The best summer patios in Vancouver aren’t just about good food, they’re about the views. From waterfront decks in Coal Harbour to rooftop hideaways and garden terraces, these restaurants deliver unbeatable scenery alongside fresh, West Coast flavours. Whether you’re craving brunch in the sun, sunset cocktails, or a long, lazy lunch, patio season in Vancouver is something special.
This handpicked list features 15 of the city’s top outdoor dining spots where the atmosphere is just as memorable as the menu. And if you’re looking to venture a little farther, don’t miss our bonus picks beyond the city — including Horseshoe Bay, Grouse Mountain, Steveston, Burnaby, and more.
Best summer patios in Vancouver
1. The Teahouse in Stanley Park – Ocean Breeze and Romance
A Vancouver icon since 1978, the Teahouse in Stanley Park is where timeless West Coast charm meets sweeping views of English Bay. Surrounded by towering cedars and coastal air, it’s a favourite for special occasions or simply a really great lunch. The sunlit patio offers a front-row seat to view sailboats and breathtaking sunsets.
We came for the three-course lunch (Monday, Thursday & Friday, $55) and savoured every bite: crab-stuffed mushrooms, Brome Lake duck confit, lemon tart, and the standout: sablefish with lemon risotto cake. A surprise treat? Chef Regan D’Silva stopped by with a sneak peek of his new Ice Lemon Pie. Read my full review of the Teahouse.
Here’s a little insider tip we had to share: Wine Hour at the Teahouse (Monday, Thursday & Friday from 2:30–5:00 pm) might just be one of the best-kept secrets in the city.
$15 wine flights featuring local and international picks
$12 tasting boards like BC cheese, edamame hummus, or tomato bruschetta — perfect for an afternoon toast on the patio
Even without trying it ourselves this visit, we’re already planning to return soon.
7501 Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver
Helen enjoys the views of English Bay from the patio at the Teahouse in Stanley Park, one of the best summer patios in Vancouver. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Views from The Teahouse in Stanley Park of English Bay with the Coastal Mountains. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
2. Cardero’s Vancouver – Marina Views in Coal Harbour
A longtime favourite for good reason, Cardero’s offers a front-row seat to the marina views of Coal Harbour. The seafood is fresh, the vibe is relaxed, and the daily live music adds a touch of West Coast charm. Read my full review. It’s great for special occasions, date nights, catching up with friends, or showing visitors one of the city’s best waterfront spots. Cardero’s patio is fully covered, so you never have to check the forecast before booking a table. Even on cloudy days, I’ve sat outside comfortably with harbour views and a refreshing drink in hand while chatting with friends.
Must-try: Sunday Brunch or Prime Rib Dinner. Seafood Dishes: Sockeye salmon, wok squid, halibut.
Insider Tip: Take a walk along the seawall before or after your meal.
1583 Coal Harbour Quay, Coal Harbour, Vancouver
Cardero’s Restaurant has one of the best summer patios in Vancouver. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr@
Stunning marina and mountain views from Cardero’s Restaurant patio.
3. Bae Side Pop Up Patio – Cool Vibes in False Creek
False Creek’s newest patio darling, Bae Side, feels like a seaside escape without leaving the city. The breezy decor, a great selection of handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, along with a seafood-forward, pan-Asian menu, make it the perfect spot for a playful, sun-drenched afternoon.
Hot tip: At night, a DJ transforms the patio into a lively music venue.
601 Stamps Landing, Vancouver, BC
4. Tap & Barrel Bridges – Granville Island Classic
This reimagined Vancouver icon, situated in the heart of Granville Island, combines modern pub energy with one of the best patios on the island. The wraparound patio serves up impressive views of False Creek, downtown, and passing False Creek ferries. The menu features elevated comfort food, craft beer flights, and shareable pizzas — perfect after a day exploring the island’s markets and galleries. Tap & Barrel Bridges also has a great kids’ menu.
Happy Hour is available Monday through Friday from 3 pm to 5:30 pm and every day from 9 pm to close. Brunch is served on weekends.
Go for: Sunset when the city skyline starts to sparkle. They have a great selection of local BC Craft Beer and produce their own, Brewhall, not found anywhere else.
1696 Duranleau St, Vancouver
5. The Sandbar – Rustic Chic on False Creek
Tucked under the Granville Street Bridge, The Sandbar offers a vibrant patio with views of False Creek and Yaletown. Known for sushi, oysters, seafood platters and nightly live music, it’s always buzzing. Happy Hour is available during the week from 3-5 pm. The Sushi Bar is available Monday to Friday, after 4 pm.
Don’t miss: Sunday Night Seafood Boil starting at 4 pm, while quantities last. $119/for two.
Tip: Request a seat by the window or on the upper patio for the best vantage point.
