Summer brings peak patio going season and the perfect time to make a plan to hang out with friends and family on one of our many local patios. The culinary scene in Waterloo Region is as varied and diverse as its residents and sometimes it can be hard to pick a favourite or figure out where to try next.
My partner and I love trying new restaurants and different cuisines, so over the years we’ve definitely tried our fair share of places. A lot goes into to a great dining experience on the patio, everything from the food and drinks, to the staff, and the general ambience. With all that in mind, I’ve done my best to narrow down some of my favourites—In no particular order.
1. One of my favourite tucked away gems is Loloan Lobby Bar. Located at the corner Princess and Dorset in Uptown Waterloo, Loloan offers luxury Southeast Asian cuisine on a beautifully lit patio. The menu changes often and you can’t go wrong with anything you order, everything
I’ve ever eaten there has been mouthwateringly good. Head chef and pâtissier Sean Rae Pambid’s plating skills give Instagram worthy shots every time, and his desserts always straddle the line between art and food. If you happen to be at the Night Market at Waterloo’s Main Library Branch on a Thursday, head to Loloan’s patio for a BBQ after 9 p.m.—you can get a meal and a drink for under $20 and its always delicious.
2. Another favourite of mine is Grand Surf Lounge. Located in downtown Kitchener on Ontario Street, across from the old Grand River Transit bus terminal is another unique jewel.
This cozy bar is a favourite of mine in all seasons, but there’s just something special about drinking their cocktails on the patio. The drinks are no joke, and you don’t even taste the alcohol—a dangerous combination.
Every time I come here, I always end up ordering at least two dishes off the menu and maybe a third round too, because my partner and I always have a hard time picking just one thing on the menu. Just thinking about the coconut shrimp tacos or the pork belly bao buns makes my mouth water immediately.
3. A recent addition to the downtown Kitchener scene is La Lola—offering authentic Spanish tapas and homemade sangría at 26 Benton. The weekly/daily offerings are constantly updated on their chalkboard and it is the perfect place to go with friends to share a variety of small bites.
I’m a big fan of charcuterie and they never disappoint with their cheese and meat selection. If you’re craving a bigger meal—head out to La Lola on a Saturday, their paella rotates each week and is only available on location.
4. For those craving a cozy tucked away patio—I definitely have a couple of options for you too. Taste of Seoul’s main location at 154 Victoria St. S. offers delicious Korean and Japanese fusion food.
Jin Hwa Chye’s menu features halal, vegetarian and gluten-free options making it a superb spot to go where there’s something for everyone. As a bonus, its located next to Retail Therapy KW Thrift which I think would make a cute date – who doesn’t want to go thrifting and enjoy delicious food afterwards?
5. When my friend and I went for dinner at Champa Kitchen, neither of us expected them to have a secret patio at the back of the restaurant but it was a pleasant surprise. To get to this charming area you have to go around the restaurant and straight down the back alleys of the restaurants on the King Street block of Uptown.
With Edison bulbs and fairy lights surrounding you as you sit and enjoy a meal, it has a very cozy vibe. Their blend of Thai, Vietnamese and Laotian cuisines is a fresh palate cleanser after a day of walking around Waterloo Park.
6. Another cozy patio belongs to Babylon Sisters Wine Bar. You wouldn’t see it from the front side of the business which runs along the busy King St. in Uptown Waterloo, but that’s part of the charm of this patio.
This location offers a comfortable atmosphere for catching up with friends curled up on some of their outdoor patio furniture. They also offer wines from around the world, including many from female winemakers. That plus their delicious non alcoholic cocktail options and their many shareable apps make this a perfect spot.
7. For a patio with entertainment look no further that TWB Cooperative Brewing. Located on 300 Mill St in Kitchener, this brewery offers craft beer with a community focus.
Each month, TWB supports a different community outreach program—for example July’s partner is the 519 Community Collective. On top of that TWB has been home to many events—supporting Pinch Cabaret, the local drag scene, as well as many local musicians. Many of their events are also accessible to low income residents as they offer PWYC ticket options.
Bonus:
Technically, Eby Street Bodega does not have a patio open all summer, which is why I’m adding this as a bonus. If you’re lucky enough to snag tickets for one of their supper clubs through their Instagram you’re in for a treat. Every so often in the summer they host themed multi course meals outside their location across from the Kitchener Market. If you’re not lucky enough to catch a supper club, I would recommend going in to pickup a daily special hoagie and maybe even a couple groceries while you’re at it.
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