When it comes to outdoor dining, this Burlington restaurant named one of Canada’s best

A Burlington restaurant has earned its way onto the list as one of Canada’s 100 Most Popular Outdoor Dining Restaurants.

Compiled by OpenTable, an online restaurant reservation service company, the list is based on data collected through reviews of restaurants nationwide.

Nearby restaurants in Hamilton and Oakville were also named in the top 100 list.

The list is presented at this time each year as restaurants open up patios in anticipation of the warm weather. And this year, compared to the recent past when the pandemic kept many establishments shuttered or confined, the impact of the list is certain to raise expectations of customers who are returning for a relaxing day or night out.

And it may come as no surprise to Burlingtonians that Spencer’s at the Waterfront has made the grade.

Located along the city’s lakefront, Spencer’s offers spectacular views to go along with its versatile menu.

From fresh market fish and seafood items to steaks and an extensive wine list, Spencer’s continues to be a local favourite.

“Located on the Burlington lakefront, Spencer’s at the Waterfront hosts a stunning patio and a glass-walled dining room with breathtaking views. Great for a group or a romantic setting. Sip wine while enjoying a fresh and innovative menu highlighting local and seasonal produce, seafood towers and dry-aged craft cut steaks,” reads OpenTable’s review of Spencer’s.

This is the second time this year that Spencer’s at the Waterfront has made an OpenTable top 100 list. In February the restaurant was also named one of Canada’s most romantic dining destinations and last year made its mark for being one the country’s best locations for brunch.

“April dining was up 4% in Canada [year-over-year], likely a result of warmer temperatures and Canadians enjoying an early start to outdoor dining,” said Matt Davis, country director, OpenTable Canada, in a statement. 

OpenTable also revealed a few interesting facts about Canadians’ dining habits, noting that people tend to enjoy eating Italian fare outdoors the most. The organization also noticed some regional differences, pointing out that diners in Vancouver tend to favour restaurants specializing in seafood and Canadian and Japanese cuisine. 

OpenTable says the list was curated by analyzing over one million reviews from OpenTable diners between March 1, 2022, and Feb. 28, 2023. 

As the name implies, Spencer’s is located along the edge of Lake Ontario.

The name “Spencer” comes from Spencer Smith Park located next to the restaurant. Spencer Smith was instrumental in the development of the park system throughout Burlington and was a president of the Burlington Horticultural Society as well as an operator of a grocery store.