The Best Cafe Patios in Toronto

The best cafe patios in Toronto provide an outdoor experience for those who just can't excuse a pint before noon. While much of the city's patio culture seems to centralize around craft brews and frosty pitchers, there is a live and well (and sober) demographic that needs not a buzz (an alcohol buzz, that is) to enjoy some time outside. Cafe patios provide the ideal summertime space for the (iced) coffee or tea drinker; a little taste of the sunshine and a bit of fresh air without the time commitment of sitting down for a full patio meal.

Here's the list of the best cafe patios in Toronto.

See also:

The best patios in Toronto
The best rooftop patios in Toronto

Photos by Jesse Milns

Cafe Pamenar

In Kensington Market, Cafe Pamenar wins big for its patio in the back on which to consume a solid, reliable espresso. There are picnic tables, tables and chairs and plenty of shade (if needed) too. More »

Jimmy's Coffee

Jimmy's has a front patio and a back patio, both of which maintain fairly strong WiFi signals. The enclosed back patio is particularly conducive to working away the afternoon while sipping a bold iced Americano. More »

Ideal Coffee

Offering what might be the quintessential Kensington experience, the front patio keeps you in on all the Market's action while still a safe distance back from hurried cyclists with little regard for your overflowing cup. Everyone wins. More »

Te Aro

Te Aro's ample front patio space opens up with a lift of the garage-style window. Get there early to score the bean bag chairs. Enjoyed by regular customers and often, their furry companions. More »

Crafted by Te Aro

Unlike its east end counterpart, the patio at Crafted on Ossington is secluded out back, thus rendering it a little quieter than a front-stationed spot while plenty cute and cosy. More »

The Drake Cafe

The Drake's side patio is perhaps one of the best spots on West Queen West from which to gauge the latest trends in "individualistic" style, while enjoying a burger or a plate of fish tacos. There's also the SkyYard but now we're verging away from coffee house territory. More »

Tequila Bookworm

It's the king of all patios (the rooftop patio) and there's one to be enjoyed at Tequila Bookworm. Equally appreciated for midday study sessions and after work brews. More »

Moonbean

At Moonbean in Kensington Market, you can take it in the front or the back. And, of course, I'm referring to where you can enjoy your drink. Umbrellas provide shade for both the front and back patios. More »

Mercury Espresso

Mercury's side patio has that coveted 'strong enough' WiFi signal, though most summer loungers use it as a platform from which to wave at endless passersby. With cortados, of course. More »

Starving Artist

This Junction Triangle hangout has two patios with plenty of shade. One in the front, and one in the back. Where strong coffee-enthusiasts go to inhale fresh waffles. More »

CocoaLatte

On St. Clair West, CocoaLatte's back patio has room for an intimate crowd of about four or five tables. The best way to enjoy gelato. More »

Cafe Novo

Cafe Novo has a huge patio with prime access to watch harried TTC passengers emerge from High Park station. Easy access to the cafe's delicious home-baked treats and mere steps from the park. More »

Tango Palace

Tango Palace is one cafe where I actually really enjoy being indoors (and pretending I've encountered a rare, secluded royal study), but when the desire for fresh air finally takes over, there's a charming little patio positioned in back of the cafe overlooking the park. More »

Luna Cafe

It's worth venturing to this residential area on Dovercourt for the charms of Luna Cafe. Their side patio pairs well with a soy chai, breakfast wrap, and classic cups of Joe. While seemingly off the beaten path, Luna's patio has been thoroughly discovered, as evidenced by its brunch-time lineups. More »

Balzac's (Distillery)

Though some might argue that the Distillery District is pretty much one big patio on its own, Balzac's does have its own designated outdoor area complete with picnic tables, which is perfect for summer sipping and tourist-watching. More »