Aliu IsaDates aren’t just about making small talk; they’re also about making a lasting impression and showing you’re the total package. That’s why picking the perfect spot is key to setting the mood and sparking that connection.
I’ve learned this the hard way after a bad date at a bar that was too dim, too noisy, and way too expensive—not exactly the vibe you want when trying to get to know someone.
Luckily, we’ve rounded up the best bars for dates in the 6ix, so you can skip the guesswork and simply have an unforgettable (or at least, pleasant) night. From cozy corners to chic lounges, our ultimate guide has it all.
So, get ready to impress—here are the best bars in Toronto to wow your date!
BarChef
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Website: https://www.barchef.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barchef/
Address: 472 Queen St W
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs, Sun: 6 PM – 2 AM
- Friday: 5 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 4 PM – 2 AM
Contact: (416) 868-4800
BarChef oozes atmosphere, with an impressively stacked back bar and a romantic space lit up by candles. No wonder they earned a spot on Condé Nast Traveller Magazine’s Gold List in 2018 and 2020 as one of the top cocktail bars in the world!
The wall of apothecary bottles in the back speaks to the magic happening behind the scenes. Meaning all syrups, bitters, and infusions are made in-house, giving their cocktails a unique edge that you won’t find anywhere else.
When it comes to food, their shrimp tacos are a must-try. These beauties are loaded with jumbo shrimp, pickled red cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of aioli, all topped with a sprinkle of microgreens—as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.
Pro Tip:
For a cocktail that will blow you both away, order BarChef’s ‘Gala.’ It’s a riff on a classic champagne cocktail, featuring a sugar cube soaked in apricot bitters made in-house, mixed with elderflower liqueur, and topped off with sparkling wine.
Civil Liberties
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Website: https://www.civillibertiesbar.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/civlibto/
Address: 878 Bloor St W
Hours: Mon – Sun: 6 PM – 2 AM
Contact: (416) 546-5634
For a laid-back and fun date night, Civil Liberties is the perfect spot. This rustic speakeasy has a vibe that’s both casual and quirky, making it ideal for a younger crowd looking for something a little different.
We love its vintage decor, old silent movies playing on the walls, and piano performances. The bar snacks are also delicious and reasonably priced such as the chips and hummus made with lemon and paprika.
And don’t forget to check out their various live performances, which are often pay-what-you-can. Keep in mind, however, that they don’t accept reservations, so be prepared to sit at the bar or stand during peak hours.
Pro Tip:
There’s no menu at Civil Liberties. Servers will ask about your taste preferences and create a custom drink just for you.
It adds a fun element of surprise to your date, and it’s also a great way to discover new flavors together.
The Hole In The Wall T.O.
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Website: https://www.facebook.com/HoleInTheWallTO/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theholeinthewallto/
Address: 2867A Dundas St W
Hours: Mon – Sun: 5 PM – 2 AM
Contact Details: (647) 883-7781
Nestled in a tiny space that was originally built around 1900, The Hole In The Wall T.O. lives up to its name. Despite its size, it’s packed with character, offering cozy vibes, live music, and a rotating menu of craft beers and global dishes.
If you and your date are in the mood for something spicy, try their ‘Chinatown Calamari.’ Crispy fried calamari gets a kick from chilis, scallions, and sesame seeds, all drizzled with their addicting sriracha honey.
And if you’re a cocktail lover, go for the ‘Little Citrus in the Big City.’ This drink features smoky apple tequila, dry vermouth, and grapefruit bitters, striking the perfect balance between winter warmth and spring freshness.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on the clock when you visit. The patio opens at noon, which is great for a sunny date, and the live music kicks off around 10 PM on the small stage at the back. Both options are sure to make your date night special!
The Carbon Bar
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Website: https://thecarbonbar.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarbonbar/
Address: 99 Queen St E
Hours:
- Tue – Wed, Sun: 4 PM – 10 PM
- Thurs – Sat: 4 PM – 11 PM
Contact: (416) 947-7000
Carbon Bar’s dining room exudes glamour, with stylish booth seating and accordion-style light fixtures that add a touch of old-school charm. The atmosphere is also effortlessly cool, with indie rock playing softly in the background.
But don’t let that fool you—the service is top-notch, giving you the best of both worlds: polished yet relaxed.
Try their Experience Menu, priced per person. It’s a delightful progression from snacks and appetizers to a generous platter and indulgent dessert.
As for drinks, the bar’s focus on tequila and brown liquor means you’re in for some seriously good drinks. Their wine list is also thoughtfully curated, but if you’re feeling fancy, ask for the secret list of more premium options.
Pro Tip:
If you’re both meat lovers, The Carbon Bar’s ‘Pit Master Platter’ will make you happy. This features the best brisket, pork side ribs, jalapeño sausage, smoked turkey, and pulled pork, all smoked to perfection.
Bar Raval
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Website: https://www.thisisbarraval.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bar_raval/
Address: 505 College St
Hours: Mon – Sun: 11 AM – 1 AM
Contact Details: [email protected]
Bar Raval is another must-visit date spot in the city. This beautiful Barcelona-inspired pintxo bar offers a variety of small plates—good for sharing—along with a delicious selection of cocktails, wine, and beer.
The atmosphere here is intimate and inviting, with its swooping wooden curves and elegant lighting. Plus, there’s a heated covered patio outside, scattered with barrels that serve as tables, where you can stand and enjoy your drinks.
