10 Romantic Restaurants in Toronto

March 3, 2015 By GRTadmin

Whether longing to celebrate a long-time relationship or impress a new flame, the restaurant you choose might make the difference between a memorable time or not. Of course, we don’t all share the same idea of romantic dining –some prefer luxury and serenity while others opt for spaces buzzing with energy. With that in mind, this article rounds up 6 of Toronto’s most romantic restaurants that can please even the most sophisticated tastes!

1. SCARAMOUCHE

Perfect for toasting very special occasions, this long-standing hushed room on Avenue Road does not only provide an attentive, fast, and polished service, and delicious tastes from the hands of Keith Froggett, but also one of the city’s most breath-taking, romantic, dining views. The food is sublime and has been receiving raves for three decades now while the tables, masterly placed next to floor-to-ceiling windows, comprise an impressive commodity. As a first course, expect to surprise your palate with seasonal, yet extravagant, ingredients, such as Truffled Gnocchi Parisienne or nicely washing down oysters, followed by tempting subsequent courses. As for the wine list, it will certainly not disappoint you. You are also free to bring your own wine with a corkage of $35 per bottle!

2. SPLENDIDO

If you want to spend a few hours getting spoiled and pampered, this stylish Harbord Street restaurant is the one for you. It is a place that fulfils every request and works perfectly with two starry eyes lovers that are celebrating a special moment, rekindling passion over splendid food. Although it is hard to tell what to expect to caress your taste buds with, given that the menu changes every day, one thing is for sure: you will experience heavenly indulgence! From butter poached lobster to magnificent pasta dishes with black truffles, you will fulfil your lust for Canada’s prime produce! Although it’s a dining facility that will shed a few pounds of weight from your wallet, the depth of flavour and the extravagant amuse-bouche served in shot glasses for an even more intense flavour experience, will make it worth your while.

3. F’AMELIA

This warm and cozy trattoria, spread out in 3 rooms on Amelia Street, steals impressions with its amiable entrance that reminds a lot of a Tuscan farmhouse, tucked on a corner of a busy neighbourhood, with a lovely Italian-style pizza oven. However, this is only the beginning. You instantly feel like home as waiters and owners learn your name within a glance and take you to your table to please your taste with hearty, blistered pizza crusts and Northern Italian dinner. One of the specialties is the rosemary braised rabbit with pappardelle that you can accompany with an affordable option from the wine list. Before lingering over wine, you may also want to savour their signature pies made with San Marzano tomatoes.

4. CANOE

Nicely situated just above the TD bank, right in the heart of the entertainment district, Canoe is an impressive splurge of a restaurant. From the menu by chef John Horne, full of dishes made from local ingredients, to the artful handling of the food in the perfectly clean open kitchen, and the spectacular view, everything screams you are about to have a top dining experience. Each dish is a surprise; the garnished fois gras and short ribs are exquisite. Every detail is well attended and you can expect to be well taken care of, which makes Canoe a must see restaurant and an ideal spot to relish life, from 54 floors above ground!

5. GEORGE

In quiet Queen Street, George dining room offers divine, inventive tastes and excellent, fast service that won’t leave your wine glass empty for long. You can celebrate in absolute style with a beautifully presented five-to-ten-course menu (vegetarian option provided) for up to $140 that inspires awe.
George is the kind of restaurant that is becoming less and less scarce nowadays, with the food almost requiring formal attire as chef Lorenzo demonstrates his flair and passion for cooking through the full of local and seasonal produce menus. The wine list is excellent and although most menus are blind, you can expect George to cater to your preferences, in case you have extreme dislikes or allergies to specific ingredients. As for the made private romantic, garden patio, decorated with lovely lights, it is the perfect dining during the summer.

6. TRATTORIA SOTTO SOTTO

This Italian village-like, classy, private oasis in the elegant neighborhood of Yorkshire, is a pleasant, cozy restaurant located in the basement of a multi-storied building that attracts A-lists and celebs by tens and tens during the TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival). Year round, Sotto Sotto is fitted with business associates and romantic couples that want to get a taste of a perfectly made bolognese sauce and Osso Bucco with fresh ingredients that melts in the mouth sending gustatory shocks that amaze. Definitely a must-visit dining with superb dishes made with love that shows.

