5 Of the Best Cities for Al Fresco Dining

Dredge flatbreads through yoghurt, gnaw on perfectly grilled kebabs, and mop up platefuls of baked eggs and tomatoes in the Turkish city, which is packed with cafes that spill out onto the street. Coffee culture is huge too, as is smoking Turkish water pipes (shisha or hookah). And there’s not much better than nibbling on a square or two of baklava on the street as the sun goes down.

Prepare to be served in French in Montreal, where it’s the first language, and the chips are piled high and topped with curds and gravy (poutine – you have to try it). Terraces and neighbourhood patios come alive when Canada’s harsh winters finally thaw out, so expect fairy lights strung outdoor spaces, live music and culinary French classics.

While breakfast might consist of an espresso drunk stood up at a cafe bar, come long lunches and family dinners, Romans have a penchant for tablecloths, awnings and pizza eaten on cobbled streets. Who are we to argue?