It’s been a long winter but spring, it seems, is finally here. With the warmer weather comes the much-anticipated re-opening of restaurant patios just in time for Easter weekend. Few things will feel better than sitting on a patio eating food you didn’t have to cook, and these restaurants are topping off the warm weather with open patios and plenty of cheer.
Auberge du Pommier
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Looking for that perfect upscale garden hideaway to enjoy an idyllic dinner with the family this weekend? Oliver & Bonacini’s Auberge du Pommier has been at the top of the city’s French fine dining scene since 1987. And, the outdoor space is just as beautiful as one might expect from this institution complete with fountains, potted plants and, yes, heat.
Blueblood Steakhouse
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What could be more decadent than dining outdoors in a gorgeous heated space at the foot of Casa Loma overlooking the city? Diners can enjoy the restaurant’s take on modern steak house classics on Easter weekend including a special lunch on Easter Sunday.
Hemingway’s
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This Yorkville institution has a large rooftop patio, which is covered and heated, making it a go-to spot during the pandemic when outdoor spaces are at a premium. There is also a street-level patio from which diners can enjoy the restaurant’s selection of classic pub fare and beverages.
Union
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Union’s lovely little patio is open, but you will need a reservation before you go. Union is also limiting patio time to one hour and 45 minutes to ensure all guests are accommodated. You’ll want to read up on the new patio rules and see what staff is doing to ensure safety โ this restaurant has gone the extra mile to make sure that you feel safe while dining.
Nice Nice
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Nice Nice wine bar is the latest project from chef and restaurateur Jonathan Poon (Paris Paris,ย Favorites Thai BBQ). A cosy neighbourhood spot in the heart of Parkdale, Nice Nice operates out of the formerย Superpoint Express pizzeria on Dunn Avenue. Diners can enjoy this great local spot from inside an, ahem, nice covered outdoor space with a heater stretching its length.
El Catrin
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This Mexican restaurant in the Distillery District has a massive outdoor space with plenty of decorative and powerful heating lamps to keep patrons cosy while enjoying some tableside guacamole and chips, tacos and a cerveza or two.
Kasa Moto
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This two-storey gem in Yorkville is serving up delicious contemporary Japanese cuisine to be enjoyed in a lovely heated and covered patio space complete with very comfy chairs.
Constantine
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Chef Craig Harding’s Constantine, part of the Anndore House Hotel, is a great spot for Mediterranean cuisine in the city. It can now be enjoyed on Constantine’s heated patio, which is open Wednesday to Saturday evenings and on Sunday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Make sure to grab one of Constantine’s signature cocktails and arrive as early as possible โ this patio is first-come-first-serve.
Allen’s
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This contemporary British pub in the east end of Toronto is known for fine upscale pub fare and a killer burger. Allen’s has covered up its beautiful and hidden backyard patio known for its breathtaking willow tree and is now open for outdoor dining. A great spot for a drink and snack while out and about on the Danforth.
Wynona
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The Leslieville neighbourhood restaurant Wynona has a heated patio. Although it isn’t massive, it’s just the right size for an intimate lunch or dinner featuring chef Jeff Bovis’s incredible cuisine including homemade pasta. Wynona’s extensive wine list is also something that you don’t want to miss.
Many restaurants were caught off guard when Mayor John Tory announced that patios would be opening, and a number of popular spots are not yet open, so keep checking back. Some of the best restaurants in town are also offering incredible takeout options for Easter.
