The dread of the Phoenix summer is slowly creeping in. Everyone around the valley can feel it – soon, we will be hibernating, only venturing out to places that have the AC blasting to offer some relief. But those times aren’t quite here yet. The weather in May is still cool enough to enjoy brunch – the mornings are nice, and many of the best brunch spots have a lot of shade and/or misters to further entice you.

We’ve put together some of our favorites to check out – so that you can get your outdoor dining fix before it actually becomes too hot to.

1. Welcome Diner

929 E. Pierce St., Phoenix, AZ 85006

Brunch: Saturdays & Sundays, 10am-3pm       

Welcome Diner has been a staple inthe Phoenix community for over 15 years, but the restaurant has only been at their current location on Pierce St. since 2018. The best part about the new location is the larger, more expansive patio that captures a backyard feel. The nostalgic look of the building is a great setting to enjoy weekend brunch, where you can choose from delicious options like the Biscuit Eggs Benedict or a Fried Green Tomato Sandwich. They have some great libations to sip on as well (which will keep you extra cool).

2. O.H.S.O Brewery

10810 N. Tatum Boulevard #126, Phoenix, AZ 85028

Brunch: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-2pm

O.H.S.O Brewery has locations all over the valley, but their Paradise Valley restaurant has over 250 misters that surround the patio, providing an extra-cool experience. Plus, you can play a range of backyard games while you’re enjoying your brunch. Yes, it’s a brewery, but that doesn’t mean the options aren’t extensive. The “Beer Brunch” served offers diners options like a fun Fruity Pebble French Toast or Croissant Sandwich. The best part? Each entrée comes with your choice of a 10oz beer or “MONSTER” mimosa.

3. The Windsor

5223 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85012

Brunch: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-1pm

There’s something for everyone to enjoy at The Windsor, a hip and cozy restaurant located in the Windsor historic district in Phoenix.  The eatery has a backyard patio that is heavily shaded and perfect for spending a weekend morning in. The menu includes anything that you might want at brunch time – from a Cinnamon Roll covered in glaze and pecans to a Southern Style Sausage and Gravy meal. Another fun feature is the Bloody Mary cart available on Sundays, which allows you to “trick out your cocktail” with a variety of garnishes for just $5.

4. The Henry

4455 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018

Brunch: Saturday and Sundays, 8am-3pm

The Henry is an extremely popular dining spot in Arcadia, providing an upscale aesthetic that provides plenty of photo ops and amazing food to boot. The sizeable patio features seating with umbrellas to keep you nice and shaded as you chow down on some weekend brunch.  Enjoy offerings like a Rancheros Breakfast Bowl or the delightful Caramel Apple French Toast. Wash down your meal with a Rhubarb Paloma or grab some coffee to go from their handy coffee bar as you head out for the day.

5. Snooze, An A.M. Eatery

2045 East Camelback Rd., A17, Phoenix, AZ 85016

Brunch: Daily, 6:30am-2:30pm

Okay, so technically Snooze could be called a breakfast place, but maybe you’re looking to grab brunch during a weekday off. Snooze is one of your best bets – regardless of the location you choose, but the Camelback location has a really nice well shaded patio that we enjoy (plus, stores to shop around at afterwards). We love pretty much anything they have to offer, but one of the standouts is the Pancake Flight – your choice of three different pancake flavors, ranging from Blueberry Danish to a special “Pancake of the Day.” They also have a ridiculous amount of Mimosa flavors.

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Looking for more food fun? Check out this years top food festivals in Phx!