The Patio at Patty’s

Our Big Backyard Hangout

The patio at Patty’s Down the Road is where the diner meets a backyard hangout. With sail shades, outdoor tables, and plenty of space to spread out, it’s an easy spot to grab a meal, stay a while, and enjoy the Royal air between Lake Ouachita and Lake Hamilton.

You’ll spot our bright teal container, metal flamingos, and patio decor as soon as you pull in. It’s relaxed, a little quirky, and built for people who like to linger after they eat.

How the Patio Works

Right now, the patio is self-seating and self-service:

• Come inside to order your food and drinks at the counter.
• Let us know you’re headed to the patio.
• Grab any open table under the sail shades or out in the sun.
• We’ll get your food ready, and you can relax outside and enjoy it.

There’s no full-service waitstaff on the patio yet, but the setup keeps things moving and lets you make the space your own—whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or camping out with friends.

Outdoor Dining Near Hot Springs

If you’re looking for outdoor dining near Hot Springs, Arkansas, the patio at Patty’s is an easy stop. We’re right in Royal, between Lake Ouachita and Lake Hamilton, and a short drive from town.

It’s a great place to:

• Fuel up before a day on the water.
• Bring the family after boating or camping.
• Meet friends for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner outside.

Games & Good Energy

On select nights, we turn the patio into more than just a seating area. Depending on the night, you might find:

• Cornhole boards set up and ready to play.
• Carnival-style games and extra activities during special events.
• A buzz of people coming and going between the diner, the patio, and the parking lot.

Keep an eye on our social media and in-restaurant signage for nights when the games are out or when we’re tying the patio into bigger events and weekend plans.

Dog Friendly (Very!)

Bring your pups — the patio at Patty’s is fully dog friendly and we mean it. We keep fresh water bowls outside, and our team is always happy to set one out for your dog if you need a refill.

If your dog likes hanging out on patios, meeting new people, or relaxing under a sail shade while you eat, this is the spot. Friendly dogs are encouraged, welcomed, and part of the energy out here.

Please note: the patio is not a fenced area. For everyone’s safety, keep your dog close and be mindful of traffic and footpaths.

Patio for Private Events

The patio can also be part of your private event. Depending on the size of your group and the time of day, we can:

• Reserve a section of the patio for your party.
• Use the patio as an add-on to a private dining room rental.
• Set up buffet-style service, appetizer tables, or dessert stations outside.

It’s a great fit for casual celebrations, after-the-lake gatherings, team nights, and events where people want to move between indoors and outdoors.

Bring Your Crowd, Your Way

For private events, we can keep things flexible:

• Full Patty’s catering served on the patio.
• Space-focused events where you reserve the patio area and keep things simple.
• Hybrid setups that use both the dining room and the patio—food inside, games outside.

If you’re planning something bigger, take a look at our Catering & Events page and reach out so we can talk through details.

Weather & Seasonal Use

The patio is weather-dependent. On nice days, it’s wide open. During bad weather or extreme heat, availability may be limited or closed altogether for safety and comfort.

If you’re planning to bring a larger group and want to sit outside, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and check on the patio conditions for that day.

Come Hang Out

Whether you’re grabbing a quick meal outside, letting the kids stretch their legs after a car ride, or meeting friends before heading to the lake, the patio at Patty’s is here for it.

Order inside, take your food out, and make yourself at home.