To complement your list, here are other great restaurants that you and your other half can enjoy a romantic dinner:

7. ICI BISTRO

The 24-seat dining room and the delicious food make Ici Bistro an appealing place for those longing for a refined and laid-back place to enjoy food and be a bit spoiled over dinner. Expect to be treated with modern French fare and a warm and fast service. However, it should be best to make sure you get a reservation as it is packed every day of the year!

8. PAPPAS GRILL

Located in the romantic central Greektown location on the Danforth, Pappas Grill comprises a superb dining facility that has stolen people’s hearts, not only because of the delicious, well-cooked and served dishes, but also for its enchanting, award-winning design. The lovely patio overlooking at the Danforth area, offers relaxing moments. You can have your drink there, when the weather permits, and let your mind go as the fresh breeze rejuvenates your senses and the beautiful flowers allow your eyes to wander in places of serenity and peace.

9. CORNER HOUSE

A rustic, quaint cottage on Davenport that serves Continental fare and makes you feel at home thanks to the remarkably friendly owners, chef-owner Herbert Barnsteiner and his wife, Michelle. Ideal if you are looking for a special and cozy place to treat your spouse!

10. GLAS WINE BAR

Beautifully placed in Leslieville, Glas Wine Bar offers a Michelin-starred experienced and steals your heart from the first moment you step foot in it. Its modern status and the open kitchen make it all the cozier and you can enjoy a lovely romantic dinner with your significant other in a completely casual and unrushed tenor. However, the only one relishing a laid-back, slow-paced dining experience will be you and not the service as the owner and chef, Danny Pantano won’t let your glass unfilled not even for a bit!

If you want more romantic dating ideas, feel free to check out our article 10 Most Romantic Dates in Toronto or the 10 Low Budget Romantic Things to Do in Toronto!

10 Low Budget Romantic Things to do in Toronto

March 3, 2015 By GRTadmin

Toronto can be pricey during winter, but, still, there are so many low-budget romantic things you can do with your other half! Here is a compact guide that will help you save your money for a hot chocolate and a Canada goose jacket to stay warm and enjoy the some of the best fun things lovely Toronto has in stack for you!

1. Dinner at Pappas Grill and Stroll by the Lake

Start an interesting and laid back evening with dinner at Pappas Grill and then head down to the beautiful Ashbridge Bay Park. The garden-y patio-like décor at Pappas is totally luring and you can get an eclectic mix of good traditional Greek and Italian food, as well as North American fare for under $10 per person, before you take a short ride down to the Ashbridge Bay Park just before sunset, when it is absolutely amazing. See the sun go down leaving its place to the hours where lovers make dreams and hold hands, visualising a wonderful tomorrow for you and your significant other, without losing the moment. Then, you can walk by the lake at Clark Beach Park. This little gem will cast its magic spell on you, as you stroll by other couples in love!

2. Have a Cocktail at the One Eighty & Watch a Movie

Sitting on the 51st floor of the swanky Manulife Centre, in Yorkville neighbourhood, former Panorama Lounge reopening around mid-March will offer you a magnificent view of the city in a renovated spacious, marbled, comfortable and cosy interior. Have a coffee or a cocktail and enjoy romantic times with your sweetheart without costing more than $15. Don’t hear people say you pay for the view. You can skip dinner there (is a bit pricey), but you can certainly enjoy having a cup of hot chocolate or coffee. The Cineplex Odeon Varsity and VIP Cinemas is an excellent next stop, where you can have a drink from the bar or a cheesecake to go with the movie and enjoy a flick next to your honey!

3. Go for a Bike Ride & Picnic

Toronto Island is perfect for a romantic bike ride after work. Just grab your other half and get on your bikes. You can meet by the ferry docks for a sunset ride on the beautiful Toronto Island and get a refreshing escape from the busy downtown. Make sure you pack a light picnic, find a nice grassy knoll, and smooch as the sun takes a nap for the day. Sharing precious, quality moments with someone you care and love is priceless and it doesn’t always have to cost a fortune to worth it.

