The latest way to drink & dine outside this winter? Domes, of course

ICYMI: Ice hotels are out, winter domes are in.

If you’re going to dine outside (kind of) in winter, you do it in a dome, terrarium, or heated igloo these days.

This wildly popular outdoor/indoor dining experience done during in the coldest months of the year has been making headlines across the globe – Chicago, Boston, New York, and London, for starters -  and now it’s taken Toronto by storm.

These cozy clear enclosures, often outfitted with blankets and pillows, offer a unique intimate setting from causal drinks to high-end dining in a life-size snow globe.

Take a look: 

Dinner with a View
The Bentway – 250 Fort York Blvd. 

This is not a plastic igloo with space heater kind of thing. We’re talking clear, frameless geodesic domes “transformed into terrariums with distinct terrains,” complete with a blind three-course meal by Chef René Rodriguez.

The ‘Dinner With A View’ dining series, sponsored by American Express, takes place March 28-May 2. Dome reservations are $149 and the meal is $99 per guest (four guest minimum). Note: prices do not include gratuity, taxes and fees.

The Fifth Pubhouse
221 Richmond St. W., Suite 100 

The Entertainment District has an emerald hue, at least for now, thanks to three heated Heineken igloos nestled on The Fifth Pubhouse’s patio. 

While you could grab drinks with friends at a crowded bar, this urban winter wonderland is more likely to be memorable. And while can’t reserve these urban domes - it’s first come, first served - you can call ahead to confirm availability.

InterContinental Toronto Yorkville
220 Bloor St. W.

The hotel’s Proof Patio is known for its spectacular views in summer, but this winter two heated transparent domes have taken the stage. And a special “Igloo Menu” has been created for the occasion:

Cup of Mulled Wine or Warm Spiced Cider
Puneet’s Bread Bowl - Butter Chicken or Mushroom & Leek Ragout
Housemade Truffle and Chocolate Dipped Strawberry

It’s $50 per person, with a two-hour seating limit. You can also choose to pay extra for items such as specialty cocktails served in an ice luge.