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Top 10 Candlelight Dinners in Toronto to Set the Mood Just Right
If you’re like me and want to pull off a special, romantic dinner, then you’ve come to the right place. Hear me out—candlelight dinner.
It sets the mood, it’s intimate, it’s romantic, and honestly, it just feels fancy. You know, the kind of vibe that makes you feel like you’re about to have your own Lady and the Tramp spaghetti moment (but, like, way cooler and way less slurping).
Luckily, we’ve done the legwork and burned through countless wicks to bring you our top picks for the best candlelight dinners in Toronto. No need to stress about finding the perfect spot—we’ve got you covered with places that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a rom-com, minus the awkward meet-cute.
Canoe
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Address: 66 Wellington St W 54th floor
Contact details: +1 416-364-0054
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 11:45 AM to 11:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
Canoe is one of those places where the views and the food just click. Located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, it’s a spot that makes you stop and take it all in as soon as you step through the door.
But what makes it memorable is the food. Everything on the menu is made with top-notch Canadian ingredients, and it shows. The butter-poached lobster is rich but light, and the Alberta bison is super tender with a deep, satisfying flavour.
Even the breadbasket is something special, with butter that’s so perfectly whipped it almost steals the show. The service is smooth and friendly, striking a great balance between laid-back and professional.
Pro tip:
Book a window table as far in advance as possible, and aim for a reservation just before sunset to watch the city transform. Don’t miss the birch syrup pie—it’s a uniquely Canadian dessert that’s the perfect sweet finish.
Byblos Downtown
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Address: 11 Duncan St
Contact details: +1 647-660-0909
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 5 PM – 11 PM
Pricing: $$$
Byblos Downtown offers an escape into a world of Eastern Mediterranean flavours that feels both adventurous and approachable. The space is stylish and lush, with intricate patterns and soft lighting that make the setting feel transportive.
Sharing plates is the way to go here, and starting with the truffle pide is a no-brainer—it’s warm, buttery, and loaded with earthy richness. The short rib kebabs are another favourite, with tender meat and fragrant spices that linger in the best way.
Don’t sleep on the cocktails either; the Turkish Delight is as fun to drink as it is to say, with its perfectly sweet, floral notes. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Mediterranean cuisine or just dipping your toes in, the dishes are creative and satisfying.
Pro tip:
Visit with a small group so you can try a variety of dishes family-style. For dessert, the pistachio ice cream is a creamy dream and pairs beautifully with their strong, aromatic Turkish coffee.
The Chase
Media from thechaseto
Address: 10 Temperance St Fl 5
Contact details: +1 647-348-7000
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 11 PM
Pricing: $$$
The Chase strikes the perfect balance between polished and welcoming, making it an ideal choice for a memorable night out. Set in a beautifully restored heritage building, it’s a place where seafood truly stands out.
The lobster pasta is a standout—tender lobster with a rich, flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. The seared scallops are equally impressive, caramelized to perfection and served with bright, fresh purées that tie the dish together.
Even if seafood isn’t your thing, the seasonal vegetable dishes are so thoughtfully crafted they could easily steal the show.
Pro tip:
Request a rooftop terrace table if the weather allows—it offers stunning views of the city. Start with oysters from the raw bar and ask the staff for their wine pairing recommendations; they’re fantastic at finding something to suit your taste.
Blu Ristorante
Media from bluristorante
Address: 90 Avenue Rd
Contact details: +1 416-921-1471
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 4:30 PM – 10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Blu Ristorante has a quiet elegance that makes it feel effortlessly romantic. Situated in Yorkville, it brings a touch of sophistication, but what keeps people coming back is the authentic Italian cuisine, done to perfection.
And we have to say, the osso buco is a highlight—braised so tenderly it practically falls apart, paired with creamy risotto that’s the definition of comfort food. The lobster ravioli is another standout, with a rich, buttery filling and silky pasta that’s just heavenly.
Their live music? It fills the space with warm, soulful melodies that really enhance the whole experience, making it feel even more intimate. The staff, too, is passionate about the food, and their attention to detail makes every bite feel memorable.
Pro tip:
When ordering, don’t skip the seasonal specials; the chef’s creations often take the meal to the next level. For wine, trust their recommendations—they know how to complement the dishes beautifully.
Ristorante Sotto Sotto
Media from sottosotto
Address: 120 Avenue Rd
Contact details: +1 416-962-0011
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 10:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 5 PM – 10 PM
Pricing: $$$
If you’re looking for classic Italian dining done right, Sotto Sotto is the place to be. Tucked away in a charming spot, it has that intimate, almost hidden feel, making it perfect for a quiet, candlelit dinner.
The food is what keeps people coming back. The eggplant parmigiana is a standout—rich, cheesy, and cooked to perfection, setting the tone for the rest of the meal. The linguine alle vongole is another highlight, with fresh clams in a light, garlicky sauce full of flavour but never too heavy.
