warm welcome alongside traditional tapas, Spanish wines and refreshing sangria.
Its charming outdoor seating area is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely summer evening with friends and family. Booking is highly recommended, particularly during weekends and holidays.
Wagamama
Perched above the water at Brayford Waterfront in the historic Harbourmaster's building, Wagamama combines waterfront views with fresh Japanese-inspired cuisine.
Choose from warming ramen, vibrant curries, nourishing rice bowls and popular katsu dishes, all prepared fresh to order using authentic Asian ingredients.
With outdoor seating overlooking the marina, it's one of the best places to enjoy lunch or dinner while watching the boats drift by.
The Duke William
Dating back to the 17th century, The Duke William is one of Lincoln's most popular historic pubs.
Located in the heart of the Bailgate, the menu champions locally sourced ingredients with everything from traditional homemade pies to plant-based burgers and one of the city's favourite Sunday roasts.
Their recently expanded beer garden makes the perfect setting for relaxed outdoor dining in Lincoln, whether you're stopping for lunch, drinks or an evening meal.
Café at Cognito
Now located at The Pyewipe Inn, Café at Cognito has become a go-to destination for speciality coffee, artisan brunches and beautifully crafted breakfasts.
Serving everything from breakfast favourites and homemade sandwich specials to iced matcha and artisan pastries, it's the perfect place to refuel after exploring the scenic Fossdyke Canal Trail.
Grab an outdoor table and enjoy a relaxed brunch surrounded by beautiful waterside views.
Olivares
Situated in the historic Castle Square between Lincoln Castle and Lincoln Cathedral, Olivares brings authentic Spanish dining to one of the city's most picturesque locations.
Choose from a wide selection of traditional tapas, seafood, meats and Spanish wines before taking a seat outside to soak up the atmosphere of historic uphill Lincoln.
Few places offer a better setting for a leisurely afternoon of sunshine, sharing plates and sangria.
Make the most of summer dining in Lincoln
Whether you're enjoying artisan pizza in St Martin's Square, sharing tapas beneath the Cathedral, relaxing beside Brayford Waterfront or discovering one of Lincoln's hidden café gems, the city is full of fantastic places to dine outdoors.
This summer, make the most of the sunshine and discover why outdoor dining in Lincoln is one of the city's greatest pleasures.