There’s something magical about enjoying a meal outdoors when the weather is just right. As the temperature begins to drop and we lean into the cooler months of fall, take advantage of the cooler temperatures and enjoy a magical meal in one of these hidden courtyards in New Orleans.

1. Cafe Amelie

Tucked away in a historic 150-year old Carriage House on Royal Street, Cafe Amelie has been a favorite for locals and tourists since they opened in 2005. While they are open for lunch and dinner most days of the week, you should certainly give their weekend brunch a try. Served Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. till 3 p.m., it’s quite possibly one of the best brunches in town and their charming courtyard is one of our favorites.

Address: 912 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70116

2. Bayona

Tucked away in a 200-year old Creole Cottage on Dauphine Street, Bayona continues to be a hidden gem for fine dining in the French Quarter. Their beautiful courtyard is one of the most beautiful in the city, and it will quickly steal your heart.

Address: 430 Dauphine Street, New Orleans, LA 70112

3. Brennan’s

Sophisticated Creole cuisine in an upscale atmosphere, Brennan’s has been delighting New Orleanians since 1946. Their luscious courtyard is an absolute-must when the weather is nice, and their breakfast menu is always a crowd pleaser.

Address: 417 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

4. New Orleans Creole Cookery

Another French Quarter gem, New Orleans Creole Cookery embraces New Orleans Creole cuisine like no other, and their intimate courtyard is the perfect setting to feast on a traditional Creole menu full of delicious dishes like Shrimp Creole and several different types of gumbo.

Address: 508 Toulouse St., New Orleans, LA 70130

5. Napoleon House

Perhaps one of the most iconic buildings in the French Quarter, the Napoleon House is over 200 years old and is stepped in history. New Orleans mayor Nicholas Girod lived there in the early 1800s before offering up his home to Napoleon in 1821 as a refuge during his exile. Although Napoleon never made it, the name stuck and today its one of the most popular bars in New Orleans. The courtyard is great for enjoying one of their signature Pimm’s Cups, a tasty muffuletta, or any number of their New Orleans-style dishes.

Address: 500 Chartres Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

6. Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro

Orleans Grapevine is actually housed in the same building that was the first Creole restaurant in New Orleans. The building dates back to 1808 and they’ve kept that same ambiance over 200 years later. The cozy courtyard is the perfect place to indulge in some of the finest foods in the city.

Address: 720 Orleans Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70116

7. Pat O’Brien’s

Pat O’Brien’s is known for their courtyard, so this one isn’t exactly a secret, but you can’t mention courtyard dining without thinking of good old Pat O’s. Their courtyard might just be one of the most famous in the city, and their flaming fountain attracts countless visitors each year. Certainly one of the most popular courtyards in the Crescent City and worthy of a pitstop.

Address: 718 St. Peter Street, New Orleans, LA 70116

8. The Court of Two Sisters

The Court of Two Sisters has such an enchanting courtyard, it should be on everyone’s bucket list this season. Legend says that anyone who touched the charm gates at the entrance will be closed with good luck, so be sure to give them a touch as you pass by. Their jazz brunch is legendary, and offers a huge selection that covers everything from boiled shrimp to grits & grillades so you can pile your plate sky high and get a taste of everything.

Address: 613 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

Where's your favorite courtyard restaurant in New Orleans? Share it with us in the comments below!