After years of planning and preparation, the big opening day for Bianca, a family-friendly restaurant in Chestnut Hill, was set for last March, just days after the state-wide shut down due to COVID-19. Instead of setting aside her opening plans until after the pandemic, though, Bianca co-owner Nancy Cushman and her team started setting out tables on the patio and pivoting their focus to takeout and outdoor dining. Since debuting in August, Bianca has quickly become a Newton favorite due to its eclectic menu and two spacious patios. With the weather warming up, Cushman says she’s excited to serve guests al fresco and offer a much-needed change of scenery for friends and family to gather and enjoy a meal together again.
 
“One of the patios at Bianca overlooks The Street’s Community Green space and it is so refreshing to see families hanging out together, BC students playing ping pong, and friends dining on our patio,” she says. From picturesque patios to dazzling roof decks, there’s no shortage of restaurants like Bianca in and around Boston with outdoor dining setups to swoon over. Whether you’re craving sunny afternoon cocktails or seafood under the stars, this comprehensive guide to outdoor dining at five of the hottest open-air retail and dining destinations in the Boston area: Boston’s Seaport neighborhood, Derby Street Shops in Hingham, Legacy Place in Dedham, MarketStreet Lynnfield and The Street in Chestnut Hill, has all the info you need to plan a memorable meal out on the town.
 
Legal C Bar, an offshoot of Legal Sea Foods with locations at Derby Street Shops, Legacy Place, and MarketStreet Lynnfield, recently opened its outdoor dining for the season while adapting to the needs pandemic without compromising on its longstanding commitment to quality and freshness. “It is always our priority to offer guests a great experience…and an ingredient of that is a safe, comfortable environment,” says Ann Marie Escobar, president of Legal C Bar.
 
Patio dining opening dates and menu offerings are still being finalized, so be sure to check with each restaurant before planning your trip. Oh, and don’t forget to wear your mask and respect social distancing guidelines so everyone can safely savor their experience. Bon appetit!
 

See full article for a list of dining destinations.