Patio season is a summer staple. Eating and drinking outdoors is just an entirely different experience. Stunning views, fresh air, sunshine, people-watching – all make a meal or a drink so much more pleasurable.
While there are over 200 large patios in Vancouver, in Kitsilano we’re lucky to have an eclectic mix of bars, pubs, and restaurants that maximize their space to give us outside options for either enjoying the fresh air and rays or nestling in a cozy hideaway.
After extensive field research, we’ve narrowed the list of neighbourhood patios down to our favourite five.
Here they are; be sure to check them out over the coming sunny months, and please comment below to let me know your top pick!
1) Darby’s Pub
Nestled in the heart of Kits for over thirty years, Darby’s is a friendly neighbourhood pub that plays host to its loyal locals every night of the week. But it really comes to life in the summer with the opening of its rooftop patio–the only rooftop patio in Kits! With big wooden benches and tables, fire heaters, blankets on offer, and a scenic view of the North Shore Mountains, this patio is my top pick for its perfect blend of bar buzz and homey comfort. You can bring a big group for a night out, or settle quietly into the corner to enjoy the view. Tasty, fresh food and thirty craft beers on tap are the cherry on top.
Darby’s Pub, 2001 Macdonald St., 604-731-0617, darbyspub.ca
2) Local
Located directly on Cornwall with an unobstructed view of beach, ocean, trees, city, and mountains in all their glory, Local begins with a leg-up on the competition. Add to that the laidback, casual feel of a beachfront bar and you’ve got a spot that will suck you in and keep you lounging for hours on end. Sprawling booths, communal tables, and a large bar stationed midway between the indoor dining area and the undercover patio make this deck perfect for mingling with friends and wiling away the day. (Be sure to tap even deeper into that SoCal vibe by indulging in some Baja chicken tacos – they’re disturbingly delicious.)
Local Public Eatery, 2210 Cornwall Ave., 604-734-3589, localkits.com
3) The Naam
Concealed from street view and traffic noise, The Naam’s patio is one of the most beautiful out there. Set to undergo some renovations in the near future, it will be expanded and updated to offer even more secluded seating throughout the garden. The Naam is a historical landmark in Kits, with lots of stories to tell, and the patio is no exception. Built in 1968 during a fast, this spot stays true to its roots with casual comfort and delicious vegetarian food. Open 24 hours a day, the gorgeous enclosed space is perfect for a dinner date or a late night getaway.
The Naam, 2724 West 4th Avenue, 604-738-7151, thenaam.com
4) Las Margaritas
On West 4th, the Las Margaritas patio is situated along the side of the restaurant on Maple, making it an ideal spot for people-watching without the headache of cars whizzing past. The terracotta and tile features, hanging baskets and potted plants, and trees wrapped in twinkly lights create a charming atmosphere for summer evening socializing. And a pitcher of ice-cold margaritas is always best enjoyed with the sunshine beating down.
Las Margaritas, 1999 West 4th Avenue, 604-734-7117, lasmargaritas.com
5) Chewies
Just two blocks up the hill from the beach, Chewies offers lovely patio seating for the summer. Most will check out this oyster bar for the, well, oysters, but my favourite time of day to visit is actually for brunch. The Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles (with a Cajun honey butter drizzle – yum!) really hit the spot. Take a load off, let the ocean breeze wash over you, and watch the beachgoers stroll down and the fitness freaks pant up the hill. This is the perfect outdoor spot for a first date or a casual get-together.
Chewies Steam & Oyster Bar, 2201 West 1st Avenue, 604-558-4448, chewies.ca
Last modified: May 7, 2024
