Last Updated: June 13, 2022. When it comes to dating in Toronto, it’s easy to fall into the same humdrum pattern of going for drinks on a patio. If you’re really hoping to impress your date, however, it’s never a bad idea to try something creative and off the beaten date path, so to speak. If you’re looking for a new date night idea in Toronto and want to give high tea a try, you’ve come to the right place.
Looking for High Tea for Your Next Toronto Date Night?
One date night (or day) idea that’s sure to make that special someone feel like a queen (or king) is going out for a stylish and scrumptious afternoon tea (also known as high tea restaurants in Toronto).
Instead of dashing into Starbucks for a to-go cup of tea, treat yourself to a much more classy and civilized experience.
What’s the Difference Between High Tea and Afternoon Tea?
High tea is not to be confused with afternoon tea, although the two terms are often used interchangeably in North America. While high tea is technically an evening meal taken between 5 and 7 pm, afternoon tea is typically a lighter meal eaten between 3:30 and 5 pm, which originated among the English upper classes in the mid-1800s.
The tradition of afternoon tea began in 18th Century Britain as a way to tide hunger over until dinner time. Over the years, it evolved into an elaborate afternoon activity involving tiered trays of pastries and sweets, stylish hats, and of course, all the tea your heart could desire.
If you like the concept of afternoon tea, which many call high tea, check out one of these five spots in Toronto for your next date night.
Date Night in Toronto: Where to Go for Afternoon Tea
1. Bampot House of Tea
Offering up world-class tea, vegetarian eats and board games, Bampot House of Tea at 201 Harbord Street is a treat for all the senses. With beautiful Bohemian décor and a romantic setting, your date will feel like they’ve been transported to another time at this unique tea house.
2. Lobby Lounge at the Shangri-La Hotel
With a modern, chic vibe, artful décor and a selection of premium teas, the Lobby Lounge at the Shangri-La Hotel is the perfect upscale option for the king or queen in your life. The lounge offers seasonal afternoon tea service from Monday to Sunday, 12:30 to 4 pm. They serve finger sandwiches, tea pastries and of course, plenty of warm tea. If you’re looking to add a little sparkle to your afternoon tea experience, try the hotel’s Madame Clicquot’s Champagne Afternoon Tea in the lounge every Friday to Sunday from 1 to 5 pm.
3. The St. Regis Hotel
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As a signature ritual of the St. Regis brand, the art of afternoon tea is one of the hotel’s specialties. Grab your fanciest outfit and enjoy a selection of sweet and savory high tea classics in the swanky LOUIX LOUIS restaurant 31 floors above the city. The afternoon tea ritual will only be available at LOUIX LOUIS Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 to 2:30 pm for a limited time, so don’t hesitate to make your reservation now..
4. Old Mill Inn
At the charming and historic Old Mill Inn in the west end of Toronto, you can delight in afternoon high tea service for your next date night. They offer afternoon tea on Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday at 2:30 and 2:45 pm. Served in the terrace room overlooking the picturesque courtyard or in the original print room, the Old Mill’s afternoon tea experience includes French pastries, artisan tea sandwiches and a selection of 12 hand-chosen Sloane teas.
5. Kitten and the Bear
With a name like Kitten and the Bear, you know you’re in for a charming high afternoon tea experience for your next Toronto date night. While they don’t offer dine-in service, the Dundas Street specialty shop offers beautifully curated afternoon tea experiences featuring artisan preserves, buttermilk scones and more delivered right to your door, which could make for a lovely and thoughtful at-home or outdoor date idea.
Businesses mentioned in this article:
- Bampot House of Tea
- Lobby Lounge at the Shangri-La Hotel
- St. Regis
- Old Mill Inn
- Kitten and the Bear
Looking for more fun things to do in Toronto?
Things to Do in Toronto
- Eat your way through the best vegan restaurants in Toronto
- Stay at one of these amazing Canada hotels, arranged by proximity to Toronto City Centre
- Take a self-guided tour of Toronto’s dynamic downtown art scene
