As the temperature drops and the days shorten, the simple joys supplied by the summer sunshine fade, but not entirely. Patio dining is a popular outing that most of us reserve for those warm summer days, but some local businesses have found ways to extend the beloved patio season into the cold months. There’s something for everyone in York Durham and Headwaters in this list of unique winter patios.
York
Pine Farm Orchards
2700 16th Side Road, King, ON, L7B 1A3
The local family-run orchard offers cozy outdoor seating in Adirondack chairs. Bring your friends, families, and furry companions around the spread of fire pits, keeping warm while enjoying some fresh air Tuesdays- Sundays, 9 a.m. to 5.pm., fires lit at 10 a.m.
La Grotta on Main
205 Main St., Unionville, ON, L3R 2GB
The Italian restaurants back garden pergola patio is equipped with room to dine while being warmed by the electric fire pits.
Headwaters
Hockley Valley Resort Snow Globes
793522 3rd Line EHS, Mono, ON, L9W 5X7
Between December and March, enjoy a unique culinary experience at the snow globes at Hockley. The 5-course meal, accompanied by wine pairings and cozy ambiance including candle light, blankets, and a personal speaker provides guests with an exciting farm to table winter dining experience. Enjoy the menu that changes weekly while staying warm in the intimate heated snow globes.
Caledon Hills Brewing
8519 Patterson Sideroad, Caledon, ON, L7E 0J5
A new addition this year, the Caledon Hills Brewing Company added greenhouse dining areas to their patio, encouraging guests to grab food and drink year-round with the cozy sheltered outdoor area.
The Vista
20706 Heart Lake Road, Caledon, ON L7K 2A2
From seafood to sweets, The Vista offers winter food and drink lovers a heated patio to enjoy fine dining and fun cocktails.
Elliott Tree Farm
9467 Erin Garafraxa Townline, Hillsburgh ON, N0B 1Z0
Just an hour outside of Toronto, the Elliott Tree Farm offers a one of a kind winter dining experience with their fire pit grill rentals. The fire pit sites are perfect for preparing a winter picnic full of your family or friends’ favourites. Firewood packages are available for purchase on site, including both natural fire starters and matches, ensuring your fire is started with ease. While enjoying the fire pits, explore the walking trails on the property with your leashed dogs.
Mono Centre Brewing Co.
388113 Mono Centre Rd, Mono, ON L9W 6V8
The newest brewery in Headwaters will be open all winter long with fire pits, board games, and you guessed it…top notch beer! Just a four-minute drive east of the stunning Mono Cliffs Provincial Park making this area a well-rounded tourism destination.
Durham
Corrado’s Restaurant and Bar
38 Baldwin St, Whitby ON L1M 1A2
Corrado’s Cabins and Dining Domes are decorated, heated outdoor dining experiences. Both the cabins and domes equipped with a set menu can accommodate up to 8 people. Put together your own menu or choose from one of the carefully curated existing menus for the dining experience like no other.
Slabtown Cider
4559 Concession Road 6, Uxbridge ON L9P 1R4
The heated patio at Slabtown Cider overlooks the forested landscape. Enjoy your choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic cider while admiring the view.
Two Blokes Cider
21300 Simcoe St, Seagrave, ON, L0C 1G0
Grab an hour-long outdoor fire pit rental and stay cozy and warm with the provided seat pads and blankets while enjoying your choice of the variety of available ciders at Two Blokes Cider.
Old Flame Brewery
135 Perry St, Port Perry ON L9L 1B8
Bring your own blanket down to Old Flame Brewery and make the most of their heated patio seating as you enjoy delicious drink options.
Banjo Cider
614 Sandford Rd, Uxbridge ON L9P 1R2
Wrapping up this list is Banjo Cider, offering smores and warm alcoholic and non-alcoholic ciders around firepits. To guarantee your own firepits, book ahead, but if you want a chance to meet new friends, visit their communal firepit on Saturdays.
By Heather Knight
