The mob has spoken. When do we want patio season in Toronto? Yesterday! Our summer is finally, slowly emerging from hibernation, so we need to make the most of every moment. That means hitting up as many patios as possible, no matter what. Rain? Pfft. With a variety of picture-perfect patios offering an extensive array of eats, The Well is your one-and-done patio escape, an oasis in the city.
The Well is Your Destination for Patio Season in Toronto
National boasts tasty bar food, and the DJ and nightlife to go with it
From Morning to Night- The Well has a Patio for You and Your Pals
Entirely dog-friendly, each establishment welcomes you and your furry friends. Enjoy a day of shopping, people-watching and of course, eating, all with your doggo in tow. From morning to night, there’s a table ready for you.
Benny’s come dressed to thrill, with meaty offerings like this take on Steak + Eggs
Start your day off at Montreal’s buzzy L’Avenue. Known for sumptuous brunches, L’Avenue goes so far as to source its own maple syrup. Other menu items, like seven variations of Eggs Benedict, make this a breakfast no-brainer. Appetizers are easy to share, like Shrimp Delight (below) or Burrata Salad. Find them on the ground floor. No reservations on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. Happy hour menu starts at 5 pm.
L’Avenue is more than just breakfast and brunch bites
Other quick coffee options include Fix Coffee Bikes, and my fave, De Mello.
Nearby L’Avenue, you’ll find La Plume, a French Brasserie by Oliver & Bonacini. Old World Wines, clever cocktails and refreshing spritzes can quench any thirst. A floral street-side terrace patio offers a prime viewing vantage point. Food is French and fresh, with oysters and a dedicated tartare bar. We say oui to these offerings, on repeat.
Bring your Bestie to these Beautiful Toronto Patios
A featured menu of tartares? From mushroom to meaty, tartare is the star at La Plume
Next up, we suggest tucking into National. This hip haven boasts DJ sets, bowling and an arcade. Enjoy easy bar bites like the mega-sized Pizza (top), Beef Sliders or Spicy Dumplings. Punchy cocktails and draught beer make it an easy place to meet up with pals. The spacious patio flanks Front Street. File this one under something-for-everyone!
Dumplings and Sliders are easy to share on National’s sunny street-side patio
Cap it off with a tour of Aera Restaurant, at the tippity-top (book now for Summerlicious!). This deluxe restaurant boasts the best views in Toronto. Full stop. From almost a 360° you can scan the skies from the island airport to uptown, all from the comfortable surroundings of Aera’s 38th floor patio. The menu is, of course, refined and elegant with the typical O&B flourishes. Daily Happy Hour is not to be missed. From 4pm-6pm daily, $15 signature cocktails, $9 Sapporo on draught, $12 select wines, and $15 martinis.
Aera Restaurant brings sushi and steakhouse classics to new heights
More Picture-Perfect Patios to Explore in The Well
For every budget, diet and taste, there’s a patio perfect for you. Some of our other faves include The Dorset, Mandy’s, and Prince Street Pizza. A smattering of awesome eateries also awaits in the sprawling food court. No cottage? No problem. The Well is your easy instant escape, just in time for summer.
Look for more special event coverage on The Well and its food scene, coming soon.
The Well is located at 486 Front Street West. Follow The Well @thewell_to
All images by Libby Roach.