When Ottawa's summer finally arrives, the city erupts with patio culture. Restaurants and bars fling open their doors, rooftop terraces fill up fast, and even the most tucked-away courtyard becomes prime real estate. Here are the best patios in Ottawa to soak up those warm months.
Waterfront and Scenic Patios
The Hooch and several restaurants along the Rideau River in Old Ottawa South and Billings Bridge area offer pleasant waterside dining. For true Ottawa River views, head to Gatineau just across the river — Brasserie Charlevoix and spots along Promenade du Lac offer stunning water views.
The Boathouse in Mooney's Bay is a summer favourite with a large patio right on Mooney's Bay Beach. It's casual, family-friendly, and has an unbeatable location by the water.
Best Neighbourhood Patios
Elgin Street transforms into a patio corridor in summer. The Duke of Somerset, Maxwell's Bistro, and other Elgin spots open sprawling sidewalk patios that are lively and social.
Bank Street in the Glebe is another hot patio strip. Absinthe Café has one of the most beloved patios in the city — it's small, slightly hidden, and utterly charming. Arc Lounge also has a solid patio on the main strip.
ByWard Market has patios stacked on top of each other — Earl of Sussex, Local Heroes, and Zak's Diner all have good outdoor setups during summer.
Rooftop and Elevated Patios
The Rooftop at 21 Sussex (inside the Andaz Ottawa hotel) offers a stylish elevated patio with Parliament Hill in the background — one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city.
Courtyard Restaurant in the ByWard Market area has a lovely sheltered courtyard patio.
Hidden Gems
- Absinthe Café (Glebe): Intimate back patio with great cocktails
- Hintonburg Public House: Wide side patio that's less crowded than downtown options
- Pressed (Bank Street): Small but pleasant outdoor seating with great coffee
For a full Ottawa summer plan, check our things to do in Ottawa guide or see what's on at Ottawa events this weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Ottawa patios open for the season? Most Ottawa patios open in mid-May when temperatures reliably warm up. Some heated patios open as early as April. Peak patio season runs June through September.
Which Ottawa neighbourhood has the most patios? Elgin Street and the ByWard Market area have the highest concentration of patios. The Glebe's Bank Street is also excellent, especially for a more relaxed neighbourhood vibe.
Are there dog-friendly patios in Ottawa? Yes — many Ottawa patios welcome leashed dogs. Good bets include several spots on Elgin Street and in Hintonburg. Always call ahead to confirm.
What is the best rooftop patio in Ottawa? The Rooftop at the Andaz Ottawa hotel on Sussex Drive is widely considered Ottawa's premier rooftop patio, with views of Parliament Hill.
