When I mentioned to my good friend Jennifer that I would be writing a feature on the best patios in the city, she replied “patio…? Is that an outdoor space where people get together to socialize?” It is worth noting that my dear friend Jennifer lives back in the UK, where I grew up. From this endearing yet clueless response I was reminded of how lucky Torontonians are to have a bevy of splendid patio locations in our city.
As self-professed patio junkies, we at ‘View The Vibe’ would like to take you on a tour of five of our favourite patios. The list below will save you the unnecessary exhaustion of searching for the perfect summer hang out, so that you can enjoy the heat carefree.
1: Oliver & Bonacini Café Grill—33 Yonge Street—647-260-2070—oliverbonacini.com As they head into their first fully fledged patio season, we are very excited to have O & B Café Grill on our top 5 list. With a sprawling patio that wraps onto both Front and Yonge Street, you can be guaranteed ultimate patio luxury in a prime location. The décor is trendy but comfortable and the service is impeccable yet friendly. We have enjoyed O & B Café Grill for everything from business meetings to cocktail hour. I would especially suggest heading there on a Thursday evening so that you can take part in their patio party. The DJ and cocktail service encompass all of the trimmings of a much-needed vacation.
2: Le Select Bistro—432 Wellington Street West—416-596-6405—leselect.com ‘View the Vibe’ first discovered Le Select Bistro on a lazy, Sunday morning a couple of summers ago. What started as a quick brunch in T.O, ended up as a prolonged afternoon in a Parisian trance. We fell in love with the intimate setting and charming décor of this hot spot, which emulates European chic to a tee. Whether lounging in the private garden in the back of the restaurant or on the patio, Le Select Bistro caters to every patio-hopper’s need. It is mostly the authentic French cuisine, stellar wine list, and uncanny ‘laissez faire’ vibe (you can even bring your canine counterpart) that make this venue worthy of our top 5 list.
3: The Brazen Head—165 East Liberty Street—416-535-7878—brazenhead.ca With summer time in Toronto comes the ritual of Blue Jay’s games and TFC matches. The Brazen Head is ‘View the Vibe’s’ go-to for meeting up with friends for pre-game beer and nibbles. The patio space is expansive with three large outdoor areas—one located on each floor—so you’re always likely to get a seat. With hearty pub grub and plenty of space, The Brazen Head is a fundamental hangout for patio seekers.
4: Ultra—314 Queen Street W—416-263-0330—Ultratoronto.com If you’re looking for an excuse to dress up and party under the stars, this is it. Ultra’s stunning patio features all white décor and boasts an ideal view of the city and the CN tower. The main dining room incorporates an eclectic menu into your dining experience. There is an intimate courtyard extension, allowing you to dine alfresco. A smaller menu is also offered on the patio for a more relaxed vibe. Nevertheless, I do suggest taking the time to enjoy the downstairs before moving to the patio, where you can continue your night in style. The vibe at Ultra is sexy, fresh, and devastatingly cool. So bring your A-game.
5: Eden Trattoria—58 Marine Parade Drive—416-255-5588—edentrattoria.com It is most certainly the dazzling sights that initially drew us to Eden Trattoria. Their sixty seat patio is located directly on the waterfront at Humber Bay Shores and provides an incredible view of the Toronto city skyline. Unobstructed and utterly stunning, one could consider this location a form of visual therapy. ‘View The Vibe’ regularly visits Eden for a chance to escape the busy downtown core. It is relaxed, unpretentious, and budget friendly—the perfect ingredients for a summer dining destination.