Best Al Fresco dining in the Sierra Foothills and Sierra

Enjoyable patio dining spots in Grass Valley, Nevada City, Auburn and Tahoe-Truckee:

IKE’S QUARTER CAFE
Ike’s tree-covered patio with brightly colored flowers is one of the finest outdoor din- ing spots in the foothills. Ike’s specializes in Creole food, using fresh, organic ingredients. 401 Commercial St., Nevada City 530-265-6138 IkesQuarterCafe.com

KANE’S FAMILY RESTAURANT
A newly completed 900 sq.-ft. expansion at Kane’s includes a partially covered patio. A stunning design increases the seating in the bar and creates a lounge area with a fire- place and skylights (more about the interior at our website SierraCulture.com).
120 E. Main St., Grass Valley
530-273-8111 KanesRestaurant.com

LEFTY’S GRILL
Now in its new location, where one of the biggest benefits is two creekside dining decks. Sit outside and listen to Deer Creek gurgling below. Lefty’s prepares all dishes from scratch, with daily specials, award-winning pizzas, unique sandwiches and more. 101 Broad St., Nevada City
530-265-5838 LeftysGrill.com

MARIA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
An outdoor patio includes cowhide chairs, pink flowering plants and a colorful new awning. The surroundings let you escape South of the border, where you can eat authentic Mexican food and sip a margarita.
226 E. Main St., Grass Valley 530-274-2040 MariasGrassValley.com

MATTEO’S PUBLIC
Matteo’s has a handsomly decorated, large brick patio in the heart of the historic district. Live music is performed Tuesday-Sunday on the patio—one of the best musical lineups around. The beer and wine pub, featuring upscale comfort food, is family friendly.
300 Commercial St., Nevada City 530-265-0782 MatteosPublic.com

MONKEY CAT, AUBURN
The Palapa bar at Monkey Cat is one of the foothills’ best outdoor patios for dining and cocktails, with a South Seas decor. The patio is Wi-Fi accesible and dog friendly.
805 Lincoln Way, Auburn 530-888-8492 MonkeyCat.com

TOFANELLI’S GOLD COUNTRY BISTRO
Tofanelli’s handsome outdoor patio is a popular spot in the historic downtown. A stainless steel, slow-cook smoker is cranked up to offer barbeque ribs, chicken, tri-tip steak or pulled pork.
302 W. Main St., Grass Valley 530-272-1468 Tofanellis.com

(photo: Rick Tracewell)