Patios in Mississauga benefit from close proximity to the lake and the vibrant neighbourhoods in which they reside. From Mexican fiestas and red sauce Italian joints to live music venues and whisky bars, here's where to eat and drink al fresco next time you're in 'sauga.

El Jefe
The colourful Mexican cantina in Port Credit is the perfect spot to soak up the sun while savouring a few cerveza. Against the backdrop of a vibrant graffiti mural, the patio decked out with string lights offers an ideal spot to mow down on Corona-battered blooming onions, tacos and chimichangas.

Door Fifty Five
Accordion doors open up right on the bustling stretch of Lakeshore Road East in Port Credit. At the centre of all the action, the front patio outfitted with high tables and stools is a lively spot to enjoy flights of whisky and good old southern style fare including beef brisket, ribs, fried chicken and waffles and blackened shrimp with gumbo cheddar grits.

The Wilcox
The gastropub at the corner of Hurontario and Eglinton offers a patio surrounded by lush greenery. Settle in for a selection of craft beers and upmarket pub grub including spicy Viet-style wings, Scotch eggs and tri-coloured nachos.

Goodfella's
The Streetsville pizzeria and friggitoria deals in Southern Italian fare including wood fired Neapolitan pies, fried artichokes and arancini. The 30-seat patio, sheltered by a tomato red canopy and outfitted with wrought iron furniture, is in view of Streetsville's main stage, offering the best possible seats to catch live performances throughout the summer with a negroni and/or cannoli in hand.

Snug Harbour
The seafood bar and grill boasts a waterfront patio next to the picturesque Port Credit Marina. In the summer months, find the place populated with rollerbladers and boaters enjoying a glass of wine (or two) and selections from the oyster bar while overlooking the lake.

Photo via @amsterdambeer on Instagram.