As JRfM’s Lifestyle Expert I had the scoop on where you need to spend some QT this summer.

I’ve chosen fantastic patios that are must-dos in urban Vancouver, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Mission, Abbotsford and out at Harrison Mills. Great locations for some memorable summer patio time!

Dockside

One of my absolute favourite patios, Dockside is hard to beat with its magnificent views of Yaletown’s skyline and the North Shore Mountains. It’s one of the city’s hidden gems, nestled alongside False Creek. Come for brunch, a seafood dish or have a beer and appies and soak in the sights.

Address: 1253 Johnston Street, Vancouver (Granville Island)

Phone: 604-685-7070

Twitter: @eatDockside

Mahony & Sons – Stamps Landing

Another favourite, right along False Creek is this casual Irish pub with magnificent waterfront views, the perfect laid-back vibe with great pub grub and best brews around.

Address: 601 Stamps Landing, Vancouver

Phone: 604-876-0234

Twitter: @MahonyAndSons

 

Tap & Barrel – Olympic Village

Spend an afternoon or evening on Tap & Barrel’s spacious patio, taking in False Creek’s cool summery vibe. With lovely views and causal and comforting menu choices, Tap and Barrel’s patio is the perfect spot anytime. Try one of the many craft beers or cool refreshing cocktails on hand and relax and enjoy good company, interesting people watching and the fresh ocean air. Great location for a sunset seawall stroll afterward.

Address: 1 Athletes Way, Vancouver

Phone: 604-685-2223

Twitter: @TAPvillage

Reflections

I love to come here when I want to escape the urban hustle and bustle and forget where I am. This is one of the most spectacular and stunning hidden patios in Vancouver atop the Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Surrounded by skyscrapers with no sight of mountains, you’ll feel like you’re in an urban oasis, similar to the scenes in LA, NYC or Miami. Try one of the new seasonal snack bowls or light tapas-inspired dishes along with one of their whimsical signature cocktails, like the Wreck Beach Lemonade and the Kitsifornia Cobbler. No secret key needed here, just take the private elevator off the main entrance up to the rooftop (fourth floor). But we can pretend you’re taking part in a little secret society gathering. If you get lost, the hotel staff will point you in the right direction.

Address: 801 West Georgia Street, Vancouver

Phone: 604-673-7043

Twitter: 

Joe Fortes

Lush greenery and a variety of blooms in the garden, make Joe Fortes one of the best summer spots to escape the hustle and bustle of Robson Street below. The iconic space is one not to miss with a peace vibe and a ton of opportunities to soak up the sun. Come for Happy Hour from 4-6pm everyday to indulge in their signature seafood specials and $5 Wine/Highballs/Molson Canadian. I would recommend getting there asap, maybe cut out early from work as the patio is first come, first serve. But you didn’t’ hear that from me…

Address: 777 Thurlow Street, Vancouver

Phone: 604-669-1940

Twitter: @JoeFortesVan

TAPshack – Burrard Bridge 

TAPshack Burrard Bridge is a smaller, more eclectic sister restaurant to Tap & Barrel and the perfect spot to take a break during an afternoon bike ride along the False Creek Seawall near the Burrard Bridge. The patio is always hopping, the pacific northwest comfort food is delicious and locally sourced and the atmosphere always seems to be calling my name. Showcasing the best of BC, drink options range from a rotating local beer and wine list to handcrafted cocktails made with Vancouver craft spirits. The fun and family-friendly atmosphere, indoor-outdoor “I’m on a boat” feel and pooch-friendly patio, you can see why this spot is one to come early to and stay late.

Address: 1012 Beach Avenue

Phone: 604.676.2337

Twitter: @TAPshackeatery

Back Forty

Right near BC Stadium on the corner of Robson and Beatty, this is a local favourite before catching a game. Back Forty has all the makings for a pre-sports drinking venue: laid-back vibe, welcoming picnic tables, sun umbrellas and classic comfort food. Be ready to pump up the volume, it sure gets loud out there.

