For me, nothing says summer on the island, like gathering your friends for a leisurely afternoon on one of the best patios in Victoria.
With the perfect mix of sunny skies, gentle sea breezes, and a vibrant culinary scene, finding the best spot to kill a summer afternoon is definitely a quest worth embarking on.
From bustling Victoria BC patios with energetic vibes to serene waterfront patios that offer tranquil views, there’s a spot for every taste and occasion.
- Tug Eatery – The Best Waterfront Patio in Victoria
- The Rooftop – Victoria’s Best Pre-game Patio
- Il Covo – The Most Romantic Patio in Victoria
- Craft Beer Market – The Best Patio for Beer Lovers
- The Local – Victoria’s Best Patio to Catch Some Rays
- The Veranda at the Empress – The Best Patio in Victoria for Tourists
- Spinakker’s Brewpub – The Best Patio in West Victoria
- Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse – The Best Rural Patio Near Victoria
Victoria’s Best Patios
Here in Victoria, every summer day is an invitation to explore the city’s outdoor dining scene. So, if you’re on the hunt for the ultimate patio experience, you’re in luck!
The city is home to an array of patios that boast not only exceptional food and drink but also breathtaking views of our famous Inner Harbour.
From the iconic Victoria waterfront patios to cozy spots tucked away in the city’s heart, this article will guide you through the top outdoor dining destinations.
Related: The Top Things to Do in Victoria in Summer
Tug Eatery & Bar – The Best Waterfront Patio in Victoria
$$$ | Location: 407 Swift St. | Hours: 12 pm – 10 pm daily | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
This relative newcomer has quickly become my favourite local waterfront patio experience. It’s the combo of local craft beers, fresh seafood, and their killer daily happy hour that sets it apart as one of the best patios in Victoria, BC.
Not to mention, their craft cocktails are something else — inventive, delicious, and perfectly complementing the seaside setting. I’m a sucker for their Shaft flights, which contain four inventive takes on Victoria’s most famous homegrown cocktail.
Tug Eatery isn’t just a spot; it’s the go-to place for experiencing Victoria’s best in food, drinks, and scenic dining. And with their recent major terrace renos, dropping by is even more of a must for that quintessential waterfront experience away from the crowds.
Related: Victoria’s Best Restaurants: A Culinary Journey
The Rooftop at the Strath – Victoria’s Best Pre-Game Patio
$$ | Location: 919 Douglas St. | Hours: 11:30 am – 10 pm May – Sep | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Situated above the famous Sticky Wicket, the Rooftop Bar at the Strathcona Hotel is a true summer gem that easily lands on my list of the best patios in Victoria. This local staple brings a slice of beach life to the city with its laid-back beachy decor and summery cocktails.
It’s the kind of place where the stunning views of Victoria’s skyline seamlessly merge with the relaxed vibe of a beachside retreat. And yes, there’s even a beach volleyball court, which can be pre-booked on the Strathcona Hotel website.
It’s not just the ambiance that makes the Rooftop Bar a must-visit. The place serves as an excellent spot to pregame before diving into the night’s adventures downstairs at Big Bad John’s or the Sticky Wicket.
Related: Victoria’s Best Bars: A Newbie’s Guide
Il Covo – The Most Romantic Patio in Victoria
$$$ | Location: 106 Superior St. | Hours: 5 pm – 10 pm Wed – Sun | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Il Covo Trattoria is a treasure among the best patios in Victoria, offering a slice of Italy right in the heart of BC. This spot quickly became my go-to for romantic dinners, thanks to its enchanting atmosphere and a patio that feels like you’ve stepped into a lush Tuscan courtyard.
The authentic Italian cuisine served on this stunning terrazza makes every meal a special occasion. Surrounded by greenery, the patio envelops diners in a serene, romantic bubble, perfect for couples looking to enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.
So, if you’re looking for an experience that’s both intimate and authentically Italian, Il Covo is a top choice for those seeking the best patio in Victoria for a date night.
Related: Victoria in August: A Summer Island Paradise
Craft Beer Market – The Best Patio for Beer Lovers
$$ | Location: 450 Swift St. | Hours: 11 am – 12 am, 11 am – 1 am Sat/Sun | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Craft Beer Market has quickly earned its place among the best patios in Victoria, especially for those of us who appreciate a good brew. Sitting right on the waterfront, this spot combines scenic views with an unbeatable selection of drinks.
The restaurant boasts an astounding 110 taps of local beers and wines. This makes it a dream for those looking to sample a vast array of local flavours all in one sitting. While it might have a larger, chain-type atmosphere, the patio experience here is hard to beat for sheer variety and vibe.
Overlooking the bustling Victoria waterfront, it’s an ideal setting to relax with friends, sample some of the best craft beers BC has to offer and soak in the lively summer ambiance.
Related: The Victoria Craft Beer Scene: A Visitor’s Guide
The Local – Victoria’s Best Patio to Catch Some Rays
$$ | Location: 1205 Wharf St. | Hours: 11:30 am – 9:30 pm, 11:30 am – 12 am Sat/Sun | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nestled at the entrance to vibrant Bastion Square, the Local is just a stone’s throw away from the water with a sun-drenched Victoria patio experience that’s hard to match.
