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News Release

January 7, 2026

The City of Toronto has officially opened applications and renewals for the 2026 CaféTO curb lane program, inviting restaurant and bar operators across the city to participate in one of Toronto’s most impactful initiatives supporting local businesses, vibrant main streets and neighbourhood life. 

Launched in 2020 as a rapid pandemic response, CaféTO has grown into a permanent annual program that expands outdoor dining on curb lanes, sidewalks and private patios. In 2026, a year expected to bring increased activity and visitors to Toronto, CaféTO will play an important role in showcasing the city’s diverse local food scene while supporting restaurants, workers and neighbourhood economies. 

In 2025, CaféTO supported approximately 1,500 outdoor dining spaces citywide, including 285 curb lane cafés, 579 sidewalk cafés, many of which can remain in place year-round, and 703 private patio endorsements that allow businesses to have a patio on private property. Participation continues to grow beyond the downtown core, with restaurants across Toronto using outdoor dining to attract customers, strengthen local main streets and create welcoming public spaces. 

As the City prepares for a vibrant year ahead, CaféTO remains part of a broader suite of programs supporting Toronto’s restaurant sector and main streets. The City is building on the success of the 2025 season by continuing to improve efficiency, streamline process and provide earlier application timelines so that most curb lane cafés can be ready for the Victoria Day long weekend. 

Applying for CaféTO  

Restaurant operators interested in participating in the 2026 CaféTO curb lane program can learn more by visiting toronto.ca/cafeTO, where they can review program requirements, sign up for virtual information sessions or request one-on-one support before applying. 

Details:  

• CaféTO curb lane applications are open until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11. 

• First-time applicants are encouraged to apply early to allow sufficient time for review and approvals. 

• Returning operators will be contacted by City staff with instructions on renewing through a streamlined process. 

Once applications are submitted, City staff will work closely with operators and local Business Improvement Areas to develop traffic management plans that balance the needs of businesses, residents and road users, including loading zones, waste collection, cycling infrastructure and pedestrian access. 

Experience CaféTO 

The City encourages residents and visitors to explore CaféTO patios and support local restaurants from May through October. With expanded outdoor dining across Toronto, CaféTO helps ensure local businesses are ready to welcome increased activity and visitors, while continuing to create dynamic, inclusive public spaces in neighbourhoods across the city. 

More information about the CaféTO program, including other outdoor dining options such as sidewalk cafes and private patios, is available at: toronto.ca/cafeTO. 

Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on X, Instagram or Facebook.

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