The Best Winter Patios Across Canada
Winter in Canada doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. Find scenic views and cozy vibes at these heated patios scattered across the country.
Nestled amid the historic cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, this upscale steak and seafood restaurant is the perfect spot for date night. Start with oysters, move on to a seafood tower or prime cut of AAA Angus steak, and don’t skip the Dôme Chocolat for dessert.
Old Montreal is known for its winter charm, when its stone architecture is painted with snow, and now you can enjoy it from one of the area’s best rooftop bars. Reserve a fixed–price brunch or dinner at Terrasse William Gray, with its transparent heated domes and crackling fire for making s’mores, complete with views of the illuminated Grande Roue Ferris wheel.
In Toronto’s trendy West Queen West area, Drake Sky Yard is part indoor lounge, part rooftop terrace. In the winter, grab a log seat around the bonfire or cozy up in one of the tented booths to share fresh sushi and sip specialty cocktails like the Krakatoa, with rum, banana liqueur, brown butter and allspice dram.
This bustling community spot is so committed to winter, it even hosted a design competition to find the best warming hut solution for the 2023–2024 season. The Forks is more than just a winter patio, though — it’s a gathering spot for events and all kinds of local vendors, from food trucks to artisans, and features firepits and a skating rink.
This polished restaurant is the perfect place to warm up after a day on the cross–country ski track at the adjacent golf course. Treat yourself to a glass of mulled wine and stay toasty next to the firepits, under the glow of string lights, nibbling on local cheeses and cured meats that make up the “Winter Wonderland” charcuterie board.
Take advantage of Vancouver’s mild winter weather on the heated patio of Teahouse. Set against Stanley Park’s stunning natural beauty and ancient trees, it’s a special spot for brunch or a sunset cocktail. Sip on their Hot Buttered Rum, a warming concoction of dark rum, spices and butter.
The covered and glass–walled winter patio at Fathom has firepit tables and cozy throws, so you’ll be warm and toasty even before your bubbling pot of cheese or chocolate fondue arrives. There’s a full cocktail menu on offer here, plus several zero–proof options (like the Not Toddy, with honey, lemon, chamomile and ginger beer).