Taste something on this list?
Get the RankIt app to rank your favourite dishes and see how your picks stack up against the locals.
Free · No paid placements · Made for people who actually ate there
Guide · St Catharines
Looking for the best spots to dine outside? Here are 9 top-ranked patios in St. Catharines, from waterfront views in Port Dalhousie to downtown alleyways.
When patio season arrives, finding the right outdoor dining spot in St. Catharines makes all the difference. While local guidebooks often list the same handful of downtown patios, the city's top-ranked outdoor tables range from quiet creekside decks to ship-watching perches along the canal. If you're looking for the top spots overall, check out our list of the best overall restaurants in St. Catharines.
Whether you want to enjoy a cold local brew in a hidden downtown alleyway, dig into wood-fired pizza near the beach in Port Dalhousie, or watch cargo ships pass along the canal, these top-ranked spots deliver outstanding food and atmosphere for dining outside.
Located directly along the Welland Canal, George's Greek Village features an all-season patio that provides a unique vantage point for watching massive cargo ships glide through the canal locks. It is a peaceful spot to enjoy classic Greek dishes like souvlaki, saganaki, and fresh seafood while enjoying the breeze off the water. If you're in the mood for fresh Greek salads or grilled meats, this waterside spot is hard to beat.
Situated in the heart of historic Port Dalhousie, The Twisted Pig boasts one of the largest patios in the city. The outdoor space is dog-friendly and steps away from the pier, making it a perfect spot for people-watching after a walk by the lake. They specialize in wood-fired pizza and hearty Italian pasta dishes, paired with a solid selection of drinks.
This downtown staple offers an urban backyard patio that feels tucked away from the main street. Framed by exposed brick, steel beams, and warm string lights, it provides a cozy setting to enjoy their house-brewed craft beer. The kitchen serves up gastropub fare, including their popular wings and burgers, making it a popular choice for casual weekend hangouts.
Tucked into a downtown alleyway off Garden Park, Trust Beer Bar features a stylish and intimate patio area. Highly regarded by beer enthusiasts, this spot is known for its curated tap list of rotating Ontario craft brews and natural wines. They also serve a Mexican-inspired menu featuring fresh tacos and burritos, perfect for warm summer evenings.
If you want to escape the city's busier districts, the secluded back patio at The Upper Deck TapHouse + Grill offers a quiet retreat in the west end. Overlooking Twelve Mile Creek, the patio is surrounded by mature trees and natural scenery, providing a relaxed backdrop for a pint and classic pub food. It is an ideal spot to unwind with friends after a long day.
For unmatched waterfront views and memorable sunsets, the patio at the Dalhousie Yacht Club Restaurant is a prime destination. Overlooking the marina in Port Dalhousie, this patio offers a classic nautical atmosphere. While it is associated with the yacht club, the restaurant and patio welcome reciprocal club members and guests by reservation, offering a scenic menu focused on seafood and seasonal specials.
Housed in a beautifully restored 1907 bank building, Balzac's features a lovely multi-level outdoor patio near Lakeside Park. It is the perfect place to start your morning with a fresh cup of coffee or tea and a selection of baked goods. The shade from nearby trees and the close proximity to the waterfront make it a peaceful, relaxing stop.
Johnny Rocco's on Merritt Street features an intimate patio space nestled against the historic backdrop of a former mill along the second Welland Canal. The patio offers a comfortable, upscale casual environment to enjoy traditional Italian favorites, including specialty pizzas, pastas, and cocktails. It is a great spot for date night or a family dinner.
This west-end neighborhood pub is known for its welcoming, pet-friendly patio. It is a great spot to bring your dog while enjoying classic British pub fare, like their signature fish and chips. With a wide range of beers on tap and a relaxed, community-oriented vibe, it's a popular spot for locals looking for a casual outdoor pint.
For waterfront dining, George's Greek Village offers direct views of cargo ships on the Welland Canal, while Dalhousie Yacht Club Restaurant and The Twisted Pig offer scenic views near the marina and pier in Port Dalhousie.
Yes, several patios welcome dogs. The Twisted Pig in Port Dalhousie and The Feathery Pub in the west end both feature pet-friendly outdoor seating areas.
The Merchant Ale House brews its own craft beers on-site in their downtown location. Just around the corner, Trust Beer Bar offers an alleyway patio and a highly curated tap list of rotating Ontario craft beers.
Get the RankIt app to rank your favourite dishes and see how your picks stack up against the locals.
Free · No paid placements · Made for people who actually ate there
Community-ranked restaurants across Ontario.