And just like that, our Summer is coming to an end. September is around the corned. The kids will soon be back in school and routines will be back in full swing. But before we say goodbye to our beloved season, let’s make the best of what’s left of patio season!
If you haven’t had the chance to explore our beautiful downtown, then let this be your excuse. Because downtown Barrie has some great patios. From waterfront views to sheltered oases to views of Downtown activities, there are tons of great locations to choose from.
Here are 10 of our favourite patios for views and flavours.
1. BOHEMIA
Bohemia is a cafe in Downtown Barrie and is known for amazing coffee and excellent food. They also have a beautiful patio at the back of the restaurant that overlooks Kempenfelt Bay.
The cafe opened in 2004. The owner was an actress working at restaurants on the side. She was a baker at MacLaren Art Center when she decided she wanted to open her own cafe.
The cafe is an unforgettable experience with eclectic decor in every corner of the space. The menu is full of simple but delicious dishes, including:
- Soups
- Salads
- Sandwiches
- Sweets
Each dish is made from scratch and full of fresh flavours. And there’s something for everyone … regardless of dietary restrictions.
If you’d like to try out Bohemia, visit them at: 125 Dunlop St E
2. DONALEIGH’S IRISH PUBLIC HOUSE
Located just east of the Five Points is Barrie’s premiere Irish Public House – Donaleigh’s. Here you’ll find authentic Irish ales, lagers and stouts, as well as delicious pub fare made with fresh ingredients.
Donaleigh’s is in a landmark property with two patios. The first is right on Dunlop St where you can enjoy the active Downtown atmosphere. The second is at the back of the restaurant and offers a more sheltered and private experience.
The restaurant also has live entertainment every Thursday to Sunday.
To experience Donaleigh’s fine Irish tradition of great food, quality ales and genuine hospitality, head to: 28 Dunlop St E
3. MEXHICO RESTAURANT
Mexhico Restaurant is one of the newer restaurants in Downtown Barrie. They serve plant based, Mexican inspired food that is authentic, fresh and delicious. They also have a small grocery selection and a variety of gluten free and vegan options. Mexhico even has vegan spirits and beer.
The interior of the restaurant is bright and welcoming with colourful art and displays.
Outside, in warmer months, you can enjoy Mexhico’s patio. This year, the patio is part of the Brightening Barriers exhibition. The exhibit pairs businesses and artists to spread creativity across the city.
Mexhico’s installation is “Sweet Moves” by Katie Green. You can see it as you come up to the restaurant along the patio fence.
If you want to check out the display and try Mexhico’s delicious food, visit them at: 37 Dunlop St W
4. FLYING MONKEYS CRAFT BREWERY
At Flying Monkeys you can always expect creative craft beers and exciting new flavours. Especially with drinks like Velvet Bubble Lord Blueberry Sour and Quantum Hugs Cold IPA.
In fact, the brewery has had over 50 distinct brews, has sent a beer to space and has won 75 awards. They also have a delicious selection of pub food with a twist.
In the summer, the patio is a great way to enjoy everything Flying Monkeys has to offer. Not only does it give you a great view of Downtown, it’s also dog friendly, making it a great stop when out and about with your pooch.
To try out Flying Monkeys’ unique selection of food and drink, head to: 107 Dunlop St E
5. GRILLED CHEESE SOCIAL EATERY
The Grilled Cheese Social Eatery’s menu features everything from classic to indulgent. One of their most popular sandwiches, outside of the classics, is the Spirit Catcher. This sandwich is a tasty combination of basil, tomato, monterey jack, cheddar, bacon and avocado.
The restaurant also offers smoothies, soups and sweets, as well as vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. And their patio offers a perfect view of Downtown Barrie.
To try Grilled Cheese Social Eatery for yourself, head to: 53 Dunlop St E
6. GROOVY TUESDAY’S BISTRO
Groovy Tuesday’s is an intimate space that encourages guests to get to know one another. Their ever changing menu includes comfort foods with a modern edge, exciting flavours and fresh ingredients.
Owner Melanie finds inspiration for her dishes on her travels. Her favourite places are San Francisco and Chicago, as well as Ireland where she grew up. With every dish made to order, Groovy Tuesday’s can accommodate all dietary restrictions and preferences.
The restaurant also features a great patio overlooking Collier St and the City Hall. Here guests can enjoy the sun as they take in the amazing flavours and the relaxing environment.
If you want to try Groovy Tuesday’s, you can find it at: 73 Collier St
7. THE 7 SPICE
The 7 Spice patio is a great way to step away from the hustle and bustle while continuing to enjoy the downtown experience.
The restaurant opened their first location on Duckworth St in 2018. In April 2022, The 7 Spice Downtown opened with a fast, casual, multi-cuisine dining option for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their menu has a little bit of everything from around the world.
Come try it for yourself at: 29 Maple Ave
8. IL BUCO RISTORANTE
If you’re looking for authentic Italian cuisine, you’ll want to try Il Buco in Downtown Barrie. This hidden gem serves fine Italian dishes made of the freshest ingredients.
The interior has a warm inviting atmosphere but in the summer, the place to be is the patio.
The elevated patio, located at the back of the restaurant and has beautiful views of Kempenfelt Bay.
See for yourself by visiting the restaurant at: 31 Dunlop St E
9. KENZINGTON BURGER BAR
Kenzington Burger Bar is the place to be for great food and live entertainment. Their mouthwatering burgers satisfy any craving and live music plays 7 days a week. The restaurant was even featured on You Gotta Eat Here.
Another reason for many to visit is Kenzington’s amazing patios.
The first patio is at the front of the restaurant on Dunlop St. It is a great place to enjoy the liveliness of Downtown Barrie and scope out your next stop. It’s also dog friendly.
The second patio is an unexpected oasis off the back of the restaurant. As an added bonus, this patio is open in cooler months with heaters installed in the space.
To see it for yourself, head to: 40 Dunlop St E
Kensington Burger Bar – Instagram
10. THE NORTH RESTAURANT
Another great venue with two patios is The North Restaurant. Located in a converted century home, the restaurant has a street side patio out front and a deck patio in the back.
The North offers a fine dining experience with a Mediterranean flare and has an extensive wine list.
If you’re looking for something unique, be sure to pursue their wild game menu. This menu features dishes made with kangaroo, alligator, venison, wild boar and more.
If you’re looking for The North Restaurant, head over to: 49 Mary St
The North Restaurant – Instagram
These are only some of the many patios located around our Barrie area. To find other great locations, head on down and explore. Downtown Barrie is full of amazing restaurants, cafes, boutique shops and events.
