Best in the 6ix: Toronto’s Best Rooftop Patios

Even if there’s a wicked wind blowing your cocktail napkins and leaves from your kale salad asunder, one must not retreat for the stoic steadiness of the indoors. Rooftop patios offer the best of both worlds: outdoor dining mixed with closed-wall intimacy. Even with a stunning view and storeys between your feet and the ground, there’s something unapologetically VIP about squatting for hours on one of Toronto’s best rooftop patios – perhaps because there are no passersby to judge the mountains of empty cocktail glasses taking up table real estate.

Here are the top (literally) rooftop patios in Toronto and why you need to check them out.

The Best Rooftop Patios, Lounge, And Restaurant In Downtown Toronto

Gusto 101

With a year-round glass casing, Gusto 101’s rooftop patio is a hot scene no matter the season. In the summer it’s especially boisterous, feeding hungry King Westers and la creme de Toronto’s social elite. Best part? It ain’t no small space, seating more than many of the city’s other patios could hope to. Worst part? You’re still going to have to wait for a spot.

The Chase

With some of the best seafood in Toronto available on-menu and a vibrant view of Toronto’s Financial District (at least… a few notable buildings), The Chase’s rooftop is a society highlight too rare in Toronto. Suits and skirts young and old vie for their rooftop positioning like a less violent version of The Hunger Games. May the (open seat) odds be ever in your favour…

The Beverley Hotel

Just east of Spadina on Queen St. West, you’ll find The Beverly Hotel and its little-known rooftop patio, which has room for about 70 guests. White couches and lush greenery sit against graffitied walls inspired by the buzzing street where the hotel lives. This spot is perfect for lounging with bottles of wine and fresh oysters.

The Porch 

This rooftop patio is always bustling during the summer months, due to its downright amazing panoramic views of the 6ix. Sit back and sip on margaritas out of buckets, while you chow down on pub snacks and feast your eyes on the city skyline at its best.

The Drake Hotel’s Sky Yard

Is there anything we can say about the The Drake Hotel’s Sky Yard that hasn’t already been said time and time again. Not likely. Simply put: One of the best rooftop patios in the city hands-down… with some of the best (and most dangerous) cocktails you’ll ever slurp through pursed lips.

Jazz Bistro

Live jazz plus dewy summer air? Jazz Bistro certainly is in the running for best rooftop patio in Toronto. The centrally-located spot is a dream before or after the theatre – or a power-shop at the energy-draining Eaton Centre. Get over there ASAP to take in some blissful beats and edible treats.

Murphy’s Law

Situated near The Beaches, Murphy’s Law has a something in its view few other Toronto rooftop patios can boast: greenness! Yes… trees in the distance, sprawling manicured lawns – a true city rarity. They also have pretty cheap beer and some decent nachos, and it’s nice to escape the downtown core from time to time for an #OccupyPaTiO party.

Milagro Cantina – Queen West

We were shocked last summer upon wandering into Milagro and discovering their hidden rooftop patio, tucked in the back of the building. A small yet charming space, Milagro Cantina on Queen West offers a secret oasis to indulge on authentic Mexican flavours alongside a pitcher of margaritas… or 14 Micheladas. (Don’t judge.)

House on Parliament

With some of the best gastropub grub in Toronto (we dare you to not adore their take on a Caesar salad or Scotch eggs or crispy calamari) and an amazing selection of rotating craft beers (we had a delish grapefruit hefferveisen on a recent trip in), House on Parliament’s rooftop patio is nothing short of resplendent. Sunday night prime rib dinner under the stars, anyone?

Mascot Brewery

The Mascot Brewery rooftop patio is dubbed the “Beergarden” and for good reason! Complete with sun umbrellas, picnic style tables, and astroturf, Mascot Brewery is the perfect place to spend the summer while sipping on craft brews made in-house other local beers. Don’t forget to pair your brews with with craft-worthy eats from the Beergarden menu.

Terroni Yonge at Price

It doesn’t matter which Terroni you frequent, they’re all pretty much equal in the “effing rad” department. However, when the heat swelters on the pavement in the summer months it’s best to head to the Summerhill location for an elevated breeze and casual sophistication.

Soho House Toronto

Yeah, sure, you need a membership. But for this patio, it’s worth it. The best time to steal a spot here is during TIFF, when all the stars retreat back to the VIP-only rooftop to escape the frothing-at-the-mouth fans. Thankfully, you’ll have a front-row seat to the live theatre that is Jake Gyllenhaal’s immaculate bone structure. Just no photos, it’s against the rules.

The Pilot

If you’re one for puns then you’ll love the patio at The Pilot, cheekily named, “The Flight Deck”. The laidback atmosphere makes this spot a great place to unwind, not to mention they’ve got long wine and beer lists.

Harvest Kitchen

The Harvest Kitchen hit the jackpot when it comes to patios – they have two! But the secluded upper-level deck takes the cake. Unwind from the bustle of the city and treat yourself to some comfort food including brunch, vegan and vegetarian options.

Thompson Hotel

When it comes to breathtaking views, the Thompson Hotel has unmatched sights of the city from their towering rooftop patio. Technically the patio is for guests and members only, but schmooze your way in with a friend and work on that tan while you sip cocktails by the 40-foot infinity pool.

The Roof Lounge

Nestled in the trendy Yorkville neighbourhood, the Roof Lounge is located on the 18th floor of the Park Hyatt Hotel. Catch the best sights of downtown Toronto and have a fine dining experience that is equally as enticing as the views.

Oasis Rooftop Patio

The street this rooftop gem is on is probably a dead giveaway of what to expect. If you’re looking for a sports bar feel, The Oasis patio above Wayne Gretzky’s fits the bill! Unwind with a post-work drink or save it for later and make it a night out on the town with some friends.

Le Jardin at Lavelle

Another King St. West patio to visit is Le Jardin at Lavelle. The 16,000 square foot space holds plenty of seating, pools, cabanas, indoor and outdoor bars, and of course, a breathtaking view of the city. This season, Lavelle is also introducing a special membership program that gives visitors access to line bypass, towel and daybed service, discounts on food and other perks. They’ve also introduced weekly programming that includes deals like bring-your-own-wine Mondays, cheap bubbles and oysters on Tuesdays, and more.

UG Loft 

If you’re a fan of the Underground Garage on King St. West, you’ll be happy to hear that they’ve added on three-levels of fun, which includes a rooftop patio called the UG Loft. Twinkling lights surround high-top tables where you can order drink specials like buckets of beers and $20 bottles of wine from Sunday to Thursday.

Related Link: Toronto’s Best Patios, Dundas West

Did we miss your favourite rooftop patio in Toronto? Let Vv Magazine know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewtheVibe!