Like an unspoken tradition among Canadians, once the Victoria Day weekend hits the Truth North, we flock to our natural summer time habitat—patios. There’s no shortage of sun-filled spots to enjoy this too-short season (though some are equipped with heaters for year-round fun), whether it’s for a post-work nosh, hangout with the gang or Sunday Funday. And of all the Canadian cities, we’d argue that Toronto is the most patio-obsessed. We rounded up the best patios in Toronto with some of the best views, epic snacks, and tastiest cocktails across the country—but get there quick, these spots are sure to fill up fast!

The Addison Residence

Find it: 456 Wellington St. W, theaddisonsto.com
Open since: 2015
The rundown: If a house-party vibe is what you’re looking for, the Addisons is like a chic Hamptons hangout complete with sofas, lounge and life-sized lawn games.
The fare: Summer cocktails and BBQ snacks

Amsterdam Brewhouse

Find it: 245 Queens Quay W, South Building, amsterdamnbrewhouse.com
Open since: 2013
The rundown: Grab a brew on one of three (!) patios, with an awesome view of the lake.
The fare: Local artisan food, ranging from nibbles (buffalo cauliflower and crab croquettes) to full-on mains (wood oven pizzas, burgers and meat from the smoker) and 14 beers on tap

Bar Reyna

Find it: 158 Cumberland St., barreyna.com
Open since: 2016
The rundown: This hidden gem (walk a few steps too far and you’ll miss it) boasts one of the prettiest back patios in the city, with twinkling Moroccan lanterns that must be seen at night!
The fare: Shareable Mediterranean-inspired snacks, like stuffed falafel and halloumi with smashed peas

El Catrin

Find it: 18 Tank House Ln., elcatrin.ca
Open since: 2013
The rundown: Not only is this patio located in the heart of the historic Distillery District, but it’s heated for year-round use.
The fare: Authentic traditional and modern Mexican dishes, wrapped up in a tapas-style menu

Hemmingway’s

Find it: 142 Cumberland St., hemingways.to
Open since: 1981
The rundown: A Yorkville staple, Hemmingway’s has four heated patios that have been a Toronto fave for 36 years.
The fare: Pub classics with a New Zealand twist: check out the Kiwi lamb burger and the pavlova for something sweet

Sky Yard at the Drake Hotel

Find it: 1150 Queen St. W, thedrakehotel.ca
Open since: 2004
The rundown: One of Toronto’s hottest summertime hangouts, this eclectic rooftop boasts snap-worthy light-up artwork.
The fare: Serving up v. v. gourmet brunch, lunch and dinner, with a long list of unique cocktails (read: the Drake Caesar). We recommend delving into the extensive list of sushi for dins or trying the salmon poke for lunch.

Filed under: flare, lifestyle, local