What do luxury, lake views, and a chilled glass of something sparkling have in common? They all taste better al fresco. From elegant hideaways to laid-back local gems, these waterfront patios deliver summer on ice—one glass at a time.
Luxury by the lake at Restaurant la Quintessence
At the edge of Lake Tremblant, the terrace at Restaurant la Quintessence feels suspended between sky and water—and it’s my go-to getaway when I’m craving a glass of Franciacorta. Made in the traditional method, “Italian Champagne” stands apart thanks to a longer fermentation process and limited production—a quiet luxury seldom offered by the glass. This one is crisp, with ultra-fine bubbles, perfect acidity, and a whisper of toasted bread on the finish. To pair, the server suggests the Canadian trout ceviche, delicately dressed with coconut, lime, cucumber, and berries. The combination is flawless: rich yet fresh, silky and vibrant—a perfect match for the Franciacorta’s smooth depth. It’s 26 degrees out, the sun is blazing, and the lake shimmers like a blanket of diamonds. Another moment of effortless bliss, elegantly served up by the Q.
Rustic and relaxed—Le Grand Lodge
Perched on the shore of Lake Ouimet, the Grand Lodge offers one of the region’s most generous waterfront settings. Both its restaurant, Le Borivage, and the adjacent Whisky Bar open onto expansive patios with lake views. The bar menu is unpretentious and perfect for après-mountain biking with easy trail access, ample parking and a warm, welcoming log cabin ambience. I order a classic Kir Royal—sparkling wine with a splash of crème de cassis—paired with an heirloom tomato salad, a surprisingly joyful combination. But it’s my friend’s frosty Stella and matchstick fries that beckon me….
When nature nurtures Bistro Bar Chez Charbonneau at Club Morritt
After a two-year renovation hiatus, Club Morritt is back – modern, brighter, and somehow still just as woodsy. On the edge of charming Lac Moore in the old Village, the patio stretches wide beneath mature evergreens, with string lights and fire towers adding a dash of cozy. I order a cold glass of Prosecco and the fried olives with herbed yogurt. The briny, golden crunch plays perfectly off the soft, buttery bubbles. A mid-century lounge soundtrack drifts through the open space, but it’s the low, resonant croak of bullfrogs from the lake’s edge that really sets the tone. Bistro Bar Chez Charbonneau is that rare hybrid: part lakeside hideaway, part no-fuss local essential. Open from 8 a.m. straight through dinner with a vast and affordable, all-house-made menu, free parking, and warm, gracious service, it will quickly become one of your favorite spots.
Sunset spritz – Bistro Le Loch
Part tropical cabana, part rustic bistro, with a hint of nautical whimsy, Bistro Le Loch leans effortlessly into summer. Known for its creative cocktails and generous weeknight dinner specials, the vibe is equal parts easygoing and elevated gastropub. I opt for their house signature: the Spritz Le Loch, a blend of peach liqueur, Cappelletti, sparkling wine, and frozen cranberries. It arrives glowing like a sunset in a glass—bittersweet, fruit-forward, and dangerously drinkable. I pair it with a goat cheese, wild honey, and walnut salad tossed in a tangy grainy mustard vinaigrette—summer on a plate. But as with every stop on this trail, it’s the view that steals the show: Lac Supérieur stretched out like glass, framed by soft green peaks in the distance. Sip and sigh.
