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Make Every Meal Special at the 11 Best Patios in Kingston
One warm evening in Kingston, I found myself craving a meal outdoors, the kind where the breeze carries laughter and the table feels alive with flavour. That thought pushed me to explore the city’s best patios, both the ones I’ve visited and those still waiting on my list.
What I uncovered was more than just places to eat—each patio had its own charm. Some were tucked away with cosy corners perfect for quiet conversations, while others buzzed with energy, music, and views that made every bite feel richer.
The real challenge wasn’t tracking them down, it was figuring out which one to savour next. So, to make things easier, here’s my round-up of Kington’s best patios where your next meal is bound to be unforgettable.
Chez Piggy Restaurant & Bar
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Address: 68R Princess Street
Contact details: +16135497673
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Chez Piggy has a courtyard patio that feels tucked away from the busy streets, making it perfect for a laid-back meal outdoors. The setting has a lot of character, with its restored limestone stable walls adding a rustic touch.
The menu is diverse, but the oysters stand out as some of the best you’ll find in Kingston. Other dishes balance creativity and comfort, so you’ll find both familiar flavours and a few surprises.
Prices lean toward the higher side, but the quality of the food and atmosphere make it worthwhile. Staff are friendly, and while the pace can be slower, it gives you more time to relax into the experience.
Pro tip: Ask for a seat in the courtyard patio if you’re bringing your dog. It’s one of the few pet-friendly patios in town and adds to the charm of your visit.
The Kingston Brewing Company
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Address: 34 Clarence St
Contact details: +16135424978
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Sunday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 1 AM
The Kingston Brewing Company has both a front patio shaded by umbrellas and a cosy back courtyard filled with vines and string lights. It’s one of the oldest brewpubs in Ontario, and the space reflects that history with its warm, pub-style atmosphere.
The beer list is the real draw here, with rotating house brews alongside local favourites. The raspberry wheat gets lots of love, but you’ll also find heavier IPAs and seasonal options worth trying.
Food is hearty and pairs well with the drinks—burgers, chicken pot pie, cod cakes, and even pickled eggs if you want something classic. Prices are fair for the portion sizes, and service tends to be quick and attentive.
Pro tip: Try to visit in the evening and sit in the courtyard. When the patio lights come on, the setting feels especially inviting for a long, relaxed meal.
Tango Nuevo
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Address: 331 King St. E
Contact details: +16135483778
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 10:45 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
Tango Nuevo is known for its tapas-style dining, which lets you sample several small plates instead of committing to one big dish. It’s a slower-paced meal that stretches over a couple of hours, making it a top pick for date nights or long catch-ups.
The menu changes often, but standout favourites include scallops, lamb tacos, and Mediterranean eggplant. Vegetarian and sometimes halal options are available, so you’ll always find something that fits your preferences.
The patio adds to the experience, with a cosy setting that matches the restaurant’s warm, dimly lit interior. Prices are on the higher side, but sharing several dishes makes it feel worthwhile.
Pro tip: Go with a small group and order five or six different plates—you’ll get to try more of the rotating menu without overordering, and it makes the meal more fun.
Days on Front
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Address: 730 Front Road
Contact details: +16137669000
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 5 to 9 PM
- Thursday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM | 5 to 9 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM | 5 to 10 PM
- Saturday – 5 to 10 PM
Days on Front is a west-end gem that blends fine dining with a relaxed, approachable feel. The patio may be modest, but it gives you a comfortable space to enjoy their thoughtful plates with a glass of wine.
The menu ranges from hearty steak frites with beef tallow mayo to lighter picks like chicken supreme or shrimp appetisers. They also feature rotating specials, so you’ll often get dishes that aren’t on the regular menu.
Service is a highlight here, with staff that balance professionalism and warmth. The wine list is one of the best in Kingston, with bottles you won’t easily find at the LCBO.
Pro tip: Book during one of their special events, like a wine dinner or Mother’s day brunch. You’ll get a more unique experience than a standard meal.
Pilot House of Kingston
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Address: 265 King Street East
Contact details: +16135420222
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu
Pilot House is a go-to spot if you’re craving fish and chips, with options like cod, haddock, and halibut done in a light, crispy batter. Portions are generous, and you can swap fries for a fresh salad if you want something lighter.
The patio has a quiet, relaxed feel, making it an excellent choice for a late meal or a long chat with friends. Inside, the vibe leans toward a cosy pub, complete with a solid list of beers and other drinks.
Staff keep things welcoming and casual, even when it gets busy, which makes your time here easy-going. Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes, especially considering the quality of seafood.
Pro tip: Try visiting on a weekday afternoon for a more laid-back patio experience. You’ll avoid the dinner rush and get quicker service with the same hearty plates.
