You’re Invited to a Patio Mixer

Everything you need to host an aperitivo hour, poolside gathering, or rooftop soirée

So, as you know, I’ve declared it the Summer of the Sidewalk Café. Ideally this means we’re spending our afternoons crammed together outside chic little bars located in places like Biarritz and Mallorca and Taormina, sipping Cynar spritzes or Kir Royales well into the evening. More likely, we’re spending them in our own backyards.

Slim Aarons’ Cafe in Monte Carlo, 1975

As you know, I’m a big proponent of making being at home feel like a vacation. In last year’s “Hotel From Home” I compiled a few dozen little items of luxury to help turn the everyday into something of leisure. This time I’m urging you to upgrade your outdoor dining experience.

For you lucky ones with backyard pools, I’ve found the chicest acrylic wine glasses and pool towels out there. For those heading to the beach, I’ve tracked down a very cute beach blanket that has a hole in the center for an umbrella. For those of us trying to make the most out of our apartment patios, I’ve pulled a couple of *chef’s kiss* pieces of outdoor furniture, plus lots of little serving vessels for the snacks you’ll serve atop them. From park picnics to dinner parties to rooftop drinks, I’ve found something that elevates the experience of eating outside.

Martin Parr for YSL, 2025

If you’ve got the À La Carte Summer Print Issue, go ahead and turn to page 32 to hit play on the ÀLC Summer playlist, pour yourself a chilled red, and prepare to fill your shopping cart with the makings of a perfect outdoor soirée. And if you don’t, pick up a copy here: