We've waited a long, long time for summer, so we don't intend to waste a single moment of it. Toronto's restaurants might be back on the scene, but we'll be camping out in our backyards and patios this year — and we need the tools to do it right. 

This is the summer to stop talking about investing in a good barbecue and actually do it. Toronto may be blessed with plenty of amazing BBQ spots, but that shouldn't stop you from flexing your pitmaster prowess with all the grilling tools needed for a sizzling summer cookout. If you favour margherita over meat, get yourself a portable pizza oven and toss dough al fresco while entertaining pals in your backyard. 

Tools at the ready — this summer is looking mighty tasty. 

5 essential outdoor items to elevate your backyard or balcony

1. Hampton Bay Pinery Wood Burning Firebowl

$398

Outdoor essentials | Home Depot wood burning fire bowl

You've waited too long for summer so make sure your backyard is prepped. Grab some s'mores and huddle around the fire pit until Labour Day.

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2. Assorted barbecue utensils

From $18

Outdoor essentials | Barbecue utensils

You're only as good as your tools. Make sure you've got the right ones for pressing, flipping and saucing up those burgers.

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3. PC Propane-Powered Pizza Oven

$299

Outdoor essentials | President's Choice pizza oven

This portable pizza oven heats to 500 C and comes with a pizza stone that keeps your 'za crispy and your toppings charred.

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4. Weber 70th Anniversary Edition Kettle Charcoal Grill 22"

$549

Outdoor essentials | Weber limited-edition kettle charcoal grill

Is it just us, or does this 70th-anniversary barbecue make you want to put your hair in rollers and don a poodle skirt? She'll be the cutest grill at any backyard sockhop this summer.

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5. Thermacell Radius Zone Rechargeable E55 Mosquito Repellent

$64.99

Outdoor essentials | Thermacell mosquito repellent

Dine al fresco minus the pesky bugs (and bug spray) with this cute mosquito lantern.

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