Winter is officially over and we're now smack dab in the middle of prime patio season here in Austin. These are some of my favorite places to enjoy drinks outside.

Ables on the Lake | 3825 Lake Austin Blvd

You can’t beat the location, right on Lake Austin. Is it just me or do cocktails taste better when you're looking at a body of water? It’s a great spot to go for lunch as they offer a legendary Bloody Mary served with their signature garnish. They do a Bevo Tea that's super refreshing, and they also have happy hour Monday-Friday, 4-6 pm.

Easy Tiger | 709 E. 6th Street

They have a great location on 6th Street right along Waller Creek that creates a perfectly relaxing atmosphere. It feels like a Sunday Funday seven days a week here, with everyone mingling at their picnic tables or playing ping-pong. They also make some of the best baked goods in town, so I highly recommend their sandwiches and pretzels.

El Alma | 1025 Barton Springs Road

Mexican food and a killer patio. The patio is actually located on a deck above the restaurant, and it overlooks downtown and Butler Park. It would be criminal to go to a Mexican restaurant and not order a margarita, so I’d start with that, and then follow it up with some of their addicting sangria. Enjoy their happy hour daily from 3-6 pm.

Hotel San Jose | 1316 South Congress Ave

This seems to be one of those hidden gems that people often forget about. Their patio is located in their courtyard, next to their pool, and it’s a very chill atmosphere. Be advised that there's a limited food menu, so it’s not the place to go if you're hungry. However, if a cheese plate is what you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place. I always get one of their House Specialties as they're some of my favorite cocktails in Austin. The Tropical Sangria is light, refreshing and made for easy drinking, as is the Champassion and Tinto de Verano. I always feel as if I am on vacation when sipping cocktails in their courtyard.

Elizabeth Street Café | 1501 South First Street

Go for lunch and continue sipping cocktails into the afternoon. Everything I’ve had from here has been delicious, both food and drink. The Green Mango & Cucumber Salad may be one of my favorite salads in Austin, and no meal here is complete without at least one carafe of punch. The punches change seasonally, but are always unique and delicious.