Address: 118 Robson Street, Vancouver

Phone: 604-688-5840

Twitter: @BackFortySaloon

Local Public Eatery

If you’re looking for the best hangover spot in the city, this would be it. It’s the closet thing to hanging out in your living room, except better food and people who serve you beer. Overlooking Kits Beach, Local Public Eatery is known for their common comfort food, done uncommonly well. Fanatical about their craft beer, so you know it’s good, with rotating new food selections everyday, this is the perfect spot to watch the big game. A big hell ya from the Georgia Straight too.

Address: 2210 Cornwall Ave, Vancouver

Phone: 604-734-3589

Twitter: @LOCALPubEatery

The Gillnetter Pub

Just the spot to grab some food on your way to Roosters or hit up their Sunday Brunch after a night out. Make yourself at home on the patio over-looking the Fraser River, while you enjoy the cool summer breeze off the water and listen to the peaceful sounds of mother nature. With a myriad of affordable daily specials to choose from, the Sunday Breakfast Buffet is definitely my favourite, all you can eat and a steal at $13.95 from 10:30am to 1:30pm. Pairs well with their world famous Caesar topped with a prawn! With multiple HD TV’s and a Big Screen playing your favourite sports you can easily spend a few hours kicking back and relaxing here.

Address: 1864 Argue Street (adjacent to Mary Hill Bypass at Pitt River Road)

Phone: (604) 941-5599

Kingfisher Waterfront Bar & Grill

With almost 360 degree waterfront patio views, the Kingfisher is a staple in Maple Ridge with a well-rounded menu, pub style favourites, delicious caesars and live music on the weekends.

Address: 23840 River Road, Maple Ridge

Phone: 604-463-0094

Twitter: @kingfishersnews

Mission Springs Brewing Company

One of the best restaurant spots north of the Fraser River next to the beach volleyball court, Mission Springs is one patio not to miss this summer. Alive with character, an extensive beer selection made in-house and a wide variety of home-style favourites with a new flair, nothing beats this unique atmosphere for lunch or dinner and is perfect for the whole family. The service is always superb, with room for a group of friends, you’ll be coming back time and again.

Address: 7160 Oliver Street, Mission

Phone: 604-820-1009

Twitter: @MSBCBREWERY

Fieldhouse Brewing

Alright, so this isn’t quite a patio, but the outdoor space at Fieldhouse blends a cool and casual vibe well with a family friendly approach. Lots to choose from for everyone’s belly size with wine, snacks, treats and a great selection of local craft beer. There’s even a playhouse for the kids making this the perfect space for everyone to come for some summertime fun.

Address: 2281 West Railway Street, Abbotsford

Phone: 604-776-2739

Twitter: @fieldhousebeer

River’s Edge Restaurant

One of my all-time favourite getaway spots, a little further into the Fraser Valley, River’s Edge restaurant located in Harrison Mills, at Rowena’s Inn is a highlight of summer. Featuring a contemporary west coast menu, tranquil and peaceful vibes, picturesque views of the Harrison River and Sandpiper golf course, you can see why the patio at River’s Edge is definitely worth the drive, and one of my personal faves!!

Address: 14282 Morris Valley Road, Harrison Mills

Phone: 604-796-1000

Twitter:@RowenasInn

Now lets get you to one of these patios this summer!!  4 lucky winners will win the following:

1) Joe Fortes would like to give one listener a $200 Gift Card to enjoy on their patio!!

2) We would like to send 2 sets of people to The Gillnetter Pub in Port Coquitlam with a $100 Gift Card each!!

3) For another lucky listener, Rowena’s Inn on the River would like to give you the chance to WIN Golf for Two at Sandpiper Golf Course followed by a delicious lunch at River’s Edge overlooking the breathtaking views of the Harrison River.

To enter, tell us which patios are your favorite in the spots we mentioned. Leave a comment in the section below.  Winners will be chosen Thursday July 21st, 2016.

Natalie xx

 

See more at jrfm.com!