The Iron Duke
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Address: 207 Wellington St
Contact details: +16135424244
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu
The Iron Duke is your authentic neighbourhood pub, with locals filling the space and keeping the atmosphere lively. Their patio gives you the same casual charm, only with fresh air and a good view of the street.
You’ll find plenty of local beers on tap, and the menu covers pub classics that come out quick and tasty. Staff are efficient and kind, even when the place is packed, which makes dining here easy-going.
The snug corner seating is popular for smaller groups, but the outdoor tables are great for people-watching. Prices are fair, and being right downtown means you’re close to everything.
Pro tip: Park directly across the street in the paid lot. It’s inexpensive and saves you from circling for spots on busy nights.
Harper’s
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Address: 93 Princess Street
Contact details: +16135073663
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu
Harper’s is a burger-focused spot with a patio that’s just as inviting as the menu. You’ll find plenty of choice here, from chickpea patties and “Beyond” burgers to classic options, all paired with crisp fries or waffle fries.
The shakes are another highlight—rich, sweet, and a great match with the savoury plates. Staff keep the service upbeat and friendly, which makes the wait easier if things are busy.
Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes, and the variety means you can switch things up each visit. It’s casual, filling, and a solid stop for comfort food outdoors.
Pro tip: Try the falafel wrap if you’re not in the mood for a burger. It’s one of their underrated menu items that regulars rave about.
Wooden Heads Gourmet Pizza
Media credit: woodenheads
Address: 192 Ontario St
Contact details: +16135491812
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
Wooden Heads is one of the busiest spots downtown, and the patio adds to its lively atmosphere. The menu leans on wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings, from apple butter with chicken to their popular Citta pie.
Starters like the lumpia diavolo are worth trying if you want something spicy before your pizza. Drinks are solid too, with cocktails and wine options that pair nicely with the food.
Service is generally quick and helpful, even when the place is packed, and the vibe is energetic without being overwhelming. Prices are mid-range for Kingston, especially considering the portion sizes.
Pro tip: Make a reservation if you want a patio table on a weeknight. It fills up fast, and walk-ins often have to wait.
Mesa Fresca Kingston
Media credit: mesafrescakingston
Address: 1347 Gardiners Road
Contact details: +16133896372
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 12 to 8 PM
Mesa Fresca brings bold Latin-inspired flavours to Kingston, and the patio makes it even better for a relaxed evening out. The menu covers everything from birria tacos and chimichangas to seafood paella, all made with fresh, quality ingredients.
What sets this spot apart is its commitment to sourcing locally whenever possible. You’ll taste the difference in dishes like poblano rajas, which come with a sauce that regulars can’t stop talking about.
The drinks menu is just as strong, with cocktails that balance the spice in the food. Staff here are warm and attentive, often remembering returning guests, which makes the experience more personal.
Pro tip: Ask for their hot sauce selection when you order. There are several varieties, and trying a few will let you adjust the heat level to your own taste.
Amadeus Cafe
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Address: 170 Princess Street
Contact details: +16135467468
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 4 to 9 PM
- Saturday – 12 to 9 PM
Amadeus Cafe is one of the few places in Kingston where you’ll find authentic German and Austrian cuisine, and their hidden Biergarten patio is a big part of the charm. Tucked behind the limestone walls, it’s a peaceful escape right in the middle of downtown.
The menu leans heavily on schnitzels, with options like Holstein or Venus served with golden spätzle that’s pan-fried just right. Pretzels, sausages, and hearty desserts round out the offerings, giving you a complete European-style dining experience.
Portions are generous, and the staff are quick to fix any mix-ups without making you feel rushed. Prices are fair for the quality and the serving size, especially given how filling each dish is.
Pro tip: Pair your schnitzel with one of their German beers in the Biergarten. The combo makes you feel like you’ve been transported straight to Europe.
The Loyal Oarsman
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Address: 1724 Bath Road
Contact details: +16133845236
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Monday, Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
The Loyal Oarsman brings a classic English pub feel to Kingston, complete with comfort food and a lively atmosphere. Their patio gives you the same warm vibe with a relaxed, open-air twist.
The menu covers all the pub staples, from shepherd’s pie and steak sandwiches to wings done with different rubs and sauces. Daily specials, such as soups or Yorkshire pudding stuffed with beef, add variety if you want something different.
Drinks are just as much of a draw, with Guinness poured perfectly and plenty of draft options to choose from. Prices are fair for the portion sizes, and service is quick, even when the place is buzzing.
Pro tip: Order the wings with their Caju dry rub. They’re some of the most talked-about in Kingston and pair perfectly with a pint on the patio.