1535 Johnston St, Vancouver
6. Joe Fortes Seafood and Chop House – A Rooftop Favourite
An institution in downtown Vancouver, Joe Fortes’ rooftop patio is a summertime essential. Lush greenery, oyster platters, and stellar service make this iconic seafood and steakhouse restaurant a top pick for al fresco dining in the city core. They offer 50 varieties of fish and an award-winning wine list featuring 300 wines.
Happy Hour is 3-5 pm daily and is only reservable indoors. Brunch is served on the weekend.
Make it luxe: Start with bubbly and a seafood tower.
777 Thurlow Street, Vancouver
Travel and food writer Wendy Nordvik-Carr enjoys the patio at Joe Fortes Vancouver. Photo: Rick Carr©
7. LIFT Bar Grill View – Waterfront Sophistication
LIFT blends elegance with a touch of coastal cool. Nestled at the water’s edge in Coal Harbour, this glass-wrapped restaurant offers views of Stanley Park, the marina and the Coastal Mountains. The heated covered rooftop patio is a stunner, especially in summer. The West Coast cuisine features fresh, locally sourced regional specialties.
Weekend brunch is available. Happy Hour is daily from 3-5:30 pm
Perfect for date nights, special occasions, or Champagne with a view.
333 Menchions Mews, Vancouver
8. The Roof at Black+Blue – Rooftop Glamour
Perched above Alberni Street, The Roof at Black+Blue offers an elegant outdoor dining experience with heat lamps, plush seating, and a steakhouse menu that means business. It’s the perfect spot for a power lunch or a special occasion destination.
1032 Alberni Street, Vancouver
9. Seasons in the Park – Skyline Views from Vancouver’s Highest Patio
Few patios in Vancouver rival the panoramic beauty of Seasons in the Park. Perched high in Queen Elizabeth Park, it offers sweeping views of the city skyline, coastal mountains, and dramatic sunsets. It’s the perfect setting for milestone dinners or a relaxed evening surrounded by nature.
Chef Raghu Mopuri’s menu shines with West Coast flavours. We loved the tuna stack, the Humboldt squid & prawns, and the luxurious Filet Neptune, topped with crab and béarnaise. Save room for the zesty Sunburnt Lemon Pie.
Insider tip: Don’t miss Wine Hour (Mon–Fri, 2:30–4:30 pm) — $15 wine flights and $12 tasting plates like truffle fries or hummus. It’s one of the city’s best-kept secrets for an affordable, scenic indulgence.
Read my full restaurant review of Seasons in the Park.
W 33rd Ave & Cambie St, Queen Elizabeth Park
Seasons in the Park overlooks the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Park
Golden hours views of Seasons in the Park at Queen Elizabeth Park one of the best summer patios in Vancouver. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
10. Dockside Restaurant – A False Creek Escape
Located on Granville Island, Dockside’s expansive patio is a true urban oasis. With panoramic views of the marina and the city skyline, this spot offers upscale dining in a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a sunny brunch or a romantic date night.
1253 Johnston Street, Vancouver
11. Provence Marinaside – French Flair on the False Creek Seawall
A Yaletown favourite, Provence Marinaside blends French elegance with scenic marina views. Overlooking a marina filled with dreaming yachts on False Creek, the sun-drenched patio offers one of the city’s most peaceful urban dining experiences. The menu features flavours and seafood from the south of France. Provençal classics, such as bouillabaisse, and freshly shucked oysters, pair beautifully with rosé from their extensive wine list.
The perfect spot for brunch or a romantic dinner overlooking the water.
1177 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver
12. Glowbal – Downtown Patio with Big Energy
Glowbal’s expansive, glass-lined patio at TELUS Garden is one of downtown Vancouver’s most dynamic outdoor dining spaces. Surrounded by striking architecture and city buzz, it’s where power lunches meet weekend brunches, always with a touch of glam. The modern West Coast menu is bold and indulgent: truffled spaghetti and meatballs, crispy Humboldt calamari, and big-cut steaks grilled to perfection.
The vibe? Energetic and upscale, ideal for happy hour with colleagues or a long weekend lunch in the sun. Add a classic cocktail or a glass of local wine, sit back and unwind.
Best for: Patio people-watching, after-work drinks, and buzzy downtown energy that feels like a mini escape.
590 W Georgia Street, Vancouver (TELUS Garden)
Glowbal at TELUS Garden has one of the best outdoor patios in Vancouver. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
13. Miku – Aburi Sushi with a Waterfront View
The Michelin Guide recommended Miku restaurant, located near Canada Place, is known for its signature flame-seared aburi sushi and sleek, modern dining room with views across the harbour. The patio here is a seasonal delight ideal for watching cruise ships, seaplanes, and the city skyline. The menu is refined Japanese with West Coast influences: miso sablefish, uni shooters, and artful desserts. Upscale and elegant, to match the flavour.
