Black Hoof Cocktail Bar
923 Dundas West, 416-792-7511, hoofcocktailbar.com
This Black Hoof offshoot’s candlelit glow and fetching mixed drinks make for a memorable night. Even when packed in close proximity to others, you can easily imagine you’re the only two people in the pretty little room.
Hours: Nightly 6:30 pm to 2 am.
Accessibility: Six steps at door, washrooms in basement.
Geraldine
1564 Queen West, 647-352-8815, geraldinetoronto.com
Specializing in V-Day essentials absinthe and oysters (aphrodisiacs, if you believe in such things), this gorgeous Parkdale spot boasts a killer cocktail list and a piano in case you feel a serenade coming on.
Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 6 pm to midnight, Friday and Saturday 6 pm to 2 am, Sunday 6 pm to 11 pm. Closed Mondays.
Accessibility: Entrance barrier-free, washrooms on main floor.
Smith
553 Church, 416-926-2501, 553church.com
It’s got the goods for a sexy date: three low-lit floors with plenty of nooks and crannies to sip boozy cocktails like the sumptuous Lolita (Calvados, Fernet Branca, sweet vermouth and maraschino, $14), slurp oysters and share dessert.
Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 5 to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday 5 pm to midnight. Brunch Saturday and Sunday 9 am to 4 pm. Closed Mondays.
Accessibility: Nine steps at door, unisex washrooms upstairs.
Swirl Wine Bar
946½ Queen East, 647-351-5453, swirltoronto.com
If you’re hoping to get laid this V-Day (because that’s the point, right?), Swirl’s a good place to start. Hidden in plain sight, this second-floor space has vibes like a bohemian apartment. Comfort + charm + legit wine selection = smooth romancing.
Hours: Monday and Tuesday 5 pm to 11 pm, Wednesday and Thursday 5 pm to midnight, Friday to Sunday 5 pm to 2 am.
Accessibility: Up one flight of stairs, washrooms on same floor.
Wallflower
1665 Dundas West, 647-352-5605
Opulence shouldn’t eclipse feeling on Valentine’s Day. Screw overpriced champagne and plastic romance. At the adorable Wallflower you can play footsie under one of the backroom tables and dawdle over oysters and $33 bottles of sparkling wine.
Hours: Daily 5 pm to 2 am.
Accessibility: Entrance barrier-free, washrooms in basement.
drinks@nowtoronto.com | @s_parns
