Al Fresco Dining in Yorkville, Toronto: The Best Patios to Enjoy this Summer

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and indulge in delicious food and drinks. So if you’re looking for a great spot to dine al fresco in Yorkville, Toronto, you’re in luck! The area has plenty of fantastic patios that offer a range of cuisine and ambiance.

Here are some of the best patios to check out this summer:

Blu Ristorante’s Beautiful & Lush Patio

Blu Ristorante is a chic and elegant Italian restaurant boasting a beautiful outdoor patio area. The patio is surrounded by lush greenery and features comfortable seating, creating a romantic and cozy ambiance. The menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, including handmade pasta and seafood. You have great options for drinks in this restaurant, too! Blu Ristorante’s extensive wine list includes an incredible selection of Italian and international wines, cocktails, and spirits. Book a table now.

 

Hemingway’s Spacious Rooftop Patio

Hemingway’s is a popular bar and restaurant located in the heart of Yorkville, and its spacious rooftop patio is one of the best in the area. The patio features a bar, making it the perfect spot to enjoy some drinks and socialize with friends. Looking for comfort food to have with your beer or cocktail drinks? You’ll be pleased that Hemingway’s menu features classic pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

Kasa Moto’s Breathtaking Rooftop Patio

Kasa Moto is a Japanese-inspired restaurant located in a stunning four-story building in Yorkville. It’s known for its rooftop patio that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and is beautifully decorated with plush seating and decked with a full-service bar. The menu features a range of Japanese-inspired dishes, including sushi, sashimi, grilled meats, and seafood. You can also enjoy drinking from its incredible list of cocktails and spirits.

Cibo Wine Bar’s Street Patio

Cibo Wine Bar is a chic, modern Italian restaurant with two cozy outdoor patio areas. You can choose between a street patio with ample shades or a side patio for a more intimate dining experience. And no matter which patio you stay in, you’ll be treated to delicious Italian cuisine. The menu includes fresh pasta, meat dishes, seafood, and more!

Sassafraz’s Shaded & Romantic Patio

Sassafraz is a Yorkville institution that has been serving delicious food and drinks for decades now. The restaurant’s outdoor patio is a charming and elegant space with cozy seating and ample greenery. On this shaded patio, you can drink wines & cocktails and enjoy a range of classic dishes, including steak, seafood, and pasta.

Bar Reyna’s Year-Round Back Patio

Situated in a charming Victorian house, Bar Reyna is a Mediterranean-inspired cocktail & snack bar. While it may have a small facade, it features a year-round back patio. The patio can seat 48 people and treat them to Mediterranean-inspired dishes, snacks, and cocktails. You will surely enjoy al fresco dining in summer, especially if you try Bar Reyna’s lamb baklava.

Trattoria Nervosa’s Chic & Chill Rooftop Patio

Trattoria Nervosa is a cozy Italian restaurant that features a lovely outdoor patio. The patio is decorated with comfortable seating and lots of greenery, creating a charming and romantic ambiance. Trattoria Nervosa welcomes you with a classic Italian menu, including risotto and different kinds of pasta. Pair the food with Italian wines, cocktails, or spirits.

The Pilot’s Stunning Rooftop Patio

The Pilot is a beloved Yorkville landmark that features a rooftop patio with stunning city views. It’s the perfect spot to eat great food, enjoy some drinks, and have fun with friends. The menu offers classic pub fare, such as burgers, sandwiches, wings, and fish & chips. The Pilot also offers a delectable weekend brunch, so don’t miss that when you’re in Yorkville.

Summing It Up

Whether you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, pub fare, or Japanese-inspired dishes, there’s a patio in Yorkville perfect for you. Blu Ristorante’s patio dining is a must-visit, but don’t miss out on these other fantastic options as well. So grab some friends, soak up the sun, and enjoy delicious food and drinks at one of Yorkville’s best patios this summer.


