As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s no better way to enjoy summer than with good food and drinks in the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for casual café vibes, riverside romance, or an upscale evening with cocktails and live music, summer dining is all about atmosphere, taste, and memories.
Why Summer Dining is Different
There’s something special about eating outside. The fresh air, the hum of the city or nature in the background, and the golden hour glow can turn a regular dinner into something special. Whether you’re catching up with friends, on a date, or just solo with your favourite latte and the sun, patio dining is a more relaxed and sensory way to eat out.
Local restaurants go all out in summer, too – from setting up beautiful patios and rooftop decks to limited-time seasonal menus with local produce, cold craft beer, and signature summer cocktails.
Planning the Perfect Outdoor Dining Experience
To truly enjoy summer dining, location and atmosphere matter just as much as what’s on the plate. Want to make your next meal one to remember? Here are a few planning tips:
- Go for the view: Choose a restaurant with a riverfront, garden, or rooftop setting to elevate your experience. Watching the sunset while sipping sangria? Yes, please.
- Comfort is key: Look for cozy seating, shaded areas, or stone patios that balance style with function. Bonus points if the spot has blankets for cool evenings or fans for daytime dining.
- Bring your furry friend: Many patios now offer dog-friendly amenities like water bowls or even pet menus. A lot of people prefer pet-friendly places for eating out, and are even willing to pay more at places with pet-friendly policies.
- Check for live music: Dining with a side of acoustic guitar or a jazzy band can turn a simple night out into a mini celebration.
- Know the menu: Scan for fresh, local ingredients and house-made drinks that showcase the region’s flavours. Seasonal salads, seafood, and anything grilled are always winners.
Top Spots to Try This Season
Every city has its go-to outdoor dining spots – and a few hidden gems. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these types of spots are worth trying:
1. Riverside Cafés and Breweries
Perfect for brunch or sunset dinner, these spots combine great food with water views. Sip on iced lattes or craft beer while watching kayakers float by – it doesn’t get more chill than that.
2. Rooftop Restaurants
For city dwellers, rooftops offer a breath of fresh air and city views. They’re great for date nights or group gatherings, especially those with cozy lighting, ambient music, and stylish decor.
3. Garden Patios and Courtyards
If you’re looking for a more peaceful or romantic vibe, garden patios surrounded by greenery and flowers offer an intimate, charming atmosphere.
4. Local Food Trucks and Pop-Ups
For the adventurous foodie, summer is prime time to try new eats. Many cities have seasonal food truck parks or pop-up dining areas with rotating menus and shared seating.
5. Casual Pizza and Burger Joints
Sometimes you just want a slice of pizza or a juicy burger with a cold soda or local lager. Many casual spots now offer funky outdoor seating with string lights and picnic tables.
Casual Eats with a View
Not every dining moment needs white tablecloths. In fact, some of the best summer meals are the simplest. Here’s where you can keep it casual while still getting top-notch outdoor vibes:
- Burgers and fries at a boardwalk bar: Pair with a lemonade or spiked seltzer for the full experience.
- Sandwiches and iced coffee at a sun-drenched café: Perfect for people-watching or reading your next beach read.
- Tacos at a colourful food truck plaza: Grab a seat at a communal picnic table and dive into flavour-packed bites with live DJs in the background.
For the Foodies: Elevated Outdoor Dining
If you’re in the mood for something more refined, many fine dining spots go all out for summer. Think:
- Rooftop steak dinners with candlelit tables and wine pairings.
- Seafood feasts by the water, with fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and crisp white wine.
- Farm-to-table bistros with rotating seasonal menus and local ingredients.
These are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something extra special.
Drinks and After-Dinner Entertainment
Let’s be real—half the fun of summer dining is the drinks. Here’s what to keep an eye (and tastebud) out for:
- Craft cocktails with fresh herbs and fruits: Mojitos, spritzes, cucumber coolers—summer is made for these.
- Local wines and beers: Many patios spotlight regional vineyards or breweries, so you can sip local and support small producers.
- Late-night lounges with fire pits: When the sun sets, snuggle up by the fire with a nightcap and good conversation.
- Live bands or DJs: Nothing brings an atmosphere to life like music. Some patios have weekly sets, open mic nights, or themed evenings under the stars.
Setting the Scene
While food and drinks are important, it’s the setting that really makes a summer dining experience. When searching for your next go-to spot, look for places that pay attention to the details:
- Design elements like fairy lights, colourful cushions, rustic tables, or natural greenery make a big difference.
- Unique amenities like a fire pit, water feature, or even hammocks add charm and comfort.
- Flexible seating—from shaded benches to sun-facing stools—lets you choose your vibe for the day.
Find Your New Favourite Spot
Not sure where to start? Here’s how to find the best summer dining spots in your area:
- Ask locals or check social media: Instagram tags and stories are gold for spotting photogenic and popular patios.
- Use restaurant apps: To filter for outdoor seating, pet-friendliness, or live entertainment.
- Read reviews: For tips on hidden gems, must-try dishes, and the best times to visit.
- Take a stroll: Some of the best patios are the ones you stumble upon during a weekend walk.
One More Thing…
Let me introduce you to something special. Our Canada Hustle app is the perfect answer when you are looking to make your stay fun and easy. Finding the best outdoor restaurants with endless options for lunch, dinner, and brunch is just a few clicks away.
Available for both Android and iOS users, this one’s a lovely travel companion. Thrill-seeking? Food-hunting? View-chasing? Canada Hustle helps you explore and enjoy Canada your way.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Every Bite
Summer is only a few months long, so now’s the time to grab your sunglasses, pick a patio, and dig into all the flavours the season has to offer. Whether you’re brunching riverside, sipping cocktails on a rooftop, or enjoying a quiet courtyard dinner with someone special, outdoor dining lets you connect with your surroundings—and the people you’re with—in the most delicious way possible.
So go ahead. Book the table, order that second drink, and let the summer dining adventures begin.
