Two years into the pandemic, and restaurants and bars have truly stepped up their outdoor seating game. But what about your own al fresco setup? The right outdoor dining accessories can make any park picnic, backyard barbecue, or dinner on the deck feel like fine dining. And those outdoor accessories may include durable tableware, portable lighting, heaters, and decor and patio furniture that’ll stand up to the elements—but your shopping list will depend on how much outdoor space you have, and what your exact plans are.

For example, you probably don’t need a full-size outdoor dining table if you live in an apartment or near a public park, but you’d likely be interested in a waterproof blanket, travel-friendly cooler, and other essentials to make eating (and sitting) on the ground more enjoyable. Likewise, anyone with major outdoor entertaining plans should make sure they have extra seating at the ready—and that’s where storable and versatile items like cushions and ottomans come in handy. 

Now that spring is finally here, eating and drinking outside—regardless of the particulars—sounds a lot more desirable, which is why we’ve selected some of the most important outdoor dining accessories for both casual and more elaborate situations. Read on to find the right outdoor furniture, glassware, and patio accessories for the next time you crave a little fresh air to go with your meal. 

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Source: SELF