The Best Patios in Toronto
The best patios in Toronto isn't an easily derived list. Many factors come into play not the least of which are location, food options and what's on tap. There's also the type of patio - whether the preference is for something curbside that promotes people watching, a rooftop that's all about the sun, or the hidden back patio that helps us forget - if even just for a moment - we live in a bustling and smoggy metropolis.
Lucky for us, Toronto is stacked with stellar patio options. Come summer, bar and restaurant owners know that having the right patio is key to bringing in the crowds. For this list of the best patios in Toronto we narrow the focus south of Bloor, and in a departure from our usual process, we arrived at the list not from a poll, but instead from a survey of the 35+ members of the blogTO team.
We know we've left some favourites out, but for better or worse here are 25 patios (ranked alphabetically) that make summer in Toronto that much sweeter.
Allen's, 143 Danforth Avenue
One of the best secluded patios in the city. It feels like you're in someone's backyard. Huge trees incorporated into the seating area provide shade and create a sense this patio existed long before the city was built up around it. Barbecues going in the summer churning out all kinds of tasty grilled stuff. Time slows and thickens to a syrupy molasses consistency freed from the city's day-to-day, slowly trapping you like a fly in the amber, preserved in a perfect moment of golden sunshine.
Bairrada Churrasqueira, 1002 College St.
The army of picnic tables here reminds me of my youth and the kitchen makes sure the ambiance doesn't go to waste. As we've written before, kicking back at this backyard spot with a cold Sagres and an expertly charred half chicken platter is like taking a trip to sunny Lisbon but skipping the 10-hour flight.
The Black Bull, 298 Queen St. West
This patio is awesome in every cliched, faux menacing sort of way you'd expect from a biker bar in New Yorkville. You can sit and watch the ugs go by for hours while you leisurely go over the spoils of your shopping spree at The Gap.
Brazen Head, 165 East Liberty St.
The food and service might suck, but it's tough to beat this triple-decker Irish pub for after work or pre-TFC pints in Liberty Village. Bypass the ground level patio and head straight to the elevator for the ride to the second floor.
Brassaii, 461 King St. West
This 2200 square foot courtyard patio on King West has no shortage of stylish seating options from large communal tables to slightly more intimate spaces. It's best on weekdays when you don't need to deal with the overflow from the nearby lounges and clubs.
Cadillac Lounge, 1296 Queen St. West
Is there much more to say about the Caddy that hasn't been mentioned? I love this place. There's nothing more I treasure than taking in some live music inside, and then retreating to the back patio with some friends and a pint of something-something. Does the air smell sweeter back there? Sure seems like it. I'm in love.
Cafe Diplomatico, 594 College St.
It may often be packed and awfully hot if you don't catch shade from an umbrella, but the drinks go down easy and the food's passable. Beware the line-ups to get in here on weekends or if there's a big soccer match or a local street festival.
Drake Hotel Cafe, 1150 Queen St. West
This is one of those patios that's always packed and good for people watching. The food is great, the Caesars are delicious and it might be one of the best patios along West Queen West. Perfect for brunch or lunch on a sunny day. Usually a better option than the sometimes obnoxious Sky Yard upstairs.
Fat Cat Wine Bar, 331 Roncesvalles Ave
Hidden from view of the street and completely intimate this is a nice secluded patio to visit for a chilled glass of wine or their apres work tapas specials (it varies day to day). It makes you feel like you're visiting a patio outside of the city.
The Green Room, 296 Brunswick Street (alley entrance)
This popular student hangout has a neat little patio tucked away in the courtyard just south of Bloor St. It has a little gurgling pond, sometimes with fish in it. Makes for a quiet escape from the usually busier atmosphere inside.
Hair of the Dog, 425 Church St.
Just south of the bustling Village and around the corner form Maple Leaf Gardens, Hair of the Dog can be lower key than other options in the area. But that can sometimes be a good thing. Sunny all day, the large space boasts three fountains and a stone pond which is more than the prerequisite to indulge in the kitchen's succulent butter chicken.
The House of Parliament, 456 Parliament
This Cabbagetown patio fills up pretty fast, but the servers are always super-friendly and the food is tasty and reasonable. (Pulled pork sandwich = yum!) Plus, they sell Waupoos cider, which is as good a reason as any to check it out.
