Summer is almost over: Hot spots in Toronto to sip wine for the rest of the season
By: Lauren Power
As the summer sun shines brightly, there’s no better way to unwind than by sipping a glass of fine wine at some of the city’s most charming spots.
Looking for the perfect patio for your next lunch or dinner in Toronto? Who hasn’t grown tired of endlessly scrolling through reservation apps and seeing the same spots time and time again? Let us help with that.
From cozy cafes to trendy downtown hot spots, we’ve curated a list of the best places to enjoy a refreshing pour this season. Discover where to sip and savour the best wines this summer!
11:59 Cafe
Located in the heart of downtown, 11:59 Cafe offers a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere perfect for an evening escape after work. It’s charming décor and friendly staff make it a favourite you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re there for a quick coffee or an extended wine-tasting session, 11:59 Cafe delivers an exceptional experience.
What Wine to Order: Misty Cove Sauvignon Blanc Estate 2023. This wine boasts bright, zesty flavours with hints of tropical fruit, making it a refreshing choice for a summer evening.
Alobar Downtown
Alobar Downtown, this newer Alo location, combines elegance with a relaxed vibe. Known for its exquisite food offerings and extensive wine list, Alobar is ideal for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in the city.
What Wine to Order: Pinot Grigio Ramato. This unique orange wine is vibrant and refreshing, with notes of stone fruit and citrus, perfect for a summer sip.
Piccolo Caffe E Vino
A hidden gem, Piccolo Caffe E Vino exudes a warm and intimate vibe. This quaint café and wine bar is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet afternoon or a romantic evening.
What Wine to Order: Prunus, Gota Wines. This red blend from Portugal offers rich, fruity flavours with a smooth finish, making it a delightful choice to pair with the café’s charcuterie boards.
Gusto 101
Gusto 101 is the classic we keep returning to for good reason! In the summer, we love to dine outside, and at Gusto, you have two options from their rooftop to the lower-level patio. If you’re a fan of the famous Mafalde Ai Funghi, we’ve got the perfect wine pairing for you!
What Wine to Order: Ellena Giuseppe Barolo. This robust and complex red wine features deep flavours of dark fruit and earthy undertones, pairing perfectly with Gusto 101’s hearty Italian dishes.
One Restaurant
One of Toronto’s most iconic patios, One Restaurant, is located in Yorkville and is the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy a glass of vino under the trees and twinkling lights. The elegant ambiance, combined with its exceptional service, delicious menu, and a wine list that caters to all tastes, One Restaurant truly embodies the essence of summer dining in the city.
What Wine to Order: Lion and Dragon Rosé from Chateau Roubine. Offers a medium to heavy body and pairs wonderfully with the lobster spoons.
Here’s what I’d order!
The Good Son
Nestled in the vibrant Queen West neighbourhood, The Good Son is the perfect low-key Italian spot for all your cravings. Known for its eclectic décor and farm-to-table menu, this restaurant creates a welcoming and relaxed vibe, which is completed by its patio, adorned with lush greenery and cozy seating. It is an ideal spot to enjoy warm summer nights.
What Wine to Order: Barbera Superiore, 2017 Salvano. This robust red wine, with its rich berry flavours and smooth finish, perfectly complements the restaurant’s hearty dishes, making it a standout choice for all red wine lovers.
