Winter patio dining in Eau Claire might sound like an oxymoron, but hear us out... These are patios that refuse to hibernate. While the temps drop, select local restaurants and bars crank up the heat with surprisingly cozy winter patios featuring heaters, fire features, warm enclosures, and all the hygge vibes. So, yes, it's winter, and yes, you can still be a part of the outdoors at these dining destinations in Eau Claire – check them out below!
Dive
When winter hits, Dive turns its patio into a full-on cold-weather experience with their iconic igloos, proof that outdoor dining doesn’t have to disappear when the snow flies. These heated, clear-dome spaces let you soak up the winter scenery while staying perfectly toasty inside, making them ideal for everything from casual nights out to celebratory occasions. Raise a toast with Dive's seasonal cocktails and stay warm while sharing a pizza or appetizer from the kitchen at The Informalist. After a night in the igloos, you'll see that winter in Eau Claire really isn't so bad!
Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen
Snow on the ground doesn’t stop Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen from keeping its patio in play all winter long. Their heated igloos create a snug, riverside retreat where winter nights feel more like a feature than a drawback. Sip your way through Phoenix’s impressive tap list, exploring seasonal brews or settling into a well-crafted cocktail while the snow falls outside. You're sure to find something your palate enjoys, as the Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen is the largest self-pour taproom in the Midwest. Add in craveable bar snacks and classic comfort foods, and the igloos become the perfect place to post up, warm up, and enjoy a winter evening that feels effortlessly cozy rather than cold.
The Lakely
Winter patio dining gets an elevated, Nordic-inspired twist with Vinterkos at The Lakely and Oxbow Hotel. This winter-only outdoor experience draws inspiration from Scandinavian coziness, blending heaters, soft lighting, and thoughtfully designed spaces that feel warm, intimate, and refined. Paired with The Lakely’s refined comfort food and carefully crafted cocktails, Vinterkos is perfect for slow dinners, meaningful conversations, and truly savoring the beauty and reflection of the winter season. Wrapped in warmth and winter charm, it’s proof that outdoor dining in Eau Claire can feel luxurious, cozy, and completely unexpected
Cowboy Jack's
Step onto Cowboy Jack’s winter patio and you might do a double-take — outdoor dining, in the middle of January? Absolutely. The enclosed space is cozy and warm, with fire pits scattered throughout and a friendly, inviting environment all year round. Cowboy Jack's is located in River Prairie and is a hot spot for happy hour deals, seasonal cocktails, and catching sports games in a lively space. It's a rustic, homey, and cozy spot to hang out at year-round – and even in the winter months!
Northwoods Brewpub
Just a short drive from Eau Claire, Northwoods Brewpub in Osseo turns its patio into a warm, inviting retreat that feels like a perfect, small-town hangout. Enclosed and heated, the space is ideal for sipping on house-made beers, seasonal brews, or one of their craft cocktails while the snow falls outside. Pair your drink with menu favorites like pizzas, burgers, BBQ, and shareable appetizers, and you’ve got a winter evening that’s relaxed, flavorful, and surprisingly cozy. Catch live music and select events at Northwoods Brewpub, and be sure to check off this spot on your Eau Claire Brew Pass!