Blue skies, a warm breeze, sunshine on your shoulders, and the sound of good friends laughing. Add to that the bliss of an ice-cold beer with a juicy burger, or perhaps a fresh plate of linguine di Mare and a nice pinot grigio, and voila - nothing says summer like hanging out on a patio. After months of solo socializing, patio season's here and it's time to enjoy drinking and dining al fresco with friends, even if at a social distance.

1. Uncle Betty's

Let's start with the most important meal of the day! A neighbourhood staple, it's perfect for brunch and offers premium diner fare, including all-day breakfasts, in a casual eatery with bright, retro decor. On top of their patio offering, Uncle Betty's also acts as an ice cream parlour , serving up scoops of Greg's ice cream, and makes fresh Dreesen donuts (similar to the famous Tom's Donuts from the CNE).

2. CIBO

Authentic Southern Italian food, an incredible 2,500 bottle, two-storey wine room, and a phenomenal Yonge Street patio! What's not to love about this wildly popular culinary hotspot in midtown Toronto. Definitely make your reservations now to avoid missing out!

3. La Vecchia Restaurant Uptown

Take a trip to old world Italy without having to leave your neighbourhood. La Vecchia has been serving up authentic Italian cuisine for over 23 years and is famous for its lively ambience and classic décor. The intimate patio is the perfect place to enjoy an Italian-inspired brunch or lunch, but our recco is an intimate dinner for two with their signature pizzas and a bottle of good Chianti.

4. Kramer's Bar & Grill

Head straight to the roof!  On your way, you will pass by two garden patios, a welcoming "cheer-style bar, fabulous home-made dishes, an upstairs lounge, and party venue, and tons of people having fun!  As everyone's favourite local, Kramer's hosts regular events that include karaoke, pub quizzes, meet-ups, and live music but the rooftop, all wood patio on a hot summer night is most definitely the scene to be seen in.

5. La Carnita

If you love art, music and tacos, you'll be glad to learn La Carnita serves all three up in an edgy space infused with graffiti-style murals, hip-hop soundtracks, and an eclectic Mexican-inspired menu that has you coming back for more. The scene is hip and gritty, locally designed with the help of some of Toronto's best street artists. The 65-seat patio invites a party that wraps around the front of the restaurant. The menu must-haves include Mexican street corn, ceviche tostadas, and Voltron-sauced cod tacos. Cerveza and Tequila are a popular choice, but the house specialty is Hella Fuego, a frothy and tart blend of mezcal and Pimm's sweetened with ginger syrup is to die for.

Living at the centre of the city comes with major benefits and patio perks - mainly access to some of the hottest hot spots to bask in the summer sunshine, share great food and bevvies, and, more than anything, make new memories with friends when the living is good.