Toronto may not have the winding cobblestone streets of Quebec City, the long oceanside coastline of Vancouver or the folksy charm of Calgary. But that does not mean the Six isn’t romantic.
Whether you’re setting up a first date from an app, or a 100th date with your long-time partner, you can find countless spots in the city to unwind, chat, eat delicious food and soak in the skyline. This article whittles those “countless” spots into five of the ultimate date night locales.
From a beloved dessert establishment to a historic jazz club, this listshould have something for every couple. Put on your best clothes – because we’re going on a date, Toronto.
Sweeten the Deal at One of Demetres Dessert Restaurants
Demetres knows a thing or two about dates. Since the dessert restaurant chain opened 30 years ago, it has hosted millions of first, second, and 102nd dates. If you polled Toronto residents around the GTA, we’d guess that the vast majority could tell you about a date they had at Demetres.
What makes the chain of dessert restaurants so compelling and romantic? For one, this isn’t your average takeaway counter; it’s a full-service restaurant complete with attentive servers and modern décor. Second, the menu screams indulgence – with an intoxicating roster of waffles, crepes, cakes and other decadent surprises. If your date starts the conversation with “know any dessert places near me,” you can confidently say yes, you do – you know the best.
Take Your Relationship to the Highest Level at the Top of the CN Tower
Fewer experiences bond two people quicker than standing on the precipice of an 1800-foot tower. The view from the top of the CN Tower is exhilarating and death-defying. But more than that, standing on top of the world makes you feel like you’re the only two people in the city. It’s the perfect setting to chat about the future, reflect on your past – and take your relationship to the next level.
Enjoy a Sophisticated Combo of Jazz and Cocktails at The Rex
After a dizzying ascent up the CN Tower and a romantic dessert at Demetres, consider grabbing a nightcap at Toronto’s best destination for jazz and cocktails: The Rex. Located in the heart of the hip-and-happening Queen West strip, The Rex lends an air of big-city sophistication to just about any date that walks through its historic doors.
Take an Ambling Walk Through the Distillery District
Some couples find it unnatural to sit down throughout a date, preferring to chat over a long, ambling walk. The best place in Toronto for a stroll is the Distillery District, a tastefully restored brick and cobblestone complex in East Toronto that once housed a whisky distillery.
Today, the district boasts several romantic restaurants, quaint shops and even a Scooped by Demetres ice cream parlour.
Enjoy a Picnic and Panorama at Riverdale Park
To slow things down, consider a simple picnic at one of Toronto’s lush parks. While most guides might steer you towards the sprawling High Park or hip Trinity Bellwoods, this guide is going to buck the trend. Toronto’s most romantic park is Riverdale Park East, which features a massive west-facing slope with an unspoilt view of the downtown skyline. Pack a picnic and take your date here around sunset for one of the most magical Toronto experiences.
If you have an upcoming date in your calendar that you’re eager to impress, try one of the five spots above. If all goes well, you’ll be taking them to the next four on subsequent dates.