4. Visit the Toronto Zoo

A Toronto stunner like the Toronto Zoo is an excellent outing for families and couples alike. Enjoy a day off in the wild nature and plan a BBQ where you can have fun or relish a lovely picnic with your significant other. Bring your hiking boots along and arm yourself with your greatest mood and you will definitely have lots of long, romantic walks, plenty to talk about on the way, and a plethora of memorable experiences to share!

5. Tree Planting

In the super fast-paced lives we all live, finding some time to share with your other half and the people that mean the world to you is definitely appreciated. Who needs to spend a million to prove that he cares, anyway? Besides the annual planting events held in spring (this year’s tree planting activity will involve the L’Amoreaux North Park in Scarborough and the Humber Arboretum in Etobicoke Toronto, on April), the Urban Forestry Services plants trees all across city-owned streets and needs volunteers. Joining in will not only allow you to add your stepping stone to making this city a better place, but also engage into something productive and significant with your sweetheart. How romantic is that?

6. Stroll through Philosopher’s Walk

A relaxing evening stroll through Philosopher’s Walk is simply magical. There is nothing better after a long, tiring day, than enjoying warm, loving moments with your significant other after work with a romantic musical background from the students rehearsing at the Royal Conservatory; a cello scale is absolutely heavenly. Continue meandering all the way up to King College Circle, pick a spot on the grass (if the weather permits) and with a cup of herbal tea keeping you warm and relaxed, look up at the stars. A moment worth like a million dollars.

7. Walk to Yonge and Lawrence

The city of Toronto is full is places that can take you away from the city’s hustle and bustle in a heartbeat. So, head north to sedated Lawrence and Yonge, allow yourself to be overwhelmed by the amazing mazes of roses spreading their enchanting aromas in the air and get lost in the secret paths of the well-groomed Alexander Muir Gardens. There are so many hidden nooks that can shelter your need for romance and let you have a few moments in privacy, before you follow the trail all the way to the picturesque Sherwood Park, where you can celebrate your love without anyone watching.

8. Go Skating

With plenty of public skates and ice rinks, Toronto offers another great option to spend some romantic time with your other half without costing you much. You can go for the classics, Harbourfront and Nathan Phillips Square, or check out the public skating rinks that are near where you are (or will be with your sweetheart at a particular, convenient for both of you, time). Most rinks are usually free, but you may need to spend as much as $3 per person, depending on the ice rink you choose. This is definitely a stellar winter choice that includes lots of fun and make the perfect places to wile away a romantic couple of hours. It is also a great activity to sandwich between other pursuits downtown.

9. The Waterfront

Toronto has an incredible waterfront that is a standalone pole of attraction and option to have a romantic date. So, whether you attend the numerous food fests at Harbourfront during summer time for some tasty and affordable grub or prefer to just sit calmly on a bench and gaze at ships or walk and feel the light breeze, one thing is for sure: you got yourself an excellent change from the bustling downtown and have your moment with your honey.

10. Visit the Niagara Falls

Not far from Toronto, you can reach this gem and wonder of nature for less than $20, if you hop on Megabus. It is the best and cost-effective weekend getaway you could have with your significant other and still be in the province. You can choose to stay at one of the many cheap motels in the city, such as the Cadillac and the Advance Inn. Better stay away from the attractions though, unless you are visiting for the first time, as they can be crowded. Instead, hit up the Butterfly Conservatory and allow yourselves to fall in love with the Falls, and perhaps one another all over again!

You may also want to check out our article about the 10 Most Romantic Date Ideas in Toronto, for even more magical nights and days with your other half!

Top 10 Romantic Dates in Toronto

March 3, 2015 By GRTadmin

Spending time with that special someone is priceless and we, sometimes, get so much carried away by our lives moving so fast forward in the city that we forget how it’s like to share some romance. It doesn’t take much to spark the fire and keep it flaming, and, luckily, Toronto is full of options that can allow you to strengthen your bond and spend some relaxing, romantic time together with your significant other. To give you an idea, here is a list of the 10 most romantic date ideas in Toronto!

1. Go Skating

The ice rink at Nathan Phillips Square is a quintessential Toronto experience and a great place to start a romantic date and have loads of fun. It will help you loosen up, let off some steam, and be more relaxed as you skate mitten to mitten. And, if you feel up to a quick getaway, the Drake Hotel is always charming and inviting and only minutes away. You can have some serious fun there and stay in quaint romantic rooms that have nothing to be jealous of modern suites!