Celebrating Milestones: Private Dining for Graduations and Promotions

As the end of the school year approaches, many individuals will celebrate significant milestones in their lives: graduations. You can say the same for working professionals. While there’s no set schedule or season for promotions, such milestones are worth celebrating too. And what better way to do so than hosting a private dining event? Private dining rooms offer the perfect setting for celebrating these milestones with friends, family, and colleagues in a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Need more convincing? Here are some reasons you should consider private dining for celebrating your teen’s high school graduation or your husband’s promotion at work:

Customizable Menu

Private dining events allow a customizable menu to fit your preferences and dietary requirements. So whether you’re looking for a plated dinner or a buffet-style meal, most restaurants in Toronto have a culinary team that can work with you to create a menu that satisfies all tastes and dietary restrictions. You can even customize the menu to feature favorite dishes or incorporate dishes that have special meaning to the guest of honor.

At Blu Ristorante, we offer private menus, which you can customize to fit a theme or meet your guests’ dietary needs. Feel free to collaborate with our team to create a good menu.

Personalized Service

One of the biggest advantages of private dining is the personalized service you and your guests will receive. The restaurant’s staff will be dedicated solely to your event, ensuring each guest receives impeccable service all night or afternoon. From the moment you arrive to when the party ends, you and your guests will be treated like VIPs. That makes your milestone celebration even more special and memorable.

 

Private Atmosphere

Unlike the main dining area, private dining rooms provide an intimate atmosphere for your special celebration. Your guests can enjoy each other’s company without the distraction of other restaurant patrons. This allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, making the graduation or work celebration even more memorable.

Perfect for All Ages

Graduations and promotions are events that can be celebrated by people of all ages—and private dining rooms provide the perfect environment for everyone to celebrate together. From grandparents to children or office managers to the youngest colleagues, private dining rooms can accommodate all ages and make your celebration inclusive and enjoyable for all.

 

Audio/Visual Equipment

Many private dining rooms feature audio/visual equipment that can enhance your celebration. You can use this equipment to display photos, play music or videos, or even have a presentation to make the guest of honor feel even more special. This added feature can help create a more personalized and memorable experience for you and your guests.

 

Convenient Location

When it comes to celebrating milestones, convenience is key. Hosting your event at a restaurant with private dining options can save you time and effort in planning and logistics. Plus, many great restaurants in Toronto offer parking options or easy access to public transportation, making it easier for your guests from all over the city to attend.

At Blu Ristorante, our private dining rooms are located within the restaurant itself. All you have to do is enter through the wine bar, and you’ll be welcomed by one of our upscale private dining rooms. You’ll also be greeted and guided by our staff once you arrive.

Professional Photography

Celebrating a milestone like a graduation or job promotion is an important event you’ll want to remember for years. Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture the special moments of your celebration. Many restaurants with private dining rooms have worked with professional photographers and can recommend a trusted provider.

Book a Private Dining Room at Blu Ristorante

Ready to book a private dining room in Toronto? Consider Blu Ristorante. We’re an upscale Italian restaurant in Yorkville with private dining rooms to offer an unforgettable dining experience for our guests. With warmly-lit stonewalls, leather seating, and other elegant decors, our private dining rooms are the perfect setting for celebrating graduations, promotions, and other life milestones. Call us today to book one of our private dining rooms.


Small Intimate Weddings: Private Dining Options for Your Special Day

Small intimate weddings are becoming increasingly popular, especially these days when many couples look for unique and personalized ways to celebrate their love. If you’re planning a small wedding and searching for a more intimate setting, consider hosting it in a private dining room or area. Here are some incredible private dining options for your big day:

  1. Private dining rooms

Many restaurants have private dining rooms perfect for small and intimate weddings. These rooms offer privacy, personalized service, and a unique ambiance. Private dining rooms vary in size, accommodating anywhere from 10 to 100 guests, depending on the restaurant. The design and decor of these rooms can also vary, from sleek & modern to more traditional.

One of the benefits of choosing a private dining room for your small wedding is the level of customization available. You can work closely with the restaurant’s event team to create a personalized menu and decor to suit your taste and style. Some restaurants also offer custom seating plans and AV equipment to ensure every detail of your special day is perfect.

  1. Restaurants’ outdoor spaces

Looking for a more relaxed & casual atmosphere for your small wedding? Some restaurants have outdoor spaces—such as patios, rooftop areas, or gardens—that can be transformed into a beautiful wedding ceremony or reception venue. Outdoor spaces offer a beautiful backdrop for your big day and can accommodate more guests than indoor private dining rooms.

