The Copper Still, Carleton Place
Patios with a View: Waterfront Dining in Ontario’s Highlands
Enjoying a fantastic meal with a waterfront view is a true Ontario summer pastime, and across Ontario's Highlands you can find restaurants, cafés and breweries that pair delicious local flavours with unforgettable lakefront or riverfront scenery.
From tranquil lakeside views to the melody of a rushing river, these local spots serve up a feast for the senses, and where the setting is every bit as memorable as what’s on your plate.
Back Forty Artisan Cheese - Sharbot Lake
Back Forty Artisan Cheese in Mississippi Station offers a true farm-to-table experience. Their casual, seasonal bistro is located on private property next to their farmhouse with stellar views of the Mississippi River. Lounge in one of the adirondack chairs overlooking the water and savour a cheese tasting while enjoying the view.
Insider's Tip:
Try one of their wood-fire vegetarian pizzas topped with their house-made sheep’s milk cheese, the perfect way to truly experience what makes Back Forty so unique.
Rio Tap & Grill - Eganville
A local favorite in Eganville, Ontario, Rio Tap & Grill boasts a rooftop patio with sweeping views of the beautiful Bonnechere River and Ottawa Valley countryside. This is a go-to gathering spot for locals, visitors, and cottagers. Be there in time for the sunset, which is absolutely epic from this rooftop view.
Insider's Tip:
Rio Tap & Grill's Smash Burgers are a huge hit! Made with 100% angus beef and a hand-rolled house bun, this might just make the perfect sunset supper.
The Copper Still Social House - Carleton Place
In Carleton Place overlooking the Mississippi River lies The Copper Still Social House, a beautifully restored historic mill turned neighbourhood gathering place with one of the town’s most scenic waterfront patios. Decorated with strung patio lights, this is the place to enjoy a cocktail on a hot summer night while the lights reflect off the water.
Insider's Tip:
Their patio is truly memorable. Not only large it's also decorated with comfortable sectional sofas so you won't need to sacrifice comfort for the view.
The Barley Mow - Almonte
Located in a restored old mill on the Mississippi River, The Barley Mow has a double-decker patio to ensure you never miss a seat with a view of the rapids. Unwind here after a day exploring the historic town of Almonte and let the sound of the rushing waterfalls be the soundtrack to your delicious meal at this local Gastropub.
Insider's Tip:
Order some of their traditional pub fare paired with a refreshing mocktail for the perfect riverside pub experience.
Joe’s Italian Kitchen - Almonte
Joe’s Italian Kitchen in Almonte offers incredible views of the Mississippi River and its historic waterfalls right from the riverside patio. Here you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine while being swept away by the rushing sound of the Mississippi River.
Insider's Tip:
As Canada’s first certified Pinsaria, it would be a crime not to try their signature dish, Pinsa Romana - a lighter, crispier style of authentic Italian pizza without any additives or preservatives.
On The Rocks - Calabogie
Perched on the shores of Calabogie Lake, On The Rocks flaunts a fine dining, contemporary menu with a beautiful outdoor patio showcasing views across the water. Especially atmospheric at night, On The Rocks is an ideal waterfront dining location to take in a beautiful sunset over the water.
Insider's Tip:
Their parmesan truffle fries are a popular choice for an afternoon cocktail by the water.
Coutts Coffee and Riverwood Pizza - Perth
Serving the best of both worlds, these locations in Perth Ontario operate side-by-side and give patrons the chance to indulge in a handcrafted beverage before enjoying an authentic wood-fired pizza dinner, all while taking in the Tay River from their chic riverside patio.
Insider's Tip:
Order a specialty iced latte at Coutts before heading out back to Riverwood for a wood-fired pizza and signature Snappetizer.
Boshkung Brewing Co. - Minden
Boshkung Brewing Co. offers beautiful views of the Gull River alongside award-winning craft beer and traditional pub fare. With a focus on ‘bringing neighbors together’, Boshkung offers a large outdoor patio with plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the naturally beautiful surroundings in Haliburton Highlands.
Insider's Tip:
Try their Smash Burger Taco for something new - and of course, one of their small-batch local craft beers! Plan to be there on a night when live music will enhance the setting.
Lockmaster’s Tap House - Smiths Falls
Lockmaster’s Taphouse sits above the Rideau Canal and houses a spacious patio overlooking the falls, offering front-row views of the rushing water and historic buildings. With live music on summer evenings, this riverfront eatery offers one of the best places to catch a sunset on the Rideau.
Insider's Tip:
Try a few Tappetizers such as the Shareable Feast and Lobster Dip to snack on while taking in the views or grab a Pub Fave for something cozy and familiar.
CC’s on the Rideau - Rideau Ferry
CC’s on the Rideau offers traditional pub fare with a seafood focus and fine dining options right on the banks of Rideau Lake. With views of Big Rideau Lake as far as the eye can see, you can dine in their large screened-in porch or on the spacious patio and lawn to enjoy your made-from-scratch meal. Arrive by car or boat for this unique experience.
Insider's Tip:
Watch the boats cruise past the patio and ingule in some boat-watching instead of people-watching.
