Life’s too short to settle for lackluster views during happy hour, especially in a city by the ocean. With the best weather of the year on the horizon, now’s the time to begin crafting your Vancouver patio-hopping bucket list. There’s no shortage of beautiful spaces to enjoy a cocktail al fresco in this city, so we’ve rounded up our favourite patios to spend a sunny day. Visit one or see them all, just make sure to wear your sunscreen.
The Lobby Lounge and RawBar / Fairmont Pacific Rim
Open year-round, morning to late night, The Lobby Lounge and RawBar comes alive in the summer when the patio doors are opened. Relax with a drink (or two) while enjoying the live music seven days a week. Indulge in the new Omakase Long Table sushi experience for a one-of-a-kind group dining experience, but be prepared to lose track of time people-watching.
Botanist Terrace / Fairmont Pacific Rim
Hidden at the top of the exterior staircase, the Terrace at Botanist is Vancouver’s urban secret garden. Just as lush and green as the interior of the restaurant, the Terrace features couches and chairs perfect for catching up with friends with small bites and refreshing drinks. Don’t miss the experiential cocktails, crafted beside the bar in the Cocktail Lab, they’re exactly what your Instagram feed needs this summer.
LIFT Bar and Grill / 333 Menchion Mews
Located right near the edge of Stanley Park, LIFT’s two-level patio offers prime views of Vancouver harbour. Their fire pits and British Colombia-focused wine list are the perfect pairing for a peaceful evening spent watching the sailboats pass by.
Cardero’s / 1583 Coal Harbour Quay
Upscale but casual, Cardero’s nautical-inspired patio features outdoor fireplaces and high-top tables. Right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the harbour and open year-round, Cardero’s is best enjoyed on a sunny afternoon with a dish from their wood-fired oven.
The Roof (Black + Blue) / 1032 Alberni Street
The third floor of Black + Blue steakhouse, The Roof is an outdoor lounge perfect for a weekend night out downtown. It features a lighter menu than Black + Blue, with an emphasis on sharing plates while still staying true to the meat dishes the steakhouse is known for.
Joe Fortes Seafood and Chop House / 777 Thurlow Street
Named after Vancouver’s first official lifeguard, Joe Fortes is home to tiered seafood towers and fresh oysters. Sit at their rooftop bar for an afternoon drink in the sun or visit after 9:00pm to enjoy their late-night pie and cocktail menu.
Chambar / 568 Beatty Street
Chambar’s intimate patio is perfect for weekend brunch dates. The Gastown restaurant is famous for their Liege-style waffles and their inventive toppings. Bacon caramel? Count us in. Their extensive breakfast menu also offers savoury options for those without a sweet tooth.
Provence Marinaside / 1177 Marinaside Crescent
Provence Marinaside is the place to go when you’re craving a taste of France. Located on the False Creek seawall in Yaletown, the fresh ocean breeze is the perfect pairing to their seafood-focused, French-inspired menu.
Ancora / 1600 Howe Street #2
On the sea wall between the Burrard and Granville bridges, Ancora’s patio is best enjoyed during their Sunday brunch, or take advantage of their Spanish-influenced menu and head to Yaletown for a glass of port after dinner.
Robba da Matti / 1906 Haro Street
Be on the lookout for this hidden gem – because it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. Focusing on authetic Italian cusine and set in the middle of a residential area in the West End, Robba da Matti courtyard patio is the secluded date night spot you’ve been looking for.
