We have a reverence for pasta in any form, here at BLU Ristorante! There are more than 300 varieties of pasta in Italy alone, and each shape has a story, designed to go with the perfect sauce. In this guide, we will look at some of the special varieties of Italian pasta, their pairing with pasta sauce, and the Italian pasta sauce that accompanies them. Get an idea of how traditional Italian pasta and its sauces are prepared right here in BLU.

1. Long Strands: Spaghetti, Linguine, Fettuccine, Tagliatelle

• Spaghetti and its finer cousins, capellini and spaghettini shine when lightly coated in oil-based or light cream sauces like Aglio e Olio or Carbonara. These thin strands allow delicate flavors to come through, making them perfect for garlic, chili, or silky egg-based sauces.
  
• Linguine, a flattened “little tongue” from Genoa, performs beautifully with pesto, as well as seafood sauces, delivering excellent pasta sauce pairings for clams or prawns.
  
• Fettuccine and Tagliatelle—flat ribbons ranging from narrow to wide are best suited for rich, creamy sauces or hearty meat ragùs like Bolognese. These double‑track surfaces let the sauce cling, creating a decadent mouthfeel.
  

2. Tubular & Spiral Shapes: Penne, Rigatoni, Bucatini, Rotini, Orecchiette

• Penne rigate, with its ridged tubes, is a classic example of pasta sauce pairings done right. Their surface grips chunky sauces such as Arrabbiata, Vodka sauce, or even Genovese ragù.
  
• Rigatoni, larger and grooved, also welcomes meaty vegetable sauces or Genovese, a slow-cooked onion-and-meat sauce typical of Naples. Its weight makes it ideal for heavier, robust Italian sauces for pasta.
  
• Bucatini, with its hollow center, behaves like spaghetti but captures sauces inside the tube, making dishes like Carbonara or light tomato-based sauces even more satisfying.
  
• Rotini or fusilli are spiral-shaped and are built for sauces that cling to their twists: think pesto, chunky vegetable sauces, or even pasta salads.
  
• Orecchiette, “little ears” from Southern Italy, hold ragu, small veggies, or sausage bursts effortlessly, making them perfect for hearty, rustic combinations.
  

3. Filled & Flat Pastas: Ravioli, Lasagna, Farfalle

• Ravioli, tortellini, and other filled pastas thrive with light butter and sage sauces, or delicate cream sauces that let their fillings (ricotta, pumpkin, meat) take center stage. Traditional preparations even serve them in broth for simplicity and comfort.
  
• Lasagna with layers of flat noodles is home territory for meaty Bolognese, béchamel, and cheese-based sauces. This is tradition in every bite.
  
• Farfalle, the charming butterfly shape, works with chunky, creamy, or buttery sauces and is especially popular in pasta salads or lighter vegetarian blends.
  

4. Specialty Shapes & Numbers

Italian tradition amazes with varieties like conchiglie (shells), rotelle (wagon wheels), cavatappi, pappardelle, and the trendy cascatelli. Each shape reflects purpose:

• Shells trap bits of sauce or cheese in their cup-like curves.
  
• Rotelle catch chunks of meat or veggies in their spokes.
  
• Flat ribbons like pappardelle pair with rich game or ragù sauces, ideal traditional Italian pasta and sauces match.
  
• Cascatelli (recently designed for ultimate “sauceability”) exemplifies the marriage of modern innovation and sauce science.
  

Expert Tips & Pairings

Famed Italian chef and connoisseur Stanley Tucci emphasizes that for great pasta sauce pairings, the secret often lies in technique, not just the sauce, but tossing pasta with starchy water to achieve a silkier texture and preserving flavor integrity. 

Pairing pastas with their ideal sauces, whether light, rich, buttery, meaty, or seafood-based is at the core of Italian culinary wisdom. The types of pasta and sauces you choose reflect both regional tradition and your mood.

Bringing Italian Pasta to Life at BLU Ristorante

At BLU Ristorante, we honor these different types of Italian pasta and their ideal sauces for pasta, crafting dishes that celebrate flavor, tradition, and harmony in every bite. Come savor our traditional Italian pasta and sauces, thoughtfully paired to elevate each shape and honor authentic Italian pairing wisdom.

Want to explore more? Visit BLU Ristorante for seasonal pasta specials and chef-curated pairings that shine a spotlight on true Italian craftsmanship.

FAQs

Which pasta goes best with tomato-based sauces?