If you want a more unconventional option, consider restaurants that offer private dining on a boat or yacht. This unique experience can provide breathtaking views of the water and skyline, making it an unforgettable location for your wedding.

Also, restaurants’ outdoor spaces—no matter where they are—provide more flexibility in decor and design. You and the event team can work closely to decorate the outdoor area with flowers, lighting, and other elements to create a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

  1. Buyouts

For couples who want complete privacy and exclusivity, some restaurants offer the option of buying out the entire restaurant for the evening. This option can accommodate larger guest lists and allows for more flexibility in terms of decor and menu options. Buying out a restaurant is a great option for couples who want to create a truly unique experience.

At Blu Ristorante, we offer a full buyout of our restaurant for small weddings. This private dining option allows you to enjoy your big day with up to 110 guests in a perfect setting.

  1. Semi-private spaces

Some restaurants have semi-private spaces that offer a balance of privacy and openness. These spaces may have partial walls or dividers that create a sense of intimacy while still allowing for some interaction with other diners. Semi-private spaces are ideal for smaller weddings that want to create a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere while still enjoying the energy and ambiance of a bustling restaurant.

  1. Chef’s table

Are you and your soon-to-be spouse passionate about food? A chef’s table experience can be a great option for your small wedding. This option offers a unique and immersive dining experience where guests can watch the chefs prepare and plate each course. Chef’s tables are typically located in the restaurant’s kitchen or a dining area adjacent to the kitchen.

The benefits of a chef’s table experience for your small wedding include a unique and immersive dining experience. These also include personalized attention from the restaurant’s chefs and the ability to create a customized menu that highlights your favorite foods and flavors.

Summing it up

When it comes to private dining options for small weddings, the possibilities are truly endless. From intimate private rooms to beautiful outdoor spaces and unique venues, restaurants offer multiple options to create a magical and memorable wedding day. That’s not to mention that private dining also often provides the added convenience of having everything in one place —the ceremony, reception, and catering all in the same location.

It’s also worth mentioning that private dining for a small wedding can be more cost-effective than renting out a larger wedding venue. Restaurants often offer affordable packages for private dining events, which include catering and beverage options. This can help couples save money on their overall wedding budget while still providing an elegant and personalized experience for themselves and their guests.

Ready to book a private dining room or restaurant buyout for your wedding? Contact Blu Ristorante. Our restaurant staff is ready to help make your big day special & memorable.


The 12 Most Romantic Restaurants in Toronto [2023]

If you are looking for a romantic place to celebrate your special occasion, BLU Ristorante is the perfect choice. With live music Sundays, an extensive list of dishes, and a wine bar section, BLU Ristorante has everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable evening. 

The Woodfire Roasted Australian Rack of Lamb is a must-try dish, and with heirloom carrots, rapini, parsnip purée and mushroom veal jus, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. 

Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening for two or a night out with friends, BLU Ristorante is the perfect place to celebrate your special occasion.

Read more


7 Reasons You Should Try Private Dining in Toronto

Whether you’re planning to throw a corporate dinner party or an intimate event with friends or family, hiring private dining rooms can be a great choice. That’s especially true if Toronto is your target location. Toronto is home to many incredible private dining rooms that can offer your guests an impressive ambiance, food, and dining experience. Still not convinced? Read on as we’ve listed the seven good reasons you should try private dining in Toronto. 

1. A sense of exclusivity

With private dining rooms in Toronto restaurants, you don’t have to worry about other guests disturbing or interfering with your event. Similarly, you don’t have to think about your party being too loud or bothersome for other diners. You can even organize a program or activity in addition to the dinner itself without worrying about other people in the restaurant. You and your guests can enjoy the amazing food, ambiance, and dining experience to the fullest! 

 

2. Impeccable service

Private dining areas usually have a designated catering staff that will give you their full attention. With no other customers to serve, the well-trained staff can quickly attend to your guests’ needs and ensure they have a great time during the dinner service. Some private dining venues in Toronto even offer special table service or a private butler who ensures the designated staff lives up to your expectations. That is a classy experience that will surely make your family party, a holiday party with friends, or a corporate event fun & memorable. 

