Goodman Pub is a massive bar and restaurant with picturesque views of Toronto’s waterfront. It’s a project of Fab Restaurants, also responsible for equally sleek, high-volume spots such as Dominion, Brazen Head, and more. This space used to be home to the Watermark.

Contemporary dishes play well with more traditional pub fare like a list of burgers. This is balanced nicely with cocktails created by the owners of Martini club like “frosé,” cobblers and sangrias, along with over 24 beers on tap and 20 bottles to create a super accessible, relaxed menu.

Patio space wraps around the pub in an L shape, with cabana-style seating hugging the restaurant and umbrellas around the edges.

On one side the patio smoothly gives way to an open air seating area that’s a little dimmer with bold, rustic design touches like rope chandeliers, hip lighting and industrial-feeling graphics.

There’s a much more indoorsy area deeper inside complete with TVs, bar seating and a lot more high tables, carrying the nautical/industrial feel through.

An ahi poke bowl ($16) starts things off simply but satisfyingly, fresh bright fish, avocado and pineapple diced small with cilantro, spicy Thai chilis, macadamia, wasabi ponzu dressing and a little crunchy puffed rice. Light but sturdy wonton crisps provide a base for spooning onto.

The spicy thai noodle salad ($15) is a favourite of mine. A mix of greens and cabbage balances heartier and guiltier noodles all dressed with a pleasingly oily Thai chili dressing, with tomatoes, mango, avocado, green onion, peanuts, along with fragrant mint, basil, and cilantro.

The Elk Experience burger works to earn its $21 price tag. The juicy elk patty is flavourful, set off by other epic elements that make a great burger, like delicious Korean BBQ glazed bacon, two beer-battered onion rings, sriracha aioli, pickles and cheddar.

Other burger options include bean, turkey or even lobster. All are served on Fred’s Bread artisan buns with crispy hand-cut fries.

Spiced watermelon sangria ($11) is also available by the pitcher for $26.

Gordon’s gin, apricot brandy, and pink lemonade all get topped off with prosecco and some watermelon, blackberry and a slender slice of chili pepper that gives this sweet, girly drink a bit of a kick.

This is more of a destination than a local haunt. Whether showing folks from out of town a good time, on your way to or from the ferry, or just on a day trip to the Harbourfront and Queen’s Quay, a visit to Goodman amps up your standard pub visit with a gorgeous view.