May 13

May 13 Patios in Toronto That You Have to Visit This Summer

The real Toronto is finally starting to reappear from the long-time deep freeze that we call winter, and that means patio season is upon us. Really dedicated Torontonians are already firmly planted on outdoor chairs all around the city, but for me, it needs to be at least 25 degrees to sit on a patio. So, in preparation of this upcoming warm weather tradition, I am sharing with you my favourite patios around this wonderful city.

THE JASON GEORGE - 100 FRONT ST E

Living 2 blocks away from St Lawrence Market has its perks. Fresh meat and produce, awesome views, and fabulous restaurants. Right across the street from the market is this fab find - The Jason George. With a wide selection of beers on tap (and rotating taps as well), ciders and wines, it's a great place to kick it this summer. Try the fish and chips, Sriracha cop wrap, or vegetarian gourmet grilled cheese to accompany any drink. And at night the patio is lit from above with gorgeous string lights!

QUEEN MOTHER CAFE - 208 QUEEN ST W

This hidden gem serves, without a doubt, my favourite sangria in the city. Tucked away behind the restaurant's facade is Queen Mother Cafe's back garden patio. Open from May until October, head on over for an eclectic Asian-inspired menu featuring delicious pad thai, a dim sum platter, and surprisingly good cannelloni?! They are also open Sundays for brunch, but if you're more of a late night person you can stop by for some BOMB white wine sangria - Mon-Wed until 12am, Thurs-Sat until 1am and Sun until 11pm!

THE PORCH - 250 ADELAIDE ST W

I'm SURE you've heard of The Porch, but if you haven't you've probably seen someone post a photo of their famous bucket drinks. Try their blended margarita, "bull dog", or "bro dog" served in the finest buckets around. If you're more of an OG glass kind of person, you can also sample a number of classic cocktails with fun twists. However, the biggest draw is the stunning views of the city that you get when you visit this Entertainment District staple. Don't believe me? Click here.

EL CATRIN - 18 TANK HOUSE LANE

Calling all you tequila lovers, this one's for you! As an avid margarita drinker, El Catrin makes my fave variation in the entire city. They squeeze their own watermelon juice and add it to the tequila drink we all know and love, but the combo is mind-blowing. 100/10, would recommend (that's how good it is!). Not only are their drinks to die for, their food is top notch as well. Our favourites are the guac made table-side, the esquites, and the baja fish tacos, but everything else on the menu is just as yummy! Surrounded by one of Toronto's oldest neighbourhoods, you can't go wrong with this pick.

DUNDAS AND CARLAW - 1173 DUNDAS ST E

Cafe by day, bar by night, Dundas and Carlaw is truly a patio lover's dream. Try one of five "Dundas and Carlaw Inspirations" for an original take on some of your fave cocktails, or check out the "Munchies" menu for an array of finger foods fit for a king. The best part, however, is that throughout the year Dundas and Carlaw hosts fun activities and events. Book out their outdoor synthetic curling rink here, and find some highlights from past tournaments on their Instagram here.

Did I miss your fave patio in T.O.? Let me know what it is in the comments below! Maybe I'll discover a new haunt. And Happy Mother's Day to all the mum's out there!