The calendar page has turned to June, and summertime weather is soon to follow. It’s time to shake off the dreary winter blues and soak up some much-needed sun. And enjoying those glorious golden rays is all the better with a cocktail in hand, a scenic view and a delicious meal. With that thought in mind, here are – in no particular order – the top five patios to check out this season in Richmond:
Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant
140 – 3866 Bayview St.
(604) 275-7811
Jutting out on the Bayview Pier in historic Steveston, Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant is a favourite amongst locals for its tasty dishes and 100-seat patio. Voted best scenic view, best outdoor dining and best ambiance by Lower Mainland patrons on the website OpenTable.com, the acclaimed eatery also recently snagged two prestigious 2011 Golden Plate awards from the Georgia Straight newspaper. Chef Paul Haldane’s maritime menu features fresh local ingredients including wild salmon and shellfish – and for dessert, there’s a popular lemon meringue pie that’s simply scrumptious.
The waterfront patio is an ideal spot to catch West Coast sunsets while sipping on a glass of vino from their varied wine list or on one of the 24 craft beers on offer. In addition to the stunning vista and mouthwatering fare, hockey fans won’t have to miss a second of the playoff action – the Blue Canoe’s patio boasts three big screen TVs. This summer, an oyster bar will also be added to the mix and a new patio cocktail menu launches the first week of June. Visit http://www.bluecanoerestaurant.com/ for updates throughout the summer.
Pier 73 Restaurant (Delta Vancouver Airport Hotel)
3500 Cessna Dr.
(604) 278-1241
Previously home to the Elephant and Castle, Pier 73 is the fresh new eatery located behind the Delta Vancouver Airport Hotel. Their innovative and eclectic menu even includes a special gluten allergy menu.
Suspended above the Fraser River in the heart of a charming 138-slip marina, the restaurant’s spacious patio offers a superb waterfront location with clear views of the North Shore Mountains. Keep your party hats handy next month – Pier 73 is kicking off the summer this year with a swinging patio party on Friday, June 24. The celebration will include an outdoor barbeque, prizes, drink specials and live music.
Harold’s Bistro and Bar (Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel)
7551 Westminster Hwy
(604) 273-7878
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Westminster Highway is a tranquil gem of a patio enclosed by trees, shrubs and flowers. This hidden courtyard oasis, complete with outdoor pool and hot tub, is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed business lunch or unwind for after-work drinks. Luckily, you don’t need to be a hotel guest to experience this peaceful sanctuary – all patrons of Harold’s Bistro and Bar are now welcome to wine and dine outdoors throughout the warmer months. Starting June 7, Tiki Tuesdays will become the hottest nights of the week with torches, tropical music and special menu and drink items.
Recently renovated during the hotel’s transformation from the Richmond Inn to a Sheraton, the restaurant is named after Harold Cross, a faithful patron who’s lunched at the eatery every day for more than 30 years. Stop by around noon and you’ll likely see Harold at his favourite table, noshing on one of the same two menu items. Harold, who will celebrate his 90th birthday this summer, is a friendly gentleman always ready with a cheerful word so don’t be shy to say hello on your way out to the patio!
Sockeye City Grill
3780 Bayview St.
(607) 275-6790
Situated directly along Steveston’s lively boardwalk, the wheelchair-accessible Sockeye City Grill patio provides great people-watching, a laid-back vibe and a premier view of the Fraser River. And with daily fresh sheets and a scrumptious weekend brunch, there are plenty of delicious dishes to choose from.
Want to enjoy the great outdoors but the weather isn’t cooperating? No problem – there are heat lamps and the front patio’s retractable awnings will ensure you’re covered from any drizzle. If you’re feeling extra chilly, the restaurant also has blankets on offer to snuggle up in.
Mandalay Lounge and Steakhouse
3900 Bayview St.
(604) 628-2500
The sleek, chic interior of this vibrant hot spot is complimented with the large Miami-style patio overlooking Steveston’s shimmering waterfront. Located directly on the water, the patio offers stunning, unobstructed views including regular sightings of marine wildlife such as seals, cranes and osprey.
Specialists in all libations shaken and stirred, Mandalay is the top place in town for an afternoon sip or an evening aperitif with friends. Each summer, their creative bartenders whip up a special patio drink menu sure to dazzle and inspire. Be sure to give their famous sangria a whirl when you visit!
