The outbreak of summer-like weather in London, just as spring begins, is going over like hot cakes for patio businesses.
Wednesday’s record warmth — 26C — left eateries with many outdoor eating areas packed.
At Gambrinus Bistro and Cafe, at 130 King St., owner Milos Karl says he doesn’t need the boost he got from the Brier curling tournament last year at this time.
“Last year this time was pretty cold, but because London hosted the curling tournament we were busy,” he said.
“This year, we are doing just as well without the tournament thanks to the warm weather.”
Londoners enjoy their meals with friends on open patios
Photo by Ariana Wardak
David Phillips, a senior climatologist at Environment Canada says that while the unseasonable warmth is devastating to some businesses, others are cashing in.
“There are always winners and losers in this situation, and restaurants with outdoor patios are just making money while the sun shines,” he said.
According to Google Canada, the word ‘patio’ has spiked as a search term in Ontario in March as people look for restaurants with open patios.
Though cooler weather is in the long-range forecast, the hot stuff is expected to last into Thursday.