First introduced in 2020 as a way to support local restaurants amid indoor dining restrictions during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Destination Stratford has announced the return of the Stratford Al Fresco outdoor dining program for a fourth year.
Intended to enhance the city’s culinary offerings, Stratford Al Fresco features expanded dining experiences, including paired wines, craft beers and drinks, and safe, outdoor dining areas at various spots throughout the city. With spaces that fit more than 200 people, visitors and locals alike can enjoy takeout and accompanying drinks from participating restaurants at outdoor tables purchased from CR Plastic Products that feature umbrellas, accessible seating options and nearby hand-sanitizer stations and waste-and-recycling bins .
“We anticipate a busy season ahead, and we’re thrilled to provide residents and visitors with even more locations throughout our beautiful downtown and park system to dine Al Fresco and enjoy the incredible culinary offerings that Stratford is famous for,” said Destination Stratford executive director Zac Gribble in a press release.
This year, Al Fresco includes 17 tables, five of which are accessible, in Market Square; 15 tables, three of which are accessible, on Tom Patterson Island; 15 tables, two of which are accessible, within Memorial Gardens; and many more along the south-shore park system from the Huron Street Bridge into Upper Queen’s Park.
Destination Stratford and the Downtown Stratford BIA will be marketing Stratford Al Fresco and local restaurant takeout options, including those paired with wine and other alcoholic beverages, as a safe activity to enjoy in Stratford. Restaurants are encouraged to sign up so they can provide alcoholic beverages with Al Fresco takeout meals.
For more information, visit visitstratford.ca/al-fresco-dining.