We love our patios in Vancouver, so much so that as soon as the sun comes out we are guaranteed to make a bee-line for one of these sought-after outdoor spaces. While it’s fun to share these little pockets of the world with hordes of others, sometimes it’s nice to find a more secluded, less crowded nook to enjoy a cold beverage and some good grub.
With a collection of tucked away, enclosed and elevated patios in the city, we’ve complied a handy list of the best hidden patios in Vancouver to check out when the sun is shining bright.
Reflections Louge
With no tell-tale signs to remind you you’re in Vancouver (no mountain or ocean view), it’s easy to forget exactly where you are when you step foot onto this beautifully laid-out, hidden patio at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Reminiscent of outdoor spaces found in Los Angeles, New York and Miami, Reflections Lounge, surrounded by soaring buildings, is the ideal urban oasis. With its own private elevator to the 4th floor, it can be tough for some to find on their first visit, so simply ask the hotel staff to point you in the right direction.
Address: 4th Floor, Rosewood Hotel Georgia, 801 Georgia Street
Phone: 604-682-5566
Website: www.rosewoodhotels.com
Kitchen on Main
Tucked out the back of the restaurant, Kitchen On Main St.’s patio is an inviting, sunlit space. Surrounded by green foliage and decked out with a handful of tables, chairs and sun umbrellas, this laid back spot is a fantastic foodie destination to take full advantage of on Vancouver’s warm weather days.
Address: 3941 Main Street, Riley Park
Phone: 604-670-7723
Website: www.kitchenonmainst.com
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Minami Yaletown
Small, intimate, awning-covered, heated and surrounded by a beautiful lush garden, the patio at Minami is a delightful outdoor space to sit out on and enjoy the delicious offerings served at this popular Yaletown sushi restaurant. Creative and packed with flavour, Minami’s sushi is sure to leave patrons feeling truly satisfied. Minami, also boasts a solid cocktail list, as well as a range of Japanese beers on tap. The patio is open for late night bites, business lunches, small parties, brunch or a night out with your special someone.
Address: 1118 Mainland Street
Phone: 604-685-8080
Website: www.minamirestaurants.com
Tacofino Gastown
The back alley patio at Taco Bar, the sit down restaurant at the Tacofino Gastown, which opened earlier this year, is a wonderful, sunny spot to take in the Gastown vibe as well as sample an array of Tacofino’s popular Mexican inspired fare. Located on one of the quieter back streets of Gastown, under strung up bare bulbs, the 16-seat patio, created by local designer Shiloh Sukkau is super cool and casual. Built with a two-way entrance, you can enter from either West Cordova Street, where the restaurant’s walk-up window Burrito Bar lays claim, or through Blood Alley Square.
Address: 15 West Cordova Street (Enter through Blood Alley Square)
Phone: 604-899-7907
Website: www.tacofino.com/gastown
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Kingston Taphouse & Grille
You wouldn’t necessarily know it from the street, but the independently owned and operated, Kingston Taphouse and Grille boasts a fantastic inner courtyard that seats around 30 people. Sandwiched between two large TELUS projects on Richards Street, the Kingston’s palm tree laden patio is an urban oasis in every sense of the word.
Address: 755 Richards Street
Phone: 604-681-7011
Website: www.kingstontaphouse.com
The Naam
The Naam Restaurant in Kits is known for their vegetarian-friendly fare. However, in addition to their sought after vegetarian, soy-free, gluten-free and sugar-free offerings, The Naam also possesses a patio that is quietly hidden away from street and traffic noise. Uniquely The Naam is open 24 hours, seven days a week.
Address: 2724 W 4th Ave, Kitsilano
Phone: 604-738-7151
Website: www.thenaam.com
The Rooftop Cantina
Recently opened on the corner of Granville and Smithe, The Rooftop Cantina, located above The Roadhouse Country Bar, offers one of the largest rooftop patios in the city. Not only that, it also charges some of the most reasonable prices for food and drinks. Happy hour dishes start at $3 (from 3 to 6 p.m.), drinks go for an average of $4 to $5, and meals start at just $7. Kitschy in appearance with lawn furniture, astro-turf, strung up lights, and pallet benches and tables, The Rooftop Cantina boasts a fun and boisterous atmosphere.
Address: 670 Smithe Street
Phone: 604-862-0409
Twitter: @Roadhousevan
UPDATE 06/15/16: The Rooftop Cantina is now closed.
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Adesso Bistro
Nestled among the trees in a residential neighbourhood on Haro Street, about a block and a half past Denman, Adesso Bistro offers patrons a secluded al fresco dining experience. Tucked out of the way, it’s no wonder that people are surprised when they stumble upon this great find. With beautiful hanging flowers and a surrounding garden, the bistro’s patio is the perfect place to perch oneself on a summers eve. The restaurant takes a modern approach on traditional Italian food from the Ligurian region, which includes fresh fish and seafood. Reservations for the patio are required.
Address: 1906 Haro Street
Phone: 604-568-9975 (Reservations required for patio seating)
Website: www.adessobistro.net
Left Bank
Located on Denman near Robson, Left Bank’s laneway patio is a hidden neighbourhood gem. With 35 seats Left Bank’s awning-covered patio has become a popular place to grab a table and savour an alfresco French-inspired meal during Vancouver’s warmer months. Not only is Left Bank’s patio comfortable and inviting, but also the meals served are decidedly and deliciously French.
Address: 751 Denman Street
Phone: 604-687-1418
Website: www.leftbankvancouver.com
The LIFT Bar Grill
The LIFT Bar Grill’s open patio may not be hidden as such, but it is off the beaten track, far from Coal Harbour’s main drag that is. Situated on the waters of Vancouver Harbour, near Stanley Park, The LIFT Bar Grill offers its patrons stunning costal vistas as well as a seafood focused menu and a range of well-crafted drinks.
Address: 333 Menchions Mews
Phone: 604-689-5438
Website: www.liftbarandgrill.com