OpenTable release their 2024 Top 100 Outdoor Dining List celebrating the finest al fresco dining experiences across North America. Curated from thousands of reviews and diner feedback, this prestigious list highlights restaurants that excel in providing exceptional outdoor dining environments. Whether nestled in vibrant urban settings or surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, these establishments offer the perfect blend of ambiance, culinary excellence, and outdoor charm. From cozy patios and rooftop terraces to waterfront vistas and garden settings, the Top 100 Outdoor Dining List 2024 is a testament to the diverse and delightful ways to enjoy a meal under the open sky. Notably, many of these top-rated spots are 🐶 dog-friendly, ensuring that guests can share these wonderful dining experiences with their furry companions, making the list a perfect guide for pet lovers seeking memorable meals with their four-legged friends.
Apparently, the list is compiled from over 1.1 million verified reviews and dining metrics collected between February 1, 2023, and January 31, 2024. To be considered, restaurants needed to meet a minimum threshold of tagged diner reviews. Evaluations were based on a combination of unique data points, including diner ratings, the percentage of five-star reviews, the number of alerts set, the percentage of reservations made in advance, and direct searches. These metrics were weighted to form an overall score. Qualified restaurants were then ranked by the percentage of reviews that highlighted “Outdoor Dining” as a special feature.
Here are the 15 patios in the GTA that made Opentable’s Top 100 Outdoor Dining List in 2024:
In no particular order, other than alphabetically by province, so we listed them as such for you too. But please note, 3 of them are dog-friendly and indicated with an emoji denoting that accordingly.
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Allen’s – Toronto (Greektown)
A beloved institution in Toronto, Allen’s is known for its classic pub fare and extensive selection of beers and whiskies. The inviting outdoor patio, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a relaxing spot to enjoy hearty meals and refreshing drinks in a cozy, casual setting.
Amsterdam Brewhouse & Restaurant – Toronto 🐶 (Harbourfront)
Located on the picturesque waterfront, Amsterdam Brewhouse & Restaurant combines stunning lake views with a robust menu of craft beers brewed on-site and delicious dishes. The spacious patio is dog-friendly, making it an ideal spot for pet owners to unwind and savor their favorite brews alongside their furry friends.
Diwan at the Aga Khan Museum – Toronto (North York)
Diwan offers a unique dining experience within the beautiful Aga Khan Museum. The restaurant features an exquisite menu of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine. Its serene outdoor patio, adorned with elegant decor and surrounded by the museum’s stunning architecture, provides a tranquil escape for diners.
El Catrin – Toronto 🐶 (Distillery district)
El Catrin in the Distillery District is famed for its vibrant Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere. The expansive, colorful patio is a dog-friendly haven, perfect for enjoying shared plates of tacos and guacamole while soaking in the festive ambiance with your pet.
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El Pocho Antojitos Bar – Toronto (The Annex)
El Pocho Antojitos Bar offers a cozy, relaxed vibe with its delightful Mexican street food-inspired menu. The intimate patio provides a charming spot to enjoy flavorful antojitos and creative cocktails, making it a favorite among locals looking for a laid-back dining experience.
HOTHOUSE – Toronto (St Lawrence/Old Toronto)
HOTHOUSE is a staple in the St. Lawrence Market neighborhood, known for its diverse menu and warm hospitality. The restaurant’s spacious patio is a bustling spot to enjoy everything from brunch to dinner, offering a vibrant and friendly atmosphere that reflects the lively spirit of the area.
KŌST – Toronto (Entertainment district)
Perched atop the Bisha Hotel, KŌST boasts panoramic views of the city skyline and Lake Ontario. The rooftop patio is a chic and sophisticated space to indulge in the restaurant’s coastal-inspired menu, featuring fresh, light dishes that are perfect for a sunny day.
Mira Mira Diner – Toronto (Beaches)
Mira Mira Diner brings a modern twist to classic diner fare, offering a playful and inventive menu. The outdoor seating area is a fun and casual space where diners can enjoy comfort food favorites with a contemporary flair, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal.
Miller Tavern – Toronto (Midtown)
The Miller Tavern combines historic charm with a contemporary dining experience. The expansive patio, surrounded by lush gardens, provides a serene setting to enjoy the restaurant’s refined menu, which features fresh seafood, steaks, and a variety of classic dishes.
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Nodo – Toronto (Liberty village)
Nodo Liberty offers a delightful Italian dining experience with its authentic, handcrafted dishes. The charming patio is an inviting space to savor wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and an excellent selection of wines, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Liberty Village neighborhood.
Parallel – Toronto (The Junction)
Parallel is a modern eatery known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes and innovative use of sesame in its cuisine. The bright and airy patio provides a laid-back setting to enjoy flavorful and healthy dishes, making it a popular spot for brunch or lunch with friends.
The Toronto Beach Club – Toronto (Beaches)
The Toronto Beach Club brings the laid-back, luxurious vibes of a beach resort to the city. The stylish outdoor patio, with its coastal decor and beautiful lake views, is the perfect spot to indulge in fresh seafood, craft cocktails, and soak up the sun in a sophisticated yet relaxed environment.
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La Vecchia – Marine Parade – Etobicoke
La Vecchia offers a taste of Italy with its elegant menu and inviting atmosphere. The patio, overlooking the serene waterfront, provides a picturesque setting to enjoy classic Italian dishes, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a leisurely weekend brunch.
Posta Ital Bar Cucina – Mississauga 🐶
Posta Ital Bar Cucina combines contemporary Italian cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere. The dog-friendly patio is a charming space where guests can enjoy house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a selection of fine wines, all while relaxing with their pets in a comfortable and stylish environment.
Il Postino – Markham (Unionville)
Il Postino delivers an authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of York. The cozy patio, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a peaceful retreat to enjoy the restaurant’s traditional dishes, including fresh seafood, handcrafted pastas, and classic Italian desserts.
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Editor's note: 🐶 – indicates that the restaurant allows doggy dining as of May 2024 (as per Opentable). This is subject to change and is at the discretion of the restaurant on where and what pets are allowed.