Outdoor Dining in Hillsborough!
February 24, 2026
Spring in Hillsborough feels like an invitation to slow down. The trees are blooming, the air is warm, and dinner plans naturally drift outdoors. Across town, patios and sidewalk tables fill with friends lingering over drinks, families sharing pizza, and couples stretching a meal just a little longer to catch the last of the light.
At Spencer’s Tavern at the Colonial Inn, outdoor dining comes with a dose of history. Set just off King Street, the restored inn offers a relaxed patio where guests can settle in with elevated comfort food, local beer, or a well-crafted cocktail. As the sun sets over downtown, the atmosphere feels both lively and timeless, the kind of place where one round easily turns into two.
A few blocks away, Nomad brings global flavor to a spring evening. Located in the historic Osbunn Theatre, the restaurant is known for its internationally inspired menu and creative cocktails. Outdoor tables let diners sample dishes influenced by far-flung destinations while soaking up the energy of downtown.
Italian classics are especially appealing in the open air, and Serratore’s delivers with house-made pastas and pizzas that feel tailor-made for a breezy night. Nearby, Antonia’s Restaurant offers another inviting option for those craving traditional Italian fare, with outdoor seating that pairs well with a glass of wine and an unhurried pace.
Nothing says North Carolina spring quite like barbecue, and Hillsborough BBQ Company serves up slow-smoked meats and classic sides in a casual setting that makes it easy to gather with friends. For a more pub-style evening, Wooden Nickel Pub offers a welcoming patio, hearty fare, and a solid lineup of drinks that encourage lingering conversation.
Craving something south of the border? Los Altos and Ixtapa both bring vibrant Mexican flavors to outdoor tables, and margaritas feel right at home in the warm evening air.
For a laid-back slice of community life, Village Diner serves up Southern comfort favorites that taste even better enjoyed outside. West Hillsborough Pizzeria offers scratch-made pizza and a relaxed setting that makes it an easy stop before or after exploring the growing West Hillsborough district.
And no spring evening is complete without something sweet. Whit’s Frozen Custard draws a steady stream of locals lining up for cones, cups, and rotating daily flavors. It is the perfect final stop for a stroll, custard in hand, as twilight settles over town.
In Hillsborough, outdoor dining is a way to experience the season, the streetscape, and the easy rhythm of a small town at its best.