Date night in Toronto: Here are free, cheap or bougie things to do from April 12-14
Ah, spring love in the 6ix! 💕
A special collection at the Toronto Reference Library. Right: A dish from Don Alfonso 1980.
The weekend is almost upon us which means it's time to get ready for date night, and we've rounded up a few things to do in Toronto that are either free, cheap or more of a special treat.
Depending on your budget, date night can add up quickly and so being mindful of how much you're spending might be top of mind for some (or not a worry at all, for others!).
Here are a few suggestions at each price point of what you can do in Toronto from April 12 to 14.
Free: Explore Culinary Curiosities at the Toronto Reference Library
Price: Free
When: Every Friday from March 30, 2024, to June 16, 2024, open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Address: TD Gallery at the Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4W 2G8
Why You Need To Go: Grab your partner and browse some of the rare items that reveal how people ate in Toronto at home and around town back in the day.
The Eat In or Dine Out: A Culinary Exploration of Our Special Collections will allow you to "nibble your way through early cookbooks, familiar menus, iconic dining spots of Toronto, and more culinary curiosities."
Notable pieces include a giant ad for Tim Horton's hot dogs, a Zellers restaurant menu and a vintage ad for "fluid beef" — yum!
The Toronto Reference Library's Special Collection website
Free: Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto
Price: Free
When: Every Friday from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. with the last entry at 8:45 p.m.
Address: 158 Sterling Rd #100, Toronto, ON M6R 2B7
Why You Need To Go: On Friday nights, there's free entry to the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto which grants you access to most of the museum.
The free event celebrates contemporary art and community and includes live performances, installations, pop-ups, activations, and more.
Their current exhibition is Greater Toronto Art 2024, so you'll get to learn more about local artists.
Cheap: Celebrate Thai New Year at Pai Uptown
Price: Entrance is free, and dishes are $10 each
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Address: 2335 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 2E6
Why You Need To Go: For Thai New Year, Pai is turning into a Songkran Market inspired by the street markets in Thailand.
From browsing through local vendors' selections of unique vintage clothing, vinyl records, candles, crystals, plants and more to enjoying a Thai massage and experiencing the traditional Songkran water blessing ritual, the market is sure to impress.
If you're feeling hungry, you can try out some of Chef Nuit's favourite off-menu Songkran specialties for just $10 each, like Khao Kha Moo (Braised Pork Hock on Rice), Khao Mun Gai (Thai-style Chicken Rice), Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad) and Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers).
"To continue their tradition of giving back to Chef Nuit's Thai community, all net proceeds made from the Songkran Market food station sales will be donated to young students in her hometown in Northern Thailand to help sponsor new clothes, new shoes, and school supplies," says the event.
Bougie: Don Alfonso 1980's Signature Tasting menu
Price: Starting at $220 per person
Address: 1 Harbour Square 38th Floor, Toronto, ON M5J 1A6
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking to indulge in something sumptuous, look no further than this swanky Mediterranean restaurant that has an impressive Michelin star.
Their Signature Tasting Menu comes with delicious choices such as seared Quebec muscovy duck breast, ravioli stuffed with pheasant, a collection of canapes and a variety of other dishes.
"Sitting atop the iconic Westin Harbour Castle, on the edge of Lake Ontario, the spacious new location on the 38th floor, offers stunning views of the city skyline and Toronto’s harbour," says the restaurant of the locale.
Make sure you make a reservation!
These prices are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time. Taxes and fees may not be included.