 

3. Curated menus

When you book private dining in Toronto, you will likely have the option to have well-curated menus for your event. You can talk to the restaurant about the menu before the event. That will help you better plan your event budget. Curated menus can also help you keep an eye on your guests’ dietary requirements. It’s best to ask your guests about their dietary needs and allergies before the event. That way, you can talk to the chef to provide vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options and adjust some choices for those with food allergies. 

 

4. Better control over costing

Apart from the food menu, you can curate the drinks menu when you hire a private venue. That’s a huge help since beverages are often one of the highest costs in group parties. You can coordinate with the restaurant to only offer your guests wines, cocktails, and other drinks that suit your budget. If possible, ask to pre-select the beverages to be included in the menu. That way, you don’t have to worry about the bill when your guests start ordering drinks. 

5. A versatile venue

Need to plan a birthday and a corporate dinner in the same month? You can hire the same private venue. Most private dining rooms in Toronto are highly versatile spaces, making them suitable for a variety of occasions & functions. They often have luxurious interiors you can customize to suit your event or theme. Plus, most of these venues have or are at least willing to provide audio-visual equipment and any other tools you may need for your event. In turn, your guests can comfortably deliver a speech or participate in any activity you’ve set. 

 

6. Less planning 

When you book a private dining venue, many planning tasks are taken off your plate. These tasks include hiring a catering service, renting equipment & furniture pieces, handling the seating arrangement, and many more. You can sit back as the professionals do what they do best and help you mount the event that impresses your family, friends, or colleagues. 

 

7. No need to clean up

When hosting parties at home, your job isn’t finished when the guests leave. You still need to clean up a probably overwhelming mess. But that shouldn’t be a worry when you book a private dining room in Toronto. The restaurant staff is tasked to clean up after the event. That way, you can enjoy the event to the fullest and not worry about tidying up afterward. 


10 Toronto Restaurants for your Upcoming Office Holiday Party

The holiday season is here, which means it’s time to start planning for your office party. Toronto is buzzing with restaurants, pubs, and clubs, but when it comes to a corporate party, you want to pick the best venue to make sure your colleagues have a memorable experience.

Here are the 10 best Toronto restaurants you can consider to host your upcoming holiday party. 

 

1. Blu Ristorante

Located on Avenue Road, Yorkville, Blu Ristorante is an exquisite Italian restaurant, offering lip-smacking food, a tasteful interior, and a dedicated space available for hosting private parties or events. The exclusive menu created by Chef Eric Bucher, Pradhan Jan, and the team gives you the taste of authentic Italian cuisine with a contemporary touch. This place has a capacity of hosting 110 guests, which makes it the perfect venue for your upcoming office holiday party. 

 

2. Sassafraz

Sassafraz is situated in the heart of Yorkville, boasting a beautiful interior and a soothing ambiance. You could choose to dine inside with your colleagues, enjoying the greenery on the walls, or you can host your party in the outdoor dining area on the patio. Here you can enjoy Canadian cuisine from Sassafraz’s seasonal menu curated by chef Geoff Webb. 

 

3. Momofuku

Another great place for hosting a corporate party in Toronto would be Momofuku. Situated on University Avenue, Momofuku impresses guests with its stunning interior, Asian cuisine with a modern touch, and a wide variety of options available on the menu. There are 3 levels of seating arrangements available—Noodle Bar, Nikai, and Kōjin. They are suitable for office parties with up to 120 attendees. 

 

4. New Orleans Seafood & Steakhouse

If you have a small number of attendees for your upcoming Christmas or new year’s party, New Orleans Seafood & Steakhouse located on Scarlett Road, Toronto, would be a great option. The aesthetic interior and the melody of jazz tunes put you in a good mood instantly. Their menu consists of fresh seafood, pasta, desserts, wine, and more. The place is open for sit-down dinners or corporate parties for up to 40 guests. 

