From Roncesvalles and Parkdale to The Junction, Bloor West Village, and beyond, Toronto’s west end is full of neighbourhoods that consistently rank high as the city’s most fun.
However, a few west end neighbourhoods are starting to become more popular with the city’s in-crowd. Bloorcourt and Bloordale are just a couple of examples that come to mind.
In searching for lesser-known, less populated low-key hangout spots, these two adjoining neighbourhoods based along Bloor Street West have become a favourite for many west end residents, and it’s easy to see why.
Whether you’re already familiar with the area or want to explore the Bloorcourt and Bloordale “villages,” there’s no better way to spend a summer evening than on a trendy patio. Here are my top 5 patios in the area…
1. Northwood
Located at 815 Bloor Street West in Bloorcourt village’s east end, Northwood takes blends style elements from mid-century speakeasies and elegant European taverns like one of their expertly mixed, beautiful-to-look-at cocktails.
Whether they come in a coupe, highball, or rocks glass, essentially any cocktail that the ingenious bartenders and mixers at Northwood serve up is sure to be delicious. It’s no coincidence then that Northwood won the title Best Cocktail Bar In Toronto just recently according to Blog TO.
However, with an extensive list of premium wines and craft beer, it’s not just the cocktails that bring patrons through the door. Bordered by robust wooden fencing all the way around, Northwood’s sunny summer patio is the real deal.
So, If you’re looking for some creative cocktails, a stunning patio space, and a great summer evening, make sure to stop by Bloorcourt’s Northwood soon.
2. Paradise Grapevine
You’ll only need to head one block west to find the next Bloorcourt patio on my list: Paradise Grapevine. Located at 841 Bloor Street West, this trendy wine bar translates the same passion Northwood has for cocktails into their love for natural wine.
They love natural wine so much, they’ve also started their own small-production winery, too!
Whether you’re an amateur sommelier or a casual wine fan, one thing you can be sure of is you’ll be in for a great time at Paradise Grapvine’s self-proclaimed “paradisical” backyard patio this summer.
Complete with adorable string lights, rustic decor, and more-than-welcome ceiling fans, and (of course) delicious wines, Paradise Grapevine checks all the right boxes when it comes to summer patios. Stop by any day of the week between 1 p.m. and 2 a.m. to check it out for yourself.
Looking for a romantic night on the town? See how Bloorcourt stacks up against other west end neighbourhoods famous for their fantastic food scenes by reading my blog post “Date Night: Where To Spend It In 5 West End Neighbourhoods” here.
3. The Three Speed
A little further down the Bloor Street strip is The Three Speed, one of the west end’s most beloved draught beer bars and home to a Bloordale patio that seems to always serve up fun times on tap.
While I wish I could tell you what you could expect as far as The Three Speed’s selection of local Ontario craft beers, their constantly rotating taps ensure they keep things interesting for their loyal customers.
What I can guarantee is The Three Speed’s cozy backyard patio, which never fails to provide an engaging atmosphere whether you stop by during the day or at night. Styled with string lights, lots of plants, and some eclectic artwork, this bohemian-influenced backyard has been the setting of many thoroughly enjoyable Bloordale evenings in the summertime.
Make some memories of your own on The Three Speed’s patio space this summer to see why this place is so close to Bloordale’s heart.
4. Burdock Brewery
Quite literally across the street from The Three Speed is Burdock Brewery, yet another shining example of Bloordale’s thriving beer scene. Based at 1184 Bloor Street West, it’s got to be some kind of miracle how Burdock manages to do so much under one roof.
Alongside managing to produce some of the city’s most in-demand craft beers, it’s probably easier to start naming things that Burdock Brewery doesn’t additionally do to give you an idea of what to expect. Between baking bread, cooking food, serving snacks, hosting shows, and selling pantry staples, Burdock is much more than just a brewery.
One of the reasons I love Burdock Brewery, however, is their stellar side patio. One of the benefits of being located right on the corner of Bloor Street West and Pauline Avenue is that Burdock’s sturdy patio space has been able to expand east rather than towards the busy stretch of sidewalk on Bloor.
Complete with charming string lights (yes, this seems to be a theme on Bloorcourt and Bloordale patios), an elegant horizontal wooded frame, and lots of lush greenery, Burdock Brewery’s beautiful patio is waiting for you to enjoy all of their delicious offerings this summer.
Like the sound of both Bloorcourt and Bloordale? They’re next-door neighbourhoods, but both have their own unique differences. Find out more about what sets them apart here:
5. Blood Brothers Brewing
Just a quick walk a few streets north to Geary Avenue — a flourishing street of makers, vendors, artisans, and all-around inspiring business just one north of Dupont Street — is where you’ll find another one of Toronto’s most celebrated breweries, Blood Brothers Brewing.
While it’s a little further removed from the whole ‘Bloor Street’ idea of Bloorcourt (and, is actually closer to the Wallace Emerson area), Blood Brothers Brewing is still one of the hottest spots Bloorcourt locals love. And, to be honest, they probably need the extended square footage their cool repurposed warehouse affords them.
One of the added benefits of being situated in a stylishly updated warehouse is Blood Brothers’ garage door, which opens up directly onto their popular fenced-in patio space. While it’s nothing fancy (not much on Geary Avenue is supposed to be), it definitely has retained much of its original industrial-inspired charm.
And, as you might suspect, Blood Brothers Brewing brews some excellent beers. You’ll find everything from pales, ales, stouts, sours, lagers, and even seltzers, ciders, and wine at this west end institution. Add in a concise menu of quality eats from Momofuku Noodle Bar and you’ve got yourself a party.
Don’t wait too long for the rest of the west end to find out about how great Geary Avenue and Blood Brothers is, go hold down a table for you and some friends this weekend!
Can’t seem to make a reservation? Toronto’s gotten good at staying in, and with these 5 Places Offering Incredible Takeout In The West End, it’ll be even easier for you.
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