Spring has sprung: Eight places to dine al fresco in eastern Mass.

Joanna K. Tzouvelis

Wicked Local

Spring is finally here (is it?), and so is outdoor dining.

Consider the Great American Beer Hall in Medford, which has a 4,800-square-foot outdoor beer garden with seating for 112. It opened two years ago at 142 Mystic Ave., offering beer on tap as well as a full bar, salads, shared plates, handhelds and pizza.

Bar Vlaha, Brookline

Greek restaurant Bar Vlaha, 653 Beacon St., has a sidewalk patio that’s now open.

Sidewalk patio at Bar Vlaha, Brookline.

Bar Vlaha tells the story of the Vlachs, a nomadic group of shepherds from the mountains, lakes and villages of central and northern Greece. The Vlachs are known for providing refuge, food and drink to weary travelers passing through their villages.