 

5. Moxies Toronto Downtown

Moxies is yet another cool place that will make your office holiday party extra happening. Located on University Avenue, this place has an easygoing vibe, with a chef’s special menu for events offering scrumptious food. The modern interior makes guests feel at home, making it a perfect choice for your next event. 

 

6. Auberge du Pommier 

If you want to serve French cuisine at your holiday party, consider Auberge du Pommier, located on Yonge Street. During this time of the year, you can enjoy Chef Doug Penfold’s special menu, and indulge in your choice of drinks, be it wine, beer, or cocktails. The French country-inspired architecture and interior decor make the dining experience truly authentic, and it’s also perfect for your office party. 

 

7. Carisma 

This Toronto Street restaurant marvels its guests with its simple and tasteful interior, warm hospitality, and Italian cuisine. You can host formal corporate events or holiday parties here during the upcoming festive season. 

 

8. Madrina 

This one’s an ideal venue if you’re planning to have a sit-down holiday dinner with your colleagues. Located on Trinity Street, this place boasts a charming interior. Here you can indulge in Spanish tapas by Chef Ramon Simarro and a wide array of drinks including imported wine and gins. 

 

9. The Sultan’s Tent & Cafe Moroc 

The Sultan’s Tent & Cafe Maroc on Front Street, East Toronto is a well-known Moroccan restaurant. If you want to jazz up your corporate party and make it out of the box, this place is just what you’re looking for. The vibrant interior, the cozy vibes, and the use of textured fabrics, rugs, and cushions create a warm atmosphere, making your celebration a lot more joyous. Enjoy delicious dishes from their Moroccan-French menu and a variety of cocktails to complement the meals. It can host office parties with up to 200 attendees. 

 

10. Terroni – Adelaide

Located within the York County Court House, Terroni Adelaide has a warm and welcoming ambiance. The stellar dining room and the blend of modern styling with age-old architecture catch your eyes instantly, while the carefully crafted food menu delights your tastebuds. Terroni has a dedicated space for hosting corporate parties for up to 350 people, which makes it a great pick if you’re hosting a grand holiday celebration. 

 

To book corporate events and parties at Blu Ristorante, Yorkville, contact us here


The Top 9 Toronto Restaurants for Outdoor Dining

If you want to enjoy delicious food and drinks in a soothing ambiance, Toronto has some amazing places to offer. But with so many restaurants, cafes, and bars out there, it can be difficult to pick one when you’re going out. But worry not, we have you covered. 

 

We have compiled a list of the top 9 Toronto restaurants for outdoor dining that you must check out. 

1. Blu Ristorante

Specializing in authentic Italian cuisine, Blu Ristorante (Yorkville) is famous for its beautiful ambiance and scrumptious food. You can choose to sit in the heated patio area, which is beautifully decked up to offer you a cozy, relaxing vibe. Ideal for summers, the warm and inviting atmosphere of the patio is something you’ll feel like coming back to, again and again. You could also check out their grand indoor dining area and bar while treating your ears to the melodies of live music. 

2. Allen’s 

A legendary eatery located in Danforth Avenue, Allen’s is a place you cannot miss out on. The outdoor seating area offers you the much-needed break you need after a hectic day at work. Here you can treat yourself to burgers, whisky, wine, beer, and so on—their menu is pretty extensive. Reminiscent of a New York pub, this place has a classic charm to it, something that both locals and visitors find attractive. 

3. Cano Restaurant

Be it day or night—Cano Restaurant‘s outdoor patio always feels like a great place to hang out, unwind, and indulge in your favorite dishes and drinks. Conveniently located on St. Clair Avenue, Cano Restaurant is an ideal spot to visit with your partner, friends, or family. You can also choose to sit in the nicely decorated indoor area, but the outdoor patio has its own charm!

4. Bymark 

If you’re looking for a premium dining experience in Toronto, Bymark is a must-try. Situated within the Toronto Dominion Centre in Wellington Street, Bymark boasts elevated interiors and a comfortable outdoor dining area. Everything from food, drinks, staff behavior, to the vibe of the place—you’ll find hardly anything to complain about. 

