Look Local is celebrating the arrival of warmer weather with a round-up of some of our favourite patios in the area. After a long winter and an unusually cold spring, we know everyone is ready to indulge with a latte in a sunny spot in the morning, enjoy an icy gelato or ice cream in the heat of the midday sun, or relax with friends over a delicious meal “al fresco” at night. With our climate, there is just something extra special about being outdoors.

If you are excited about patio season, there is an almost endless assortment of restaurants, bars and coffee shops ready to welcome you. In the following pages, you will find information about some of our favourites.

This year, we will also be showcasing some of our local restaurants with patios on our Facebook and Instagram channels. Look out for our weekly “See You On The Patio” reels every week from now to the end of the summer!

Bon appetit!

The Keg, Waterdown

The Keg has been Canada’s premier steakhouse for over 50 years. Renowned for its perfectly grilled steaks, welcoming atmosphere and exceptional hospitality. The Waterdown Keg has a cozy patio with a large outdoor fireplace nestled under a canopy of red umbrellas. With fresh steaks, tender seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and an eclectic wine list, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. See you tonight! Reserve now at thekeg.com.

36 HORSESHOE CRESCENT, WATERDOWN
905.690.1709 | THEKEG.COM

Verace Italian Restaurant, Oakville

Verace Italian Restaurant is where the essence of Italy’s culinary heritage comes to life in every dish. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Oakville, the restaurant is more than a place to dine; it’s a celebration of authentic Italian flavours, crafted with passion and tradition. Their wood-burning pizza oven is imported from Naples! Verace has a peaceful and comfortable patio fronting onto Reynolds Street where you can enjoy your meal al fresco.

312 LAKESHORE RD EAST, OAKVILLE
905.337.0080 | VERACEPIZZA.CA

Squires Gastro Pub, Burlington

A local gem in the heart of Burlington, Squires Gastro Pub offers a perfect blend of British charm and modern gastropub flair. Squires has been bringing people together over great food, craft cocktails, and a wide selection of beers on tap. Known for its lively vibe, friendly service, and a menu that spans pub classics to bold global-inspired dishes, it’s a go-to spot for any occasion. What truly sets Squires apart is its spacious seasonal patio—a vibrant outdoor haven
where guests can unwind with friends, enjoy live music, and sip signature drinks under the stars. Whether you’re here for brunch, dinner, or a night out, the experience at Squires is always memorable.

3537 FAIRVIEW ST, BURLINGTON
905.333.6627 | SQUIRES.PUB

400 Brant, Burlington

400 Brant resides in a beautifully renovated historic building in the heart of Downtown Burlington. Originally built in 1860, it is a true landmark on Brant Street. Locally owned and operated, the restaurant serves flavourful shareables and crowd favourites like the 400 Burger. The restaurant also features two stunning private dining and event spaces. But in the summer months, you need to head out to the large beautifully decorated patio to enjoy a pint, share great food, and catch live music under the stars.

400 BRANT ST, BURLINGTON
289.337.3751 | 400BRANT.CA

Buca Di Bacco, Oakville

Buca di Bacco is located in the heart of thriving downtown Oakville, just a couple of blocks off Lakeshore Road, in a beautiful restored home. The menu features simple, earthy ingredients – the foundation of Italian cooking –and strikes a harmonious balance between authentic Italian favours and contemporary cuisine. Buca di Bacco has an intimate and tasteful patio, just perfect for dining al fresco. “It’s not about eating Italian; its’s about eating ‘like’ an Italian.”

130 THOMAS ST, OAKVILLE
905.845.7396 | BUCADIBACCO.CA

Son Of A Peach, Burlington

When it comes to unforgettable pizza in the heart of Downtown Burlington, Son of a Peach is the place to be. Just steps from the lake and nestled in charming Village Square, this award- winning pizzeria is family-owned, passionately run, and home to a Chef of the Year. Every bite reflects their commitment to creativity, quality, and a whole lot of love. In the warmer months, their spacious patio on Pine Street becomes the perfect spot to unwind—sip a glass of wine, enjoy the sunshine, and watch the world go by. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the first time, Son of a Peach is a must-visit destination for all the pizza lovers.

