Toronto culture is all about embracing our short-but-sweet summers and what better way to do that than to spend all of your free time on a patio? It’s hard coming up with a list of the best patios because a lot of Toronto restaurants have at least a couple of seats outside. We narrowed it down to some popular spots that you should know by now and if you don’t know them, introduce yourself!
So far, we have been lucky with some pre-summer heat, so let’s get out there and grab a few drinks!
Mascot Brewery: This down-to-earth rooftop patio is a welcomed tenant to the Entertainment District! Located at 31 Mercer Street, the same street as Second City and Gretzky’s, this could become the go-to spot for any laid back beer guzzler. Despite being surrounded by condos and glass, you can grab a picnic table and sip in the sun! Oh yeah, and they serve tall cans of Hopsta La Vista!
Bovine Sex Club: This tucked away gem sits atop the iconic junkyard collectibles that adorn the Queen Street facade. But don’t be fooled by the ground level decor, upstairs is an urban, tiki-bar oasis, perfect for passing away a summer daze in fine tropical style.
Cloak & Dagger: (serves Longslice) This College Street institution is a local favourite because of its dark, cavernous vibes. Live bands usually play at the front of the bar while folks jam out with a beverage in the backyard garden patio.
Done Right Inn: If you are looking for a charming dive bar, this would be high on the list of choices for most locals. Not only are beverages cheap and delicious, they have a variety of games to play and a magical patio in the back where you wrestle tree branches for a spot on a bench.
Three Speed: Looking for a wide selection of craft beer? Kick it into high gear and make your way to the Bloor and Lansdowne area to this cozy spot! A lowly lit interior and a patio that has its own fireplace will remind you of weekends away at your family’s cabin.
Sky Yard @ The Drake Hotel: Looking to get real fancy? The Sky Yard at The Drake is a Toronto institution for everyone -- from tourists to party-goers to trendy 30-somethings. The Sky Yard is the spot for great cocktails and has a bustling vibe. Get there early because it gets real busy.
Pauper’s Pub: Time to take it down a notch? This is a hidden rooftop patio that is frequented by locals and students in the Annex. It’s close to the well known Victory Cafe, but a lot more secluded. Take a quiet night to just beer sip and chill.
El Catrin: There is no denying this trendy Mexican-inspired restaurant a spot on the list! The patio is massive, well-equipped with tables and the perfect spot to rest after a day of roaming around the Distillery District. There’s a good selection of all the drinks you could ever dream of, including micheladas, those salty-rimmed beer tasties.
Didn’t find one you like here? Check out BlogTO’s list of patios or share some of your favourites below!