The top 10 restaurants for a first date in Toronto

The best restaurants for a first date in Toronto don't need to be fancy, just fun. Skip the multi-course menus that'll commit you to staying seated through dessert and opt instead for small plates or shareable platters that come alongside stiff drinks.

Here are my picks for the top restaurants for a first date in Toronto.

Mr. Flamingo
A vibrant room, strong cocktails and an exciting selection of small plates make this Dundas West eatery a great first date destination. The menu is sure to impress with menu items such as lobster baked oysters, butter poached scallops in crab bisque, and a luscious (and veg-friendly) mushroom gnocchi. If things go well, saunter downstairs to Bambi's for more cocktails.

Nuit Social
Court your latest love interest while nibbling on olives, cheese and charcuterie at this intimate West Queen West restaurant. As if tailored to the specific purpose, the room is populated by two tops and lit with flattering, warm lights, not to mention there's an eclectic wine list and range of cocktails to help lubricate the flow of conversation.

Little Sister
This fun street hawker-inspired snack bar in midtown offers a fun and delicious array of nibbles like satay skewers and rendang tacos. The place can get packed, so impress your date by booking a table in advance.

People's Eatery
Start with drinks and a few small plates while you test the waters. This Chinatown snack bar is perfect for a first date because it's just as easy to cut the night short as it is to keep it going.

Snakes & Lagers
Board games and beer are pretty much the best icebreaker, and if that's not enough, the kitchen has got game too. Munch on charcuterie and/or cheese boards, snacky items and sandwiches while gauging if this one's a keeper over some friendly competition.

Tabule
Did you forget to cover dietary restrictions when you agreed to meet on Tinder? This Middle Eastern eatery will save you any awkward embarrassment since there's just as many options for vegetarians as there are for meat eaters. Start with a spread of mezze and cocktails before deciding if you'll stay for a second course.

Bar Buca
The cool vibe, dim lighting and drinks-focused menu make this intimate Italian restaurant on King West an ideal first date destination. Get acquainted over wine, cocktails, and an array of small bites and shareable plates including highlights like fritto misto or stuffed burrata. Best of all, the kitchen is open late.

Burdock
Are beer and live music listed among the six things your date could never do without? This bar/restaurant/music hall/microbrewery is sure to impress. The menu offers beer-friendly snacks, starters and hearty mains while live music promises the perfect distraction to fill any awkward silences.

The Wren
This laid back local on the Danforth has got a lot of heart and a great casual atmosphere for a first time encounter. Craft beers are the drink of choice, while the menu offers above average pub food like guacamole and chips, chilaquiles and Southern fried chicken sandwiches.

The Hole In The Wall
Let sparks fly at this live venue and bar in The Junction where the music will give you reason to lean in a just a little closer. The bar is well stocked with craft beers, while the kitchen is famous for its crispy calamari and duck confit wings.

Thanks to Lavalife for sponsoring this post. Enter their contest for a chance to win a dinner and a movie night out for two.

Photo of The Wren by Jesse Milns

by Liora Ipsum via blogTO