Best Patio Deck

TIE: Red's Porch; The Oasis

Designed with porchin’ in mind, Red's “Half Cajun, Half TexMex, Half Southern” gem of a porch on South Lamar knows how to show a good time. Live music and daily specials, plus fan favorites such as the Waterloo Gin Greenbelt cocktail, Boudain balls, and truffled taco salad (part of a substantial gluten-free menu) buddy up with a helluva view and plenty of space to kick back and relax, Red’s-style. Across town, at lake's edge, it’s no surprise the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas boasts multiple "Best of Austin" awards since 1996. Drought be damned, the gorgeous Lake Travis sunset views from these huge, cliff-dwelling wooden decks inspire weddings and photography contests. Bands play four nights a week and Tex-Mex chow (Shiner Bock pulled pork enchiladas!) and Beer Ritas sweeten the deal, laying the groundwork for all kinds of stories.

The Oasis
6550 Comanche Trl., 512/266-2442
oasis-austin.com