Patio Pairings: Summer Cocktails & Appetizers to Try This Season

Nothing says “summer in Elmhurst” like golden hour on the Modern Plate patio—cool drink in one hand, shareable bites in the other, and a gentle breeze keeping the vibes just right. To celebrate patio season, we’ve created a lineup of cocktail-and-appetizer duos that turn an ordinary afternoon into a mini vacation. Ready to sip, snack, and soak up the sun? Here are five pairings you’ll want to try before Labor Day rolls around.

1. Blood Orange Gin Fizz & Roasted Cauliflower

• Why it works: The fizz’s bright citrus cuts through the coconut breadin, while its hint of botanical gin complements the sweet-chili mango sauce.

• Perfect time: Friday 4 PM—start the weekend light, breezy, and beachy.

2. T & T Old Fashioned + Pot Roast Flatbread

• Why it works: Our signature Old Fashion—buffalo trace bourbon, orange bitters, and a touch of simple syrup—brings warm, caramel notes that play perfectly against slow-braised pot roast and melted cheese on a crispy flatbread. Sweet citrus and rich bourbon lift the hearty flavors, making every bite (and sip) feel balanced, not heavy.

• Perfect time: Weeknight Happy Hour—comfort food and a classic cocktail that melt away the work-day stress.

3.  Margarita + Tuna Tartare Tostadas

• Why it works: A marg wakes up the palate; our tuna tartare brings cool, silky texture with a pop of sriracha aioli. Together, they deliver heat, chill, and crunch in perfect balance.

• Perfect time: Hot Saturday afternoon—because spice + sunshine = instant fiesta.

4. Salted Caramel Espresso Martini + Slider Trio

• Why it works: Sweet, salted caramel and robust espresso mirror the savory richness of our mini-burgers. Think dessert and dinner all in one playful combo.

• Perfect time: Post-work indulgence—an elevated answer to coffee and a bite.

5. Blood Orange Gin Fizz (Rosé Twist) + Mediterranean Dip

• Why it works: Swapping gin fizz’s soda topper for a splash of rosé prosecco gives effervescence and light berry notes, which pair beautifully with creamy hummus and briny olives.

• Perfect time: Sunday brunch on the patio—sunhat optional but encouraged.

Make It a Patio Date

Our patio is open Monday–Friday, 11:30 AM–close for lunch, Happy Hour, and dinner. Saturday from 9am -12am and Sunday from 9am-9pm. Each pairing is available à la carte—mix, match, and discover your own summer favorite. Reservations aren’t required but highly recommendedwhen the weather’s this gorgeous.

So gather the crew, claim a sunny table, and toast to long days, warm nights, and flavor that feels like a getaway. Summer never tasted so good!