Joy Bistro, 884 Queen St. East
A little pricey (but so is McDonald's in this economy), but a nice spot to hang out on a humid night on the east side. The atmosphere is relaxed, but with a funky vibe. Still, every time I go, I feel like dressing up. (Tip - avoid the more formal west facing patio in favour of the slightly hidden one without the street view)
Julie's Cuban, 202 Dovercourt Rd.
Tasty Cuban-inspired Latin grub and one of the rare examples of a restaurant patio that faces a residential street gives this place a wonderful neighbourhood vibe which makes this chunk of Dovercourt the envy of the city.
Le Select Bistro, 432 Wellington St. West
On somewhat secluded Wellington, Le Select boasts a ridiculous number of beers you've probably never heard of like Jenlain Ambree from France. They also have Quebec favourites Blanche de Chambly and Maudite on tap. While the front patio is nice and sunny, don't let it be a distraction from the recently renovated back garden.
Mezzrow's, 1546 Queen St. West
What's not to like about Muskoka chairs and patio lights? I feel like I'm at a campsite except there's no bugs and someone else is doing the cooking. Oh, and there's draft beer and proper washrooms.
Musa, 847 Dundas West
This side patio is a nice place to contemplate what Dundas West will look like in a few years once American Apparel moves in. But, for now, it's a peaceful retreat. Plus there's good microbrews on tap and massive plates of food when hunger strikes.
Pauper's Pub, 539 Bloor St. West
Pretend the street level patio doesn't exist and head for the rooftop! Lots of sun, happy hour specials and a unique view of the Annex.
Pure Spirits Oyster House and Grill, 55 Mill St. (Distillery District)
Out in the open this is the best place to be during the Jazz Fest. They have amazing oysters, great Mill Street brews and some of the best French fries in the area. Oh, and their Caesar salad is incredible.
Red Bull 381 Projects, 381 Queen St. West
It's too bad this rooftop patio isn't actually open to the public every day. Instead, it's the exclusive retreat of employees in the Red Bull Toronto office. But make friends or head up here when the space is open for art exhibits and other events.
Reposado, 136 Ossington Avenue
This narrow tequila shack on Ossington might boast more seating on its secluded rear patio than it has inside. I like to sit back here with a pint of Delirium Tremens and imagine how this would work if the neighbourhood was still rife with cops busting gang-infested karaoke bars.
Ronnie's Local, 69 Nassau St.
As the finest patio in Kensington Market, Ronnie's allows for the finest sunshine and nicest beers. It also provides you with an opportunity to view the many mustaches that grow on Kensington locals. I like to see how many Handlebars I can spot in one sitting.
Shanghai Cowgirl, 538 Queen St. West
I need to remember to bring my shades and SPF60 here as I'd otherwise fry like the bacon in their BLT on a hot sunny day. A welcome retreat from the gradually less gritty stretch of Queen between Spadina and Bathurst.
Torito, 276 Augusta Ave
A nice secluded back patio at one of the best tapas restaurants in the city. Not an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon pint, but a good option for a drink and some sharable snacks before or, well, during dinner.
Victory Cafe, 581 Markham St.
On Markham St. just behind Honest Ed's, Victory Cafe has the best array of beers in the Annex plus you can smoke freely if that's your thing. Tucked away from the traffic and the UofT drunks on Bloor.
Comments (81)
Given that Red Bull's isn't open to the public, why is it on the list? By this measure, my condo's rooftop patio should be on the list, and it beats the RB's handily.
Cafe Taste has a nice rear patio.
Sooo... I guess it's official that the Future's patio has been shut down? Or was it just missed on this list?
Yeah, you could say the Future's patio was left off the list b/c its, um, future is a bit up in the air.
I can't wait until patios go non-smoking.
Also, the patio at Spice Route is pretty sexy on Thursdays.
I guess staying south of Bloor means you skip over a couple of must mentions: The Duke on Prince Arthur has a great shady patio, and, like it or hate it, the Madison must have one of the largest multi-level patio/deck structures in the city.
I know the east end isn't 'cool' in the eyes of most people, but that's still no reason to ignore one of the best patios in the city at Murphy's Law
Really good list, though you did miss one of my favourites on Queen St. -- Czehoski has a great back rooftop patio/garden.
I frequent pretty much all of these places - great list. No doubt there are many that have been overlooked, however I will keep these to myself as they are busy enough already! Czehoski's is a good mention...Btw, Madison is great if you want to pretend that you are in 905.
