Dine In an Igloo this Winter

By Wendy and Mike Pramik

Posted On: Jan 31, 2021

Throughout last year, Ohio restaurants have been increasing their outdoor dining accommodations. The cold, winter weather hasn’t placed that trend in the deep freeze.

Many restaurants and bars have set up igloos and similar enclosures, which offer warmth and separation, to take advantage of their exterior spaces.

Shires Rooftop in Cincinnati. Photo credit: The View at Shires’ Garden

For instance, The View at Shires’ Garden in Cincinnati offers several outdoor structures that guests can reserve. They include igloos and greenhouses with controllable heating and Bluetooth, so guests can play their own music. There’s also a heated tent with a private bar for up to 10 people.

“We receive hundreds of requests a week, and have a full-time person dedicated to scheduling and managing these requests and reservations,” says Lisa Colina of The View. “Weekends fill up quickly, so weekdays have the most availability.”

There are several places around Ohio where you can eat and drink in an outdoor, heated bubble or greenhouse. Take a look at the list below for some ideas for more unique outdoor dining experiences. 

Remember to check before you go, as several of the restaurants require advanced reservations and/or food-and-beverage minimums. 

Photo credit: Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast, Facebook

Wishmaker House Bed & Breakfast in Bellville

Reserve one of the unique igloos at this mid-Ohio retreat that has its own winery and wine bar that also features local and craft beers and a menu of small plates, flatbread pizza, sandwiches and entrees.

Photo credit: Visit Dublin Ohio

VASO Rooftop Lounge in Dublin

Reserve an exquisitely decorated igloo for up to two hours atop the AC Hotel by Marriott in Dublin’s vibrant Bridge Street District.

Feast on Spanish small plates and craft cocktails and take in the views of city’s new S-shaped pedestrian bridge that spans the Scioto River. Igloos are cleaned between uses with electrostatic disinfection technology.

Photo credit: Cleveland Metroparks, Facebook

Merwin’s Wharf in Cleveland

Enjoy fresh, seasonal meals with great views of water and wildlife at this eatery on the Cuyahoga River’s Irishtown Bend. Merwin’s offers several well-furnished igloos with special menus and seating for up to eight.

VASO in Dublin. Photo credit: VASO

For more restaurants & dining this #WinterinOhio, check out #OhioTheHeartofitAll at Ohio.org. 

*While these structures are a fun way to experience the Ohio outdoors in the winter, you should always make sure your restaurant is following the right safety protocols for your meal and time inside the igloo.