Outdoor dining is my favorite activity in Beijing. After a long winter, we all deserve some vitamin D and playtime outside. Everyone enjoys a good meal on the various terraces atop the Village, but I appreciate more classical architecture for the best local atmosphere. Of course I love dining at Dali Courtyard and the various rooftops on Nanluoguxiang, but there are some terraces that evoke native Chinese charm much better than those in the tourist books.

Hua’s Restaurant has been around Beijing for 13 years and takes you back to the traditional hutong lifestyle. Hua’s owner is an eighth generation Beijing native, and his family tree traces back to a chef to the emperor. In addition to serving up authentic Beijing cuisine, the owner also tries to recreate the city’s ancient architecture in his establishments. There are three outdoor courtyards seating up to 100 people, and private rooms that look out into the courtyard. The best part is that they serve food till 4am so you can eat al fresco till the early hours of morning.

Though Le Quai isn’t deep in the hutongs, it is one of the few contemporary Chinese places with scenic outdoor dining, an unusual find in Sanlitun. This Gongti staple has an outdoor balcony overlooking the man-made river that runs through the south end of the stadium complex. The furniture is all modern suburban backyard and reminds me of summer barbecues, but the seats are usually filled with locals, and the food—a fusion of Chinese, Japanese and French cuisines—offers a look into where Chinese dining is going. The restaurant, with an eye on the future, has even upgraded its menus: customers can now order off an iPad.

Further off the beaten track, Linhuxuan takes you away from the non-stop construction and bustle of the city to a tranquil and picturesque spot in Liuyin Park. It reminds me of the Summer Palace, which is my favorite Beijing tourist site. But unlike at the enormous Summer Palace, at Liuyin you don’t have to trek far to dine on this veranda attached to a boat. The view gives you a panoramic look at the park’s lakeside, surrounded by blooming lily flowers. It’s just perfect for basking in the sun on a warm afternoon. The food is pricier than your typical Chinese restaurant, but your usual local eatery doesn’t offer such a majestic setting for dining.

Whether you prefer your al fresco eats classic or contemporary, I wish everyone a wonderful summer of exploring new places to eat outdoors.