Mr. Toronto

Since summer didn’t really start until mid August this year, I refuse to switch over the closets til I can see my breath…. and though I have put the bike away for the season (side note – David Byrne of Talking Heads fame has just authored a new book about “urban cycling”, and was just in Toronto singing the praises of our City in that regard), there’s still a little bit of summer-like activity to squeeze out of this place!

Specifically, let’s talk patios.

It’s a favourite activity of Torontonians and visitors alike to find that “secret” oasis to have a bite and a brew in the great outdoors.  And since patio season is so potentially short in these Northern climes, the smartest business owners have installed heaters to continue the festivities well into November…

Here’s a roundup of some of the best:

The Fifth Grill and Terrace – 221 Richmond St – hidden away on the rooftop of an old warehouse

Grano – 2035 Yonge St – under a tree in their lovely rear patio, you’d think you were in Italy!

Messis – 97 Harbord St – known especially for its yummy desserts; this peaceful patio is surrounded by a barrier of small trees

One – 116 Yorkville Ave – THE place to see and be seen, in the heart of Yorkville on the ground floor of the ritzy Hazelton Hotel

The Miller Tavern – 3885 Yonge St – out of the downtown core, with space to prove it – three tiers of open air seating on a gigantic patio

The Rushton – 740 St. Clair Ave W – also out of the core, in a cool ethnic neighbourhood; really warm and cozy inside if you just can’t take it anymore!

Of course, the most fun part of any visit to Toronto is discovering your own little haven, so don’t be afraid to grab your boots, coat and scarf and enjoy Toronto al fresco!

Mr. Toronto