8 dishes we can't wait to have when the weather warms up
Summer is almost here, we swear.
There’s something about that first warm day that flips a switch—suddenly, heavy meals are out and we’re craving food that feels a little lighter, a little brighter, and a lot more patio-friendly. Whether it’s a cold oyster, a crunchy salad, or a scoop of something sweet, these are the dishes we start daydreaming about as soon as the forecast hits double digits.
La Banane - East Coast Oysters
Nothing says hello, patio season like a platter of freshly shucked East Coast oysters. La Banane serves them ice-cold and elegantly simple—bright, briny, and begging for a squeeze of lemon and a glass of something bubbly on the side.
Credit: @labananeresto
Lambos Deli - Heirloom Caprese Sub
Lambo’s takes the classic Caprese and gives it a sun-soaked glow-up. Juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic on their signature soft sub roll—it’s the sandwich equivalent of golden hour.
Credit: @lambosdeli
Vit Beo - Smashed Cucumber Salad
Cool, crunchy, and packed with flavour, this isn’t your average cucumber salad. Vit Beo’s version brings the heat with chili oil, garlic, and herbs—exactly the kind of bold, refreshing bite you want when the weather turns hot.
Credit: @vit.beo.to
Souvla by Mamakas - Grilled Chicken Souvla & Feta Fries
Juicy, char-grilled chicken wrapped in warm pita with tangy tzatziki and crisp veggies—it’s peak summer wrapped in carbs. Pair it with their golden feta fries (yes, feta fries) and you’ve got the ultimate patio power combo.
Credit: @souvla_bymamakas
Fonda Lola - Ceviche
Bright, zesty, and impossibly refreshing, Fonda Lola’s ceviche is sunshine in a bowl. With citrus-marinated seafood, pops of chili, and crunchy tostadas on the side, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you're on vacation—even if you're just on Queen West.
Credit: @fondalola
Azhar - Fattoush Salad
Azhar’s take on this Middle Eastern staple is all about bright herbs, crunchy pita chips, and a lemony sumac kick. It’s light, tangy, and ridiculously satisfying—basically, what every summer salad wants to be when it grows up.
Credit: @azhartoronto
The Old York Tavern - Tavern Burger & Frites
Sometimes you just want a perfectly grilled burger and a mountain of crispy fries—and The Old York delivers every time. Juicy, no-nonsense, and best enjoyed with a cold drink on their sunny patio, this is the kind of meal that hits all the right summer notes.
Credit: @theoldyorktavern
Death in Venice Gelato - Mascarpone & Vanilla with Strawberry Yuzu
When the heat hits, this is the scoop we dream about. Creamy mascarpone and vanilla meet bright, tart strawberry yuzu in a combo that’s rich, refreshing, and totally unforgettable—a summer love story in gelato form.
Credit: @deathinvenicegelato