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10 Best Patios in Halifax Vetted and Reviewed by a Local

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A Halifax summer is often a hot one. Like many Haligonians, I like to take advantage of the warm, sun-soaked days from a cozy patio, preferably right by the waterfront, with a cold beer in my hand and a plate of fresh seafood.

Most of the patios in Halifax come alive in the summer heat, offering everything from mouth-watering eats to seasonal treats. Some even have live music and dancing.

Whether you’re planning a boozy brunch by the sea or a romantic rooftop dinner, Halifax has the right spot for every occasion.

Below, I’ve made a list of the best patios in Halifax that are worth visiting. I’ve reviewed each one to help you get started on your search.

LevelBar

Website: https://www.princegeorgehotel.com/dining/levelbar.php

Location: 1725 Market Street

Phone: +19024640764

Opening hours: Open daily for

Lunch, 12 PM–4 PM

Dinner, 4 PM–11 PM

High atop the Prince George Hotel, you’ll find LevelBar, one of the best rooftop bars in Halifax with patio seating. This gem is right smack in the heart of the city, but it has a cozy and laid-back vibe.

Surrounded by lush greenery, dining here feels private and intimate, perfect for romantic dinners or late-night drinks. As you sit on their outdoor lounge chairs next to palm trees, you’ll forget you’re even in the middle of the city.

They serve small plates, local brews, and seasonal cocktails, so there’s always something new to try here. Since this is a rooftop after all, don’t miss the chance to watch the sunset and dine under the stars. 

Pro Tip:
LevelBar doesn’t have a dress code, but we recommend wearing a smart casual fit. 

The Stubborn Goat Gastropub

Media credit: thestubborngoat

Website: http://www.stubborngoat.ca/

Location: 1580 Argyle Street

Phone: +19024054554

Opening hours:

Mon-Fri, 11:30 AM to late night

Sat-Sun, 10:30 AM to late night

From mac n’ cheese to thin-crust pizza, The Stubborn Goat serves elevated comfort foods with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. They also have an extensive liquor selection, ranging from draft beer to classic cocktails and spirits.

Thanks to its convenient location downtown, it’s a go-to spot for much-needed after-work drinks. It’s right next to the street, making it the perfect place for people-watching no matter what time of the day.

The patio is covered so you can still sip your drinks without having to worry about the downpour.

Pro Tip:
Brunch at The Stubborn Goat ends at 2 PM, while happy hours run from 2 PM to 5 PM on Sundays through Thursdays.

Durty Nelly’s

Media credit: durtynellyspub

Website: http://www.durtynellys.ca/

Location: 1645 Argyle Street

Phone: +19024067640

Opening hours: Daily, 11:30 AM to 2 AM

A hearty serving of shepherd’s pie along with a cold glass of Guinness at Durty Nelly’s patio is what my summer dreams are made of. This authentic Irish pub serves classic pub fare, which includes bangers and mash, nachos, and chicken wings.

Every night of the week, you can expect entertainment from Trivia Nights to live music performances. Even if you’re seated outside, you won’t miss out because they often bring the party outside so everyone can enjoy.

With their Celtic sessions and other live jams, it made it to our list of the best nightclubs in Halifax. They even offer discounted brews during these fun times.

Pro Tip:
Durty Nelly’s is a popular pub so book a table in advance. They accept reservations within certain cutoff times.

Stone’s Throw Patio

Media credit: stonesthrowpatio

Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yhzmc-halifax-marriott-harbourfront-hotel/dining/

Location: 1919 Upper Water Street

Phone: +19029437547

Opening hours: Daily, 12 PM to evening (depending on the weather)

Located at the Marriott Harbourfront Hotel, Stone’s Throw Patio offers laid-back outdoor seating right next to the water. They have fresh seafood, 16 beers on tap, happy hour specials, and stunning views of the sea. 

It’s an idyllic summer escape, where you can soak up some sun and relax. As a pet owner, it’s one of my favorite places to go after a walk as your furry companions are welcome to join you on the patio any time of the day.

