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Dining Al Fresco: 10+ Must-Visit Patios in Charlottetown
February 20, 2023
What’s the #1 reason to stay in Charlottetown? Well, that’s always up for debate. The selection of unique accommodations are pretty top notch, the walkability is second to none, and the abundance of adorable shops and boutiques are always appealing, but in 2023 it may well be the incredible outdoor dining scene that takes the cake.
With nearly 50 patios within walking distance, and new ones popping up regularly, we have a ton of cool options to choose from. From breezy dockside dining to cool rooftop terraces to swanky street-side spaces, we’ve narrowed down our top 10 not to miss this summer – along with some hidden gems and local favs – to make your patio search easy-peasy.
1) IT’S ALWAYS PIZZA (+ BURGER) PARTY TIME AT NIMRODS’
Now when you visit Peaks Quay Marina, you can enjoy Nimrods’ famous pizza and burgers on a floating dock. Whether you’re drawn by the live music, the stunning harbour views/feels, or straight-up cravings, you’ll leave feeling like a part of the Nimrods’ family. You can also check out the all-new JC’s Tiki Bar for incredible margaritas and tacos while you’re down on the dock!
2) DOCKSIDE DINING WITH CORK & CAST
The closest thing to being on a boat without leaving the harbour? Look no further than Cork & Cast, PEI’s first and only full-service floating restaurant. You’ll find it located on the east end of the boardwalk, in front of Founders’ Food Hall & Market. With some of the chillest tropical vibes in the city, Cork & Cast is dedicated to providing fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes, local craft beers, and a ton of cocktail options to help you relax in style.
3) STREET-SIDE & STYLISH ON SIMS PATIO
For a little taste of sophistication meets Island flare, look no further than Sims Corner Steakhouse and Oyster Bar on the corner of Sydney and Queen Streets. It’s a great spot to watch the world go by while you slurp oysters, sip some bubbly, and enjoy some of the finest steak and seafood on PEI.
4) HARBOUR VIEWS + SUNNY VIBES AT SALT & SOL
Salt & Sol Restaurant & Bar embraces everything that makes our Island so special during the summer months. With a picturesque view of the Charlottetown Harbour and one of the sunniest patios in the city, they encourage their guests to soak it all in. Serving Island seafood, tons of tasty cocktails, and delightful tapas!
5) FANCY STREETSIDE EATS AT SLAYMAKER & NICHOLS GASTRO HOUSE
Arguably the cutest streetside patio on the block. Oh wait, it’s the only streetside patio on the block! Tucked away on Fitzroy Street, Slaymaker & Nichols Gastro House has become known for their incredible beverages, delicious locally-sourced food and wonderful service + ambience. Their enclosed patio has become the ideal spot for a Happy Hour cocktail, a full blown gourmet meal, a savoury weekend brunch, or a nightcap under the stars.
6) BEST UPTOWN PATIO AWARD: LONE OAK BREWPUB
New to Charlottetown in the summer of 2022, this hip brewpub offers tasty craft beer & food, friendly service, stunning river views, and an incredible sun-soaked patio. Gather a group of your people, kick back by the fire, and take in some acoustic tunes- arguably the best way to enjoy a summer sunset.
7) BEST OF SEA AT MERCHANTMAN SEAFOOD BAR & NEXT DOOR LOUNGE PATIO
Looking for the best of both worlds? Check out the street-side deck on the Water Street side of the Merchantman, or you can head around the corner and experience one of the sunniest patios in the city at Next Door Lounge! Either way, you’re guaranteed excellent food (especially the seafood!), friendly service, and tasty drinks.
8) CUTEST COURTYARD AWARD: THE PILOT HOUSE
For some of the best food and memorable service in the heart of the city, look no further than The Pilot House on Grafton Street. This place is tucked away and surrounded by historic buildings. Not only is it a favourite among locals, but visitors flock to it whenever they’re in the city.
9) LAWN GAMES, HARBOUR VIEWS AND MORE AT BRAKISH!
