Silver Spring Has Top Al Fresco Dining Destination: Eater

SILVER SPRING, MD — There is no better way to enjoy the warm weather than to dine al fresco.

For those who have no idea what I'm talking about, al fresco dining is all about eating outside. And here in the D.C. metro area, there are plenty of great outdoor dining options.

Eater recently released its list of top patio picks. Most of them are in the District. The Silver Spring restaurant that made the cut: El Sapo Cuban Social Club.

The cuban eatery, which opened last October, is located at 8455 Fenton St. El Sapo owner and chef Raynold Mendizábal also owns Urban Butcher, a meat-centric restaurant on Georgia Avenue.

"It's been a long dream of mine to represent and promote my culture through my craft. El Sapo is unmistakably Cuban; about half of the dishes are what I ate growing up at home or on the streets of La Habana, the other half tell the story of my journey as a cook. Silver Spring has given me so much — now it's time to give back," Mendizábal said.

Since its grand opening, El Sapo has expanded to include an outdoor dining area. The 100-seat outdoor "Mojito Garden" and cafe is perfect for those looking to enjoy Cuban espressos or some of the country's best street foods.

Click here to learn more about the restaurants featured on Eater's list.