In-demand patios in Parkdale Toronto
Is there anything better than a good drink or meal on a patio in Toronto? Whether it’s a delicious brunch, a classy martini or some heavenly barbeque, this list covers all the bases when it comes to Parkdale’s prime outdoor real estate. Enjoy yourself in the sun (or under the stars) at these west end hotspots.
Grand Electric
1330 Queen St W, Toronto ON M6K 1L4This popular Mexican joint needs no introduction. The hype around this Parkdale taqueria started before former Black Hoof chef Colin Tooke even opened the doors and it hasn’t stopped since. Come the summertime, you’ll find a cool crowd enjoying tacos and bourbon on the restaurant’s back alley patio, which features wooden picnic tables and an outdoor bar. Nightly line-ups and a strict no reservations policy mean you’ll have a hard time snagging a seat outside, so try visiting for lunch during the week if you’re really hoping to score a spot in the sun.
Food and Liquor
1610 Queen St W, Toronto ON M6R 1A8Locals love the creative cocktails and small plates at this late-night snack bar on Queen Street West. The relaxed back patio is adorned with string lights, green foliage and a handful of tables and chairs. The seasonal food menu changes frequently and offers a unique combination of Asian-fusion dishes like chrysanthemum, tofu and mushroom dumplings or the popular lamb tongue and scallion pancakes. With a kitchen that’s open throughout the week until 2 a.m., this is definitely a neighbourhood favourite when it comes to satisfying those late-night cravings.
Rhino Bar & Grill Inc
1249 Queen St W, Toronto ON M6K 1L5There’s cheap beer and plenty of it at this perennial favourite along the Queen West strip. With a lengthy list of local and international brews and an eclectic selection of affordable pub-grub, this easygoing bar is a great place to go with friends. The patio is substantial and offers a prime spot to people watch, especially on weekends.
The Parkdale Drink
1292 Queen St W, Toronto ON M6K 1L4This sleek resto-martini bar is definitely on the fancy end of Parkdale haunts, and so is the patio. The outdoor space is lined with warm cedar fencing and a beautiful stone floor; chic bistro chairs and tables and a natural stone waterfall complete the look. The Asian-inspired menu includes sushi, maki-rolls and bento boxes but the crowds come here for the handcrafted cocktails and the late-night party atmosphere.
Yummy Momo
1439 Queen St W, Toronto ON M6R 1A1A fusion eatery with some truly delicious food, head here if you’re craving Indian or Tibetan cuisine. The menu offers about 80 exotic a-la-carte dishes including tandoori sizzlers, momos, curries and biryanis. The cozy back patio is an idyllic spot to dine on fresh naan bread during the summer.
Cadillac Lounge
1296 Queen St W, Toronto ON M6K 1L4This local bar has a rockabilly southern BBQ theme to the menu, and you’ll find that the patio has that vibe as well. The sprawling outdoor space is quite large, with several levels, so there’s plenty of room for like-minded revelers. Check the website ahead of time for upcoming live events and musical performances.
Electric Mud Barbeque
5 Brock Ave, Toronto ON M6K 2K6This notorious Parkdale smokehouse is gloriously unapologetic for everything it does. You’ll likely have to wait for a while to snag a spot at one of the communal picnic tables on the patio, but the meaty BBQ is definitely worth it. Your best bet, grab a couple of friends and order a selection of dishes: the pork side ribs, shrimp and grits, and beef brisket are not to be missed.
