As the month of June begins, summer is upon us. The warm weather is officially here (hopefully to stay), and patio season in Toronto is in full effect. Everyone loves sitting in the sunshine and enjoying a nice cold glass of sangria while the breeze blows by, and below is a list of the top 10 places in the city to do just that.
1. The Porch
A classic and obvious choice. If you didn’t get a picture with a bucket drink at The Porch, did you even do summer in Toronto? It may be a cliche choice, but with the stunning view of Toronto’s skyline, a comfortable and open rooftop patio area, and delicious drinks and food, The Porch is THE perfect patio to hang out with a group of friends. Whether you’re pre-gaming for a night out or just enjoying the day, it is the perfect summer patio.
2. The Chase
Located in the heart of the entertainment industry, this restaurant and patio is on the pricier side, but so perfect for a “treat yourself” type of afternoon or evening. The clean and well-kept patio space is ideal for lounging out and taking in the great city views. Not only does The Chase offer delicious drinks, but they have a fine dining menu. If you’re looking for oysters, this is the place.
3. Thompson Hotel Rooftop Lounge
Another classic. Thompson Hotel is famous not only for their yummy diner, but also their rooftop lounge and patio. Spacious and comfy, this is the perfect place to start your evening. You and your friends will have plenty of space to drink and chat and drink some more before heading out for the night. Also, it must be noted that the skyline view is a very prime insta-opp.
4. Amsterdam Brewhouse
For the beer lovers. Sometimes you have to skip the liquor and wine and go for a cold refreshing pint. Located by Toronto’s waterfront (the perfect spot to chill and unwind), the multi-level Brewhouse offers their own craft beer brewed on-site as well as many other yummy drinks and tasty snacks.
5. Ronnie’s Local
For the hipster crowd, Ronnie’s Local 069, in the Kensington Market hub, is the perfect spot to waste away the beautiful weather. It’s not a shiny fancy downtown Toronto spot, however, if you’re looking for good quality drinks, beer, and charcuterie in a quiet out-of-the-way yet funky setting, Ronnie’s is the place to go. Definite Kensington Market vibes.
6. Queen St Warehouse
For the cool kids, Warehouse is a staple summer hangout. Yummy drinks and good food for $5 and fun music makes Warehouse patio a “peak Toronto” spot (so much so that there’s always a lineup to get in). Lets not forget, the bathroom mirrors have A1 selfie lighting.
7. Sky Yard at The Drake Hotel
Just down the street (okay, like a lot down the street) from Warehouse is The Drake, another “peak Toronto” favourite that is not overrated in the slightest. Sky Yard rooftop patio at the Drake offers a delicious brunch menu and amazing cocktails. Plus, if you stay till sundown the light up tubular artwork makes a pretty cool backdrop.
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8. The Passenger
For people on the West end of the city who don’t feel like making the trek all the way downtown just for some patio fun, The Passenger (located in the Junction area of Toronto’s West end) is the perfect place to unwind. With a huge patio, lots of pretty lights, and tasty food and drinks, The Passenger is a hidden gem in one of Toronto’s up-and-coming areas.
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9. Trattoria Nervosa
Everyone knows about Trattoria Nervosa and their famous pizzas, so it’s no surprise why it’s patio would make it onto the list of must-try places this summer. Delicious Italian cuisine, dangerously tasty drinks, and fresh air in the heart of ritzy Yorkville. Celebrate patio season in style.
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10. Murphy’s Law
For the East-enders, Murphy’s Law (located at 1702 Queen St. E.) is a prime multi-level patio and restaurant spot to spend the day in one of Toronto’s most fun and eclectic neighbourhoods. For a break from the dense downtown, this adorable brewpub is a prime location to soak in the chill vibes. The glass is always half full!
