Though it's hard to imagine in the depths of a northern winter, attentive readers of Dostoevsky will be aware that St. Petersburg can be a sultry city come the summer. The opportunity to sit outside with a meal and a cool drink and just watch the world go by can be extremely welcome.
From June through August, and especially at the height of the White Nights, St. Petersburg becomes a city with an incredibly active streetlife day and night. Although it has never been a common feature of St. Petersburg bars and restaurants, an increasing number are finding ways to incorporate street seating so that patrons can enjoy the extended days and (hopefully) the extra sunlight. Some establishments can even offers views of St. Petersburg's most famous landmarks. In good weather, booking a table is generally recommended.
