With the sun becoming brighter and days lazily stretching their length, we embrace the arrival of summer. During this season, like sunflowers sprouting towards the sun, restaurant-goers are drawn towards outdoor dining, making it an integral part of their culinary experience. However, it's essential to bear in mind that the outdoors is governed by its own laws, ones that restaurant staff labor tirelessly to manage, but can't always control.

At your favorite restaurant, you may take refuge under large umbrellas or appreciate refreshing sprinklers, but the thermostat lies solely in the hands of Mother Nature. As someone who spent a decade serving at a restaurant with an outdoor dining option, I was often perplexed by customers who'd inquire about the patio weather, expecting a climate different from the surrounding outdoors. If you've come in from the heat outside, the patio will most likely mirror the same temperature. Bemoaning or rolling eyes would hardly make a difference.

Equally confusing is when customers would ask me to predict when the rain might stop. Although I memorized the restaurant menu as thoroughly as my own phone number, weather prediction wasn’t within my expertise nor I had an insider line to the Weather Channel. Fortunately, there’s a whole industry of professionals dedicated to tracking and predicting weather patterns for us: meteorologists. Before planning an outdoor dinner, check the weather yourself rather than unfairly delegating the task to the restaurant staff.

Two unexpected factors - reflected sunlight and wind gusts - can significantly affect your outdoor dining. A strategically positioned knife reflecting sunlight into your eyes or a gust of wind chasing your napkin around the table can be a part of the experience. Servers can adjust umbrellas for shade, but remember, the Earth’s movement keeps the sunlight shifting. As for wind, be thankful if it only manages to whisk away a napkin rather than your cheeseburger.

Despite our best efforts to tame it, nature has its rules and we are on her turf while enjoying outdoor dining. Finding an insect in your cocktail or meal isn't a fault of the establishment. And bear in mind, if the weather turns ugly and you try to retreat indoors, there might not be tables immediately available. I recall one instance where patrons chose to dine outside despite being warned about an imminent weather change, and upon a sudden downpour, had to continue their meal standing inside as there were no vacant tables.

So choose wisely between an indoor table or braving the outdoor conditions, and be prepared for an indoor temperature reminiscent of a wintry tundra due to excessive air conditioning combating the kitchen heat. So, it might be a good idea to bring along a sweater.

As summer graces us with its presence, outdoor dining can add a delightful edge to your dining experience. Keep these points at the top of your mind to navigate through potential hiccups and enjoy your al fresco meals.