The Best Patios in Toronto

No.1

Bar• Distillery District

El Catrin

“The vibrant atmosphere and massive fire pits make this a year-round destination.”

— Very Toronto Editors

El Catrin is a staple of the Distillery District, housed in the former Boiler House space and transformed into a high-energy, mod-goth Mexican destination. The interior is defined by its dramatic scale, featuring oversized folk-art chandeliers and a massive, black-light-reactive mural by Mexican street artist Oscar Flores that makes the entire room feel like a vibrant, upscale funhouse. While the interior is impressive, the real draw is the sprawling, year-round enclosed patio. It is one of the city's best spots for people-watching, anchored by a central fire pit that keeps the atmosphere lively even when the Toronto weather turns chilly. It is the kind of place that thrives on a loud, bustling buzz, making it better suited for group outings and spirited celebrations than intimate, quiet conversations. For a first-timer, the table-side guacamole is non-negotiable—it is fresh, interactive, and consistently well-executed. Pair it with their signature margaritas or explore the extensive tequila and mezcal list, which is among the largest in the country. For food, the Baja tacos and the mole-braised short ribs are reliable crowd-pleasers that showcase the kitchen's ability to balance traditional Mexican flavours with modern execution. Prices are on the higher side, reflecting the premium location and the overall experience. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends or during the Distillery’s popular Christmas Market, as the space fills up quickly. If you are looking for a deal, keep an eye out for their periodic taco specials, but generally, expect to pay for the atmosphere as much as the meal.

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No.2

Bar• Yorkville

Hemingway's

“The most reliable, fun, anytime rooftop pub in Yorkville.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Don’t let the literary name fool you—Hemingway’s has absolutely nothing to do with the famous author. Instead, this Yorkville institution, which has been a staple of the neighbourhood for over four decades, is a spirited, unapologetically casual New Zealand-style pub. Founded by a pair of Kiwis, the space is a sprawling, multi-level maze decorated with authentic New Zealand road signs and memorabilia. It is the kind of place where the vibe is consistently loud, unpretentious, and welcoming, serving as a reliable meeting point for everyone from local office workers grabbing a post-shift pint to students and long-time Yorkville residents. Its true claim to fame is the massive, year-round rooftop patio, which is fully heated and covered, making it one of the most resilient outdoor drinking spots in the city regardless of the season. When it comes to the menu, stick to the pub classics that have kept the place running for years. The New Zealand lamb burger, topped with goat cheese and mint jelly, is a standout for something a bit different, while the fish and chips and the legendary Boston clam chowder are reliable, hearty choices. If you are visiting for the first time, grab a spot on the rooftop, order a pint of one of their many draft beers, and settle in for some people-watching. It is a busy, high-energy spot, so if you are planning a visit for a big game or a weekend night, booking a reservation is a smart move to avoid a long wait. It is open 365 days a year until 2:00 AM, making it a go-to for late-night cravings or holiday drinks when everywhere else is shuttered.

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No.3

Bar• The Danforth

Allen's

“Feels like drinking a top-tier craft beer in a secret forest.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Opened in 1987 by restaurateur John Maxwell, Allen’s is a true Danforth institution that feels like a slice of old-school New York Irish saloon culture dropped into Toronto. The interior is all about comfort, featuring cozy wooden booths, checkered tablecloths, and a classic bar that houses an intimidatingly large selection of whiskies and craft beers. It’s the kind of place that manages to feel both like a neighbourhood local and a destination, with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere that has remained consistent for decades. The real magic, however, is the massive, lush backyard patio. Shaded by some of the city's oldest willow trees, it is arguably one of the best places in the east end to spend a summer evening, especially when the kitchen is firing up the charcoal grill for outdoor service. When you go, you are here for the burger. It is widely considered one of the best in the city, made with high-quality, locally sourced beef that is butchered and ground on-site, allowing them to cook it to a perfect medium-rare. Pair it with a pint from their extensive list or a dram from their massive whisky collection. The menu is reliable, upscale pub fare—think hearty stews and well-executed classics—but the burger is the non-negotiable must-order. Prices are mid-range, reflecting the quality of the ingredients. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly if you are hoping to snag a spot on the patio during peak summer nights. It’s a quintessential Toronto experience that rewards those who appreciate consistency over trends.

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No.4

Bar• Riverside

The Broadview Hotel

“One of the best views of the downtown core from the east side.”

— Very Toronto Editors

The Broadview Hotel is a masterclass in adaptive reuse, transforming a storied 1891 Romanesque Revival landmark into the anchor of Riverside. Originally built as Dingman Hall, the building spent decades as a gritty, legendary rooming house and home to the infamous Jilly’s strip club before its meticulous restoration by Streetcar Developments and Dream Unlimited. Today, it serves as a sophisticated boutique hotel that respects its Victorian roots while embracing a modern, polished aesthetic. The Rooftop, its crown jewel, is where the city’s history meets its future; the space features a 360-degree glass facade and a pyramidal skylight that keeps the atmosphere vibrant year-round. It is the kind of place that feels both grand and intimate, offering a perspective on Toronto that you simply cannot get from the downtown core. For a first-timer, the experience is all about the view, so aim for a spot on the outdoor terrace if the weather cooperates, though the indoor lounge is equally stunning. The menu leans into elevated bar snacks and shareable plates; the truffle fries and crispy Calabrian cauliflower are reliable crowd-pleasers, and the cocktail list is consistently sharp. Prices are on the higher side, reflecting the premium location and atmosphere. While the indoor lounge accepts reservations, the outdoor terrace operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early on sunny weekends to secure your spot. If you want to avoid the peak crowds, visit during a weekday afternoon for a quieter, more relaxed vibe, or drop by for their daily happy hour to get a taste of the experience without the full price tag.

