Accountants Just Wanna Have Fun

by Susan Hodkinson

“Get up and dance, get up and smile, get up and drink to the days that are gone in the shortest while.”

Ahh, patio season in Toronto. Marked by sunny days and warm evenings, this season is enjoyed by all as we emerge from a long winter. But it might be said that no group appreciates these days more than accountants, who have survived not just the winter season, but tax season!  

I asked several of our hard-working young professionals where they like to kick off their heels and sip a cocktail in Toronto. They were only too happy to tell me about their favorite patios for enjoying some sun in the city.

Yorkville always delivers: The Pilot rooftop deck on Cumberland, Hemingways and Sky Lounge are favorites of staff accountants Lauren Schreiber and Cristina Barillari, who comment, “You really don’t anticipate finding such a relaxing atmosphere so close to downtown.” Executive assistant Angelina Grcevic loves the amazing views and great wine at The Pilot and you can find her there with friends on Thursdays, sampling the latest wine recommendation.  

Analyst Julia Reznichenko and communications specialist Folasade Apanisile love Ultra on Queen, for a taste of “Miami’s South Beach with the diversity of Toronto.” Folasade also raves about “old favourites” such as Little Italy’s Café Diplomatico – it had a patio before patios were fashionable, and was immortalized in the movie Chloe.  And a little further east in the funky Annex, Future Bakery and Café always delivers.
The writer, who has more years of patio experience than many of the young professionals who made suggestions, loves the crowd and the atmosphere at The Fifth Grill and Terrace. It’s one of the prettiest patios in the city, has delectable food, wonderful wine, and attentive and personable service.

Wondering where to head with your guy friends? How about the rooftop patio, aptly named The Oasis, at Wayne Gretzky’s? Sports memorabilia and dozens of beers on tap for him, banquettes and pink flamingos for you.  

Senior manager Kristin Matthews deems South of Temperance at Bay and Adelaide the young professionals’ patio. “Think fashionable women in tailored suits … but look down and you will see killer stilettos that would put any Manhattanite to shame.” Kristin also loves a new entrant in the patio scene – The O&B Café and Grill on Front at Yonge. Impeccable service and wonderful Michael Bonacini food – how can you miss?

Look for Soberman women at these and other patios enjoying Toronto summer at its best. Just don’t ask them about your taxes.

Susan Hodkinson is the Chief Operating Office at Soberman LLP.