2. Star Watching

The David Dunlap Observatory, sitting on a large estate north of Toronto (North York), hosts star gazing events from time to time, as well as info sessions if you are into astronomy. It is a unique place to fall farther in love as you watch a falling star, especially at times when we have left our romantic moods aside for the sake of the demanding day-to-day life. Don’t forget to make a wish…for eternal love…for the moment to last…for many more moments like that…for anything you feel worth wishing for.

3. Movie Night

Cliché or not, a movie date choice is something you should definitely try because going to the movies has an entirely different meaning in Toronto and can make for a splendit, memorable evening. You can line-up for a premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September and watch star-stunned movies and the series currently shown at Bell Lightbox. During the summer months, you can catch outdoor screenings of classics, and all that without spending an arm and a leg.

4. Painting

Painting is cathartic while it also releases your creativity and allows it to express on canvas. Painting side-by-side can be a truly amazing experience and a way of exploring one another’s artistic souls. Paintlounge offers this pretty sensual experience (do we need to remind you of the famous scene from the Titanic?) for $20 if you want to go freestyle painting. Gab over coffee and dare to express yourself on a shared canvas and see what happens. If nothing else, fun is guaranteed!
There are also interesting social painting events hosted at Pappas Grill a couple of times a month that you could also check out!

5. Couples’ Massage

Get pampered and seriously spoiled with Urban Nirvana’s couples’ massage. Take a break from the daily grind and treat yourself and your date to a foot soak and massage, a sensual Thai massage, alongside fruit and tea. You can have all the fun you want during the massage, but we suggest you let yourself go and allow the positive effects of massaging get to you. You’ll certainly leave relaxed and feeling fully energized, ready for whatever the nights holds for the two of you.

6. Dinner

Yeap, another cliché dating option. Toronto is known for it’s multicultural variety of cuisines and romantic restaurants that will WOW your significant other. We suggest going to Pappas Grill as it is a go-to-romantic spot that takes romantic dating to a higher level, and probably back to the good old times. Their cosy wood fireplace and the authentic Greek ambiance and music will travel your mind and soul to faraway lands showered by sun, and feel like soaking your feet in crystal clear waters and letting the light summer breeze caress your skin. Romance at its most over fine dining in this award winning restaurant and its rustic Greek inspired design. After that, you can take the subway and stroll along the Danforth, Greektown, do good shopping, or just have a peaceful walk in the afternoon in a lively and fun place.

7. Dinner Cruise

Ignite your relationship as you witness the lovely city skyline, hand-in-hand, while on a dinner cruise departing from the Harbourfront. Very few things can beat that in the romance-o-meter. Dine by moonlight and rediscover the beautiful city from a new perspective as the DJ gets your shoes tapping under the stars! Indicatively, Mariposa Cruises charge a dinner cruise for $73 per person (tax excluded).

Alternatively, you may want to try the elegant Rooftop Lounge at the Park Hyatt, in Yorkville neighborhood, instead, and grab a stunning view of the city from the hotel’s 18th floor with the inviting heated patio, and cosy fireplace.

8. Yoga (Partner)

Balance (and flexibility!) are vital for any relationship and working up a sweat with your sweetheart at a partner yoga session will help both of you with those. What is more, partner yoga is an excellent way to build trust and connection with your date. No matter how one sees it, it is a win-win situation and a great date option, promising ultimately romantic moments after each session.

9. Play Trivia/Game at Board Game Bar/Café

This one is a top recommendation for first dates as trivia nights help bond and have fun with your new sweetheart. It is also fantastic for long-time love birds, as nothing feels as close to real love than simultaneously spitting out lyrics and lines of favorite songs and movies! There are several board café cafes all over the city where you can enjoy yourselves while playing Snakes and Latters or Snakes and Lagers and have the time of your life!

10. Have a Picnic

Toronto Islands are superb places to have a picnic. They offer you a mini-getaway from the city for something less than $10 (for the ferry), if you bring your own food along. Pick a lovely, warm day and enjoy an outdoor date option that guarantees lots of relaxing, intimate moments with your other half, under the loving and embracing rays of the sun. An excellent date option, especially if you are on a tight budget.

