While Vancouver is well known for its rainy climate, come summer months the weather turns much more temperate. Many
restaurants in Vancouver have patios that open up for the summer season, a number with wonderful views of the mountains and ocean.
Here are the top 5 patios in Vancouver, based on online reviews and local awards.
The Boathouse Restaurant
1795 Beach Avenue
Vancouver
Voted the Best Patio in the Georgia Straight's Golden Plate Awards, the Boathouse patio has a heated deck and offers one of the best views of
English Bay. The Boathouse is a popular tourist spot, so expect a crowd long before sundown.
Bridges Seafood Restaurant
1696 Duranleau Street
Vancouver
The Bridges patio was recently named one of “6 Vancouver Restaurants with Great Views” by Tourism Vancouver. It's been sitting on False Creek for over 28 years, and provides a beautiful view of
downtown Vancouver. While Bridges serves up fresh seafood, it's not as highly rated for its food; words used to describe the restaurant include “overpriced” and “touristy”, so perhaps move on for the main course.
The Observatory at Grouse Mountain
6400 Nancy Greene Way
North Vancouver
The Observatory was named “most
romantic” and “most scenic view” on Open Table. Set amidst the greenery of Grouse Mountain, guests see Vancouver from 3,700 feet above. Bring a lot of bills if you want to eat there; the food is pricey. Instead, stop by for a cold beer after a hike or a handcrafted cocktail from the bar.
The Beach House at Dundarave Pier
150 - 25 Street
West Vancouver
Located in West Vancouver, the Beach House is a hot spot for both out-of-town guests and locals, who come for the stunning view of the Lions Gate Bridge,
Stanley Park, the Burrard Inlet, and
UBC. While past accounts have said the Beach House had “underwhelming food and service,” things seem to have improved in many people's eyes, and the Beach House is consistently called “the best patio in Vancouver” on Yelp, Urbanspoon and Open Table.
Lift Bar and Grill
333 Menchions Mews
Vancouver
Lift Bar and Grill is located in Coal Harbour, with clear views of Stanley Park and the North Shore mountains. The Vancouver Sun recently named it Best Patio, Best New View and Best Restaurant. The outdoor patio has fire pits for bigger groups and unlike many local patios, it has a hip vibe and attracts a young clientele.