What really sets it apart is the fantastic views you can enjoy while sipping your drink, complemented by beautiful flower baskets that add a splash of colour and life to the setting.
It’s an unbeatable location for a summer happy hour, where the atmosphere is lively and the scenery is picture-perfect. While many consider the food somewhat average, you’re really here for the ambiance and the experience.
Related: The 13 Best Victoria City Tours for Tourists & Locals
The Veranda at the Empress – The Best Patio in Victoria BC for Tourists
$$$$ | Location: 721 Government St. | Hours: 11 am – 11 pm Thu – Sun | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Veranda at the Empress Hotel is truly a jewel among the best patios in Victoria. Its prestigious location offers unmatched views of the iconic Parliament Buildings and the bustling Inner Harbour, making it a prime spot for soaking in Victoria’s historic charm and scenic beauty.
Dining on the Veranda feels like stepping into a postcard, with the elegant backdrop of one of Victoria’s most famous landmarks. While the experience comes with a price tag that reflects its touristy and upscale setting, it’s an indulgence worth considering if you’re only here for a short time.
Not to mention, it’s a more cost-friendly alternative to the Empress Hotel’s famed Victoria afternoon tea experience, offering a more casual option for enjoying a snack and a couple of drinks in a setting fit for a royal.
Related: The Best Coffee in Victoria BC: A Caffeine Quest
Spinakker’s Gastro Brewpub – The Best Patio in West Victoria
$$$ | Location: 308 Catherine St. | Hours: 9 am – 11 pm Daily | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nestled in picturesque West Victoria, Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub offers a quieter alternative to the Victoria patios mentioned above. The spot also offers a unique vantage point to enjoy the Inner Harbour, making it a favourite for both locals and visitors.
The patio’s beauty is matched by the elevated pub grub that Spinnakers prides itself on, focusing on fresh, local ingredients that bring out the best in every dish. And let’s not forget the fantastic craft beers brewed onsite, which are a testament to Spinnakers’ dedication to quality and flavour.
But this isn’t just a brewpub; it’s a culinary destination that captures the essence of Victoria’s vibrant food scene, with stunning waterfront views from their patio elevating the experience.
Related: The Best Fish & Chips in Victoria, BC: Savour the Battered Bliss
Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse – The Best Rural Patio Near Victoria
$$ | Location: 2487 Mt. St. Michael Rd. | Hours: 11 am – 6 pm Daily | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Located North of town in the scenic Saanich Peninsula, Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse is an enchanting escape from the city and easily ranks among the best patios in Victoria, BC.
This beautiful country setting, surrounded by orchards and the scenic beauty of the Saanich Peninsula, offers a tranquil and romantic backdrop that has become a favoured locale for local weddings. Its patio is a delightful spot to sip on crisp, refreshing ciders, showcasing the craft and care that Sea Cider puts into every bottle.
Trust me, it feels like stepping into a different world—a serene, lush paradise that’s a million miles from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Victoria’s patio scene in a more relaxed country setting.
Related: Victoria Brewery Tours: A Beer Lover’s Dream
The Best Patios in Victoria BC – Runners Up
Diving into Victoria’s patio scene is like opening a treasure chest of culinary and craft beer gems, each with its own unique charm and allure. However, with so many great spots, it’s impossible to mention each in detail in just one article.
That’s why I’ll leave you with a quick runners-up section to shine the spotlight on those patios that didn’t make my main list. Because after all, during a Victoria summer, it’s the mild weather and stunning ocean views that are the true stars of the show.
- Clive’s Classic Lounge – Famous for its imaginative cocktails, now offering an outdoor experience with ‘the Terrace’ to enjoy those award-winning drinks under the sun.
- Boom + Batten – Features an elegant setting with inventive culinary experiences. Perfect for watching the harbour life from an elevated casual dining space. A great Victoria brunch spot.
- Fireside Grill – A restaurant set in a restored estate home surrounded by an oak grove. It offers a farm-to-table menu and a spacious patio surrounded by fireplaces for a unique ambiance.
- Canoe Brewpub – Perched on the waterfront, Canoe combines craft brews with scenic views. The patio is a hotspot for live music and a vibrant atmosphere right by the water’s edge.
- 10 Acres Restaurants – With several locations, each offers unique patio vibes, from bistro settings under trees to waterfront views perfect for seafood lovers.
Related: The 17 Best Things to Do in Victoria
Ready to soak up the sun on the best patios in Victoria?
After a journey through the top patios in Victoria, one thing is certain: Victoria knows how to do summer right. Each patio offers a unique blend of culinary excellence, inviting atmosphere, and scenic beauty, making every outing memorable.
Whether you’ve discovered a new go-to spot for waterfront dining or a hidden gem in the city, these patios are where summer memories are made.
As you reminisce about the delicious meals and the stunning backdrops, know that the best patios in Victoria are always ready to welcome you back for another sunny adventure.
Enjoy the sun☀️
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