Toronto locals have a deep connection with their city. They know exactly which coffee shop serves the creamiest cortado and which park bench offers the best view of the sunset. Dating here is no different—it’s about sharing these gems with someone and turning everyday spots into places that become even more meaningful. 

As part of our latest “Find Me on Bumble” campaign, we reached out to our Bumble community—locals who’ve navigated the scene and know the city inside and out. They’ve dropped some of their insider knowledge and go-to spots, giving you the ultimate guide to dating in Toronto.* 

Favorite date ideas for dating in Toronto 

Toronto has no shortage of places to impress. Whether you’re into bookshops or cocktail bars, there is something for everyone. Here, our community has shared their favorite first-date spots: 

Q: Favorite hidden gem?

DANIELLA: The view of the city skyline at Riverdale Park East is one of [my favorites]. It’s also great for tobogganing in the winter, and in the summer, you can sit and watch the sunset. 

GLO: Common Sort for thrifting is great. They’re dotted around the city. Also BMV Books and A Different Booklist, which is a local black-owned bookstore. I’d also recommend Hot Docs Cinema—have a great $5 popcorn deal. 

CONNOR: Anything over on the West side of Toronto. It has a great community vibe and lots of local businesses. Some of my favorite spots are Bar Bowie, which does great cocktails and snacks, Favorites, a Thai BBQ, and Superpoint, which is a pizza/pasta restaurant.  

COLE: Annex Billards for pool on Bloor St. And Loveless Cafe, and Milou, which is a bistro—both of those are on Dundas Street. 

Q: The most underrated neighborhood for dating in Toronto is…

DANIELLA: I would say Riverside, Leslieville. There are loads of shops and so much to do and eat. I love Jimmy’s Coffee on Queen East, Queen Books, and Le Beau—it has the best pastries. 

GLO: Maybe East Chinatown? People don’t know there’s another Chinatown, but it’s actually really sick.

JASMIN: Summer Hill. There are so many parks and cute shops opening up there, and it’s filled with young moms and dads. It feels like you’re in New York, especially by Ramsden Park—it’s a really nice area. 

CONNOR: Koreatown. They have amazing food. It’s really close to where I live—I’m there a lot.

COLE:  Probably the Annex or Parkdale. Lots of great eats and activities to do in both places.

Q: Favorite park?

CONNOR: I love playing sports—tennis, golf, pretty much anything—and Bickford (I do soccer there) and Trinity Bellwood are both great if you’re into outdoor activities. 

DANIELLA: Baldwins or Trinity—any of the parks are great for having a picnic and sitting down to enjoy the weather. Toronto in the summer is just so nice.

COLE: Trinity Bellwood. It’s in the middle of the city, but it feels like you’re in a forest. 

GLO: Christie Pitts Park—there’s an ice rink there in the winter. Also, Philosopher’s Walk is a great scenic footpath that runs through the St George campus. 

What to expect when dating in Toronto 

Discovering hidden gems, meeting new people, and embracing the spontaneous energy of the city are all part of the excitement of dating in Toronto. Here’s what our Bumble community had to say about what it’s really like:

Q: Finish the sentence: Toronto is the only place where….

DANIELLA: You can walk into a coffee shop or a storefront and strike up a conversation with just about anyone.

GLO: You’ll find ten vintage stores on one strip.

JASMIN: You can enjoy the best Italian food and the best Korean food all on the same day. 

Q: How would you describe dating in Toronto?

COLE: Toronto is a tight-knit community—especially in the West End. Chances are you’ll have mutual connections with someone when dating. 

CONNOR: I feel like a lot of dates happen very quickly and on the fly. It’s a very spontaneous dating culture.  

DANIELLA: There’s really something for everyone. If you’re into skating or cycling, Leslieville is the spot—it’s perfect for people with an active lifestyle. But if you’re after the party scene, downtown or King Street West is where all the fun happens. 

GLO: Dating in Toronto is exciting because there’s so much creative energy. I’ve connected with so many folks who have cool, unique interests. It’s awesome how many different types of people you can meet. 

Q: What is one piece of dating advice you’d give to someone who just moved to Toronto?

COLE: Be nice. Be polite. And try to find yourself a house party. It’s probably the best way to meet authentic people.

CONNOR: Get out of your neighborhood. A lot of people only spend time in their neighborhood, but there are so many areas of Toronto that are so cool to see. 

GLO: Be open. Don’t take life too seriously. You never know who you’re going to meet.

JASMIN: Just say yes to everything. Try meeting new people and going to different spots—that will help you figure out what your favorite neighborhood is.

From last-minute picnics to grabbing tacos at one of the many hidden gems, there’s no such thing as a “typical” date in Toronto. The city is constantly changing (just like the weather) and your go-to spot might be totally different depending on the day, or the season. But one thing’s for sure: whatever you’re into, you can find someone who matches your energy on Bumble. 

*We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any companies, locations, or brands mentioned in this article. All statements listing any as such are in the opinion of our interviewed users. All company, location, and brand names are trademarks of their respective owners.