Now, if you are looking for cost-effective date ideas, you can check out our 10 Low Budget Romantic Things to Do in Toronto!

How to Choose a Romantic Restaurant for a Date

February 4, 2015 By GRTadmin

romantic-dates-in-toronto
Looking to take out that special someone in your life for a date? Want to make the date a memorable one? And have you been hopping around town to find the perfect romantic restaurant? If you’ve answered yes to all of them than you’re in luck as we will be discussing the things you need to look for in a restaurant for your romantic date. This will help you to make your date a memorable one (for all the right reasons of course).So just sit back, relax and let this guide serve your purpose.

Location

boring-drive
The first and foremost thing that you need to do is choose a suitable location. It is important that you choose a location that is convenient for both you and your date. Make sure your date does not have to travel a million miles to reach the restaurant. A romantic rendezvous is a serene event so make sure you choose a peaceful neighborhoodthat is near your date so that you don’t have to spend too long of a time driving there, especially if it is the first date or one of the first few dates. Driving for too long can create awkward moments and can hurt the date, unless you are comfortable with your date. If you are comfortable with your date a longer drive can actually have a positive effect as it can create suspense and mystery. just make sure your date doesn’t fall asleep : )

Noise level

noisy-restaurant Make sure the noise level in the restaurant isn’t too quiet or too loud. It is important that you are able to communicate easily with your date with some soft music setting the mood. It is unacceptable to speak loudly on a romantic date so make sure the music isn’t too loud. Choose a restaurant that has soft music as it will heighten the romance in the air. If you are worried that there will be too many awkward moments of silence on your romantic date, you may want to go to a bar beforehand and have a drink or two to loosen up a bit while playing pool, then go to a restaurant on your romantic dinner. This will make the whole experience more fun and you won’t worry as much.

Food

red-wine-on-dates
It is important to find out what food and drinks your want the restaurant to serve. Plus take your date’s food preferences into consideration before choosing a restaurant and avoid messy foods. Make sure that the restaurant has a diverse menu. Good food and excellent cuisine are offered by most romantic restaurants. Mediterranean (Greek cuisine) or Italian cuisine would be a good choice for a date. Avoid foods such as black squid rice that is available in some Mediterranean restaurants. It tends to make your teeth look black and you will look silly! Also avoid drinking too much red wine because it will make your lips look red (a problem with males mostly) and it will stain your teeth as well making them look dark and dirty.

Lighting

dim-restaurant-setting
The role of lighting on a romantic date is often under rated. The perfect light set up can set the perfect mood of a date. Choose a restaurant where the lighting isn’t too bright; dim and mellow will do the trick. Notice how romantic the dim candle light is in the photo above. This helps to make your romantic date intimate. A restaurant with a lot of candles should be your ideal choice. If you’re not a big fan of candles and find it too gloomy for your liking then choose a restaurant that has cozy lighting, and try to take your date out for dinner instead of breakfast, brunch or lunch. Dinner just spells romance!

Price

expensive-restaurant-bill
While all of the things mentioned above are important for the success of your date, your primary concern should be to know the cost you will incur. It is recommended that you find out about the prices beforehand to save yourself from unnecessary pressure and embarrassment, especially in todays economy where almost everything is over-priced. These two things could well spoil your romantic date. Finding out about prices beforehand would help you choose a restaurant that fits you budget or work out ways to pay for your date. Remember, the point is to be yourself, so if you are just starting out with a new job and you do not have too much extra money to spend, don’t try and act like a Rockefeller. Sooner or later your date will find out that you are not loaded and will be turned off. Always be yourself and do your best with what you have.

There are likely to be countless restaurants in and around your neighbourhood, the points mentioned above will help you to narrow down your choices and choose the perfect romantic restaurant for your date.

Romance in Toronto

July 3, 2013 By GRTadmin

Are you looking for something romantic to do in Toronto with your significant other but cannot figure out what to do? We are here to help! On our website you will find some interesting romance ideas and suggestions that will help you make a lasting impression on your special date.

Top 6 Romantic Restaurants in Toronto

Top 10 Romanic Dates in Toronto

10 Low Budget Romantic Things to do in Toronto

How to choose a Romantic Restaurant for a Date