Plus, the friendly staff will even give your pet a bowl of water and some treats.

Pro Tip:
Visit during happy hours, which is from 4 PM to 6 PM every day. You can indulge in craft beers for only $6 and wines for $7.

The Lower Deck

Media credit: annearnold727

Website: http://www.lowerdeck.ca/

Location: 1887 Upper Water Street

Phone: +19024251501

Opening hours: Daily, 11:30 AM to 12:30 AM

The Lower Deck is easily one of the most festive spots to dine al fresco in the summer, where you’ll find a mixed crowd of locals and tourists looking for a genuine Nova Scotian experience. 

All season long, they host courtyard parties with live performances from local musicians, encompassing a variety of genres. Aside from its music-filled nights, this bar is well-loved because of its waterfront location and affordable prices. 

You can sip locally sourced craft beer and classic pub fare while enjoying the cool sea breeze. It’s also a go-to spot for day drinking in sunny weather because the patio is uncovered, perfect for soaking up some sun.

Pro Tip:
Arrive early to snag a spot on the patio. For a more relaxed outdoor dining experience, stop by during the weekdays.

Lot Six Bar and Restaurant

Media credit: lotsixbar

Website: http://www.lotsix.ca/

Location: 1685 Argyle Street

Phone: +19024287428

Opening hours:

Brunch, Sat-Sun 11 AM to 3 PM

Dinner, Wed-Sun 4 PM to 9 PM

Lot Six is a hip, upscale bar and restaurant known for its craft cocktails, inspired by pop culture such as Lavender Haze and Cake by the Ocean. As you might have already guessed, it attracts a younger crowd of professionals and students. 

Compared to other options on our list, its seasonal patio is quite small with limited seating. However, I still think it’s a great place for a casual, laid-back dining experience where you can also people-watch.

Inside the atrium, the vibe is always vibrant and energetic, perfect if you’re hoping to meet someone or just feeling social. The spacious room and the high glass ceilings make it seem like you’re eating outdoors under the stars.

Pro Tip:
On Fridays and Saturday nights, the kitchen stays open until the late hours of the evening, so you can order small plates along with refreshing drinks. 

The Bicycle Thief

Media credit: ourbicyclethief

Website: http://bicyclethief.ca/

Location: 1475 Lower Water Street

Phone: +19024257993

Opening hours: Daily, 11:30 AM to 11 PM

Fresh seafood at The Bicycle Thief’s patio near the waterfront always puts me in the mood for day drinking. Serving North American comfort meals with an Italian flair, you can get everything from slow-roasted pork ribs to fresh crab ravioli here.

In the summer, every table on the patio comes with a large umbrella so you can dine under the shade. It’s great for days when the summer heat is a little unbearable.

What I like the most about their patio area is that it’s open nearly year-round. Even in the coldest months of the year, you can sit outdoors in front of a small fire to stay warm and perhaps make some smores.

Pro Tip:
Make a reservation well in advance, especially for a spot on the patio, to enjoy waterfront dining at its best. If you’re just popping by, the bar area is perfect for grabbing a drink and a few appetizers.

Stillwell Beer Garden

Media credit: stillwellbeergarden

Website: http://www.barstillwell.com/beergarden

Location: 5688 Spring Garden Road

Opening hours: Daily, Noon to Late (depending on the weather)

Stillwell is a peaceful beer garden in the middle of a busy street. With long communal tables, overhead string lights, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for casual hangouts with friends or enjoying a chill evening. 

While this spot is primarily a beer garden, featuring an impressive rotating selection of local and international craft brews, they also serve a small but thoughtful list of cocktails.

The food is centered around simple, well-executed bites like lobster rolls, burgers, and fries that pair perfectly with a cold drink. 

Here, good vibes and great food won’t cost an arm and a leg.

Pro Tip:
Go during the early evening on weekdays to avoid the weekend rush and get a better choice of seating.