With summer officially here, chilling on the patio with friends and having a drink or two is just one of the many ways to relax during a beautiful Vancouver day. Further, one of the fringe benefits of patio season is the people watching, beautiful people everywhere in this city.
Here is Vancity Buzz’s guide to patio season in Vancouver.
1. The Boathouse (1795 Beach Avenue, map)
The Boathouse has been Vancouver’s top patio spots for a long time and for good reason. Located in the West End overlooking English Bay, grab a few drinks as you soak in the sun on their awesome deck. Beautiful view of English Bay, beautiful people strolling about outside, what’s not too love? Once you’re done your meal, head on over to the beach, it’s literally steps away.
2. Chill Winston (3 Alexander Street, Gastown, map)
Once a magnet for hipsters is slowly becoming a popular spot for all sorts of scenesters (after all most of like to think we march to the drum of our own beat but do we really?) The food is great, beer is always flowing and the waitstaff is some of the best in the city. Plus their patio is huge, just never mind the guy pushing the shopping cart, it’s Vancouver after all.
3. Havana (1212 Commercial Drive, map)
Our next pick takes us out of the downtown core and into the heart of East Vancouver. Havana is easily the best patio on The Drive and the long waits prove that. It’s great for people watching and perfect for those that don’t want to hop on transit and head downtown to get their drink on.
4. The Teahouse (7501 Stanley Park Dr, map)
Vancouver is full of scenic locales and Stanley Park is definitely one of them. Don’t be confused with the name, because this isn’t your grandma’s teahouse, this patio with a view serves up great cuisine amongst an amazing backdrop. A Perfect place for a date and afterwards why not check out one of Vancouver outdoor movie screenings or go for a walk along the sea wall.
5. Cardero’s (tie) (1583 Coal Harbour Quay, map)
Every single time I go to Cardero’s, I’m never disappointed, hence why so many speak so highly about this place. It’s just a 5 minute walk from the newly minted Jack Poole Plaza (Olympic Cauldron). For you wine lovers, it has a great wine selection and a view of the rich peoples yachts. What’s not to love. Sure it’s a bit more upscale, but hey once in a while you gotta treat yourself.
5. Crave on Main Street (tie) (3941 Main St. map)
Although it may be a small patio it is the best patio on Main Street. Don’t let the hipster crowd detract you from this great place. Great for brunch and well into the evening.
Honourary mentions that would have made the list if it was a top 10:
The Kingston 755 Richards Street
Bridges 1696 Duranleau Street
The Mill 199 West Cordova
Burrard Bridge Marine Pub and Grill 1012 Beach Ave
Backstage Lounge1585 Johnston Street
There you have it, now all we need is for summer to arrive…
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