The Toronto Islands are our city’s own little getaway. A short ferry ride away, you’ll find beaches, tranquil walks, boats and canoes on the water, and most importantly, squirrelled-away gems on which to sit back with a pint or coupe glass and while away the summer nights. And hey, news flash: summer’s starting to wind down, so get out there and stock up on a bit of extra tan.
Here’s Vv Magazine‘s roundup of where to drink on the Toronto islands.
Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co.
This newly opened restaurant and bar, which was previously The Island Cafe, lives up to its name by serving BBQ and beer. Think plates of smoked brisket, smoked sausage or BBQ pulled pork, baby back ribs, smoked tacos—in short, enough to fill ‘er up. In terms of drinks, expect a similar selection to what you’ll find throughout the Islands (Corona, Keith’s, etc.), but BBQ and Beer Co. sets itself apart with its sprawling 500-seater patio boasting a stunning view of the city.
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The Rectory Café
The Rectory Café is a Toronto Islands mainstay with its large menu (salumi meat platter, anyone?), cozy interior, and spacious patio with water views. Indulge in their wine list, try one of their craft beers or settle in with one of their classic cocktails (well-priced under $10).
Toronto Island Marina and Yacht Club
If you’re a fan of boating, you’ll want to spring for a membership at the Toronto Island Marina and Yacht Club. But even if you don’t quite have your sea legs, head to their Upper Deck Bar to enjoy live entertainment on the weekends, a full menu of drinks and snacks such as sandwiches and haddock fish ‘n’ chips, or stop in on Fridays for their BBQ days. Have we mentioned the sunlit, distant view of those skyscrapers and congested streets you left behind?
PICNIC!
If you’re looking to go rogue on the Islands, just pack a picnic—but the first rule of Island picnics is don’t bring alcohol on your Island picnics – there are cops patrolling and you can get a hefty ticket. Before you abandon all hope of boozy fun in the sun, note that you can purchase alcohol in advance from Centreville Amusements and Catering.
Island Yacht Club
So, this one requires a bit of an investment on your part. Already a members-only boating and social club, the IYC is set to become even more desirable with the launch of their Spoke Club collaboration, Spoke on the Water. Pick up a boating or social membership to enjoy their pool, tennis, or dine at their restaurant and bar—and if you’re already a member at King St.’s Spoke Club, enjoy a $500 discount.
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Carousel Café
Expect a generous menu from this Centre Island restaurant, including salads, burgers, poutine, and fish tacos. Their cocktails lean towards the fruity—don your shades and make believe you’re on a down-South beach—and beer offerings are easy drinking bar standards (Labatt, Bud, and Alexander Keith’s).
Bill’s Beach Bar
Bill’s Beach Bar is somewhat incognito near the Centre Island Pier. They serve up beers and bar rails, and although there’s no food on site, feel free to get your grub at the grill next door (or a pizza slice from nearby) and bring it back to the bar.
Related Link: Toronto’s Best Patios: The ones on the water
Did we miss anywhere to drink on the Toronto Islands? Let Vv Magazine know in the comments below, or tweet us @ViewtheVibe.