5. Sassafraz 

When you’re in Toronto, there’s nothing like sitting on the Sassafraz patio, sipping on your favorite drink, and admiring the lush greenery and the ethereal decor. Over the years, this place has become one of the most popular venues for outdoor dining, special lunch and dinners, and private events. The all-white decor complemented by a wooden touch creates a calm and refreshing ambiance and makes you feel at home. 

6. Lee

At Lee Restaurant, you’ll experience a unique amalgamation of Chinese traditions and French culinary techniques. Their curated menu serves South-East Asian delicacies. The entire restaurant is decked up in a family-style setting. While the outdoor seating area is beautiful, you’ll also enjoy the vibe and lighting of the indoor space. 

7. Lapinou

Lapinou has turned a simple alleyway of King Street West into a bright and happening outdoor dining restaurant. Inevitably reminding you of the French wine bars, this neo-bistro oozes an old-world charm. From the bare bricks, and lanterns, to the wrought iron seats, everything has an industrial vibe to it, while also being welcoming and cozy. Stay till the evening to enjoy the dreamy fairy lights. 

8. Té 

brings to you Korean cuisine prepared with a contemporary touch. With every bite you take, you’ll be reminded of Seoul’s home-cooked meals. The best part about this restaurant is that the dishes are specially made by the chef and her mother. Both the outdoor and indoor spaces boast pretty decor, with lots of wall painting and lights to cheer you up. When you’re here, don’t forget to try out their Japanese craft beer and tea cocktails. 

9. Giulietta 

Last but not least, there is Giulietta, located on College Street. Be it the seating arrangements or the decor, things are marked by simplicity here. And thanks to their top-notch food, expect to see lots of crowds here. On days when you’re craving Italian, a meal at Giulietta’s patio is all you need. 

 

Explore these places, and relish outdoor dining in Toronto like never before!

 

Image by TravelScape on Freepik


What Exactly Is Al Fresco Dining?

  • As the patio season comes in, people start to crave spending more time outdoors. And the easiest way to do that is to dine out the al fresco way. But what exactly is al fresco dining? 

What’s with the term? What is al fresco dining?

Al fresco is an Italian term that means “in the fresh air” or “in the shade.” Dining al fresco simply means eating outside or out in the open air. But you shouldn’t confuse it with going on a picnic and eating at the park while sitting on a blanket. Al fresco dining typically involves comfortable seating, refined tablescapes, and a casual yet party-like atmosphere. 

What does al fresco dining include?

Al fresco dining can take many forms and happen anywhere—from cafes and gastropubs to lavish restaurants. But generally, here are the ever-present elements of this type of dining:

  • Outdoor setting: A defining characteristic of an al fresco dining experience is it takes place out in the open air. So when you dine out and are offered to eat al fresco, you can expect to be seated on a patio, terrace, or rooftop bar. 
  • Warm weather: Restaurants usually offer al fresco during warm weather or patio season. It’s a good way to experience the cheerful weather with your loved ones. Some patios are heated to ensure a good temperature during breezy summer nights.
  • Casual party-like atmosphere: Patios and terraces for al fresco dining are often decked with lounge furniture, plants, umbrellas, awnings, and other elements that make the space casual and welcoming. These spaces can usually seat ten or more to truly create a party-like atmosphere perfect for hanging out or people-watching. 

 

 

What are the common al fresco dining ideas?

While restaurants can technically serve any food or drinks al fresco, here are some dining ideas that are perfectly suited to an outdoor setting: 

  • Candlelit dinners: Having a candlelit dinner on a tree-lined patio while gazing at the stars and listening to soothing live music sounds romantic. And that’s exactly what you can get in some patio restaurants in Yorkville. It’s a great dining option for anniversaries and other special occasions with your lovely spouse or partner. 
  • Afternoon tea: There’s nothing more elegant than enjoying your afternoon tea the al fresco way. You can enjoy your tea and biscuits or finger sandwiches while relaxing under the shade of a luxurious-looking parasol on a gorgeous street-level patio.
  • Special or seasonal menus: Most restaurants create a special menu for their al fresco diners. They use seasonal produce and offer meals perfect for the outdoor setting. These could include summer salads, barbecue classics for sharing, grilled peaches with mascarpone cream, and fruit-filled desserts suitable for the weather. 

