Patios Are a Total Experience in Thunder Bay
Amanda Bay
July 31, 2026
We’re deep in the thick of summer now, and if you haven’t been living on a patio every chance you get, we need to ask what are you doing? TBay’s patio season doesn’t stick around forever, which is exactly why locals treat every warm afternoon (and evening, and late night) like it’s precious.
However, a good patio in this city isn’t just about the food or the drink in your hand—it’s about the moment. The string lights, music drifting over the tables, sun on your face, that little breeze off the lake…what ever you’re in the mood for, these TBay patios deliver a whole experience, not just a seat outside.
The Patio With the View & Perfect Gals Night: Bight Restaurant & Bar
When the whole point is the view, there’s really only one answer. Down at Prince Arthur’s Landing, Bight has the waterfront as its advantage. With the marina in front of you, Lake Superior stretching out beyond that, sailboats, the Sleepy G on the horizon, and a cocktail in hand, this is the patio with the best views. We love the cute vintage-styled fringed umbrellas! Grab a table right as the sun starts to dip.
This is also where you want to be for a girls night out… an elevated girl dinner to be exact. Bight introduced a new menu this summer designed just for the gals. It features oysters, truffle fries, olives and fried Devilled Egg that has shrimp, crab, and caviar (need we say more?!).
Yummy Italian Eats: Nook
When only real Italian food will do, this is where you go. Tucked into the Bay & Algoma district, Nook is highly rated by patio-goers and for a good reason! With authentic Italian food, great wine (you have to try the Primitivo), and a cozy patio atmosphere built for a proper dinner al fresco. Torn between the pasta and the pizza? Don’t torture yourself — get both. Start with an Aperol Spritz and the best burrata board in the city.
Where You Go for Live Music: Lakehead Beer Co
If a good soundtrack makes the night, head here first. Located downtown, Lakehead Beer Co features great locally brewed craft beer and a relaxed space to enjoy the summer weather, and it’s one of the city’s biggest and most loved patios. Located in the Waterfront District, it somehow makes you forget the whole thing is technically a parking lot. With picnic tables, string lights, a mural from local artists, some greenery, and a game of cornhole that’s always mysteriously in progress, it gives “someone’s really good backyard party.”
Thursdays are open mic nights, so you can either chill out to whoever’s playing or work up the nerve to grab the mic yourself (pro tip: you get a free drink for being brave). Keep an eye out for touring musicians dropping by and surprise DJ sets.
The Best Family Patio: Norteños
Good for the whole crew, kids included (especially if your craving Mexican eats!) Norteños on Arthur Street comes dressed as a cantina, with an inspired menu and decor that makes this patio feel like a backyard fiesta. It’s also fun for the littles, with easy eating, and picking out your own tacos which makes for a fun family night out.
Got a sweet craving? Grab the churros for dessert, which is a non-negotiable and easy to share with the fam. If there’s one universal truth, it’s that Mexican food tastes better outside.
Dog Friendly Patio & Most Chill: Swell Bakery & Barkeep
For the laziest, leash-in-hand kind of patio day, this St. Paul Street duo is where you should be. Mornings belong to Swell, with a monthly rotating menu of croissants, pastries, and cookies, July’s standouts include the S’mores Croissant and the Camp Brekkie Brioche. Come evening, it’s Barkeep’s turn, with a new menu just released featuring the Hawkins, a Cheezies-infused margarita style cocktail, and a Whipped Ricotta app from the Tomlin Restaurant team. Or keep it simple with a Piña Colada in the sunshine (there’s truly no better way to spend a patio afternoon). Water bowls and treats are always on hand for four legged guests, making this the go-to for anyone patio hopping with their favourite fury friend.
The Perfect Start to a Night Out: Pocket Change
Consider this your launchpad for the evening. Located on Red River Road, Pocket Change is a fun patio that often has DJs spinning… exactly what you want when the night’s just getting started. Happy hour runs 5 PM to 10 PM Thursday through Saturday, which is prime real estate for socializing. Order the dumplings, or the Korean corn dog! They never disappoint. This is definitely one cool hangout spot.
Best Date Night: Lot 66
This is for the “let’s make it a date night”. Lot 66 named their patio Far Niente, which translates to “without a care,” and it definitely evokes that feeling. It might be the most romantic patio in the city. It’s a Tuscan garden-like, relaxed setting, with stunning potted flowers and palms, so it feels private even when the patio is full.
Lot 66 opened back in 2006, so the menu is full of classic dishes with a modern twist. Our go-to’s? Start with the P.E.I. Mussels made in a white wine, spicy basil, and leek cream, and Famous Dave’s Fried Chicken, marinated in buttermilk with a maple drizzle and lime ancho aioli (all perfect for sharing). For a main, there’s no doubt, and it’s so fitting for a patio, is the Shrimp & Scallop Linguine, loaded with red Argentine shrimp, scallops, sundried tomatoes, and mascarpone cream. Total chef’s kiss!
TBay’s patio window is short, sweet, and closing faster than you think. Grab a friend, pick a patio (or five), and be outside while the going’s good.
