7 Toronto Patios That Are Absolutely Killing It With Their Stunning Summer Sunset Views
Drink in those orange-hued views.
With patio season finally in full swing in Toronto, you're probably already hitting up your favourite spots around the city. While patios drenched in the midday sun are no doubt where it's at this summer (because there's nothing like catching rays while sipping on a cocktail), Torontonians shouldn't forget about the unbeatable vibe of dining while the sun goes down.
Whether you're in Etobicoke, Scarborough, North York or anywhere in between, Toronto is full of patios that offer epic views to enjoy along with a delicious meal. Plus, you can win a whole year of patio dining just by visiting them!
Destination Toronto is calling on Torontonians to support their local restaurants, and in return, they get the chance to win 52 weeks of free patio dining (valued at $5,200) or one of five $100 gift certificates to dine at a Toronto restaurant. To enter the contest, all you need to do is take a picture while dining at your favourite Toronto patio and post it on social media using the hashtag #PatioscapesTO. Full terms and conditions can be found on the contest website.
The six-week-long contest launched on June 29, with a special theme for each week. The theme for week four, July 21 to July 27, is "Under the Stars." This week is all about making the most of summer nights on patios and taking in the incredible views of an orange-hued sky that Torontonians have come to know and love.
If you need some help finding the perfect spot, these seven hidden gems around the city all offer spectacular open-air patios. So grab your besties, your camera and get ready to drink in those sunset views.
As always, remember to respect the restaurant's safety protocols and dine responsibly.
The Slip
Price: 💸💸
Address: 235 Queens Quay W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking to dine somewhere that will give you city and lakeside vibes, then this is your spot. This beautiful waterfront patio is located at the Harbourfront Centre, and when the skies turn those cotton candy hues, the sunset is what dreams are made of.
With uninterrupted views of the dazzling city skyline, you can be sure to get the perfect Instagram shot here.
C'est What
Price: 💸💸
Address: 67 Front St. E., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, C'est What's new outdoor patio will give you the most incredible view of the downtown core and the historic Flatiron building as you watch the sun disappear behind the city's skyscrapers.
The streets in this part of Toronto make for some stunning views to enjoy while sipping on a craft beer or nibbling on something tasty from their beer garden menu.
The Aviary Brew Pub
Price: 💸💸
Address: 484 A Front St. E., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Tucked away in the Canary District, The Aviary Brew Pub has a massive wrap-around patio and has some really great views of the buildings that surround it, including the CN Tower.
The menu here features hearty and creative burgers and other pub fare, including a sizable offering of vegetarian dishes. Catch a sunset here as you sip on some of their craft beers or snack on their delicious nachos or wings.
Murphy's Law
Price: 💸💸
Address: 1702 Queen St. E., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Murphy's Law in the city's East End is known for its elevated pub fare including starters like masala calamari, mains including fish and chips, healthy bowls and even an elk burger.
The panoramic views of the Beaches from the rooftop patio might be some of the best in the city. It's a great spot to soak in the sunset while tucking into some Buffalo cauliflower bites and sipping a craft beer.
Eden Trattoria
Price: 💸💸💸
Address: 58 Marine Parade Dr., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: A beautiful summer evening and authentic Italian food go hand in hand, and Eden Trattoria is the perfect place to enjoy both.
Located in Etobicoke, Eden Trattoria sits right on the shores of Humber Bay. Their patio is ideally situated for you to drink in the sunset while tucking into a menu of authentic Italian dishes loaded with fresh seafood.
Paradise Grapevine
Price: 💸💸
Address: 841 Bloor St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This isn't the typical sunset view of the open sky, but there's something about watching the sun go down behind the vines that decorate the roof of Paradise Grapevine that will give you a vacation feel without leaving Toronto.
This West End wine bar has a wide range of house-made wines, a menu of orange wines, a modest offering of tasty snacks, as well as ciders and beers to enjoy in the dappled light of the early evening.
Trattoria Nervosa
Price: 💸💸💸
Address: 75 Yorkville Ave., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for a romantic place to catch the sunset with your S/O, Trattoria Nervosa is the spot for you. This street-level patio is located in Yorkville and has bench seating (perfect for cuddling up to watch the sky) and glowing lanterns to set the mood.
On their patio menu, you'll find traditional Italian pasta dishes, pizza and antipasto alongside an extensive cocktail list, beers, wine and Italian sodas.
From lakeside sights to cityscape views, Toronto is home to so many restaurants that will have you enjoying a delicious dinner to the backdrop of the city's legendary sunsets — and this summer is your chance to explore them all.
While you're trying one of the above restaurants (or any Toronto patio for that matter), don't forget to snap a picture of your food, your drinks and (if you're there during golden hour) the gorgeous sunset. Post it on social media with the hashtag #PatioscapesTO for your chance to win patio dining for an entire year thanks to Destination Toronto.
If you're not comfortable heading out to a patio just yet, you can still support Toronto restaurants by ordering takeout or delivery to enjoy at home.