La Terrasse has the best view in the city and some of the best cocktails!

ABOVE: The showstopper What-a-Melon Sangria is served in a watermelon with a tap attached to it! (PHOTO: Matthew Liteplo Photography)

If you’re downtown Ottawa this summer and want a place to meet with friends or colleagues that has a great vibe and fantastic views, then try La Terrasse at the Fairmont Château Laurier.

The Fairmont Château Laurier is an Ottawa institution as ubiquitous as the Parliament building itself. Celebrating its 110th anniversary this year, the hotel has been the favourite of heads of state, celebrities, musicians, and athletes alike. The Château recently came under the general management of Geneviève Dumas, the first female GM in the institution’s storied history; Dumas previously managed the Château Montebello.

La Terrasse is situated on the west side of the iconic building overlooking the locks of the Rideau Canal, Parliament, the Rideau River, the Museum of History, and the rolling Gatineau Hills. The very private patio is undoubtedly one of the best in the National Capital Region.

With comfortable seating, couches, and gas fireplaces, La Terrasse is not your typical patio. It is a sleek and elegant outdoor bar, a beautiful spot for a meal with friends, and a cozy spot to try one of their fantastic signature cocktails.

ABOVE: The “Garden” cocktail is a most refreshing mixed drink. (PHOTO: Camille Labonté)

The La Terrasse “Garden” cocktail — with Beefeater Gin, strawberry and thyme syrup, Prosecco, and lemon Aperol — is one of the most refreshing mixed drinks you will taste anywhere; simply delicious. If fruity is not your thing, and you’d like something more exotic than a typical gin and tonic, the Purple Float with Empress Gin, Lillet Blanc, lemon bitters, and tonic is a great choice. The drink has a purple hue that is as Instagram-worthy as it is tasty. The bar also serves up some great international and craft beer options and has two fishbowl-sized cocktails for sharing: a watermelon sangria served in a watermelon with a tap attached to it and a surf-and-turf Caesar that is as impressive looking as it is tasty with shrimp and local charcuterie in lieu of celery.

The food at La Terrasse combines casual with elegance, and their shareable plates are not something to forget. Order their charcuterie board that includes the best cured meats and locally sourced cheeses anywhere in Ottawa. If you want something new, try the Shrimp Hotdogs or the Truffle Fries, you’ll never eat a regular fry again. There are also great larger-plate dining options like the Chuck Burger and Cacio e Pepe that are just delicious.

Head to La Terrasse at the Fairmont Château Laurier for summer dining at its best. The back section of the patio can also be rented for events — the perfect spot for a party your friends won’t soon forget.

Open daily from 11 am to 10 pm; click here for more information or reserve a table at La Terrasse.