Before anyone could say “Al fresco isn’t just for summer anymore,” many restaurants and homeowners had already transformed outdoor spaces for all seasons. In major cities like Chicago and New York, rooftop lounges thrive through winter, thanks to insulated domes and ambient heating that attract guests outside. On the residential front, smart weather systems and outdoor kitchens are no longer luxuries, as people now expect these features in today’s restaurants.

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The shift toward versatile outdoor dining reflects evolving consumer expectations, with demand for weatherproof comfort and flexible layouts rising. Here’s how outdoor dining has become an essential part of American design and hospitality, as people seek connection and comfort in outside spaces.

Heat,

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