Surprised absolutely no patios along Queens Quay between York and Spadina have been mentioned.
DS, you can always have a drink on your balcony if people smoking in open air patios is so offensive to you.
Great list. A couple more:
I like the size of Rhino's patio and their selection of beers.
Sweaty Betty's has a nice patio too, when you can get a seat.
I don't really like Hot Box Cafe, but it's patio has some unique features.
Cloak and Dagger has a decent back patio with an amazing mural.
and cheers to Ronnie's!
I get keeping it south of Bloor, but the BlogTO staff doesn't think there is more than 4 patios east of Spadina that are worth talking about? Time to start branching out folks!
The Pour House has a great multi-level patio, a great selection on tap and a not terrible menu.
Yawn - Blooronto/Hipsteropolis != Toronto. Announce your "filter" in the subject, don't bury it in the text.
I know you're trying to convey the overall 'experience', but Sagres isnt that great a beer. And a flight to Lisbon is 6 1/2 hours, not 10.
/nit pick
I never said it was offensive, I am just eager for the day when smoking is not permitted on patios, that's all.
West Toronto, and by that I mean the part that exists outside of "hipster alley", got disrespected. No mention of anything on Bloor West, or the Junction? The Drake would be great if it weren't such a magnet for douchebags in pink RayBans and "ironic" t-shirts.
Hey LJ, maybe you could have a smoke on your balcony instead of stinking up others with your cancer stix?
i also love the patio at last temptation (in kensington at dundas and kensington ave.) the christmas lights make it!
Leaving out the Rhino raised flags ... but then no Dos Amigos, Grass, Wayne Gretzky's, Dock's, Remy's, Hemingways, Guvernment, Ultra, Skybar and most importantly Tati ...
The Black Bull discriminates - they have a "no babies" policy. They won't be getting my business.
I encountered the same thing a couple years ago. The place wasn't terribly busy, but we were turned away from the patio, because our co-worker had a baby with her. But, we were allowed to sit INSIDE the tavern with the baby.
I initially thought it had to do with a city bylaw with not allowing babies and children in areas (ie. patios) where smoking is allowed? Or is this just a big bunch of crap?
The Black Bull, while having a rather large Patio, is a terrible bar overall. Service is horrendous, and beer is over priced. I avoid this bar like the plague.
Kudos on mentioning Pauper's and Victory, some of my fave Annex patios. By the Way Cafe is decent in cold weather, because of its cover.
And Madison? Pssht, forget about it, that place is weak. And for freshmen.
The focus on downtown is awesome, especially because it pisses off all the right people!
No babies policies need to be encouraged. More restaurants need to exclude the under 8 set. The last thing I need when nursing a hangover or working on my next one is to have a screaming infant or toddler around. Then there's all the annoying parents.
Having kids is a bargain, you take care of them and you disappear from civilization until they're of age. If you get a babysitter you're allowed to spend time with other adults, but don't inflict them on the rest of us. I won't be putting my kids on airplanes or taking them to bars and restaurants until they're 8 because I'm a decent human being and I'll be merciless to the selfish bastards that don't have that courtesy.
The beer selection isn't the greatest, but The Lion on the Beach has two great patio's. Michelle's Beach House also has a great one.
A few Junction-area favourites of mine: Axis for their burgers. The Troubadour for beer selection. Whelan's Gate on Bloor (a bit of a walk) for their secluded rooftop garden patio.
I cannot BELIEVE you overlooked The Central! (http://www.thecentral.ca)
Two amazing, large patios, way tasty foods n' caesars. If you haven't been, GO!!!
Allen's can be hit and miss, it's a great space and the beer selection and bar service are hard to beat. I can understand that there are times when demand is high they have to limit it to diners only but do they have to be so snarky about it? (or rather I should say does Dora have to be so snarky about it, Randall is always polite about it) personally I'm not really a fan of the outdoor grill, I prefer the regular kitchen it's not so much because of the mains but because during grill season the regular veggie sides disappear in favour of the salads from the grill service.
though it's small I have to throw Not My Dog (1510 Queen W) into the ring. Great movie nights, jam sessions and vibe on their 'secret' patio.
I like the back patio at The Harbord Room as well, it is lovely.
