Lil’ Brew Hops
Located next door to its “big sister” Hungry Brew Hops, this eclectic mixology bar features an extensive (and growing) wine list, in addition to their must-try artisanal cocktails. For a luxurious treat, try the Lavishment—a cocktail made of gin, lillet, lavender syrup, lemon, prosecco and mint. Or enjoy half priced bottles on “Vinyl Winyl Wednesdays” and queue up your own vinyl on their retro record player.
209 Main Street South
lilbrewhops.com
Cachet
Located at the foot of Main Street, this restaurant and bar boasts a large patio with a sweet view of Fairy Lake. By night, string lighting and live entertainment brings a cozy cottage-like feel. For the ultimate Cachet experience, order a pitcher of their signature summer sangria, a refreshing combination of white wine, fruit, juice and brickworks cider, served in an Instagram-worthy mason jar atop a wooden stand.
500 Water Street, Newmarket
cachetrestaurant.com
Snackmrkt
Known for its waterside patio, Snackmrkt is the perfect gathering place for friends thanks to its small, tapas-style shareable plates and cleverly named cocktails. The most popular summer drink is the refreshing Lemonade Prosecco Punch, made with vodka, prosecco, lemonade, mint, and fresh blueberries. Or go for the Fairylake Falls—with rum, blue curaçao, orange juice, bar lime and a sugar rim—in honour of the view from the restaurant.
352 Doug Duncan Drive, Unit 1
snackmrkt.com
The Sociable Pub
Head on over to Yonge Street for a little Maritime hospitality at the Sociable Pub. Located inside a 19th century farmhouse, this pub transports guests to the East Coast with foot-stomping live music and open mic nights. Enjoy a glass of their summer White Peach Sangria on the patio, conveniently tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Yonge Street.
17380 Yonge Street
sociablepub.com
Aw Shucks
If a rooftop patio is at the top of your summer bucket list, look no further than Aw Shucks Seafood Bar & Bistro. This restaurant is well known for its fresh oyster bar and extensive international wine list, but their fresh seafood selection and summer cocktails make for the ultimate summer experience. For a tropical twist, try the Cocomo cocktail, made with Coconut Tequila, pineapple and lime.
15230 Yonge Street
awshucks.ca
Locale Aurora
The latest addition to the Aurora restaurant scene is the sister restaurant to Locale King City. The Aurora location boasts an elegant interior, perfect for an intimate dinner date, complete with an outdoor patio and new menu featuring signature Italian dishes. With a huge selection of wine, why not drop by Wednesday evenings for half priced bottles, or bring your own for a $25 corkage fee.
14845 Yonge Street
localerestaurants.ca
Joia
Wine lovers rejoice—with over 650 labels from wine regions near and far, Joia is a destination for wine connoisseurs. In fact, wine is the only thing this Italian kitchen doesn’t make from scratch. Pair the sommelier’s summer wine pick—the Château des Charmes Riesling —with a plate of freshly made pasta, or hand tossed wood-fired pizza.
15570 Yonge Street
joiaristorante.com
CASA CARBONE
A recent and welcome addition to Aurora’s culinary landscape, Casa Carbone boasts charcoal and wood fired grills and oven, fresh and handmade ingredients, and beautifully creative presentation of their Italian cuisine. If it’s a taste of summer in Italy you’re after be sure try their Aperol Caprese Spritz. Their unique take on the ever-popular cocktail is a perfect starter.
233 Earl Stewart Drive
casacarbone.ca
La Mexicanada
There’s no need to grab your passport to have an authentic Mexican experience. Head over to La Mexicanada for a memorable margarita experience—and who doesn’t love a frozen margarita on a hot day? Take your pick of the many flavours (strawberry being a fan favourite), or, for the more adventurous, try a Bulldog—a traditional lime margarita with a miniature bottle of Corona as a garnish. For a perfect Mexican pairing, try the authentic flautas, tacos or tostadas.
32 Holland Street East
lamexicanadabradford.ca
by Nicole Bogart