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No.5

Bar• Roncesvalles

Bandit Brewery

“A lively, incredibly fun brewery patio perfect for summer afternoons.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Bandit Brewery was born from the shared passion of founders Stephane and Shehzad, who transitioned from homebrewing in a backyard to opening this 10BBL microbrewery in the heart of Roncesvalles. Housed in a former auto shop, the space masterfully blends industrial aesthetics—think exposed tanks and ductwork—with the warm, inviting atmosphere of a traditional German beer garden. It is a place where the community gathers, anchored by a sprawling, fairy-light-strung patio that remains one of the best spots in the city for a relaxed afternoon. The vibe is consistently airy, inclusive, and unpretentious, making it a perfect reflection of the neighbourhood’s character. When you visit, focus on their diverse beer list, which ranges from juicy, dank New England IPAs to complex, funky Brett farmhouse ales and dry-hopped sours. For a first-timer, sampling a flight is the best way to navigate their rotating taps. Pair your drinks with their shareable food menu; the parmesan-dusted fries and house-made pretzels are reliable staples that never disappoint. Prices are reasonable for the quality, and while the space is spacious, it can get busy on sunny weekends, so plan accordingly. They do accept reservations, which is a smart move if you are heading there with a group. Keep an eye on their monthly limited barrel releases, as these are often the highlight for regulars.

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No.6

Bar• Little Italy

Bar Raval

“Sipping Spanish vermouth on this patio feels incredibly European.”

— Very Toronto Editors

A Michelin Guide award winner for Exceptional Cocktails, Bar Raval transports guests to Spain with its eye-catching mahogany interior and a menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative drinks.

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No.7

Bar• Harbourfront

Amsterdam BrewHouse

“The premier spot to drink a beer right on the water's edge.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Amsterdam BrewHouse is a massive, industrial-chic fixture on the Toronto waterfront, housed in a historic 1920s building that once served as a terminal. Since opening in 2013, it has become a staple for those seeking a quintessential lakeside experience, blending a fully functional craft brewery—visible through glass walls—with a sprawling, multi-level patio setup. The vibe is consistently high-energy and bustling, making it a go-to spot for groups, tourists, and locals looking to catch a game on the numerous screens or enjoy a pint by the water. It is an unapologetically large venue that manages to feel like a central hub of the Harbourfront, especially on sunny days when the outdoor seating is in high demand. For a first-timer, the 'Dam Good Jumbo Pretzel is the undisputed must-order, served with beer-infused mustard that highlights their brewing roots. Pair it with a flight of their flagship beers, like the Boneshaker IPA or the 3 Speed Lager, to get a proper sense of their range. The menu is classic pub fare—think burgers, fish and chips, and wood-oven pizzas—at a price point that reflects its prime real estate. Reservations are highly recommended if you want to secure a spot, particularly on weekends or before nearby events at the Rogers Centre. If you are visiting in the summer, aim for an off-peak afternoon to snag a prime seat on the water-facing patio, as it fills up fast and stays lively well into the evening.

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No.8

Bar• Entertainment District

Kost

“Breathtaking panoramic views paired with excellent Baja-inspired cuisine.”

— Very Toronto Editors

Perched 44 stories above the Entertainment District, Kōst is the crown jewel of the Bisha Hotel. Brought to life by the hospitality group INK Entertainment, this space is a masterclass in atmosphere, designed by Studio Munge to feel like a breezy, upscale beach house rather than a typical downtown high-rise bar. With its floor-to-ceiling windows and an adjacent infinity pool that seems to drop right into the city skyline, the vibe is unapologetically Californian. It is bright, airy, and undeniably chic, making it the go-to spot for when you want to feel like you’ve escaped to the Baja Peninsula without leaving the city. The panoramic views of the CN Tower and Lake Ontario are the main event, providing a stunning backdrop that feels particularly electric during sunset. When it comes to the menu, focus on the fresh, coastal-inspired small plates. The fried calamari is a consistent standout—chunky, perfectly crispy, and served with a zesty lime aioli—and the tuna ceviche is essential for a light, vibrant start. For brunch, the coconut pancakes are a crowd favourite, offering a tropical twist that isn't overly heavy. Expect a higher price point, which you are paying for the experience and the view as much as the food. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings or prime sunset slots. It’s a popular spot for celebrations, so expect a lively, sometimes loud crowd. If you want a slightly more relaxed experience, aim for a weekday lunch or the mid-afternoon lull.

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