Outdoor dining provides more than beautiful views and fresh air; this year, it was a way for restaurants to stay open and safely serve hungry locals amid a pandemic. Cowboy Jack’s (1432 Front Porch Place, Altoona) took the lead among restaurants with outdoor views, offering a large patio overlooking the Eau Claire River and River Prairie. Down the road, 44 North (1488 Front Porch Place, Altoona) is a perfect spot for spending chilly nights on a heated patio. The Livery (316 Wisconsin St., Eau Claire) snagged third place with its cozy fire pit and gorgeous exposed-brick walls. –Rebecca Mennecke