by Trevor Green, Funké Joseph, and Andrea Josic
Valentine’s Day isn’t until next year, but that doesn’t mean you and your sweetheart can’t head to one of Toronto’s many romantic culinary destinations. Whether you desire a date night at the top of the CN Tower with a breathtaking view, or a quiet and seductive atmosphere at the back of a charming family bistro, we have you covered. So, embrace your inner Cupid, and get ready to skip the lights fantastic.
Grey Gardens
199 Augusta Ave.
This trendy wine bar and gastropub in Kensington Market features the impressive creations of one of the city’s up-and-coming chefs, Mitch Bates (who is also a co-owner). Bates, who has been profiled in Toronto Life and The Globe and Mail, has worked at Michelin starred restaurants throughout the world, most recently at the much lauded Ko in New York City. The prices at Grey Gardens are reasonable. Be sure to order the smoked beef cheeks with brussels sprouts.
Peter Pan
373 Queen St. W.
This bistro at the corner of Peter Street in Toronto’s trendy Queen West neighbourhood has been around for decades, though it recently opened its doors again under new ownership. The Sunday-brunch place is extremely popular, and attracts a vast array of patrons, from millennials to members of the Bay Street business crowd. In the summer months, when the relaxing back patio is open, sit here with your loved one, and awaken your taste buds with the miraculous grilled octopus or corn nut crusted steak. For dessert, we recommend the poached plums.
Los Colibros
220 King St. W.
As one of Toronto’s first upscale Mexican restaurants, Los Colibros delivers the finest, authentic Mexican cuisine. World-renowned chef Elia Herrera from Veracruz, Mexico uses traditional recipes passed down from generations in her family. Los Colibros offers a variety of tangy, rich dishes, including a handful of vegetarian options. The exquisite selection of hand-crafted wines includes the luxurious 2013 Gevrey Chambertin ‘Coeur de Roy’ Dugat Py, Burgundy, France. Priced at $550, this red French wine is filled with pure, fruitful aromas and provides a smooth, clean after-taste.
Joso’s
202 Davenport Rd.
Influenced by the delicacy of Croatian cuisine, this Dalmatian-style restaurant creates a perfect Mediterranean atmosphere for all seafood lovers. The founder, Joso Spralja, grew up fishing on the Croatian coast. Based on Spralja’s love for the Adriatic Sea, the light piano music and ancient-seeming decor in the restaurant create a sweet ambiance. A classic meal at Joso’s is the octopus salad: a fine blend of grilled octopus, soft potatoes and hand-selected leafy greens. Joso’s is truly a unique dining experience that encompasses guests in the beauty of eastern Europe.
Ferro
769 St. Clair Ave. W.
If you’re looking for authentic Italian cuisine with a hip urban environment outside, then this is the spot for you. Founded by the Pronesti family back in 1993, Ferro’s has been running the neighbourhood with quality hospitality, amazing pizza, and rustic family charm. One of their signature meals is the “Charles”. A succulent submarine sandwich topped with melted cheese and fresh pesto sauce that delivers the crunch you crave. They’re located near Saint Clair West station if you want to check them out. The patio is open whenever it isn’t freezing cold, so try to head there and get a seat outside before the snow comes down!
Sweet Jesus
220 Yonge St.
Mixing insane ingredients together to create the most bizarre concoctions of dairy, Sweet Jesus is a must-see place if you have a cool date that loves icy treats. Almost every flavour you can think of is available here, and if you’re ever curious about the latest cones you can check out their Instagram @sweetjesus which has amassed over 100 thousand followers over the years. Their Instagram features colourful, vibrant photos of customers and models enjoying some stylish and trendy frozen cow milk. This is another place you’ll want to get to before it starts getting too cold to fully enjoy your cool snacks.
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