Here in Toronto, we truly get the best of all worlds — the excitement of the big city, the tranquility of nature, and the beauty of the waterfront. Summer is definitely the season to appreciate it all at once, and luckily, there are tons of waterfront patios in Toronto where you can soak up lakeside views and get a break from the busy city without even leaving the downtown core.

Here are 10 of the best spots for a delicious al fresco meal overlooking the lake.

Toronto Beach Club

This Mediterranean dining destination sits right on the sandy shorelines of Toronto’s beaches. The leafy outdoor terrace overlooks the water, making it the perfect environment for ejoying fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails in the sunshine.

Where: 1681 Lake Shore Blvd E

Against the Grain Corus Quay

 Lakeside dining doesn’t get much better than this. Against the Grain serves up brunch, lunch, and dinner and you can choose from a variety of small plates to share, or a large plate for yourself if you’re feeling extra hungry. Have a seat on the patio and gaze out at the sun setting over the Toronto Islands this summer.

Where: 25 Dockside Dr

Boxcar Social Harbourfront

 

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 This cafe and restaurant has multiple locations around the city, but the Harbourfront location is described as the most amibitious. It has seating for over 200 people and unparalleled views of Lake Ontario. In addition to the full coffee program, it also serves a full lunch and dinner menu and world-class wines, craft beer, and whiskies.

Where: 235 Queens Quay W

Grand Bizarre Beach Club Restaurant

 

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 Described as Toronto’s largest beach club patio, Grand Bizarre is open for the summer with several infinity pools, cabanas, delicious bites, cocktails, and live music for you to enjoy. You can also order bottle service if you’re feeling fancy, or simply enjoy an al fresco meal with beachy vibes and views of the water.

Where: 15 Saskatchewan Rd

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Isabelle

 Isabelle Restaurant & Lounge is a lakeside oasis inside Burlington’s new Pearle Hotel & Spa. It has both an intimate dining room and an expansive, all-weather terrace where you can soak up the sun and feel like you’re on vacation in every season. The California coast-inspired menu is made up of plant-forward cuisine and share plates that highlight the freshness and seasonality of Ontario produce.

Where: 3 Elizabeth St, Burlington

The Slip

 

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 This has to be one of the best lakeside patios in the city. The Slip serves up drinks and snacks right on the water, and stays open late into the evening so you can catch those unbeatable Toronto sunsets. No reservations are needed, just grab yourself a picnic table and have a good time.

Where: 235 Queens Quay West

Pie Bar

 

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 Neopolitan-style pizzas and fresh gelato with waterfront views? Say no more. Pie Bar serves up delicious Italian eats in a gorgeous airy atmosphere in the heart of Harbourfront, with a patio facing the glittering blue shoreline and Toronto Islands.

Where: 207 Queens Quay West

Bluffers Restaurant

 Dine on seafood and sip local Ontario wines at this gorgeous spot with a sprawling patio in the middle of Bluffer’s Park Marina. “Enjoy the views of the boats coming and going right along the shores of Lake Ontario, while your taste buds take in our delicious fresh made food,” the website says.

Where: 7 Brimley Rd S

The Keating Channel Pub & Grill

 The laid-back atmosphere at this waterfront pub is ideal for a casual night out with friends in the summertime. The large waterfront patio looks out onto the Port Lands, and with the Distillery District just down the road, you can make a whole outing out of it.

Where: 2 Villiers St

Amsterdam Brewhouse

 

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 This 14,000-square-foot lakeside brewery also features a restaurant and patio overlooking the lake. It’s known as Toronto’s original brewpub and is an ever-popular spot among locals and visitors alike. Choose from the extensive craft beer menu and pair your sips with some delicious bites.

Where: 245 Queens Quay West

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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