2049 PINE STREET, BURLINGTON
905.632.4040 | HEYPEACHY.COM

Benedict Eatery, Burlington

Located right in the heart of the quaint and charming Village Square in Downtown Burlington, you will find this hidden gem. Family owned and operated, their passion for service and good quality food at reasonable prices is apparent from the moment you walk in the door. As the weather warms up, they have an intimate and inviting patio where you can enjoy your cappuccino, baked goods, or hearty breakfasts out in the fresh air.

2045 PINE ST UNIT 54, BURLINGTON
905.632.2225

Fire up the barbecue and kick off summer the Canadian way. Your local butcher features the finest meats Ontario has to offer, so pay them a visit and prepare a delicious al fresco feast for friends and family. Get to know these community favourites.

Cumbrae’s
26 King Strewet West, Dundas

With two locations in Toronto and one in Dundas, Cumbrae’s bridges the gap between artisanal farmers and city consumers, offering meats sourced outside the factory farming system. Their selection includes a variety of poultry, pork, lamb and beef from small, family-run farms in Ontario and Quebec. In addition to specialty cuts like beef brisket, Cumbrae’s offers delicious ready-made products, including melt-in-your-mouth 10-hour pulled pork.

J & G Quality Meats
175 Plains Road East, Burlington

J & G Quality Meats is known for its exceptional dry-aged beef, Ontario lamb, gluten-free burgers and artisan sausages. As a proudly Canadian business based in Burlington, they constantly push the boundaries of creativity with offerings like meat donuts (ready-to-cook meat shaped like a donut and topped with cheese and herbs), mini beef wellingtons and pistachio-crusted stuffed pork.

Florence Meats
2136 Speers Road, Oakville

Celebrating over 47 Oakville community, years in the Florence Meats is a second-generation family business that serves up specialty in-house smoked meats. Slovenian-born Mario Goriup, who spent 25 years running a butcher shop in South Africa, founded the business alongside his wife Maria. Florence Meats is run by their son Damian and his wife Carol. Florence Meats is truly as local as it gets, as they operate a small meat plant in Oakville and source primarily from Southern Ontario farms.

Local Butchers On The World Stage

In March, two local butcheries were on the team that proudly represented Canada at the World Butchers’ Challenge in Paris, France. Team Canada, with senior member Damian Goriup of Florence Meats and co-captain Peter Baarda of J & G Meats, placed an impressive 5th out of 15 international teams. With 65 Canadians in the stands cheering them on, Team Canada was ecstatic to showcase the artistry of national butchery on a global stage.

The World Butchers’ Challenge is a three-and-a- half-hour test of skill, creativity and craftsmanship. Teams break down and transform whole animals into themed, value-added retail displays using their own spices, marinades and garnishes.

Just an Olde Fashioned Butchery
165 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville

Nothing says summer like a jumbo hotdog topped with ketchup and mustard, and Just An Olde Fashioned Butchery in downtown Oakville is the place to find the perfect one. With over three decades of experience serving fine meats, it’s hard to imagine Lakeshore Road without their iconic storefront, which always buzzes with activity, especially during the warmer months.

Dietrichs
1250 Speers Road, Oakville

Nestled in the heart of Oakville, Dietrich’s is a local gem. Since taking over in January 2022, co-owners Dan and Jamie Kokiw have committed to sourcing the best ethically raised meats from local farmers, while also selling gourmet goods like house-made (and flavour-packed) marinades that are sure to take your summer barbecue to the next level.

Marbled Premium Meats
115 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville

Tom Stasiuk opened Marbled Meats in 2011 with a mission to offer natural, free-range and locally sourced meats at accessible prices. They stand out by offering a variety of game meats, including wild boar, venison and bison, all priced at least 30 percent lower than market value. Plus, the shop’s welcoming, open atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make every visit an experience within itself.

IButcher
4265 Thomas Alton Blvd, Burlington

IButcher, a Halal certified butcher, has the best kafta in town. Along with premium Halal cuts of goat, veal and chicken, they provide a selection of Middle Eastern, Arabic, Pakistani, Indian, and Eastern European groceries. Their deli also features hand-cut meats, expertly prepared to customers’ preferences for a personalized touch.

BY LAUREN MEDEIROS

Outside is my happy place, especially when I’m chilling on a patio with friends, soaking up the sunshine, and sipping a glass of wine. And as the sun sets, dining under twinkling stars is undeniably romantic.

