With June 7 fast approaching, restaurant booking has become something of an Olympic sport with many places already booked out for June dates. Our advice? Take advantage of all those unused holiday days and increase your chances of snagging a table by choosing an off peak time. We can think of worse ways to spend a Tuesday afternoon. Here are five outdoor terraces in Dublin we’re booking now …

Fire Steakhouse, Dawson Street

Possibly the most sought after terrace in Dublin, Fire certainly have all bases covered when it comes to welcoming back their ever loyal clientele. Their terrace has been extended dramatically and has plenty of coverage should the Irish weather not play ball. While the most popular time slots appear to be booked out in June, when last we checked, there was some off peak availability midweek, and let’s be honest, your first al fresco cocktail will taste just as sweet on a Monday as it would on a Sunday. www.firesteakhouse.ie

Chez Max, Palace Street

There is something of a cosmopolitan air about Chez Max, located just beside the entrance to Dublin Castle off Dame Street. It’s old school French bistro cooking with a charming ambiance, whether perched out front overlooking the castle, or in their small patio garden to the rear. All the French classics feature on the menu from steak frites to coq au vin, and there is plenty of wine and cheese to round off your meal. www.chezmax.ie

Marco Pierre White, Dawson Street

Another contender for best terrace in Dublin is Marco Pierre White’s Dawson Street branch, complete with awning, heaters and blankets, just in case. The food is reliably good and the staff are attentive and knowledgeable. What’s more, a recent peek at their online reservation system showed quite a few available dates in June. The Donnybrook branch also appears to have availability should you prefer a fairytale courtyard experience. www.marcopierrewhite.ie

Fade Street Social, Fade Street

With the recent news that a portion of Drury Street will be pedestrianised to allow for outside dining, we have no doubt that Dylan McGrath’s Fade Street Social will benefit, and so should you. With on street seating for the restaurant and the tapas bar or roof garden seating for the cocktail bar, the Fade Street/Drury Street area is sure to be a vibrant spot this June, and the excellent food is the icing on the cake. www.fadestreetsocial.com

Suesey Street, Fitzwilliam Place

Another city centre restaurant with a perfectly anointed outdoor terrace is Suesey Street located just beside the canal at Fitzwilliam Place. Dublin Bay prawns, seared steaks and an endless list of cocktails only add to the appeal, as does the cosy seating, the cushions and the outdoor fire. At time of writing, there was still availability on selected days in June. www.sueseystreet.ie