Dining Al Fresco
in the Sandhills
Dining Al Fresco
By Laura Lee
One of the best ways to experience Moore County's good-hearted nature is by dining in the fresh air - on a flower-adorned patio or a deck aglow with twinkling lights. Check out the renowned restaurants to relax over a great meal.

195 American Fusion
Settle in on the porch for an exceptional culinary experience in the Sandhills. Dishes like the Indian butter chicken, sweet chili shrimp and tuna tacos with wasabi aioli play on the palate and pair well with an expertly prepared craft cocktail.

The Deuce
Score a reservation at Pinehurst No. 2’s 18th-hole eatery, written up in Golf Inc. magazine. Start with the Tater Man Tots or Southern pimento cheese before cutting into the prime rib. Mocktails and cocktails give a nod to golf with fun names like the Mulligan Summer and Birdies and Bubbles.

Ironwood
Magnolia blooms, twinkle lights and a fiery fountain set the mood on this lovely brick patio. Linger with mimosas during Sunday brunch or come for dinner featuring American favorites with a twist – like the potato-crusted sea bass or the Angry Mac and Cheese with lobster and spicy mornay sauce.

Lisi Italian
On Lisi’s quaint brick patio in the heart of the Village of Pinehurst, you feel both a part of the Theatre Building action and gently tucked away from it all. Lisi is known for its mouthwatering pizzas and pastas; save room for a cannoli.

The Sly Fox
Snag a seat on the patio of this festive Southern Pines gastropub. Enjoy the best of Britain and the Carolinas with specialties like Scott Egg, Low Country Shrimp and Grits and shepherd’s pie. Wash it down with one of the 16 beers on tap, from a pint of Guinness to signature Sly Fox made by local brewery Hatchet Brewing Company.

Villaggio Ristorante & Bar
On weekends, live music and twinkling lights set the mood at this historic Magnolia Inn restaurant in the Village of Pinehurst. With a world-class cocktail, beer and wine menu; antipasti; insalata and zuppa; courses (we recommend the tiramisu), you’ll have plenty of reasons to enjoy the patio for hours.
There is always Good Eats in the Sandhills! Plan your trip and stay a while when visiting the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen area of North Carolina!