Restaurant operators are invited to participate in this signature initiative that expands outdoor dining opportunities, transforms Toronto’s streetscapes, supports local businesses and revitalizes neighbourhoods.
Now in its fifth year, CaféTO has become a cornerstone of Toronto’s economic growth and a celebrated feature of its vibrant hospitality scene, creating new opportunities for businesses and the community. In 2024, CaféTO supported approximately 1,500 outdoor dining spaces across the city including 304 curb lane cafés, 583 sidewalk cafés and 615 private patios. The impact of this program extends beyond downtown, with growing participation from restaurants in neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Enhancing Toronto’s strong main streets is one of the priority pillars of the Sidewalks to Skylines: Action Plan for Toronto’s Economy, with initiatives like CaféTO playing a central role. A recent study commissioned by the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA) revealed that CaféTO generated $130 million in economic benefits for the city in 2024.
Businesses looking to participate in the curb lane program for the first time are encouraged to review the CaféTO Curb Lane Café Guidebook for program requirements and apply early to allow sufficient time for review and approval. Applicants can also sign up for virtual information sessions and one-on-one consultations to assist with their application.
Applications must be submitted online at toronto.ca/cafeTO before 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19. Once submitted, City staff will work with operators and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) to create traffic management plans that balance the needs of other businesses and users of the road and include loading zones, garbage/recycling pickup zones, cycling infrastructure and pedestrian walkways.
City staff will contact 2024 operators with instructions on how to renew their permit through a streamlined process.
The City encourages residents and visitors to explore CaféTO patios and support local restaurants between May and October. With expanded outdoor dining spaces, the program continues to bring people together, creating dynamic and welcoming public spaces across Toronto.
More information about the CaféTO program, including other outdoor dining options such as sidewalk cafes and private patios, is available on the City’s CaféTO webpage: toronto.ca/cafeTO. For more information on Sidewalks to Skylines, visit the City’s website.
