By Rebecca Cooper Traynor | Match Me Canada
Let’s be real: swiping is easy, but connecting? That takes a little intention—and the right atmosphere.
If you’re dating in Toronto and looking to level up from the basic dinner or drink spot, let me whisper a little secret in your ear: speakeasies.
They’re tucked away. They’re moody. They make you feel like you’re in on something special. And they’re the perfect backdrop for getting to know someone without yelling over a DJ or waiting awkwardly for the bill at a loud chain restaurant.
So if you’re looking for that “I had such a good time with them” vibe? Try one of these hidden gems on your next first date.
💌 Top Speakeasies in Toronto for a First Date
🍸 Mahjong Bar
📍 1276 Dundas St. W.
Walk through a pink bodega and you’ll find this chill, dimly lit cocktail bar that feels like your coolest friend’s secret hangout. With Asian-inspired small plates and serious drinks, it’s the kind of place that says “I have great taste, but I’m not trying too hard.”
🥂 À Toi
📍 214 King Street W. (inside Coffee, Oysters, and Champagne)
Behind a literal wall of champagne lies a Parisian-inspired speakeasy full of vintage glamour. If you want to set the tone for romance, À Toi brings that effortlessly seductive energy.
🍕 Vatican Gift Shop
📍 1047 Gerrard Street E.
Yes, it’s behind a religious gift store. No, you’re not being punked. Vatican Gift Shop serves up cheeky Catholic kitsch, great cocktails, and pizza that’s basically holy.
🎶 Sub Division
📍 461 King St. W. (under Rabbit! Rabbit! Rabbit!)
No phones. No photos. Just vibey underground music, curated cocktails, and a “talk to each other like it’s 1998” vibe. Perfect for the bold and curious.
🥃 Gift Shop
📍 89-B Ossington Ave. (behind Barber & Co.)
This moody, masculine space is small but mighty—with a whiskey-forward menu and bartenders who actually know what they’re doing. If your date loves a good old fashioned, this is the move.
How Match Me Canada Can Help You Find Love in Toronto
Let’s be honest—dating in Toronto isn’t always easy. You might have amazing style, a great career, and a full heart ready to give… and still feel like finding someone who gets you is impossible.
That’s where we come in.
At Match Me Canada, we’ve helped hundreds of singles like you navigate the weird, wild world of online dating with real guidance, custom support, and zero judgment. Our Online Dating Takeover and 1-on-1 Date Coaching are all about helping you get results—not ghosted.
We’ll help you:
- Write (or rewrite) your dating profile so it actually sounds like you.
- Swipe smarter—not harder.
- Connect with people who want the same kind of love you do.
- Plan dates (like the ones above) that lead to second, third, and forever.
💬 Ready to stop guessing and start connecting? Book a free 20-min call with us.
Because love isn’t luck—it’s strategy, heart, and showing up for yourself.
