Thirsty? Here are some of the best patios to check out in Ottawa this summer
Outdoor dining, drinking and people watching are some of the best things to do as the weather warms up and patio is in full swing.
Outdoor dining, drinking and people watching are some of the best things to do as the weather warms up in the nation's capital.
Across the city, restaurants and bars are opening their outdoor patios, featuring classic favourites and new hidden gems.
Local food blogger Allie Simanzik shared some of her favourite great local patios to to CTV Morning Live this week.
New Pho Bo Ga La
763 Somerset St W
New Pho Bo Ga La, featuring delicious traditional Vietnamese Pho, rice rolls and drinks, is one of the only patios located in Ottawa's Chinatown neighbourhood.
Located on Somerset Street, the restaurant's patio showcases a lush green environment with neon lights to set the scene in the evenings.
'It's really cozy,' Simanzik said. 'It's one of my favourite spots in Chinatown.'
Simazik recommends ordering the build-your-own rice rolls, made from your choice of protein, noodles and vegetables.
Dark Fork
25 George St
Dark Fork is a unique restaurant located in the ByWard Market where patrons eat in a dark dining room with no lights, allowing customers to experience the life of a visually impaired person.
This year, the restaurant is opening its first ever sign language dining experience on its George Street patio with staff who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Signs and menus guide customers how to use sign language to order.
'It's a really cool new concept. I think it's the most unique idea we have. Everyone can learn a little sign language along the way,' Simanzik said.
The patio's menu features a large array of American and Canadian classics, including burgers, steak and pasta.
Dark Fork
Roxanne Labreche greets diners at Dark Fork in Ottawa's ByWard Market. (Shaun Vardon/CTV News Ottawa)
The Moonroom
442 Preston St
The Moonroom's signature cocktails are the perfect refreshment for a hot summer day.
The Little Italy cocktail lounge features a secret garden in the back to bring a more intimate setting.
'It almost transports you to Brooklyn. There's lush greenery, beautiful, handcrafted cocktails on site,' Simanzik said.
The menu also features some delicious Mediterranean bar bites.
La Roma
430 Preston St
Located just steps from The Moonroom is longstanding Preston Street staple La Roma.
You might be surprised to know about its secret rooftop patio that allows for private parties.
For over 30 years, the restaurant has been known for its modern twists on classic Italian cuisine.
It also has an impressive wine list that can be enjoyed al fresco.
Kichesippi Brewery and Ad Mare Seafood truck
2265 Robertson Rd
Kichesippi Beer Company and the Ad Mare Seafood truck have partnered up to bring an east coast vibe to Ottawa's west end.
Ad Mare makes on-the-spot fish seafood dishes and combines it with Kichesippi's extensive beer list to bring a fun and inviting atmosphere.
'Think lobster rolls with a really crisp beer on a patio,' Simanzik said.
'It just kind of teleports you to the east coast a little bit.'
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