Nothing better than a late afternoon on a terrasse when the sun beats down on the city and raises the temperature. You have to take advantage of it, because these opportunities don't last long. And that's what we do in Quebec, because from the first warm rays of April, tables and chairs placed along a sidewalk in front of a restaurant quickly find takers.

In summer, whether as a couple, with family or friends, it goes without saying to have a cocktail or a meal in the sun while chatting on a restaurant terrasse. The vast majority of restaurants have a terrasse, and it is always extremely popular!

When the cool temperatures are behind us and the official installations completed, restaurants do not hesitate to offer a summer menu in order to attract all those who enjoy afternoons and evenings on a restaurant terrasse.

Indeed, summer dishes are usually created especially for the terrasse season, such as drinks and appetizers reminiscent of holidays in southern countries.

Others take the opportunity to create a different atmosphere by organizing themed evenings or inviting a singer to perform on the patio on Fridays or Saturdays.

As mentioned above, it is not uncommon, from the month of April, and often just in time to celebrate Mother's Day at the restaurant, as patios welcome their first visitors of the year.

And even when summer is coming to an end, many restaurants have thought about organizing a heated patio to allow their valued customers to enjoy the outdoors a little longer.

Some have even created permanent installations, ensuring that the terrasse can be used all year round, even in winter!

If you are looking for the most beautiful patios to enjoy the summer heat, here are our suggestions:

Brasserie du Lac Brompton

In Estrie, and perhaps outside this region, the reputation of Brasserie du Lac Brompton is well established. Whether in winter thanks to the proximity to snowmobile trails, and especially in summer with the most beautiful terrasse overlooking the lake in addition to offering a splendid view of the mountains, this restaurant is busy all year round !

It is said that it is the most beautiful terrasse in the Eastern Townships with, as a bonus, a vacation atmosphere. But arrive early, the restaurant does not take reservations on the terrasse. It’s more on the principle of first come, first seated.

In addition, the restaurant offers one of the most typical brasserie menus possible, including grilled meats and seafood. A few pizza choices are also on the menu, including their popular special lake pizza, which is all dressed with extra tomatoes, onion and bacon.

Brasserie du Lac Brompton is part of the Domaine Lac Brompton group which also offers accommodation.

Pilsen Pub

Another terrasse located directly on the water's edge, offering a welcome breeze on hot summer days, is that of the Pilsen Pub in North Hatley.

If you are visiting this charming little corner of the Eastern Townships, you will automatically be seduced by its location. You won't hesitate to order a drink or a draft beer from a local microbrewery in addition to a basket of truly delicious homemade fries, accompanied by one of their homemade mayo.

If you stop by for an evening meal, the menu offers, among other things, choices of burgers or fish ‘n chips.

There are of course other restaurants with terrasses in North Hatley and the surrounding area

Terrasse Nelligan

For people passing through Montreal, find the Nelligan Hotel, whether to sleep or not, and go straight to the fifth floor. From there you enter the restaurant terrasse located directly on the roof of the building.

So, while relaxing, eating or drinking, you can take a breath of fresh air and admire the views of the Old Port from morning to evening.

To ensure the atmosphere on Friday and Saturday, guest artists perform there.

A signature cocktail menu and various culinary offerings are dedicated to guests on the patio.

Brasserie 701

There is also Brasserie 701, offering contemporary French cuisine and located in a historic and emblematic building of the metropolis, which offers a terrasse.

The menu is modern, making us feel like we are in a Parisian brasserie, but with an added touch of creativity and elegance.

Located in the heart of Old Montreal, a few steps from Chinatown and Notre-Dame Basilica, it will make you have a good time with beautiful weather.

There are plenty of other restaurants with patios in Montreal...

L’Orygine

In Quebec, there is no shortage of terrasses with a view or overlooking a historic site.

This is the case with the bistro L’Orygine, which takes place in the heart of Old Quebec. This restaurant offers organic cuisine, whose menu changes with the seasons. Oysters, Nordic shrimp, veal and sea urchin are on the menu at the time of writing. Most dishes are offered in vegan versions.

An exclusive cocktail, spirits and wine menu is available. A brunch menu is also offered on Sundays from 9:30 a.m.

Maison Smith (Place Royale)

Still in Quebec, still within the walls of the old city, Maison Smith is located at Place Royale, the cradle of French-speaking Quebec, and offers its cafés.

The patio is located in the heart of the site of the founding of the City of Quebec.

As soon as the café opens, around 7 a.m. every morning, you will notice the tranquility of the neighborhood. After lunch, the sun shines over the entire square to create a unique atmosphere where street music resonates quietly while allowing you to observe the unique and historic architecture of the neighborhood.

There are obviously other restaurants with terrasses in Quebec...

Le Zélé

Let's now move on to a restaurant in Shawinigan, the Cité de l'Énergie, which is also full of restaurants with patios, like here at Zélé.

This European bistro style restaurant highlights regional products, depending on the seasons and availability. A must-have is without a doubt the poutine with black garlic fries.

A large quantity of beers from Quebec microbreweries is also on the menu, a perfect match with the terrasse, the sun and moments with friends!

O Quai des Brasseurs

Finally, very close to there, more precisely in Grand-Mère, you will find yourself O Quai des Brasseurs, a place which prides itself on being more than a microbrewery.

For what? Because there is also an attractive menu, events, beers... and a terrasse.

The gourmet menu includes pizzas, pastas and burgers (like the Côtier, made with smoked ribs, BBQ sauce and coleslaw). A “smoking room” section will please fans, as will the section reserved for fish lovers.

There are a total of ten beers offered on the menu, in addition to cocktails and non-alcoholic products.

Other restaurants with terrasse in Shawinigan will also amaze you...