Best of Boston

2012 Best Al Fresco Restaurant

Sam’s at Louis

We’ve been known, on those perfect 72-degree days, to work an “emergency” business lunch at Sam’s into our schedule. Neither Newbury Street’s sidewalk cafés nor Cambridge’s funky hidden patios can match the scenic respite from the daily grind that this Seaport gem delivers. And considering the crowds on the huge, sun-drenched deck—noshing on polished yet unfussy fare (like the tomato-marmalade BLT)—it seems we’re not the only ones who’ve caught on.

60 Northern Ave., Boston, 617-295-0191, samsatlouis.com