Patio season doesn’t end when the temperature drops. It just moves under a heater. Here are five spots built for fall, from heated rooftops and covered patios to fire pits and enclosed beer gardens, each with a dish worth braving the chill for.
1. Retractable greenhouse roof
Bandit Brewery is a beer garden with an upgrade. The roof rolls shut when the weather turns, the floor is heated, and real trees grow right through the seating. 2125 Dundas St. W.
What to order: The beer-battered cheese curds, with one of their house-brewed sours.
2. Warm tapas nook
Grant van Gameren’s Michelin Bib Gourmand tapas spot Bar Raval has a covered patio with heaters and standing barrel tables. It’s walk-in only, so come early on weekends. 505 College St.
What to order: The shrimp a la planxa, coated in smoked paprika, cumin and garlic. Get bread for soaking up the juices.
3. All-night rooftop
Hemingways has been a Yorkville fixture since 1980, with a rooftop that stays covered and heated year-round and is open until 2 a.m. every night. 142 Cumberland St.
What to order: The New Zealand lamb shank with mint jelly. The owners are Kiwis, and it shows.
4. Fire & tequila
The Distillery’s biggest patio runs year-round, with fire pits once it gets cold and Canada’s largest tequila and mezcal collection. El Catrin’s patio is surrounded by the Distillery’s historic brick buildings and is packed on weekends. 18 Tank House Ln.
What to order: The guacamole, made fresh at your table. Then let the bartender choose a mezcal for you.
5. Starlit haven
Freshly renovated with a desert-inspired look, The Drake Sky Yard is one of the few rooftops in the city that stays open through every season. Take in the skyline views, settle in around the charcoal grill and stick around for DJs into the night. 1150 Queen St. W.
What to order: The fire roasted steak, straight off the grill.
Fred B.K. uncovers hidden culinary gems, from under-the-radar restaurants to unique food finds across Toronto.