Unique Valentine’s Day ideas for every type of couple

Dreaming up the perfect way to celebrate the day of love? No matter what type of couple you are—romantic, ambitious, adventurous (or all three!)—there are so many intimate settings for you and your partner to create lasting memories in Bloor-Yorkville.

For hopeless romantics

If a traditional dinner date is too typical, take part in an enchanting high tea experience at the Windsor Arms Hotel (18 St Thomas St.). Whether you’re in the mood for savoury bites or a sweet treat, the thoughtfully curated menu of hand-crafted pastries, tea sandwiches, English scones and a wide variety of preserves—all prepared fresh daily—is sure to satisfy any craving.

Sip warming bevvies in the Parisian-inspired lobby room or by the fireplace in the historic purple room where Richard Burton proposed, for the second time, to legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor. Intrinsically romantic, it’s an ideal intimate space to capture a picture-perfect moment.

Next, browse the works of internationally acclaimed artists at Galerie de Bellefeuille (Yorkville Village, 87 Avenue Rd.), one of Canada’s most renowned independently run art galleries, which features paintings, photography, sculptures and prints by such celebrated global creatives as Eric Fischl, Damien Hirst, Julian Opie, Patrick Hughes and Wolf Kahn.

At Majesty’s Pleasure (102 Yorkville Ave.) relax and unwind with your partner in the beautifully designed contemporary space, where every aspect ensures maximum comfort. Nourish your bodies and souls with luxe self-care services, including manicures, pedicures, facials and hair styling, and ease tension with a soothing massage. Don’t forget to grab a specialty drink from the refreshment bar.

In the evening, slip into something sultry from Avec Plaisir Fine Lingerie & Swimwear (136 Cumberland St.), providing those of all shapes and sizes with hosiery, sleepwear and undergarments for over 40 years. Offering many exclusive European brands, like Andres Sarda from Barcelona, Le Bourget from Paris and Zimmerli of Switzerland from Aarburg, the boutique takes great pride in personalizing the shopping experience to ensure you find garments that suit both your style and your budget.

For the power couple

You both work hard relentlessly and with ambition—what better place to celebrate your successes than Novo Spa at 66 Avenue Road? Begin with a complimentary steam and sauna session to melt away any stress, then enjoy a private and personal escape in the Couples Suite, where you can embrace decadent treatments side by side. To further elevate romance, choose the package that includes two glasses of non-alcoholic bubbly, a red rose and chocolates. 

Then, stop by Axe & Hatchet Grooming Club (101 Yorkville Ave.) for a proper holiday trim, detailing or styling. Offering all the charm of a wood cabin fused with the design and feel of a modern-day salon, this sleek full-service barber is ready to complete your look, and a professional consultation before and after ensures quality service every time. 

In the evening, put on your finest attire and head to AP, chef Antonio Park’s brand-new restaurant on the 51st floor of the Manulife Centre at 55 Bloor Street West. Dive into inspired Japanese dishes with Korean and South American influences, like bluefin akami sushi, Japanese A5 snow-aged Wagyu steak and teriyaki chicken, while admiring sweeping views of the city. With an eclectic variety of drinks on offer, from classics like cosmopolitans and penicillin cocktails to Japanese highballs like the Kurashikku Nikka and the Awai, there’s a concoction for every palette. 

After savouring every sip and bite, retreat to an urban oasis of culture and style at W Toronto (90 Bloor St. East). Settle into a charming jewel-toned suite in the city’s newest luxury hotel, or grab a drink at the charming Skylight bar, which hosts a dazzling late-night scene.

For the adventurous

You love creating epic memories together in exciting new places, but if a trip isn’t in the cards this year, you can still experience a thrilling international adventure—all without leaving the city.

Delight in an Edomae-style omakase menu at MSSM, located at 154 Cumberland Street. Led by two-Michelin-star chef Masaki Saito and executed by his students, its rotating dishes are based on the seasonality of ingredients, so there’s a new tasting experience with every visit. 

Top off your gourmet culinary journey with sweet treats from Swiss Art Chocolatier (70 Yorkville Ave.). Indulge in delectable truffles, pralines and chocolate tablets made from 100 per cent cacao and natural ingredients from the heart of Switzerland. Remember to bring a few home for later!

Then, choose an exquisitely designed floral arrangement from Teatro Verde (Yorkville Village, 55 Avenue Rd.), and stop by Tiffany & Co.’s impressive two-floor store at 150 Bloor Street West to pick up luxury luggage, travel accessories and passport covers for your next trip, as well as beautiful jewellery to treasure. 

Put a smile on that special someone’s face this Valentine’s Day in Bloor-Yorkville.