The Secret Patios of Ossington

Several bars and restaurants on Ossington have hidden back patios and courtyard gardens that are completely invisible from the street and unknown to anyone who hasn't been explicitly told where they are. They feel like private gardens — fairy lights, dense plantings, no music spillover from inside. The best patio experience in Toronto, technically secret.

Several bars and restaurants on Ossington have hidden back patios and courtyard gardens that are completely invisible from the street and unknown to anyone who hasn't been explicitly told where they are. They feel like private gardens — fairy lights, dense plantings, no music spillover from inside. The best patio experience in Toronto, technically secret.

Area: Ossington · Address: Ossington Ave between Dundas & Queen, Toronto, ON · Best time: Summer evenings

Insider tip

Cold Tea (60A Kensington in Kensington Market — a converted back alley) is the most famous hidden patio in Toronto. Bar Piquette on Ossington has a back garden. Bellwoods Brewery's back patio is significantly less crowded than the front. Ask for 'the back' when you arrive — it's not always advertised, and first-timers often don't know to ask.

Getting there

Subway to Ossington (Line 2), then walk south on Ossington to the bar/restaurant strip between Dundas and Queen. Most establishments are between Argyle St and Humbert St.

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