It may still be cold outside but the city is already planning for warmer weather with the promotion of a program that lets Toronto eateries expand their space outdoors during the summer.
The program, called CaféTO, is encouraging new businesses that want to take advantage of the program to sign up within the next month.
2025 will be the program's fifth year in operation.
The City of Toronto said CaféTO, which allows for sidewalk, curb lane and patio dining, continually transforms the city's streets and revitalizes neighbourhoods between May and October. The program also offers a financial boost for local businesses who can add additional outdoor seating to their restaurants, the city boasted.
In 2024, CaféTO saw around 1,500 outdoor dining spaces created, including 304 curb lane cafés, 583 sidewalk cafés and 615 private patios.
The city said the program's impact is now extending beyond downtown, with growing participation from restaurants in neighbourhoods outside the city's core.
CaféTO brings $130 million in economic benefits
A recent study commissioned by the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas indicated CaféTO generated $130 million in economic benefits for the city in 2024.
Municipal staff this week started contacting 2024 operators with instructions on how to renew their permits.
Meanwhile, businesses looking to participate for the first time are encouraged to review the CaféTO Curb Lane Café Guidebook. They are also encouraged to apply early to allow time for review of their application.
Applications need to be submitted online before 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 19. Applicants can also sign up for virtual information sessions and one-on-one consultations.
Once submitted, city staff work with applicants and BIAs to create traffic management plans to balance the needs of other businesses and road users. This includes loading zones, garbage and recycling pickup zones, cycling infrastructure and pedestrian walkways.