Seriously though you guys - this is a good list. Blog TO can't mention EVERY patio in the city in every neighbourhood. The wounded remarks and shot-taking on here are making me giggle.
Homomance, I don't smoke and I have a a backyard, my issue was DS complaining about smoking on an open air patio, get over it. Shouldn't you be studying at a Timmy's or something? - cheers
I'm surprised you guys didn't mention the Spoke Club. It has an epic patio for drinking! Anyone been on it?
Couldnt agree more with you "reality check".
Babies should not be allowed in bars or on patios or anywhere thats not a Chucky Cheese. They are a detriment to business. The noise pollution on sidewalk patios is bad enough. Last thing we need when trying to enjoy a drink is some colic ridden phlegm spitter wailing away at the top of its lungs.
Condoms people. Condoms!
I still like the Black Bull. Yes, it needs a serious update, but what could be better than sipping your drink while people watching on Queen? The beer may be overpriced but the entertainment is free!
mill street brew pub(distillery)
spice route(king west)
fynn's of temple bar(king west)
jack astors yonge/dundas(yonge/dundas)
chalker's pub(forest hill/marlee)
madison ave pub(bloor/spadina)
park hyatt roof top patio(avenue/bloor)
rather listen to a baby crying than your annoying drunk friends talking about "all the chicks they scored last weekend"
the duke of york has a great patio,
everyone misses the picnic tables but it is still nice. i like luke but the other servers are pretty good as well
I'm happy to report that the Future's patio is still open - albeit at very limited hours. My friends and I were there last night, but were told that the patio is open from 7pm-11pm. Also, there is no more wait service in the patio - the whole place is now self-serve (which isn't a big deal.)
We had 4 visitors from England with us - they were very impressed with the whole concept of drinking pitchers of beer and eating decadent cake. :) We all ended up eating and drinking until 1:45am, after moving off the patio. Definitely one of my favorite establishments in the city. :)
I completely agree with you about the snarky staff at Allens!! It's a great patio but I hate going there because of that. Peter Pan has one of the most beautiful patios downtown -- I love the seclusion.
Too many stairs at the Pilot, crowded and hot. By the way the Pilot, Remy's (which is pretty sketchy) and Hemmingways are all technically NORTH of Bloor. This list is south.
I wish Future Bakery and The Labyrinth Lounge would open their patios... apparently the city counselor in that area is trying to shut them down for some reason... Me and friends chill at the lab often, but we want to sit on the patio... it's summer. Whats the problem!??!!
As a beacher, I agree with Murphy's Law. I think a lot of people discount it because it's far from the core and not exactly near the main strip on Queen as far as the beach goes. But it is an awesome patio.
If you're in the heart of the Beach, try Quigleys (Beech and Queen). Good beer, food's not bad and great for people watching.
Loons on Roncesvalles has one of the best patios with huge willows growing right through the deck.
Casa Mendoza right on the border of Etobicoke just past the humber river has what might be the best view of any patio
Sunnyside Pavilion's patio has good food, well priced beer and a is more or less on the beach where the volleyball courts are.
Can someone tell me why the sky yard at the drake would be considered obnoxious? Just wondering because I almost booked it for my wedding ceremony.
Smoking in the open air offends you? Better stay in Toronto you little prat and NEVER go to Europe where we are free from **** like you.
For me, Ronnies takes the top spot, at least on this list. Great beer, people watching and about as carefree a patio as you can find outside of Quebec. Thing about Ronnies is that most 9-5ers will never get a table, cause the joint is filled by 4pm. KOS next door is also a decent option for those who like the strip, but will never be Ronnies.
to reality check-
i totally agree. and to non smokers, sit inside.you have your place and we have ours. it's the only place we can freely smoke. lots of people smoke socially and it's the reason we go to patio's in the first place.
and people with babies shouldn't be going to bars in the first place. you keep us from enjoying ourselves. we don't want to hear you or your kids. total buzz kill.
I'd rather have a baby sitting next to me in a bar than watch dani and Reality Check make-out on the patio with their cigarette breaths.
There is no "baby epidemic" in bars. You're bitching about nothing. There's plenty of places for you to get your drink-on with other hapless and inebriated adults. BUZZ ON!
No "baby epidemic" ?
I think thats slightly off base. Unless im going to a bar ar 1230am to enjoy a drink, there is always that one family with childen running around the bar without any semblence of control from their parents. Thats not needed. Thats why we have McDonalds Playland. Stay there with your own kind. Problem solved.
