Thousands of scantily clad humans, an octagonal pool
ringed with celebrities and fat-walleted VIPs, magnums
of -deluxe vodka and oceans of cranberry juice and
soda water: what could possibly go awry? Cabana, with
its umbrellas en blanc and hierarchical seating arrange-
ment (the more you pay, the closer you get to the pool),
is like a micro-Vegas on the pier. Even if you hate every-
thing it stands for, you’ll still enjoy the show.
CABANA POOL BAR
11 POLSON. TORONTO
After a strenuous day of sun and revelry in Trinity Bell-
woods, is it so wrong to crave a few cold, cheap beers on
the most unpretentious of patios? Look no further than
directly across Queen, where the Done Right Inn has
a leafy backyard set with dilapidated wooden benches
and lit by a string of feeble bulbs. Order a round at the
bar (bring hard cash or Canadian Tire money), tuck in
to the booth by the trunk of a gnarly old maple and wait
about five seconds to feel completely at home.
DONE RIGHT INN
861 QUEEN W. TORONTO
Even if hanging with evenly tanned, well-heeled socialites
(seriously, this is a Louboutin zone) isn’t your thing, no
summer in the 6ix is complete without a drink on the
Thompson rooftop. Go late in the afternoon for a lofty
gin and tonic or splurge on champagne after dark while
taking in the glitziest panoramic view of the Toronto
skyline. Note that the infinity pool is off-limits unless
you’re a member or guest of the hotel and the only way
to guarantee a table is with a reservation.
THOMPSON HOTEL
550 WELLINGTON W. TORONTO
Sprawled above the fray on the rooftop of the beauti-
fully restored Dineen Building, the patio at the Chase
is a prime spot for an afternoon tipple. No need to get
suited up to appreciate the summery cocktail list, good
(not pricey) plates and a stunning view of the city cen-
tre. If bankers make you uncomfortable, go before 5 pm
to soak up the sun before Bay Street ascends to drink
the bar dry.
THE CHASE
4GUYS.CA
10 TEMPERANCE, TORONTO
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