Be sure to try their house cold-smoked mussels, which are served with a flavorful and spicy sauce. And for a refreshing cocktail, order ‘The Good Life,’ a combination of La Guita Manzanilla, Raval Seville Curacao, Cocchi Vermouth Amaro, and absinthe.
Pro Tip:
If you’re a fan of baked goods, you’ll love Bar Raval’s house-baked treats. They offer a variety of sweet and savory items presented on boards, inspired by the menuless style of eating popular in Spain.
Bar Isabel
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Website: https://barisabel.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bar_isabel/
Address: 797 College St
Hours:
- Mon – Fri, Sun: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 11 PM
Contact: (416) 532-2222
Bar Isabel, located near College and Ossington, is another bar famous for having a date-friendly vibe. Helmed by chef Grant van Gameren, this 75-seat restaurant offers a charming European-inspired ambiance.
For instance, the spot’s red-glow ambient lighting and classic soul music create a seductive and intimate atmosphere. Also, the wooden support arches add to the cozy feel!
Start your meal with a plate of Spanish mixed meats, complemented by Montenebro and Manchego cheeses. For something truly indulgent, we recommend their roast veal bone marrow or the 45-day dry-aged, bone-in ribeye.
Pro Tip:
Bar Isabel is popular, so there’s often a lineup any day of the week. They’re known for their long tables, but luckily, you can make reservations for half the seating, which is definitely worth it.
Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar
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Website: https://www.hyssteakhouse.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hyssteakhouse/
Address: 365 Bay St.
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 4 PM – 10 PM
Contact: (416) 364-6600
Hy’s Steakhouse is a timeless classic that has been serving up delicious steaks for decades. It’s elegant and inviting, with its multi-level space, high ceilings, and towering bookshelves.
While they’re known for their steaks, their appetizers are also worth trying. For instance, their jumbo prawn cocktail is a decadent starter, featuring juicy shrimp served with a sweet and silky cocktail sauce.
When it comes to the steaks, go for their 22-ounce porterhouse steak that’s sourced exclusively from High River, Alberta, and aged a minimum of 28 days. It’s grilled to order on a heat broiler and served with your choice of baked or mashed potato or fries.
Pro Tip:
If you’re ordering a bone-in cut like Hy’s Steakhouse’s porterhouse, it’s recommended to cook it closer to medium. This allows the fat to render into the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy interior with a flavorful charred exterior.
Coffee Oysters Champagne
Media credit: coctoronto
Website: https://sipshucksip.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coctoronto
Address: 214 King St W Basement Level 1
Hours: Tue – Sat: 4 PM – 2 AM
Contact: (416) 408-4044
Coffee Oysters Champagne (COC) offers a charming Parisian-inspired atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of classic cocktails, oysters, and champagne.
The ‘Oyster Rocafella’ is a must-try, featuring smooth Royal Miyagi oysters topped with chives, black masago caviar, edible rose petals, and a splash of champagne.
For your main course, indulge in the ‘Two Duck,’ a tender piece of seared six-hour cured breast and confit duck leg. And don’t forget to save room for dessert—the savarin is a brioche dough drenched in brandy, lemon orange syrup, and crême patisserie.
Pro Tip:
COC boasts the largest champagne list in the city—with 25 bottles and a selection of sparkling wines. From a bottle of sparkling Ridgeview Brut to a vintage Louis Roederer ‘Cristal’ Brut, the variety here will seriously impress your date.
Melrose On Adelaide
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Website: https://www.melroseonadelaide.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melrose.on.adelaide/
Address: 270 Adelaide St W #300
Hours: Mon – Sun: 2 PM – 2 AM
Contact Details: (647) 923-9932
Melrose on Adelaide is a cozy cocktail bar that offers an intimate setting in the heart of the city. It’s known for its daily drink specials, happy hours, and the ability to transform into an event space for those special occasions.
Let’s talk about food first. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, you’ve got to try their tender and spicy octopus. Or, go for their Seacuterie—think smoked salmon, oysters, mussels, and shrimp ajillo on a charming charcuterie board.
On to the drinks, because what’s a date without a great cocktail? Try their ‘Tito’s Espresso Martini’—it’s got the right kick to keep the conversation flowing all night long.
Pro Tip:
If you’re both wine lovers, be sure to check out Melrose On Adelaide’s Wine Wednesdays, where you can enjoy half-priced bottles of wine all night long.
Bar Reyna
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Website: https://www.barreyna.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reynatoronto/
Address: 158 Cumberland St
Hours:
- Tue – Wed: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Fri – Sat: 11 AM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 11 aAM – 10 PM
Contact: (647) 748-4464
Bar Reyna is a stunning two-story bar in Yorkville that offers a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere. The menu, inspired by Mediterranean regions, features a sinful selection of table snacks, single bites, and shareable entrees.
If you’re looking for something fun to share, try their fries. They offer five different types, including grana padano fries with truffle aioli and za’atar-spiced fries.
For a more elegant option, the char-grilled octopus over romesco sauce is a must-try.
As for their patio, it’s a beautiful mix of wood and brick walls, with fairy lights and greenery creating a serene and inviting space. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink, soak up the atmosphere, and get to know each other more.
Pro Tip:
To end your date on a sweet note, choose between Bar Reyna’s ricotta fritters with orange blossom or their kaffir lime and saffron baklava. You can even order both so that you can taste each one and playfully argue which is better!
