As patio season arrives on Vancouver Island, locals and visitors are drawn to the beautiful Cowichan Valley for alfresco dining. Known for its wineries, scenic vistas, and charming communities, the Cowichan Valley offers some of the best restaurant patios where you can enjoy the outdoors while supporting local businesses. From waterfront views to vineyards, here are the 10 best patios in the Cowichan Valley.
Unsworth Vineyards
In the heart of the valley, Unsworth Vineyards is a must-visit for wine lovers and food enthusiasts. The outdoor patio overlooks rolling vineyards, creating an ideal setting for a leisurely meal. Whether you’re indulging in estate-grown wines or savouring West Coast-inspired dishes, the atmosphere makes Unsworth a top destination for outdoor dining.
Their outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying sunny afternoons, and the addition of outdoor heaters ensures that even on cooler days, guests can comfortably enjoy their meals. With a focus on farm-to-table cuisine, dining at Unsworth allows you to support local growers and enjoy the freshest ingredients that Vancouver Island has to offer.
Cowichan Bay Pub
Located in the coastal town of Cowichan Bay, the Cowichan Bay Pub offers a lively yet relaxed setting with waterfront views. The pub’s expansive patio sits right along the bay, making it the perfect spot for seafood lovers. Here, you can savour local fish and chips, prawns, or a hearty burger while watching boats come and go from the marina.
Merridale Cidery & Distillery
Situated in Cobble Hill, Merridale Cidery & Distillery boasts one of the most beautiful patios in the Cowichan Valley. Surrounded by orchards, this rustic location is the ultimate escape for a relaxing afternoon. The sprawling patio is perfect for enjoying wood-fired pizzas, fresh ciders, and craft spirits, all while taking in the natural beauty of the area.
Merridale’s patio is designed to keep you comfortable throughout patio season, with outdoor heaters ensuring you can linger long after the sun. Whether you’re there for a cider tasting or a full meal, Merridale offers an authentic farm-to-fork experience that embodies the essence of Vancouver Island.
Blue Grouse Estate Winery
Another standout among the Cowichan Valley’s wineries is Blue Grouse Estate Winery, which offers a spacious outdoor patio with panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills. This venue is perfect for a wine tasting followed by a delicious pairing.
The calm and peaceful setting makes Blue Grouse a great spot for those seeking a quiet retreat. During patio season, guests can enjoy outdoor dining while sipping on estate-grown wines. The outdoor heaters add a layer of comfort, making it a cozy spot to enjoy the crisp evening air.
Bridgeman’s Bistro at Mill Bay Marina
If you’re seeking stunning waterfront dining, look no further than Bridgeman’s Bistro at the Mill Bay Marina. This restaurant patio offers uninterrupted views of the marina, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Bridgeman’s serves a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, burgers, and seasonal specials that highlight the best of the region.
The location, combined with the friendly service and beautiful scenery, makes it a must-visit during patio season.
Enrico Winery
Located in Cobble Hill, Enrico Winery offers a charming patio with stunning vineyard views and a welcoming ambiance. Their light meals, paired with award-winning wines, make for a perfect afternoon. The patio is a hotspot during weekends when live music performances bring a festive atmosphere to the winery.
What sets Enrico apart is the combination of great wine and a lively setting, making this patio a cozy destination even as the temperatures drop. Enrico is a great spot for anyone looking to unwind while enjoying some of Vancouver Island’s finest wines.
The Cook & Butcher by Oceanfront Suites
The Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay provide a relaxed yet refined outdoor dining experience with views of the bay. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy bay hotels with dining that capitalizes on fresh, local seafood. Their patio is a lovely place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the ocean views.
Whether you’re visiting for lunch or dinner, the menu offers a wide selection of seafood dishes, paired perfectly with a refreshing cocktail or glass of wine. The peaceful oceanfront setting ensures that dining here is both a treat for the palate and the senses.
The Old Firehouse Wine and Cocktail Bar
In Duncan, The Old Firehouse Wine and Cocktail Bar offers a cozy, intimate patio where you can enjoy craft cocktails and tapas in a historic setting. The atmosphere is perfect for small gatherings or date nights, with a creative drink menu that highlights locally-sourced spirits.
The outdoor dining experience here is unique due to the setting—an old firehouse transformed into a trendy bar. The patio is small but charming, offering a perfect spot for enjoying the evening.
Zanatta Winery
One of the oldest vineyards in the Cowichan Valley, Zanatta Winery features a rustic yet inviting patio where you can enjoy their handcrafted wines paired with farm-to-table fare. The vineyard’s rich history adds to the charm of the outdoor dining experience, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet afternoon escape.
The cozy patio offers spectacular views of the vineyards. Zanatta is a perfect spot for a leisurely meal while soaking in the beauty of Vancouver Island’s wine country.
Cherry Point Estate Wines
Rounding out the list is Cherry Point Estate Wines, located near Cobble Hill. This winery offers a spacious patio surrounded by lush vineyards and gardens. Cherry Point prides itself on its sustainable farming practices and offers a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients.
The large patio is perfect for outdoor dining, offering ample space for guests to spread out and enjoy their meals. Whether you’re stopping by for a wine tasting or a full meal, Cherry Point’s is a great spot.
Explore Patios in the Cowichan Valley
Whether you’re exploring the Cowichan Valley’s wineries, savouring seafood by the water, or enjoying creative cocktails in a historical setting, the valley offers a diverse range of restaurant patios for outdoor dining. As you explore these beautiful outdoor spaces, you’ll not only be treating yourself to amazing food and drink, but you’ll also be supporting local businesses that make Vancouver Island a unique culinary destination.
If you’re ready to explore the beauty of Vancouver Island’s wine country and beyond, let Vivid Tours take care of your next adventure. Contact us today to book!