Though the restaurant attracts a celebrity crowd, it’s the warm, attentive service that makes you feel like a VIP. And with dishes made with such care, it’s easy to see why Sotto Sotto remains a favourite for so many.
Pro tip:
Make reservations well in advance, especially on weekends. If you’re celebrating something special, mention it to the staff—they’re known for going the extra mile. For wine lovers, explore their Italian reds; the staff can guide you to a perfect pairing.
Enoteca Sociale
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Address: 1288 Dundas St W
Contact details: +1 416-534-1200
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 5 PM – 11 PM
Pricing: $$
Enoteca Sociale feels like one of those hidden gems you’re always hoping to find. It’s intimate without feeling pretentious, and everything about the space—low lighting, flickering candles, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere—puts you at ease once you step in.
This is a place where food is all about comfort and authenticity. Their cacio e pepe is a dish you’ll be thinking about days later: simple, creamy, peppery perfection.
Don’t skip the charcuterie board either—featuring cheeses from their cheese cave—it’s not just delicious but a talking point that makes the meal even more memorable. Pairing dishes with a good glass of wine is a breeze here; the staff knows their stuff and gives great recommendations.
Pro tip:
Their cheese cave is a real highlight—let your server know your preferences, and they’ll customize a board just for you. For a special treat, visit on Sunday for their Roman-style dinner.
La Palette
Media from lapalettequeenwest
Address: 492 Queen St W
Contact details: +1 416-929-4900
Opening hours:
- Monday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Wednesday to Friday: 5 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday to Sunday: 12 PM – 2 AM
Pricing: $$
La Palette feels like stepping into a cozy Parisian bistro in the middle of Queen West. The place has this eclectic charm with mismatched furniture, soft lighting, and flickering candles that make it perfect for a relaxed, romantic evening.
The food is unapologetically French, with a bold twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, their horse tartare is worth trying—balanced and surprisingly approachable. For something a little more classic, the duck confit is a go-to—crispy skin, tender meat, and rich flavours that aren’t too overwhelming.
The wine list is a real treat, with bottles you don’t often see elsewhere, and the staff is always happy to help you pick the perfect pairing.
Pro tip:
Save room for dessert because their lavender crème brûlée is an absolute must—it’s aromatic, creamy, and the perfect end to the evening.
Carisma
Media from carisma.to
Address: 15 Toronto St
Contact details: +1 416-864-7373
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12 PM – 2:30 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Carisma combines elegance with a touch of old-world charm, offering a sophisticated Italian dining experience in the heart of Toronto. The dining room is polished and warm, with just the right amount of candlelight to set a romantic tone.
We suggest starting your meal with the beef carpaccio—it’s impossibly tender, delicately seasoned, and melts in your mouth. For mains, the veal chop is a standout, perfectly cooked and full of flavor, but their fresh pastas, like the truffle tagliatelle, also steal the show.
Not to mention, the service here is impeccable, with staff who are both attentive and passionate about the dishes they present.
Pro tip:
For dessert, the ricotta cheesecake is a house favorite and an excellent way to end the evening.
GEORGE Restaurant
Media from georgeonqueen
Address: 111C Queen St E
Contact details: +1 416-863-6006
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Friday: 12 PM – 2 PM, 5:30 PM – 12 AM
- Tuesday and Saturday: 5:30 PM – 12 AM
Pricing: $$$
Nestled in a cozy Victorian townhouse, GEORGE Restaurant offers a dining experience both refined and creative—truly one-of-a-kind. Famous for its seasonal tasting menus, every dish is a perfect mix of flavours, carefully crafted to surprise and delight.
Each course feels like its own little masterpiece—visually beautiful and packed with complex, delicious tastes. You might find yourself savouring things like seared foie gras or slow-roasted duck, with sauces and sides that bring out the best in every bite.
The candlelit dining room strikes the perfect balance—elegant but not over-the-top, making it ideal for a romantic night out or a special celebration. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, really adding to the experience without feeling stuffy.
Pro tip:
Opt for the full-tasting menu with wine pairings for a complete experience. The sommelier is excellent at finding wines that complement the dishes.
Antler Kitchen & Bar
Media from antlerkitchenbar
Address: 1454 Dundas St W
Contact details: +1 647-345-8300
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 3 PM – 10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Antler Kitchen & Bar really highlights the best of Canada’s natural ingredients. The space has a warm, rustic charm, with wooden details and a cozy candle lit atmosphere that makes you feel at home but still special.
The menu celebrates wild Canadian flavours, with dishes like venison steak and duck wings stealing the show. The venison, perfectly tender, is a standout and definitely worth trying if it’s your first visit.
Also, their house-made charcuterie board is a must. It features game meats and foraged ingredients, offering a taste of what makes Antler so unique. Even the cocktails stick to the theme, with local herbs and flavours that tie everything together.
Pro tip:
If you enjoy game meats, ask the staff for recommendations—they’re always happy to guide you.
