Hamilton’s patio season is here, and although the summer may be marked by social distancing measures and strict health guidelines, there are ample opportunities to enjoy the city’s outdoor dining scene. Whether it’s a relaxed lunch with family, after-work apps with co-workers, or a night out with friends, Hamilton has lots of options from upscale to laid back and easy breezy.
Ahead, we’re spotlighting some local patios that are ready to entertain. Remember to check ahead for availability and help keep the season safe by observing COVID-19 guidelines.
King William Outdoor Dining District
King William Street, between James Street North and Hughson Street
Hamilton’s popular “Restaurant Row” is lined with some of the city’s most iconic buildings and home to some of the city’s favourite restaurants. The district has gotten a big makeover thanks to Hamilton’s new Outdoor Dining Districts. This season, the cobblestoned downtown street is closed to traffic between James Street North and Hughson Street to accommodate additional physical distanced outdoor seating.
Nearby: Around ten neighbouring restaurants will be serving patrons outside, including Berkeley North, Earth to Table: Bread Bar, Uncle Ray’s Food & Liquor, Perogie Bar, Relay Coffee Roasters, The French and The Mule.
Gown and Gavel (Hess Village)
Hamilton’s largest single patio is situated between two adjoining Victorian-style homes in the heart of Hess Village. An ideal setting for summer hangs and delicious meals, Hess Village’s menu is packed with daily specials including $20 Sangria pitchers and half-price burgers, which are locally-sourced from Jepson’s Meats in the Hamilton Farmers’ Markets.
Nearby: People watching is at its best in Hess Village. Check out other patios nearby like the new, 80s- inspired Electric Diner or the laid-back Lou Dawgs for more food and drink options.
Quarterfoil Restaurant (Dundas)
Let the peaceful patio of Quatrefoil be the backdrop to your elegant dining experience in the heart of historic downtown Dundas. This nationally acclaimed restaurant boasts a patio set in the garden of a beautifully resorted heritage home. Time your visit right and you can see the tulips or hydrangeas as you indulge in fine dining made with local ingredients. Also try one of their prix fixe or tasting menus throughout the week.
Nearby: Dundas has plenty of other patios to suit your mood, including Bangkok Spoon, Thirsty Cactus, Detour Coffee Roasters, and the Collins Brewhouse, all offering something unique.
Mattson & CO. (Locke Street)
Overlooking Locke Street, Mattson & Co’s patio comes equipped with umbrellas for sunny days and outdoor heaters for cooler nights. With a casual fine dining feel, guests can enjoy an exclusively VQA wine list and an extensive selection of martinis and cocktails. Visitors are also encouraged to check out Mattson & CO.’s newly launched 2020 patio menu, which includes fresh plates and lots of vegan options.
Nearby: Other notable Locke Street patios include Quarterfoil’s sister restaurant, Brux House, which is known for killer cocktails and global beers. Also check out the pop-up patio at The Burnt Tongue.
The French (King William Street)
Step onto the patio of The French and you’ll feel as though you’re dining in a chic, European eatery with boutique-style table and chairs, a French-inspired awning, and rejuvenating greenery. In addition to offering views of the beautifully restored King William Street, guests will enjoy The French’s inspired summer food and cocktail menu.
Nearby: Patios at Berkeley North, Hambrgr, and the Diplomat offer nearby spots for al fresco dining alongside other area restaurants participating in the new Outdoor Dining District along King William Street.
Anchor Bar (Jackson Square)
The creators of the original Buffalo chicken wings recently opened their first Canadian location at this rooftop patio. And while all of Anchor Bar’s wing recipes are delicious, you may not want to order their famous “abandon ship” sauce in the scorching heat (or ever, unless you enjoy a good burn). Whatever your flavour, Anchor Bar has plenty of beer on tap to wash it down. Visit for a post-work drink or live music on most weekends, and secure your spot at one of the tables overlooking downtown.
Nearby: Anchor Bar is located on King Street, attached to Jackson Square mall. It’s a few steps to Hess Village in one direction, and the shops and restaurants of James Street North in the other.
Radius (Augusta Street)
With its comfy couches, tranquil waterfall, and outdoor bar, Radius’ multi-level patio is renowned for its upscale lounge feel. Whether you’re visiting for a weekday BBQ lunch, weekend brunch, or late-night snack, this is one patio you’ll have a hard time leaving.
Nearby: Radius is located at the corner of James Street and August Street. As you walk the pub-lined street of Augusta, you’ll find many front-facing patios with a more casual vibe.
Coach and Lantern (Ancaster)
This British pub is the spot to be in Ancaster. It features a packed entertainment schedule filled with open mics, trivia, live music – all in a stylish patio setting. The beautiful courtyard looks like an enchanted European hideaway and is the ideal spot for easy conversation.
Nearby: Leave room for dessert! Nearby is Ancaster’s ice cream shop, The Purple Pony.
Barangas on the Beach (Van Wagners Beach, Stoney Creek)
Take in a romantic Mediterranean dinner with a view of one of Ontario’s largest waterfront patios, just steps from Van Wagners Beach. String lights, beautiful scenery, sangria and a bustling patio? Yes, please.
Nearby: Take a stroll on the boardwalk to Hutch’s on the Beach diner (a Hamilton landmark) for an ice cream; watch a game of volleyball from the boardwalk; or visit Adventure Village for some mini-putt and batting cages.
For up to date local patio openings, check out Hamilton food bloggers Taste HamOnt and The Joyce of Cooking.