 

 

What are the other benefits of al fresco style dining?

Still on the fence about the al fresco style? Here are a few more reasons to consider it:

It’s relaxing and helps improve your mood. 

Dining in the open air improves your mood and helps you relax. After shopping or walking around the neighborhood for hours, stop by one of the patio restaurants nearby. Order a cup of tea or a salad plate, ask to be seated on a patio or rooftop terrace and enjoy the view. You will surely feel relaxed as you hang out and enjoy the al fresco-style dining. 

It’s less cramped than indoor dining.

Patios and terraces suited for al fresco dining are often less cramped than indoor restaurants. The tables and chairs are usually spread out to maximize the space. So if you prefer proper social distancing when dining out these days, al fresco dining is perfect for you.

The al fresco style is also conducive for intimate conversations or heart-to-heart talks, given the open space and distance between tables. It’s great for dates and catch-ups with friends.

Food tastes better when enjoyed outside.

We’ve said it: food tasted better when enjoyed outside. It’s all because of the atmosphere—from the open air & lush greenery to chill music and soft lighting. You will surely relish your laidback lunch with friends or dinner dates with your spouse. 

Final words 

Because of its outdoor setting and casual yet intimate atmosphere, al fresco dining is a good alternative to the traditional indoor dining experience. So as the warm season comes in, maximize your time outside by dining in one of the must-try patio restaurants in your area.


Private Dining Toronto: How to Choose The Perfect Event Venue

Have an upcoming event in Toronto but not sure how to pick a venue? 

If you’re looking for a place in downtown Toronto, there are quite a few Yorkville restaurants with private dining rooms, beautiful patios, and good food. 

But before you finalize and reserve a place for the event, you have to keep in mind some vital factors. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect event venue in Toronto. 

1. How’s the Ambiance? 

The ambiance of the venue sets the mood of the event. Whether it’s a corporate event or a private celebration, you don’t want the venue to be so loud and happening that you can hardly spend quality time with your guests. Look for a place that has a soothing and cheerful atmosphere, where both you and your guests will have a gala time, and the event will be a success. 

Blu Risitorante | Private Dining in Toronto

2. Convenient Location

When you’re choosing a private dining event venue, the location has to be easily accessible for everyone. So try to pick a place that’s situated in a well-connected locality, where there are ample amounts of public transport available. If you have people coming over from different cities, it’s important they can easily navigate the venue without complications. 

3. Seating Capacity

Another crucial thing you have to consider is the seating capacity of the place you’re booking. If you have a guest list of 20 people, you don’t need a massive venue—a small one or a specific portion of a larger venue would be sufficient. And likewise, if your event will have a large number of attendees, you need a space that can comfortably accommodate all the people. Before you finalize a venue, take a look at the available space yourself, and inquire with the manager of the venue about its seating capacity. 

Blu Ristorante | The best ambiance for a nice private dining experience

4. Parking Capacity 

Not just seating, you’ll also have to make sure the venue has enough parking space for your guests. It’s always a good idea to have a prior estimate of the number of cars you’d be expecting because a lack of parking area could create a big mess on the day of the event. Check with the venue manager for the parking capacity of the space you’re planning to book. 

5. Is It Indoor or Outdoor? 

When you’re hosting an event, you can choose either an indoor space or an outdoor space as the venue. Indoor seating or private dining rooms are often the most preferred option, because they keep you protected from unpredictable weather changes, offer privacy, and feel cozier in general. But if the event is during summer or fall and there’s no chance of rain, you could very much enjoy your event under bright sunshine. So first decide whether you’d like to go outdoors or indoors, and then find a suitable place. 

Blue Ristorante | Chose indoor space or an outdoor space as the venue with us.

6. What’s on the Menu? 

A vital part of your event is the food. Before deciding on a venue, know about its catering menu, the cuisines and drinks that they will be serving, and whether you can customize the menu or not. If you’re booking a restaurant, you might speak to the chefs about their specialty dishes that will surely impress your guests. 

