Out of the four seasons, summer belongs to the beloved patio. When the heat’s on, Torontonians flock to their favourite stomping ground.

Here are the top patios in the city to get your lounging and drinking game on point:

Ja Bistro

Located on the rooftop of the restaurant, it is a charming space to dine on fresh sashimi and sushi delicacies. The patio is a walled-fortress of amber toned wood, uncannily resembling a Norwegian sauna.  There’s a cozy vibe that’s coupled with an entrancing zen sentiment.

It has been newly renovated and seats 100 people; look forward to a retractable roof that will shield you from harsh rays or light rain showers.  Fresh topiaries and Edison light bulbs complete the look of the cheery space.

 

Lavelle

Lavelle at sunset

Lavelle at sunset

 

With 16,000 sq.ft of patio-play offered in this King West spot, what else could top this gigantic space? Why, a massive rooftop pool to go along with it, of course. Expect culinary delights from Executive Chef Romain Avril (formerly of La Societe) such as Beef Tenderloin with Short Rib featuring Onion Soubise, Ramps, Asparagus, and Onion Rings.

 

Bar Reyna

Bar Reyna

Bar Reyna

 

This eclectic gem in Yorkville offers a patio space featuring exposed brick, white pillars, and hard wood with etched detailing. In the evening, the place lights up with pedant light-bulbs strung up like jewellery.

 

Thompson Rooftop Lounge

This cool spot is sleek and stylish and offers views of the city.  Dress to impress here and sit on cabana style seats while sipping on champagne and canapes.

 

The Chase

This patio channels a bit of the Hamptons with Toronto’s bustling city; it is an elegant space bolstered with sweeping views of the city. Located in the Financial District, expect many suits kicking their heels off here.  Bonus is an outdoor bar with Cinq a Sept cocktails available.

 

El Catrin

The patio is a colourful feast for the eyes with warm jewel tones.  Broad light fixtures with high-top seats make it an excellent spot for people watching. This Mexican hot spot fills up quickly, so it is best to make reservations.

 

Kasa Moto

This Yorkville hotspot offers upscale Japanese cuisine with a minimalist patio: nude wood floors, silver seating and green vines provide just enough colour contrast to keep the vibe lively.

 

Belfast Love

This hip, new spot is Irish pub meets urban Torontonian.  The bar is flanked on the west side of king street and is outfitted with its own bar– you’ll never be thirsty here.

 

Auberge du Pommier

This secret garden offers refuge from the busy streets of uptown Toronto.  The romantic space offers touches of Paris that will whisk you away from your troubles as you dine on fine French fare.

 

Momofuku Daisho

While you’re dining on Chef Chang’s modern Asian cuisine, you’ll feel the bustling city whooshing by on this rooftop patio; you can gaze out and absorb the controlled chaos of downtown Toronto and all its skyscrapers.  The space is especially electric when natural light reflects on the metals and makes the space glitter.

 

The Addisons Backyard

The Addisons Backyard

The Addisons Backyard

 

Is it a wealthy person’s home or a cool new place for drinks?  This new bar in the entertainment district boasts home amenities like a swank kitchen, a living room and a rec room— but best of all? The new 5,000 sq. ft backyard that offers outdoor games and refreshing libations. Boozed up slushie, anyone?

 

The Drake Hotel- Sky Yard

What’s better than a rooftop lounge in the hip Queen west ‘hood?  A patio that is open year-round: this outdoor space tangos with all of Toronto’s seasons. And from dawn till dusk, this is an ideal spot for a siesta.  Exposed brick and decorative art adorn the walls which adds dimension and offers a chill party vibe.  A satellite cocktail bar completes the patio experience with drink refills mere steps away.

 

And there’s so many other great rooftops and patios out there in the city. What would you include?

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