The days are getting longer, the air is warming up, and Toronto is buzzing with that unmistakable summer energy. What better way to soak it all in than from a stunning patio or a chic rooftop bar? As we look ahead to Summer 2025, the city's outdoor dining and drinking scene promises to be more vibrant than ever.
Why is 2025 the year to explore? With renewed energy and perhaps some exciting new additions joining the classics, Toronto is ready to showcase its best al fresco experiences. From intimate, hidden courtyards perfect for a quiet dinner to sprawling rooftop lounges offering panoramic views and pulsing beats, there’s truly a spot for every mood and occasion.
Ready to plan your summer
adventures? Here’s our curated guide to the best patio restaurants and rooftop
bars Toronto has to offer in 2025.
Best Rooftop Bars in Toronto
(2025 Edition)
Reach for the sky and sip in
style at these top-tier rooftop destinations:
- Lavelle: Perched atop a King West
rooftop, Lavelle remains the epitome of urban luxury. With its stunning
pool, chic cabanas, and breathtaking 360-degree skyline views, it’s the
place to see and be seen. Perfect for sophisticated cocktails and soaking
up the sun.
- The Porch: For a more laid-back but
equally electrifying vibe, The Porch is your go-to. Located right above
the Rock 'n' Horse Saloon, it offers unparalleled, up-close views of the
CN Tower. Expect a fun crowd, great drinks, and an atmosphere that screams
summer.
- Baro Rooftop: Transport yourself south
with Baro's vibrant, Latin-inspired rooftop. Known for its energetic
atmosphere, delicious cocktails (Pisco Sours, anyone?), and tasty snacks,
it's a fantastic spot for a lively evening with friends.
- Harriet’s Rooftop (1 Hotel Toronto): Exuding
sustainable style and effortless cool, Harriet’s at the 1 Hotel offers a
sophisticated escape. Enjoy meticulously crafted organic cocktails, a
refined ambiance, and impressive panoramic views of the downtown core.
- The Roof at SOCO (Delta Hotel): Located
near the Scotiabank Arena, The Roof at SOCO provides an elegant setting
for pre-event drinks or a relaxed evening admiring the downtown lights. It
offers refined cocktails, comfortable seating, and impressive city views.
Best Patio Restaurants in Toronto
(2025 Edition)
Ground level or slightly
elevated, these patios offer fantastic food paired with delightful outdoor
settings:
- El Catrin Destileria: Nestled in the
historic Distillery District, El Catrin boasts one of Toronto's most
visually stunning patios. Enjoy authentic modern Mexican cuisine and
creative cocktails surrounded by vibrant decor, cozy fire pits, and a
year-round heated space.
- The Drake Sky Yard: An enduring Queen
West favourite, The Drake Sky Yard is an artsy, eclectic rooftop patio
that transitions effortlessly from brunch spot to late-night hangout. Its
trendy vibes, creative cocktails, and ever-changing art installations keep
it fresh year after year.
- Amsterdam Brewhouse: If waterfront
views and craft beer are your jam, look no further. This massive Brewhouse
on the harbourfront offers a sprawling patio with plenty of seating,
Muskoka chairs, and a wide selection of their own brews right from the
source. Perfect for a sunny afternoon.
- Gusto 101: Bringing rustic Italian
charm to King West, Gusto 101's patio (with its famous retractable glass
roof, making it great even on cooler evenings) is always buzzing. Known
for its delicious pasta, grilled dishes, and wine on tap, it's a
consistently popular choice.
- KŌST: Perched 44 floors above the Bisha
Hotel, KŌST offers a Baja-inspired culinary experience with arguably some
of the most breathtaking, panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. It
feels like a coastal escape high above the urban bustle – a true sky-high
dining destination.
Hidden Gem Patios & Rooftops
Looking for something a little
different? Check out these fantastic, slightly more under-the-radar spots:
- Chula Taberna Mexicana: Head to
Leslieville for this colourful gem. Beyond its fantastic street-level
patio, discover its hidden rooftop tiki bar – a vibrant, playful escape
perfect for unique cocktails and Mexican fare.
- Bellwoods Brewery: A haven for craft
beer enthusiasts on Ossington. While known for its brews, its relaxed,
leafy patio is a local favourite for enjoying unique beers and tasty bites
in a chill atmosphere.
- The Broadview Hotel Rooftop: Offering
stunning, unobstructed panoramic views (especially of the east end and
downtown skyline), this rooftop bar atop a beautifully restored historic
hotel provides sophisticated charm, great cocktails, and a unique
perspective on the city.
Tips for the Best Patio &
Rooftop Experience in Summer 2025
Make the most of your al fresco
adventures with these simple tips:
- Catch the Sunset: For the most magical
views, aim to arrive about an hour before sunset. Check local sunset times
and factor in potential wait times. "Golden hour" offers the
best lighting for photos!
- Book Ahead: Popular spots, especially
rooftops and those with prime views, get booked up quickly, particularly
on weekends. Check websites or use reservation apps (like OpenTable or
Resy) well in advance. Some places may have walk-in sections, but it's
risky for prime times.
- Dress the Part & Sip Accordingly: While
some patios are casual, many rooftops lean towards "smart
casual" or slightly dressier. Check the venue's vibe beforehand.
Embrace summer with refreshing cocktails like Aperol Spritzes, Mojitos,
G&Ts, or explore local craft beers and rosé wines.
Get Ready to Explore!
Toronto truly comes alive in the
summer, and its patios and rooftops are the heart of the action. From luxurious
lounges to cozy courtyards and waterfront retreats, there's an outdoor spot
waiting for you.
So, get out there, soak up the
sun (or the city lights), sip something delicious, and make the most of Summer
2025!