My Top 5 Patio Restaurants in Toronto
Summer is in full swing and that is when we start to see people enjoying the outdoors a lot more. In a busy city like Toronto, we have been seeing a lot more restaurants that offer the patio experience.
Here are my top five Toronto restaurants that offer good food, atmosphere and a patio that I suggest to give a try before summer comes to an end.
Gusto 101
Gusto (pronounced Goo-sto) means tasty in Italian is located at 101 Portland Street which is in the heart of downtown Toronto. Since opening their doors in 2012, Gusto 101 has been serving up modern takes on Southern Italian classics and has become a neighbourhood gathering place.
Some people may not know that this restaurant used to be a garage and they have transformed it into a restaurant full of architecture and design. Whether you’re craving the warmth of a wood-fire grill or a glass of wine on their rooftop patio, they do provide the exceptional.
My favorite dish here is the Mafalde ai Funghai (portobello, porcini, oyster mushrooms, truffle cream sauce) with the Kale salad. A definite must try!
Bar Raval
Bar Raval features Gaudi-esque wood panels and a Barcelona feel to 505 College Street in Toronto and everyone has been loving it. The architecture design of this bar makes it a unique one in the city with an atmosphere that shifts from idyllic in the mornings to bumpin’ at night. You will be able to find great food and wines on the menu. Each dish is made with great care and addition with everyone loving each bite. This is truly evident as each dish goes back clean.
This restaurant has given the neighbourhood a little piece of Barcelona with a Spanish tapas style in Toronto and the neighbours adore it. My favorite dish here is A La Parila Octopus. A must try!
Patria
Patria is an authentic Spanish tapas eatery located at 478 King Street West in Toronto and this neighbourhood is known as the “Fashion District”. Patria showcases an ever-changing selection of only the freshest fish, octopus and shrimp, sourced daily. The wine menu features an extensive list of Spanish labels imported exclusively to pair perfectly with every item on their menu.
There courtyard patio and large dining area offers the perfect setting for dinner or Sunday brunch.
My favourite dish here is any of the paellas which there are four to choose from.
El Caballito
El Caballito is located a short walk away from the Roy Thomson Hall, The Princess of Wales Theatre and the Toronto’s International Film Festival at 220 King Street West. El Caballito serves street-style Mexican cuisine along with the most robust selection of tequilas and margaritas in downtown Toronto.
They provide great service, food and their patio is like having a piece of Mexico right in your downtown backyard. My favourite dish here is the Baja-Style Fish Taco with a shot of Tequila.
Marben Resturant
Marben restaurant is a modern and industrial style venue which has a trendy vibe as soon as you walk in. It is conveniently located in the heart of the fashion district in Toronto at 488 Wellington Street West.
It has an eclectic menu that the locals love. Equally exciting, Marben has a lot of locally sourced fare and bespoke cocktails. Their rooftop patio also gives you a great view of the iconic CN Tower. This restaurant is yet another reason why Wellington Street West is the place to be.
My favourite dish here is the Johns Burger as I do love burgers. You don’t want to miss trying it when you visit!
There you have it, my top five restaurants with a patio in the heart of Toronto. They are all located in great neighbourhoods and offer an overall great experience.