70-200 Granville Street, Vancouver .
14. Giardino – A Taste of Tuscany
For a more European patio experience, head to Giardino. Just off bustling Burrard Street, this Tuscan-inspired hideaway features terracotta tiles, climbing vines, and linen-draped tables. Ideal for long, slow meals and another one of my favourites for at least one summer dinner. The surroundings make me feel like I have been transported to Italy.
We usually start with antipasto for two, followed by the Roasted Spring Rack of Lamb, Fresh Herbs Crust and Bean Cassoulet. All of their handmade pasta dishes are noteworthy.
1328 Hornby Street, Vancouver
15. The Boathouse (Kitsilano) – Beachside Classic
Though more casual than others on this list, The Boathouse in Kits has one of the best beach-facing patios in Vancouver. Grab a table overlooking the sand, order a pitcher of sangria, and settle in for a relaxed West Coast evening. The open-air deck is available during the warmer months.
Sunset scene: Unbeatable at the most popular beach in the city.
1305 Arbutus Street, Vancouver
Bonus View Restaurants Beyond Vancouver for Outdoor Dining
The Beach House at Dundarave Pier
Located steps from the sandy shoreline of Dundarave Beach, The Beach House pairs oceanfront dining with breezy coastal style. The recently refreshed interiors are bright and inviting, while the two patios offer unobstructed views of the sparkling waters and paddleboarders gliding by. It’s a favourite for leisurely weekend brunches or evening cocktails at sunset.
Happy Hour is Monday through Friday, 3-5 pm, every day, and 9 pm-close. Dining room only.
Tip: Take advantage of the beautiful West Vancouver seawalk before or after your visit.
150 – 25th Street, West Vancouver
RiverHouse Restaurant & Pub – Marina Views in Delta
Tucked along the river in Ladner, RiverHouse offers casual dining with peaceful views of the marina and coastal birdlife. This relaxed spot is ideal for sunny patio lunches or early dinners, with boats drifting by and eagles often soaring overhead. The menu is pub-forward with a coastal flair – featuring fish tacos, burgers, chowder, and a solid lineup of local beers and wines. The covered patio means you can enjoy the view rain or shine. Popular with locals and boaters alike, it’s a hidden gem just off the beaten path.
6255 River Road, Delta .
Hart House Restaurant – Lakeside Elegance in Burnaby
A true hidden gem, Hart House is nestled beside Deer Lake in a heritage Tudor estate. Dine under the trees or in the refined dining room while watching the light dance on the lake. The menu leans toward contemporary Canadian fare with European flair. A popular pick for weddings, brunch, and peaceful evening escapes.
Tip: Take a short stroll around Deer Lake before or after your visit.
6664 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby .
The Boathouse – Riverfront Dining in New Westminster
This relaxed riverfront patio is the perfect place to unwind with a plate of oysters and a glass of BC wine. The view? Tugboats, fishing vessels, and shimmering Fraser River sunsets. The Boathouse is an ideal spot for a weekend lunch or a walk along the boardwalk.
#104-900 Quayside Drive, New Westminster .
Troll’s Restaurant – A Local Legend in Horseshoe Bay
Troll’s is a West Vancouver classic. It is beloved for its crispy fish and chips, old-school charm, and unbeatable views of BC Ferries cruising out to sea. The large windows and covered patio make it a year-round favourite for a quick bite or leisurely lunch—affordable, nostalgic, and steps from the dock.
6408 Bay St, West Vancouver
The Observatory – Sky-High Dining on Grouse Mountain
Accessible by gondola, The Observatory offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region. From its perch atop Grouse Mountain, you’ll enjoy fine West Coast dining with sweeping views of the Lower Mainland, the ocean, and beyond. The atmosphere is intimate and upscale, making it ideal for anniversaries or entertaining out-of-town guests. My brother-in-law proposed here.
Pro tip: Go just before sunset for twilight magic.
6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver .
Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant – Steveston Boardwalk Classic
Overlooking the historic fishing harbour in Steveston, Blue Canoe’s expansive patio offers tranquil views of the Fraser River, boats, and boardwalk life. This laid-back, seafood-forward restaurant serves coastal classics like chowder, crab cakes, and wild salmon. It’s a charming stop after exploring Steveston’s shops, cannery, and walking trails.
3866 Bayview St, Richmond
News journalist Sandra Thomas enjoys a glass of wine at the Blue Canoe one of the best outdoor patios in the Vancouver area. It sits near Fisherman’s Wharf in Steveston. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Whether you’re staying close to downtown or venturing a little farther, these restaurants prove that Vancouver and its surrounding regions offer some of the most beautiful patio dining experiences in Canada. Bookmark this list, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to dine with a view.
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