I'd rather have no smokers and no babies.
Seriously, my wife and I considered a place in the east end called Prohibition. The place is clearly a bar. Two times we've been past and almost have gone in only to look inside and see (the first time) a couple with two babies under 3. The second time, 1 newborn.
Seriously now. C'mon. Why would you take your newborn baby to a bar with loud music and people smoking 3 feet away from you outside? Manners aside, if that's not irresponsible I don't know what is.
My wife and I will never try Prohibition because of it.
No, there is no "epidemic", because an "epidemic" would imply that it's happening in most bars all across the city, at all times of the day. In my years of boozing, I've only seen kids ONCE in a bar: at 5pm in the evening, on a rooftop patio. The place was empty and quiet, and amazingly, we managed to survive the experience of having to sit next the table of 2 seven year-olds who barely made a sound and only squirmed a few times in their seats. I'm glad I'm able to live to tell the tale.
Christ, I am glad you were able to survive that harrowing experience as well. You should not have been subjected to such terrible conditions. You deserve better. Thankfully it sounds like they were given their daily Ritalin dosage before being allowed out into the general population.
I'm not sure your one experience would quantify your claim.
What on earth were 2 - 7 year olds doing at a bar, period; Is what you should be asking yourself.
5PM is prime time for patio smoking and drinking.
Haha! Yes, ritalin. I think it was actually included as a free topping on the children's menu.
Keven, I think my one experience DOES quantify my claim. But I'm not sure YOUR one experience at Prohibition quantifies it as a city-wide "epidemic." (But seriously, you're missing out: great oysters and fancy-pants poutine. Get over your fear of running into the young'ins and just GO.)
Did I once claim it was an epidemic? You have me confused with someone else. I didn't say my experience quantified it either, I was just sharing. If you feel your one experience DOES quantify your claim however? Awesome for you (although, you are terribly wrong, statistically speaking of course).
Children do not belong in BARS. Period. This is all I'm saying.
There are plenty of places with good food and beer that I can go relax at w/o worrying about "watching what I'm saying", or "other people smoking" or "watching where I'm walking" etc, etc. I go to relax and have a good time. Children are not relaxing to me nor can I have the same good time in front of 3 year olds as I can with my own peers. Which is why I frequent spots where you'd expect to find no children :P
Seems logical to me. But I guess common sense is a super power nowadays, so I won't hold it against you.
Served what? Another dose of keven's tedious posturing? Then yes, you are correct.
You don't need to over-explain to me why children don't belong in bars. (Guess what! I agree with you!) My point is that it happens RARELY; and when it does happen, it's not the end of the fucking world.
If anything, you SHOULDN'T be watching what you're saying, if you're stuck in a crowded bar with kids. Chat normally as you would - if the parents take issue, maybe they'll LEAVE and NEVER COME BACK!
And for you to avoid going to a really great restaurant because there MIGHT be kids around? Maybe? Well, that seems sad and illogical to me. (But I won't hold it against you.)
I was being genuine in my recommendations for Prohibition. But you want to turn this into a long, pedantic, never-ending discussion (I remember reading you on the Net Neutrality thread - good fucking lord)- please continue amongst yourselves. (Kids be damned - I'm going out for oysters and beer!)
I'm hardly posturing. You made all these outlandish claims and I simply pointed out your fallacies. To which you've responded only with insulting innuendo.
I appreciate your recommendation. However I would retort that if the business does not do anything to approach the situation themselves (have a current policy), but rather leave it up to me to handle it (as you suggest), then why would I give them my money? I don't drink at a bar to be the part time manager.
If a child is in there in the first place. It's not the end of the world to me, I'm not sure where I suggested that? I'll simply go elsewhere.
And I'm much too moralistic to swear in front of a child (as you suggest). Not sure what that says about you. You can decide.
p.s. not MIGHT be. The TWO times I showed up, there WERE toddlers in the bar.
What about The Bier Markt? This is one of the nicest Patio's in the city- Great Beer, great food--especially the frites and Moules.
The Esplanade on a whole has been sadly forgotten. Bier Markt is OK but for the same experience and like over half the price I prefer Scotland Yard right next door. Besides cheap drink specials for everyday of the week their patio also has good music outside.
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