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Best Winterized Patios in Yorkville Right Now

October 19, 2020

*By: Deepi Harish*

Just because we’re beginning to transition into cozy sweater weather that doesn’t mean we have to give up our patio hangs just yet. In fact, the City of Toronto has extended patio season till mid-November, allowing portable heaters on all outdoor decks, terraces and porches. In addition, the mayor has asked city staff to explore winter/year-round outdoor dining options. With the initial success of the CafeTO program and the recent ban on indoor dining, alfresco dining will be stretched out a bit longer. If you’re searching for a heated patio, we’ve rounded up our favourites in Toronto’s affluent Yorkville neighbourhood.

Best Winterized Patios in Yorkville Right Now

Hemingway’s (142 Cumberland St.)

Famous for its boisterous multi-level rooftop patio, Hemingway’s has been an iconic Toronto spot for 40 years. It offers a casual break from the all the glitz and glamour that makes Yorkville one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in Toronto. I’m a regular here. I like that the atmosphere is homey, the dress code is casual, the patio is warm and that the crowd is always lively, despite the capacity being cut in half due to social distancing. 

Amal Toronto (131 Bloor Street W.)

The decor, lighting, music and ambiance are all spot on at Amal. They nailed the “laid-back luxury” vibe with its lounge couches, fluffy pillows and clean colour scheme that makes you dream of the Mediterranean. That ambience extends into the patio while heated lamps keep the space warm. 

Photo c/o Amal Toronto

Dimmi Bar & Trattoria (140 Cumberland St.)

This Italian spot prepares simple food paired with a solid wine list. However, the best part about Dimmi’s is their sidewalk patio, tucked along a European-style alleyway, which doubles as a pedestrian walkway. Flame patio heaters are used as a divider between alfresco diners. Who doesn’t love eating next to a cozy fire?

ONE Restaurant (116 Yorkville Ave.)

ONE Restaurant is a place to come when you’re either in the mood to have a proper dining experience or to have some apps and cocktails, either way their outdoor dining space is the ideal spot for people watching, given its prime Yorkville location. Both the terrace and the wraparound, tree-lined patio lets you soak in Yorkville’s street life while keeping you warm. 

Winterized Patios in Yorkville
Photo c/o Hazelton Hotel.

The Pilot (22 Cumberland St.)

Given that The Pilot has been a staple in Yorkville since 1944 makes it one of Toronto’s oldest bars. Everyone comes here for the rooftop patio, better known as The Flight Deck. Their year-round, enclosed heated rooftop patio is a great option for when you’re craving classic pub food and craft beer in a chill, unpretentious setting. And their scotch selection isn’t bad either.

Kasa Moto (115 Yorkville Ave.)

Kasa Moto offers a sprawling rooftop terrace with a chic minimalist design. Their patio will be heated throughout the fall but will close for winter, even if the city plans to extend patio season. Now is your chance to try their extensive menu options, from Japanese tapas to noodles to so much seafood while eating on their terrace that some say is the best patio in Yorkville. 

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Cibo (133 Yorkville Ave.)

This southern Italian spot blends rustic and modern industrial chic when it comes to design. They did a great job with their side patio in terms of social distancing without making it feel as such. Both the side patio and the front patio at Cibo are equipped with heaters and views of the restaurant’s interior and bustling Yorkville.

Trattoria Nervosa (75 Yorkville Ave.) 

I still called this restaurant by its original name Cafe Nervosa, which was later renamed to Trattoria Nervosa. This little yellow house has been sitting at the corner of Yorkville and Bellair for over twenty years and does not go unnoticed. Café Nervosa has a street-level and second-level patio, both are heated and offer prime views of the Yorkville action. The upstairs patio has a more intimate feel with its soft glowing lanterns, perfect for cozy conversations. 

2 Comments

  • Reply
    Mona
    October 27, 2020 at 10:30 pm

    Great read for someone who is still seeking a night out during COVID while staying protected! Thank you, & keep on writing!

    • Reply
      Solmaz
      October 28, 2020 at 8:05 am

      Thanks Mona! Hope you’re able to enjoy some this cozy season.

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