Wondering where some of Edmonton’s finest patios are for sipping a cold beverage in the summer?
Recently I was a guest on CBC’s Edmonton AM discussing that very topic. I chatted with host Mark Connolly about a few of my favourites, but of course in a mere 6 minutes we can’t cover all the great patios I would like to, so I’ve compiled a more complete list here.
The audio from the interview is posted below as well, and I’d love to hear your favourites!
The Hotel MacDonald– Plenty of seating, a beautiful view of the river valley, landscaped grounds you can wander through, and starting in June, the chefs start grilling on the patio.
10056 100 st
The Manor Casual Bistro– Surrounded by beautiful trees hanging over the patio, this spot is possibly the most underrated gem of the bunch. You can easily forget you’re in the heart of the city on this patio.
10109 125 st
Little Brick– This coffee shop is situated in the residential neighbourhood of Riverdale, and is a stones through from the river valley trail system (if you’ve got a good arm). It’s a favourite of trail users, as it’s essentially a large back yard that’s friendly to families and pets. Wether you’re drinking coffee or something a little stronger, this patio is a winner.
10004 90 st
Biera– This is the best restaurant with a patio in Edmonton. The retractable awning makes it enjoyable even when the weather is a bit iffy, and the combination of outstanding eats and delicious craft beers from the in-house brewery, Blind Enthusiasm, is tough to beat.
9570 76 ave
Cafe Bicyclette– The U of A French campus has a sunken patio that operates year round. It gets plenty of sun, and is a bit sheltered from wind which is nice.
8627 91 st
Next Act Pub– Home to Edmonton’s best people watching and an outstanding list of interesting craft beers. Some of the finest pub food in Edmonton as well. It’s a tiny patio though, so you’ve got to be lucky to nab a table.
8224 104 st
Bodega– The Highlands location has a yard patio in the back, through the restaurant. Not everyone knows it’s there, but you’ll be happy when you find it.
Highlands – 6509 112 ave
The 124st location also has an almost hidden patio as well, which feels quite secluded. Both locations can hook you up with tasty food and drinks to augment your patio experience.
12417 Stony Plain rd
Central Social Hall– I forgot to mention this one on the radio, but the multi-tiered patio right on Jasper avenue is quite visually stunning, and perfect for a boozy brunch on a sunny weekend.
10909 Jasper ave
The Marc– This patio is on a tree-lined street in a quieter area of the downtown, and is a favourite of many in Edmonton. Somehow classic French dishes and drinks always taste ever better outside.
9940 106 st
Beer Revolution– This L shaped patio doesn’t have the greatest views, but the great mix of sun and shade, tasty craft beers, and surprisingly good pub food (pizza spring rolls and pizza please) more than make up for it.
11736 104 ave
Craft– Who doesn’t love a good rooftop patio? Edmonton needs more of them, but this one is a good start.
10013 101A ave
https://www.instagram.com/p/BTox_Q8gLHZ/
Black Dog on Whyte– A cold pint on the spacious Wooftop at the Black Dog should be a stamp on your Edmonton passport. Sunny Saturday afternoons don’t get much better than this.
10425 82 ave
Sherlock Holmes– One of the top people watching patios in town, and though the beer selections are a bit basic, the atmosphere of the pub is outstanding.
10012 101A ave
Vi’s for Pies– Yet another hidden gem that doesn’t get the recognition it probably deserves. Sit out back among the vegetation and enjoy a drink and a slice of homemade pie.
13408 Stony Plain rd
There’s an app for YEG patios…PatioBuzzYEG.
Yes, I have seen that too. It’s a great resource for when you’re looking for a patio near where you are for sure!