Cottage life in the city: Toronto Waterfront launches new patio program

TORONTO, ON., July 24, 2020 — Toronto waterfront patio guide — The Toronto Waterfront Business Improvement Area (BIA) has partnered with local restaurants and businesses to create a safe and fun space to enjoy time with friends and family while maintaining social distancing. The BIA covers the area running along the waterfront from Bathurst to Yonge Street.

Many restaurants and bars along the waterfront suffered a severe drop in business when COVID-19 restrictions were implemented preventing dine-in options. Many restaurants switched to take-out but were still unable to recover financial losses. Cottage In The City allows restaurants to create patio spaces along the waterfront so guests can enjoy dining out again.

“We are delighted that the Waterfront is open for business and our patios are increasingly popular, offering guests a scenic experience that makes you forget you’re in the heart of the city,” says Tim Kocur, Executive Director of the Waterfront BIA. “Of course, our member businesses are following strict public health guidelines and we encourage guests to enjoy these spaces while complying with social distancing and other safety measures, including masks in all indoor spaces.”

A number of local favourites have joined the list of restaurants participating in the program including:

The Slip (235 Queens Quay West):

The Slip is a huge seasonal patio in the theatre space of Harbourfront Centre.

Harbour 60 (60 Harbour Street):

This premier steakhouse now has a patio, although not on the actual waterfront (it’s in their parking lot), it is a stunning urban oasis that is not to be missed!

Impact Kitchen (573 King St. East):

An East-end favourite, Impact Kitchen is opening a new location with 50-seat patio that is pet-friendly.

Other Waterfront patios worth a visit, include:

Amsterdam BrewHouse (245 Queens Quay West):

Enjoy spectacular harbour views from this lakeside brewery, restaurant & retail space that pairs craft beer with tasty local comfort food favourites.

The Goodman Pub & Kitchen (207 Queens Quay West):

A hip pub with a tap wall, The Goodman feaures daily specials & weekend brunch, plus games, outdoor seating and spectacular water views. It’s just like being at the cottage, well sort of.

Boxcar Social (235 Queens Quay West):

A third location for this popular restaurant has been built in partnership with Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre. Once again, sit outside and watch the boats go by.

Joe Bird (207 Queens Quay West #150):

A casual lakeside eatery, Joe Bird is famous for serving saucy, smoked & deep-fried chicken, plus drinks and to-go breakfasts.

Miku (10 Bay Street #105):

A much-loved Japanese restaurant, Miku originated in Vancouver and now happily calls Toronto’s waterfront home.

Radisson Pool Patio (249 Queens Quay West):

Soak up the sun in lounge chairs or find shade in the cabanas while you enjoy mesmerizing views of the city and lake from the Radisson Pool Patio..

Against the Grain (25 Dockside Drive):

An eclectic fare plus a rotating selection of draft brews, Against the Grain is a casual waterfront space with harbour views.

Waterfront BIA marketing director, Katherine Hebb says the project is working to take advantage of off-peak hours to encourage residents who may be worried about maintaining social distancing. She noted the busiest hours along the waterfront are between 11am and 6pm. Restaurants will be staying open before and after these hours to help ensure there is lots of space between guests.

“Restaurants are encouraging reservations and Toronto Public Health guidelines are in place,” said Hebb adding restaurants are using these challenging times to pivot their business models in order to recover financially.

She noted heading to the waterfront and enjoying the businesses is not just good for the economy, but for mental health too. She said visitors will enjoy a beach side/cottage setting experience.

“You can look out over the water and capture a few moments,” she said.

For more information about the program visit www.waterfrontbia.com

story by Sarah McGoldrick