As the country emerges from lockdown, Canadians are flocking to the socially distanced settings of restaurant patios to enjoy the best el fresco dining their cities have to offer. From destination rooftops with sweeping views to secluded urban oases, our partner restaurants have some of the country’s most delightful patios, and we’re in constant communication with them as they reopen for business.
From coast to coast, the concierge is ready to assist you and your party in booking an upcoming meal outdoors, when reservations are permitted. Enjoy our selection of top Canadian terraces, and contact us for assistance in securing your table.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
The Bicycle Thief
This waterfront restaurant specializes in North American food with “Italian soul.” Overlooking the sparkling harbour at Bishop’s Landing and a short walk from the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market, dishes at this local favourite blend Nova Scotia seafood and classic Canadian dishes with Italian touches for an outcome we think is well worth a visit.
Open daily from 11:30am-11pm. 1475 Lower Water Street
Bar Kismet
Known for its creative cocktails, hand-picked wine list, fresh seafood and handmade pasta, this family-owned restaurant and bar is now welcoming locals and visitors to its newly built and supremely cozy backyard patio. The inventive menu is refreshed on a weekly basis, and designed to keep you coming back! Contact the concierge for assistance in securing your reservations.
Open daily from 3-9pm. 2733 Agricola Street
Montreal, Quebec
Grenade
“A world of oriental flavours in Montreal”, Grenade is an oriental brasserie serving fragrant, spicy dishes with Asian flair. From Japan to Thailand, via India and Cambodia, its décor, inspired by the most beautiful Asian destinations, will enchant you and the cuisine will transport you far from the autumn chill, all without the jet lag.
Open Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm-12am. 1603 Ontario Street
Terrasse Nelligan
Nestled atop the iconic 100-year-old Hotel Nelligan, the Nelligan Terrace offers commanding views of the Notre-Dame Basilica and Saint-Lawrence River. Enjoy lunch in the sun or small bites from the grill or raw bar over cocktails for an ideal late summer evening.
Open Monday-Friday from 11am-10:30pm, weekends from 10:30am-10:30pm. 106 Saint-Paul Street W, 5th floor
Ontario
Alobar, Toronto
Tucked away on a quiet Yorkville alleyway is the sister restaurant to the famed Alo, Alobar. This patio feels like your little secret. Sit secluded from cars and crowds, and sip a crisp glass of wine while grazing some of our favourites, such as the wedge salad, burrata or roasted scallops.
Open Wednesday-Saurday from 4:30-10pm, Sunday from 4:30-9pm. 162
Cumberland Street
The Chase, Toronto
To curate a list of the best al fresco dining in Toronto, one must include The Chase. Housed in a refurbished 19th-century building, this rooftop venue features a contemporary North American menu. Highlights include the seafood platters with oysters, shrimp and tuna, and the scallops with apple and thyme butter.
Rooftop patio open Monday-Friday from 11:30am to “late evening,” Saturday from 5pm to “late evening.” 10 Temperance Street, Fifth floor
Hexagon, Oakville
Just a stone’s throw from downtown Toronto, this modern French cuisine restaurant is still busy making waves. At the helm is Chef Rafa Covarrubius, recently named “One to Watch” by Canada’s 100 Best after winning the Nort American Regional finals of the San Pellegrino Young Chefs Competition. Their patio is one of the coziest around, so you’ll not want to miss an afternoon or evening in the hands of one of the best young chefs in the GTA.
Patio dining available Wednesday-Sunday from 5-11pm. 210 Lakeshore Road E, Oakville
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Maque
Maque now accepts reservations for its sunny, socially-distanced patio, offering a full menu of elevated, Asian-inspired small plates, ranging from steamed buns, rice and noodles to hearty meat and seafood dishes.
Open Tuesday-Sunday from 5-10pm. 909 Dorchester Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
The Confederation Lounge & Patio at The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
Offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend tea, the patio at Confederation also provides stunning views overlooking the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Sample unique cocktails crafted by expert mixologists, or settle into the elegant surroundings for a selection of comfort food dishes while you take in the sights.
Open daily from 8-10pm with afternoon tea at 2:30pm on weekends. 10065 –
100 Street
The Sugar Bowl Café
The Sugar Bowl Café has brought a unique atmosphere and delicious food to the Garneau and University communities since 1943, evolving from a burger joint in the 40s and 50s to a coffee house in the 60s and 70s to its present incarnation as a full-service bistro and neighborhood pub with a bustling outdoor patio.
Open daily from 9am-10pm. 10922 88th Avenue, Edmonton
British Columbia
Alpina Restaurant at Villa Eyrie Resort, Malahat
Few things are better than sharing a meal with a loved one while gazing out over the spectacular British Columbian landscape. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, Alpina, the signature restaurant of Villa Eyrie Resort, brings world-class cuisine right to your table. Combining the tastes of the Pacific Northwest with the flavours of the European Alps, the menu combined with the breathtaking views makes for an incredible al fresco experience.
Open daily from 8am-10pm, Saturday and Sunday brunch from 10am-2pm. 600 Ebedora Lane.
Chambar, Vancouver
This perpetually buzzing restaurant is known for its inventive cocktails, beer selection and creative Belgian cuisine with North African influences. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served and the mussels, especially the Congolese, are some of the best in Vancouver.
Open daily from 11:30am-10pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-10pm. 568 Beatty Street, Vancouver
If you’re looking for some inspiration, read our guide to 5 ways to explore Canada’s wilderness with a glamping vacation.
