Hurry Up, Summer! - Summer Launch Patio Party

The weather still can't seem to make up its mind but summer lovers will not be kept at bay any longer. It's officially patio season in Toronto and many bars and restaurants and dusting off their patio furniture and throwing open those glass doors. The Ballroom is no exception and while their street level patio is something I've passed many times, I had no idea they had a beautiful gem hidden away on their rooftop until a server slipped a Summer Launch Patio Party invite into our bill during last week's bowling game. Coincidentally, it's also kind of on my way to class, so it would have been a sin not to pop in for a couple of drinks. And a sinner I am not! ;)

I only had time for a couple of drinks, but it was a couple of drinks thoroughly enjoyed. Most of my friends were still at work at that time and I had to leave by the time they would've been able to get there, but luckily I am not the least bit uncomfortable going to a bar by myself (my parents would be so proud!). It was a very windy day and quite chilly in the shade but The Ballroom's rooftop patio not only had wonderful sunshine all around, but is also perfectly sheltered from the wind! It's beautiful and cozy and I would definitely come back again and again, especially considering the fact that they're affordable, have great staff, and offer a wide array of daily specials. Definitely a keeper!

The Patio Party was generously sponsored by Corona (which were $4 all night, tax included!) and the tables were littered with all kinds of free Corona merchandize. I thought these would get snatched up very quickly (and they did once the space started filling up with people getting off work), but on my way out I passed a couple of servers carrying boxes of more Corona merch up the stairs, so I'm pretty sure the giveaways lasted all night. And to sweeten the deal, they had perfect live music playing (at perfect volume, too), so leaving the party to head to class was extra painful. It's a good thing I like what I'm leaning!

WHAT: Summer Launch Patio Party at The Ballroom

WHERE: The Ballroom, corner of Richmond and John

WHEN: May 16, 4pm

COST: Free

INSIDER TIPS: When a server slips a flyer into your bill, read it carefully. In this particular case, bringing the flyer to the party with you got you one free drink. Also, if you plan on going with a group of friends but most people don't get off work until after the party starts, it helps if you know someone who can go ahead and snag a table for everyone. There were a few people on the patio saving seats for their gainfully employed friends and it was a good thing, too, because any empty spaces got snatched up double quick once the offices let out.