With summer nearly halfway over, it’s time to make the most of August’s sunny days and balmy nights. One of my favourite ways to enjoy this beautiful summer weather is to have a meal with friends or family on a patio. Throughout Durham region there are numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes that offer charming patios, allowing you to make the most of all that summer has to offer. Whether you are in the mood for afternoon tea, a patio that offers a scenic view, or after-work cocktails, Durham has a wide variety to offer. Here are my top picks for the best patios in Durham to enjoy a delicious meal and soak up the summer sun:
Avanti Trattoria
If you’re a fan of Italian food, then Avanti Trattoria is the patio for you. Located in downtown Oshawa, Avanti serves authentic Italian food, stone-fired pizza, and delicious espressos. If you don’t have time to relax on the patio, Avanti also offers a take-out option. You can’t beat Avanti’s delicious food and casual patio atmosphere on a sunny summer afternoon.
Garden Teahouse Restaurant
Located at the Parkwood Tea Room, the Garden Teahouse Restaurant features a charming and elegant patio, perfect for a luncheon or afternoon tea. Take in the beautiful grounds and gardens of Parkwood Estate, one of Canada’s last remaining great estates, as you enjoy your meal. Once home to R. Samuel McLaughlin, founder of General Motors Canada, the Parkwood exemplifies the architecture, design, and decoration of the 1020’s and 1930’s.
Wildfire Steakhouse and Wine Bar
For an upscale dining experience, try the patio at Wildfire Steakhouse and Wine Bar. Featuring delicious food and fine wine, it’s an ideal location for a romantic or celebratory dinner, or simply a girl’s night out. Known for their perfectly grilled steaks, they also offer a wide variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts with the perfect wine to accompany. For the past seven years, they have also won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for their superb wine collection.
Harp & Wylie’s Canadian Grill House Restaurant
Enjoy a unique and delicious meal while sitting on the beautiful open air patio overlooking Lake Scugog at Harp & Wylie’s Canadian Grill House Restaurant. The menu is locally inspired and reflects the changing seasons and culinary trends. Afterwards explore the historic and charming town of Port Perry, with its unique shops and picturesque downtown.
The Courtyard
If you are looking for a patio in Courtice, then The Courtyard is the place to go. A large patio and covered verandah allow you to take advantage of the outdoors while enjoying fine food, cocktails and live music every Friday and Saturday night. The patio faces west, allowing you to take in the beauty of a summer sunset as you enjoy their famous curry chicken.
Bobby C’s Dockside
Bobby C’s is the place to be if you’re in search of a restaurant and patio near the lake. A nautical themed steak and seafood restaurant, it has a large 150 seat patio overlooking the harbour and marina. They offer a large menu with extensive appetizers, gourmet pizza, numerous options for children and a happy hour menu. During patio season Bobby C’s offers live music every Friday and Saturday evening.
Tetra Kitchen & Vines
Situated in the inviting town of Bowmanville, Tetra Kitchen & Vines offers gourmet and fine dining to residents and visitors of the Durham region. The chefs source ingredients from local farmers and suppliers when possible to create their delicious and eclectic dishes. The patio at Tetra Kitchen & Vines is private and intimate, to enhance the dining experience.
The Old Newcastle House Taps & Grill
The Old Newcastle House is a local eatery and pub, featuring a lovely patio and over 170 years of history. It offers weekly menu specials and live music every Saturday night. The patio at The Old Newcastle House is the perfect place to take in the sights of Newcastle, enjoy a good meal and visit with old friends.
The Village Inn
If you are looking for small-town hospitality and a charming patio atmosphere, then look no further than the Village Inn. Located in quaint and historic downtown Bowmanville, The Village Inn is a genuine Irish pub that offers delicious home-cooked meals and friendly service. It’s the perfect patio to sit back, relax and enjoy a nice cold Guinness.
Berry Hill Food Co.
Berry Hill Food Co. is located on King St. in the heart of downtown Oshawa and specializes in serving delicious, affordable food. They offer an extensive menu of thoughtfully created dishes that you can enjoy on their charming outdoor patio. It’s the perfect place to relax with a croissant and a morning coffee, or try their delicious Berry Hill Signature Iced Cappuccino. They also have vegan options, and offer fresh juices, smoothies and handcrafted cocktails.
Stuttering John’s Smokehouse
Located off of Hwy 2 in Courtice, Stuttering John’s Smokehouse features a large patio and offers some of the best BBQ food in Durham. They also offer seasonal farm fresh specials and classic favourites such as burgers, poutine, smoked wings, ribs, and steak. If you don’t have time to visit their patio keep an eye out for their charcoal fired food truck throughout Durham.
Durham region offers a wide variety of scenic patios and excellent restaurants to taste and explore this summer season. Bon appetit!