The outdoor space at Brakish! (next to the Delta Marriott along the Charlottetown Harbour) has an abundance of adorable seating, complete with fire pits, a huge menu and views you can’t beat. Afternoon or evening, it’s one of the coolest places to be.
10) FOUNDER’S FOOD HALL & MARKET
With just about 20 vendors in total, you’ll have hit the jackpot at this urban market. Look forward to global and local flavours, including Mexican street food, Caribbean bokits, sushi burritos, vegan comfort food, and much more! Sunny days lend themselves to catching up with friends on this buzzing patio decked with plenty of seating, constant live music, and all the good vibes.
CHARLOTTETOWN CLASSICS & LOCAL FAVS
Listen folks, As much as we’d love to narrow it down for you, naming only 10 patios is nearly IMPOSSIBLE with all that Charlottetown has to offer. But are you complaining? Here’s even more places to sit & sip al fresco:
- Peake’s Quay Restaurant & Bar: For both the sea and land lovers- overlooking the harbour
- Farmacy + Fermentary: Grab a vegan meal and listen to midday tunes on their sunny seats
- Craft Beer Corner: The perfect place to get your craft beer fix with friends, day to night
- HopYard:
- Hunter’s Ale House: Hunters’ sized fixings, street-level or elevated
- Churchill Arms: Enjoy the best British curries and other tasty offerings, street-side
- Receiver Coffee Co: Craft roasted coffee, a welcoming vibe, and delicious breakfast & lunch options
- Lobster on the Wharf: Gorge on lobster with breathtaking views of the Charlottetown Harbour
- Shaddy’s Lebanese Cuisine: A hidden garden oasis of a patio with an authentic Lebanese touch
- Redwater Rustic Grille: THE place to enjoy lunch in the sun or a fine dining meal with a city-scape view
- John Brown Richmond Street Grille: An amazing vibe offering the quintessential Victoria Row experience
- Casa Mia Cafe: Best for all-day brunch, the streetside bustle, and people-watching
- Water Prince Corner Shop: A hidden gem visited by seafood-lovers all over the world
- Brit’s Fish & Chips: Enjoy the tastes of Britain complete with tons of flowers and friendly staff
- The Old Triangle: Pub food, live music, and a bucket of beers in the sunshine
- The Gahan House: Friendly service, delicious food, and handcrafted ale galore
- The Olde Dublin Pub: Late night party vibes, Irish food, and buck-a-shuck oysters every day
- Dave’s Lobster: The place to go when those lobster roll cravings hit
- The Gallery Coffee House & Bistro: Morning coffee, midday lunch or an evening snack with a side of sunshine
- PEI Brewing Company: Enjoy a snack and a crisp brew after a long day of adventuring
- JEMS Boutique: Perfect for morning coffee, relaxing while your partner shops, or getting some work done
- Charlottetown Beer Garden: The largest patio downtown, radiating good vibes
- Upstreet Craft Brewing: THE place to spend Happy Hour in the heart of mid-town
- Leonhard’s Cafe & Restaurant: Freshly made goodies that make an adorable accompaniment to your catch ups
- Red Island Cider: Hand crafted cider and cozy Adirondack chairs
- The Brickhouse Kitchen & Bar: A hip experience in the heart of the entertainment district
- bar1911 Beer + Coffee: The perfect pit stop along your adventures
- Piatto’s Pizzeria + Enoteca: Wood-fired pizza + Italian wine on a streetside patio? Yes, please!
- Dundee Arms Inn: Bring food from any licensed restaurant and enjoy it on their beautiful patio
- The Factory: Your go-to spot for wood-fired pizza and all the vibes
- Himalayan Downtown: Some of the finest Indian cuisine in the heart of the city
- Haru K-BBQ: All of your BBQ dreams come true
Travelling with your furry friend? Find a list of dog-friendly patios HERE
And there you have it! Who knew we had so many patios in our itty bitty city? Now bring on the sunshine, Happy Hours, and good vibes because things are getting heated UP here in Charlottetown.
Looking for a place to stay? Check out our amazing selection of accommodations. Curious what to do? Don’t miss a beat over on our events page. And for everything else you need to know about Charlottetown, go to our “Need to Know” page!
