Beyond the annual return of the CNE, a day trip to the Toronto Islands is one of the most iconic summer activities in the city. Teeming with green space — a rarity in Toronto — the islands are a lovely respite from the concrete jungle. There are scenic walks, kayak rentals, the Centreville Amusement Park, city bike rentals, beaches (including that one on Hanlan's Point), a hedge maze and even a petting zoo. And, while they might be spread out, there are plenty of Toronto Islands restaurants to grab a bite in the sunshine.
Each pocket of the island has its own personality — from the sleepy, residential feel of Ward’s to the family-packed energy of Centre Island. Whether you're looking for a quiet garden patio or a lively lakeside beer and burger, there's a Toronto Islands restaurant for every mood and appetite.
Take a short ferry or water taxi ride from the Harbourfront to arrive at Centre Island, Ward's Island and Hanlan's Point. The Islands offer limitless spots for a picnic if you've packed a lunch, but we recommend checking out some of the iconic Toronto Islands restaurants instead. We've rounded up the best ones, including a few hidden gems, below. Just be sure to check their websites before you visit — many of these spots are seasonal.
1. The Riviera
102 Lakeshore Ave.
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Handidly the best patio on Ward's Island, The Riviera offers gorgeous vistas of the lake along with their $40 sangria pitchers, rye and pineapple Algonquin Island cocktail, and beach-y eats like a 12-inch hot dog or Island Smashburger. Make sure you visit the hidden gem speakeasy at this Toronto Islands restaurant — Castaways Rum Shack, a pop-up cocktail bar with classic tipples like mai tais, piña coladas and rum punch.
2. Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co.
120 Centre Island Dock
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This Centre Island institution is known for its delectable slow-smoked BBQ, house-made coleslaw and selection of local beers. Matched with unparalleled views of the city's skyline, this Toronto Islands restaurant is iconic for a reason.
3. Carousel Café
Centre Island
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Near the marina, this fully licensed café caters to crowds heading to and from Centreville Amusement Park. Trust us — you can't go wrong with the chicken finger basket, with your choice of dipping sauce and seasoned fries.
4. The Island Greek Grill
1-5 Avenue of the Island
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Few know this small Centre Island shack that dishes chicken gyros, souvlaki and much more. It's right by the Toronto Islands Bicycle Rental — grab a pita before or after your bike ride. Heads up — this spot is so small, they don't have a website or Instagram.
5. The Upper Deck
40 Avenue of the Island
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Doesn't karaoke or live music, sprawling city views and a steak-spiced Marina Smash Burger on a fluffy brioche bun, sound like the perfect afternoon? That's what's in store at this lesser-known patio near the Centre Island's marina.
6. Mermaid Café
Hanlan's Point
This tiny hole-in-the-wall is fully licensed, and serves snacks on the quieter Hanlan's Point.