Summer in Ontario is brief, so let’s make the most of the season by dining al fresco. Below is a tour of some of my favourite Oakville and Burlington patios. Of course, these are just a few of my personal choices. Depending on your style and preferences, you can choose glittering waterfront views, outstanding culinary experiences for foodies, party patios… we have it all!

Isabelle Restaurant and Lounge at The Pearle Hotel (Burlington)

Boasting spectacular views of Lake Ontario, Burlington’s largest lakeside patio is perfect for a romantic interlude or a girls’ night out. Isabelle’s Mediterranean inspired menu includes whipped feta, labneh, pasta dishes, prime cuts, chicken, and Ontario trout. The restaurant has a farm and collaborates with local producers to provide the organic ingredients for their dishes. Top off the experience with a Spicy Cucumber Margarita, Sicilian Manhattan or Isabelle cocktail.

Pepperwood Bistro (Burlington)

Pepperwood’s shaded patio offers the perfect location for viewing Lake Ontario and for people watching. Sip wine or a specialty cocktail, such as a cranberry margarita, while you enjoy one of their amazing pan pizzas. Pepperwood’s varied menu includes P.E.I. mussel pots, wings, salads, fruitti di mare, and steak frites. Their Happy Hour menu, Monday to Friday (2-5 pm), features $10 appetizers and fabulous drink deals.

7 Enoteca (Oakville)

THE Dining at 7 Enoteca is like being transported to a romantic Italian town. The two-tiered patio overlooks Towne Square, adding to the European ambiance.
7 Enoteca serves authentic and Italian inspired cuisine such as handmade pasta, seafood, and wood fired pizzas crafted in their exhibition kitchen. Wine
lovers will appreciate the extensive Italian wine list.

Joe Dog’s Gasbar Grill (Burlington)

They had me at Tiki Bar! Feel like a Polynesian escape without jet lag? Joe Dog’s is a classic comfort food legend that boasts jumbo wings, pizzas, burgers,
and their signature 40 Creek Whiskey slow cooked ribs. Fronted by a patio and a covered and heated Tiki Bar, Joe’s is patio proud. Living up to its name, this establishment welcomes your dog to the PAWtio. Upcoming are Joe’s Tiki Bar Summer Nights with DJs on select Saturdays in the summer.

Bronte Boathouse (Bronte)

The massive outdoor patio at Bronte Boathouse offers stunning waterfront views of Lake Ontario, Bronte Harbour and the Marina. This casual, family-friendly restaurant indulges seafood lovers with dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, seafood pot, and a fresh raw and sushi bar. If seafood isn’t your jam try one of their popular Detroit-style deep dish pizzas, a burger, or beef striploin.

Kerr Street Café (Oakville)

Kerr Street Café serves classics like pancakes, French toast, huevos rancheros, Turkish eggs, the famous Kerr Street breakfast— and mimosas! Their food is created from locally sourced ingredients. A retail marketplace provides dinner options to take home, and they have a tasteful patio right on Kerr Street.

The King’s Arms (Oakville)

This is not your grandpa’s British pub, and neither is its private courtyard patio. All dishes are created fresh and in-house, with many small plates and sharing
options. The menu includes mussels, sliders, nachos, wings and wagyu burgers. Expect a plethora of reasonably priced local craft and draught beers, as well as cocktails and mocktails. After all, sitting in the sun does make us thirsty!

Local Links:

Isabelle Restaurant and Lounge at Pearle
Hotel, 3 Elizabeth Street, Burlington
isabelle.ca

Pepperwood Bistro, 1455 Lakeshore Road,
Burlington
pepperwood.on.ca

Joe Dog’s Gasbar Grill, 531 Brant Street,
Burlington
joedogs.com

7 Enoteca, 216 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
sevenenoteca.com

Kerr Street Café, 298 Kerr Street, Oakville
kerrstreetcafe.com

The King’s Arms, 323 Church Street, Oakville
kingsarmsoakville.com

BY CYNDI INGLE

We in the Great White North know how to make the most of summer. One great way to embrace the season is by hitting up a local farmer’s market. Ontario fare is truly unmatched. Think sun-ripened strawberries, leafy greens so flavourful they hardly need dressing, sharp seven-year-old cheddar or a fresh, gooey butter tart.

