When the sun is shining and the breeze is just right, there’s no better way to enjoy downtown Peterborough than by grabbing a seat on a patio with your favorite people, a great drink, and something delicious to eat. Whether you're here for brunch, date night, or just looking to soak up the summer vibes, this city has a patio for every kind of moment.
Here are 5 must-visit patios in downtown Peterborough that combine great food, perfect views, and a little something special:
🌇 1. Riley’s Rooftop Patio
Location: 251 George St N
Vibe: Casual, lively, scenic
Riley’s is known for its laid-back atmosphere and extensive menu, but what really sets it apart is the rooftop patio—a true hidden gem. From up here, you get a beautiful view of downtown and the Otonabee River. It’s the perfect place to catch the sunset while enjoying a burger, fish tacos, or a cold pint. If you’re patio-hopping, this one is a must for your golden hour stop.
☕ 2. Silver Bean Café
Location: 130 King St (Millennium Park)
Vibe: Peaceful, picturesque, local favorite
Tucked along the waterfront in Millennium Park, the Silver Bean Café offers a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere with one of the most peaceful patio views in the city. Grab a coffee and breakfast sandwich in the morning, or pop by for a fresh salad or wrap at lunch. Bonus: you’ll likely see kayakers, paddleboarders, or even live music in the park while you’re there.
🍕 3. The Publican House Brewery
Location: 294 Charlotte St
Vibe: Rustic, inviting, brewery cool
Craft beer lovers, rejoice! Publican House offers a shaded outdoor patio right beside their brewery and restaurant, featuring their popular brick oven pizzas, creative appetizers, and full lineup of in-house brews. This patio is perfect for casual get-togethers or a spontaneous afternoon with friends. Don’t miss their signature Square Nail Pale Ale—it’s a local favourite.
🌅 4. Riverside Grill & Lounge (Holiday Inn)
Location: 150 George St N
Vibe: Waterfront, relaxed, underrated gem
Located in the Holiday Inn, this patio often flies under the radar—but once you’ve had breakfast or a cocktail right on the Otonabee River, you’ll want to keep coming back. It’s ideal for a peaceful brunch or an evening dinner with boats passing by and the water just a few feet away. A true hidden gem with an unbeatable view.
🍻 5. St. Veronus Café & Tap Room
Location: 129 Hunter St W
Vibe: European beer garden, cozy, character-rich
Tucked into a quiet corner of Hunter Street, St. Veronus offers one of the most unique patio experiences in Peterborough. Inspired by Belgian beer cafés, the patio feels like a little escape to Europe, complete with an incredible menu of import beers and classic pub fare with a twist. Whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for a different kind of downtown vibe, this spot delivers.
🍹 Wrap-Up: Your Summer Patio Tour Starts Now
Whether you’re meeting friends after work, planning a weekend brunch, or looking for a solo spot to sip something cold and people-watch, Peterborough’s downtown patios offer variety, atmosphere, and seriously good eats.
So go ahead—start your own summer patio crawl, try something new, and celebrate the warm days while they last. You might just find your new favorite hangout spot.