Who’s ready for date night? With summer beckoning, it’s time to explore the city’s sizzling hotspots. There is much to see and do in and around the GTA, and if you are not a foodie, you can always explore a few bars or ice cream parlors for a fun night out.
So much has changed in Toronto after the pandemic. Now, more than ever, there are new restaurants and bars to explore, each bringing new experiences. So, where should you take your pick, or maybe you could try them all.
If you are out of clues, we compiled a list of the trendiest spots in the GTA worth exploring this season.
The Writers Room Bar is a reimagined rooftop bar in the luxurious Park Hyatt Hotel. The bar pays tribute to literary legends who set foot there years ago. It played an important role, serving as a unique gathering spot for some of Canada’s renowned literary legends. It has even been featured in some notable Canadian novels by Margaret Atwood and Farley Mowat. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide the perfect backdrop to capture iconic scenes of Toronto’s skyline. The bar has an exquisite dining menu and a variety of crave-worthy drinks, spirits, and cocktails.
Greek cuisine has gained a whole new meaning at Mamakas. Inspired by the Aegean sun, sea, and soil, the restaurant serves distinctive meals with culinary methods passed down through generations. Priding itself on exploring everything rustic, its Aegean cuisine is unrivaled. Having received several awards and recognitions, including a listing among the top 100 restaurants of 2023, this is the place to bring your loved one for a unique night out. Mamakas has indoor and outdoor dining options; its outdoor patio with its distinctive tall white fences, florals, and candles transports you to urban Greece.
There is nothing like treating your loved one to an ice cream. The Dutch Dreams ice cream shop, created by the Aben family in the 1980s, is famous for its multicultural atmosphere and a wide variety of flavours. All their ice creams are made of premium quality ingredients. They are considered one of the city’s oldest and most popular ice cream hangout spots. Located on Vaughn Road, they serve dreamy creations that will pique your cravings. New not-to-miss flavours include French toast with bacon and vanilla or halva with salted caramel that’s not to undermine the ever-tasty Dutch caramel pecan biscuit.
If you want to jazz up your dating experience, consider something off the beaten path. The Avalon Lavender Farm provides the perfect backdrop for you to do that. Located in Mono, Ontario, the farm has over 30,000 lavender plants. You will also come across farm animals like horses, ponies, peacocks, and chickens. The highlight of the farm is the High Tea Lavender Garden picnic, which includes a spread of sweet and savory dishes and snacks, complete with a picnic-like experience that includes baskets, pillows, and blankets. The farm hosts several events throughout the summer, including yoga and piano classes. Once the season begins, you can pick your lavender flowers and take them home.
Recently opened in Liberty Village, OEB Breakfast Co. has a sumptuous extensive menu with its own unique spin on breakfast. The restaurant’s Blue-Plate Specials include options like Gnocchi breakfast Carbonara and Canadian Lobster and Shrimp crepe. If you are in the mood for something different, you can try one of their classic breakfasts, including runny eggs, bacon, and potatoes. They also serve a unique selection of club sandwiches and other gluten-free lunch options. To top it all off, there is an exceptional selection of mimosas and drinks with a variety of fresh fruit juices. A special feature of this restaurant is its trendy ambience, which is better suited for the young set as it’s casual.
Conclusion
Date night can be a special occasion to strengthen your love for one another. Whether you have been together for years or months or are just starting to date, there is no better time to get out and explore the city than now!
Aaron Levinson | Staff Writer