Shopping in a bustling farmer’s market isn’t a task – it’s an outing. Want to stock up on fresh ingredients and handcrafted goods grown and made only a few kilometres away? Enjoy nature’s bounty at a market near you.

Aldershot Farmers’ Market
1016 Waterdown Road, Aldershot
SUNDAYS 9 AM – 1 PM, JUNE THROUGH SEPTEMBER

After a fantastic first season, the Aldershot Farmers’ Market is thrilled to be back with even more fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more! Come fill your baskets with the best the region has to offer, while basking in the proud community spirit of Aldershot.

Centro Farmers’ Market
437 Brant Street, Burlington (Centro Garden Parking, off John Street)
SUNDAYS 9 AM – 12 PM, MOTHER’S DAY TO THANKSGIVING

This popular food-focused market is now in its 13th season. It brings farm-fresh food to the bustling Downtown Burlington community and connects visitors with the wonderful folks that grow and produce it locally. Shop for fruits and vegetables, meats, hot sauces, small batch ice cream, artisanal pasta, flowers, and more!

Burlington Centre Lions Farmers’ Market
Burlington Centre Parking Lot, 777 Guelph Line, Burlington
WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS, 8 AM – 2 PM MAY 21 – OCTOBER 25

As shoppers gather in the Burlington Centre parking lot, they’re taking part in a tradition that spans nearly 70 years. This market is a favourite among locals
for good reason. Dozens of vendors offer a generous spread of farm- fresh goods: crisp apples, artisanal cheese, free-range eggs and more. Proceeds from the 2025 market go toward the Burlington Lions Club’s charitable initiatives, supporting local youth, community programs and those in need.

Dundas Farmers’ Market
Corner of Hatt Street and Miller’s Lane, Dundas
THURSDAYS 2 – 6 PM, JUNE THROUGH OCTOBER

Dundas revitalized its Farmers’ Market to create a place that restores the link between farmers and consumers. Vendors set up shop in a municipal lot to showcase local food. The Dundas Farmers’ market is a fun excuse for fresh air and mingling in a picturesque valley town.

CRAVING MORE LOCAL FLAVOUR?

Many of your favourite neighbourhood restaurants offer farm-to-table fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs and dairy. The next time you order your meal, ask your server about menu items that are made with local ingredients. The farmers and your tastebuds will thank you!

Oakville Farmers’ Market
Dorval Crossing, 200-240 North Service Road West, Oakville
8 AM – 1:30 PM EVERY SATURDAY FROM MAY UNTIL NOVEMBER

For 44 years, the Civitan Club of Oakville has operated this market (originally located at the former Hopedale Mall) in support of community charities. Now located at Dorval Crossing, the market has become a destination for everything from empanadas and smoked trout to jewellery and flowers.

Waterdown Farmers’ Market
Waterdown Legion front parking lot, 79 Hamilton Street North. Waterdown
SATURDAYS 8 AM – 1 PM, LATE MAY TO MID-OCTOBER

Now in its twelfth season, the Waterdown Farmers’ Market continues to thrive, deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of its surrounding community. Vendors at this lively hub offer everything from just-picked produce and artisan honey, to small-batch maple syrup and local beer.

Fun fact: one of the market’s longest running vendors, Foundry Ice Cream, creates decadent take-home pints using ingredients sourced right from the market.

The Bronte Farmers’ Market
Bronte Market Square – 2445 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville
EVERY SUNDAY IN JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER (EXCEPT AUGUST 31), 10 AM – 2 PM

One of the newest gems on the local market scene, the Bronte Farmers’ Market was quite literally envisioned by the community. In a survey a few years back, 91 percent of residents, businesses and community groups said a local market would inspire them to spend more time in the neighbourhood. Just like that, the idea became a reality. The Bronte Farmers’ Market is entering its second season, with an impressive variety of goods.

Local links

ALDERSHOT FARMERS’ MARKET
aldershotfarmersmarket.com

CENTRO FARMER’S MARKET
centrogarden.com/farmers-market

THE BRONTE FARMERS’ MARKET
bronte-village.ca

BURLINGTON CENTRE LIONS FARMERS’ MARKET
burlington.ca

DUNDAS FARMERS’ MARKET
dundasfarmersmarket.ca

OAKVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET
oakvillefarmersmarket.ca

WATERDOWN FARMERS’ MARKET
waterdownfarmersmarket.ca

By Lauren Medeiros