Patios for sunny relaxation on Toronto's West Queen West

When the temperature starts to rise in Toronto, diners and beer-drinkers move outside to their favourite patios. The West Queen West strip features excellent outdoor spaces, whether you prefer facing the street or hiding away from the city noise.

Squirly's

1
807 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G1

This casual West Queen West spot is perfect for simple eats and evening drinks. The mostly-covered patio seats 30 people and offers heaters for the chillier nights. Squirly’s has a cozy atmosphere and elevated pub fare that complement the relaxing outdoor garden space. With reasonable prices, this is one of those places where you end up staying all night.

NADÈGE

2
855 Oxford St, Etobicoke, ON M8Z 1L6

Located just beside Trinity Bellwoods Park, Nadège is known for their French macaron. Owner and chef Nadège Nourian was born in Lyon, France and that means her shop oozes authenticity and European style. Along with a great selection of delicious treats, soups and sandwiches, this patisserie has a patio that looks out onto the park. The location could not be more pleasant. Sit back, enjoy a bon bon or two, and take in one of Toronto’s most-loved green spaces.

The Drake Hotel

3
1136 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1J3

The famous Drake Hotel brings together Torontonians and tourists alike for many different reasons. The hotel’s main restaurant offers a great side patio on Beaconsfield Avenue, perfect for enjoying a meal while watching the hustle and bustle on Queen Street. When the sun sets, move up to the rooftop at the Sky Yard and enjoy some drinks. This space is great for mingling beside the fire pit above one of Toronto’s hippest neighbourhoods.

Never mind pearls, Victorians know the real treasure to be found in oyster shells is the fresh, briny taste of the ocean. Whether you chew or swallow them whole, enjoy garnished or baked, once you get a taste for fresh BC oysters, you’ll be hooked. The next time the craving hits, here’s where to go for your shellfish fix.
Caesars are a staple in Canadian cuisine; they're right up there with poutine, Nanaimo bars, maple syrup and Kraft Dinner. The unlikely combination of vodka, Clamato and Worcestershire sauce with some celery, asparagus or even bacon thrown in for the grand finale, doesn't sound like it should work. But it does. Here's where to go in Victoria to enjoy some of the best Caesars in town.
Charcuterie, a French method of cold meat preparation, has taken off in Victoria and the results are delicious. The intense flavour created by the curing of pork and other cuts of meat, pairs wonderfully with artisanal cheeses, pickles and condiments for an elegant and social snacking experience. If you're looking to get in on the culinary fun, head to one of these charcuterie hotspots.
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