7. Bonus Tip: Plan in Advance 

Be it a personal or corporate event, the key to a successful event is to plan in advance, if possible. From budget to guest list, food, venue, and other logistics—you’ll be able to manage everything perfectly when you have enough time at hand. Moreover, restaurants Toronto with private dining rooms can get reserved quite fast, so the earlier you make your booking, the better.

Private Dining Toronto: Book Blu Ristorante for Events 

If you’re looking for Yorkville restaurants with private dining rooms, Blu Ristorante is the best place you can find. Thanks to the beautiful interior, charming ambiance, and lip-smacking authentic Italian food, it has become a popular venue for the corporate events Toronto offices host. Here you get to experience the best private dining Yorkville has to offer, thanks to the mezzanine level that’s ideal for romantic dinners, large gatherings, or any other event. 

Read in detail about our private dining facility here, and contact us at [email protected] for making a reservation. 


Patio Dining in Toronto: What You Need to Know

Patio dining is one of the best experiences you can have in Toronto during summer and early fall. You don’t have to worry about the cold, there is no snowfall, and you can finally sit under the open sky and relish your favorite meals. 

If you plan to visit the best patio dining in Toronto has to offer, here are a few tips you should keep in mind to ensure you have a marvelous time. 

 

1. Look for Partially Covered Patios

While both open and partially covered patios are beautiful places to hang out, the latter is more of a practical choice. Why? Because during the evenings, the weather might get a little cold or windy. During some months, you could expect rain too. When the patio is completely open, it becomes difficult to protect yourself, and the weather can quite easily spoil the fun. In semi-covered patios, you can enjoy ample amounts of sunshine during the daytime, and chill safely in the evenings without worrying about feeling cold or getting drenched. 

 

2. Look for Heated Patios

Heated patios are just as luxurious as they sound. Basically, these places have outdoor heaters installed that keep the patio area warm. Heated patios are practical options for all times of the year. Even though you cannot dine outside during the peak snowy season, light winters are easily bearable on a heated patio. They offer a cozy dining experience and make for a great place for hosting events or parties. 

 

3. Look at the Food Choices

Unless you’re open to serious experimentation with your food, it’s better to have a quick look at the menu before heading to a patio restaurant. Some serve great seafood, some offer amazing burgers and beer, and some are famous for Asian food—there is no dearth of variety in a Toronto patio restaurant. For instance, if you’re looking for lip-smacking authentic Italian cuisine in Yorkville, Blu Ristorante is undoubtedly the best choice. So to avoid any surprises, be sure to check out the food and drink choices beforehand. 

 

4. Make Reservations Beforehand 

During the summer months, it’s quite obvious that everyone would want to go out during the evenings and on weekends, to spend some quality time outside. Like you, every other Toronto resident wants to make the most of the sunny days. So as you can understand, getting a place can be tough, especially on the weekends. Reservation may not be mandatory everywhere, but it doesn’t hurt to have it, because you’ll have peace of mind. If you’re planning a day out or a night out, make sure to get in touch with the patio restaurant of your choice and reserve your seats a few days before, or at least a day before. 

 

5. Follow Safety Protocols & Maintain Distance 

Luckily we have left behind the pandemic scare, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to follow safety protocols. In recent times, all Toronto patio restaurants are trying to maintain safety as much as possible, and you should cooperate with them. Try to avoid heavily crowded places, and get reservations to avoid the rush. When you’re on the patio or the indoor seating area of the restaurant, maintain physical distance. And most importantly, if you’re not keeping well, avoid crowded places at all costs, until you feel better again. 

 

6. Carry Light Cover Ups 

Summer brings along rain in Toronto, so you should be prepared. When you’re stepping out for a whole day, even if the weather is hot and humid, it’s better to carry a light cover-up, in case the weather becomes slightly chilly. You could also consider carrying an umbrella or rain jacket to avoid getting drenched. 

 

Best Patio Yorkville Toronto Alfresco Dining: Blu Ristorante 

Whether you’re a Toronto resident or a visitor, you cannot miss the patio dining experience of Blu Ristorante. Located in Yorkville, Toronto, this restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine, presented in a contemporary avatar by expert chefs. The stunning outdoor patio, gorgeous interior, live music, and soothing ambiance offer a sensory treat you won’t find elsewhere. Reserve your table today




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