What calls to mind when you think of summer? For us, it’s lunch and dinner al-fresco with a waterfront view, and the Toronto Harbourfront is one of the most perfect places to enjoy both. We’ve included some of the best restaurants with refreshing waterfront views of Lake Ontario, Toronto Islands, and more, and here are 7 of our favorites.
1. Boxcar Social
Take a walk down to Toronto’s Harbourfront and check out this Boxcar Social location for an excellently crafted cup of coffee or glass of wine. Their biggest location yet, Boxcar Social has a beautiful and airy interior and a patio that overlooks Lake Ontario. A perfect afternoon stop with a lunch menu including burgers, fries, salads, and their ‘Island Bowls’ with white rice, furikake, mac salad, and lemon for a island, tropical vibe to go with your waterfront views.
Where: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8
2. Alexandros Take-Out
The Alexandros near the Westin Harbour Castle is the perfect spot for waterfront views and food on the go. Head over and keep your fingers crossed for no line and order a delicious gyro, the Greek staple food that consists of lush, warm pita bread, seasoned meat, veggies like tomato and onion (fresh or pickled) and often, feta cheese. Grab a gyro for take away and enjoy by the water.
Where: 5 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H1
3. Miku
Those looking for an upscale experience can enjoy Miku at Toronto’s harbourfront with stunning waterfront views. A Japanese restaurant that uses Western culinary techniques with fresh ingredients, Miku cooks up amazing cuts of meat like Wagyu Striploin and fresh sushi for an elevated waterfront restaurant experience for your Friday night.
Where: 10 Bay St. #105, Toronto, ON M5J 2R8
4. Amsterdam Brewhouse
The heart of Toronto is a great spot for waterfront views. Head to Amsterdam Brewhouse, Toronto’s largest waterfront brewery for great beer along the water. Grab a pint and enjoy landscape views of the Toronto Islands on one of four large outdoor patios. They’ve also got a food menu as well in case you’re hungry.
Where: 245 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2K9
5. Irene
The re-branded Urban Tavern is now called Irene. Come here after a ride along the waterfront, sip on prosecco during brunch or enjoying a refreshing cocktail like their Lakeside Margarita and Passionfruit Paloma. Enjoy social hour for discounts on small plates and certain drinks from 2-5 and 9pm-close Monday to Friday.
Where: 25 Dockside Dr, Toronto, ON M5A 1B6
6. Pearl Harbourfront Chinese Cuisine
Established since 1983, Pearl Harbourfront Chinese Cuisine is an award-winning Cantonese-style restaurant. Delicious dim sum, fried tofu, turnip cakes, and other shareable plates are what you can expect here, alongside beautiful waterfront views.
Where: 207 Queens Quay West, Toronto, ON M5J 1A7
7. Don Alfonso 1890
Enjoy Michelin Star fine dining with a view at Don Alfonso 1980. Indulge in their Signature Tasting Menu, although the cost runs up to 220 per person. 6 delicious courses expertly made where you can eat things like organic tenderloin wrapped in layered swiss chard or BC turbot. Or you can check out their more affordable lounge menu if you don’t want all the bells and whistles. Wagyu beef tenderloin carpaccio or caprese salad are included to go along with your elevated waterfront views.
Where: 1 Harbour Square 38th Floor, Toronto, ON M5J 1A6