Tomato-based sauces such as marinara, arrabbiata, and pomodoro pair best with medium or short pasta shapes that can hold the sauce well. Examples include penne rigate, rigatoni, and fusilli. These pasta types have ridges or curves that help capture the sauce, providing better flavor distribution in each bite. Spaghetti is also a classic pairing with tomato-based sauces, offering a smooth and consistent coating of the sauce.

Why do different pasta shapes matter?

Pasta shape plays a crucial role in how a dish tastes and feels. Each shape is designed to interact with sauce in a specific way. For example, tube-shaped pastas like rigatoni are ideal for thick, hearty sauces, while thin strands like angel hair suit lighter oil- or cream-based sauces. The texture, surface area, and structure of the pasta determine how well it holds sauce, contributing directly to the balance of each dish.

Are certain pasta shapes regional in Italy?

Yes, many pasta shapes are associated with specific regions in Italy. These associations are often based on local ingredients and culinary traditions. For instance, orecchiette originates from Puglia and is typically served with broccoli rabe and sausage. Trofie, from Liguria, is traditionally paired with pesto. Tagliatelle and tortellini come from Emilia-Romagna, often served with ragù or cream-based sauces. 

What sauces pair best with long vs. short pasta?

Long pasta, such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine, works well with smooth and lighter sauces like olive oil, butter, pesto, or simple tomato sauce. These sauces coat the strands evenly and enhance their texture. Short pasta, including penne, farfalle, and shells, is better suited for thicker or chunkier sauces, such as meat ragù, cheese-based sauces, or sauces with vegetables. 

Is it true that certain sauces cling better to specific pasta shapes?

Yes. Pasta shape and texture determine how well it holds onto different types of sauce. Ridged pasta like penne rigate or rigatoni grips sauce more effectively than smooth pasta. Hollow shapes such as bucatini or shells can hold bits of meat or vegetables, enhancing flavor distribution. 

Do Italians follow strict rules for pasta and sauce pairings?

Traditionally, Italians adhere to well-established pasta and sauce pairings. These rules are rooted in regional practices and aim to create a harmonious balance between sauce texture and pasta structure. For example, tagliatelle is typically served with Bolognese ragù rather than spaghetti. Seafood sauces are not usually paired with cheese, and filled pasta like ravioli is best complemented by light butter or sage sauces.

Group dinners and celebratory events are best held in a private dining room. Your party can enjoy the company, food, and restaurant ambiance without worrying they are getting too loud or disturbing other tables in some way. So if you’re planning a dinner party for your family or colleagues, here are some of the best private dining rooms in Toronto you must check out.

Blu Ristorante

Looking for a private dining room in Toronto, Toronto? Book Blu Ristorante. The restaurant features contemporary interiors that can serve as the perfect backdrop for your intimate group dining event. It offers a small private room that can accommodate ten to 26 guests and a medium semi-private dining room for 16 to 28 guests. Expecting 30 to 60 guests? You can reserve the entire mezzanine level for your large party. Best of all, the food is great! The group menus can even be customized to suit dietary needs or any theme. 

Gusto 101

Gusto 101 is popular for its private wine cellar that accommodates up to 20 people. With long wooden tables, warm decor, and a spacious area, Gusto 101’s industrial wine cellar is the perfect place to have a good conversation while enjoying family-style meals. The restaurant offers a wide selection of Italian dishes your group can enjoy sharing. If you have a larger group, you can opt for the rooftop or do a restaurant buyout to accommodate between 50 to 200 guests.

Barberian’s Steak House

Want another option for a wine cellar private dining? Check out Barberian’s Steak House. It features a private dining room housed in their beautiful wine cellar. The area is lined with over 1800 bottles and features elegant chandeliers to make the dining experience more luxurious. The area is also divided into two: the upper area can seat 14, while the lower can hold up to 30 people. What about the food? You can enjoy classic steakhouse offerings! 

Rodney’s Oyster House

Rodney’s Oyster House has been serving fresh seafood since 1987. So if your family or colleagues is fond of eating oysters and other seafood dishes, hold your dinner party here! This charming seafood restaurant has several areas for big groups, where guests can enjoy buffets, a full-table service, or family-style meals. You can even book a personal oyster shucker to shuck and dress oysters for the entire party during the private dining event. 

Richmond Station

Planning a dinner party for an intimate group of eight or ten? Check out The Pantry at Richmond Station. The Pantry is a semi-private dining room that comfortably seats twelve guests. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy an intimate gathering in a buzzy atmosphere. Plus, you can choose from several fixed-price menus, each featuring the famous Stn Burger! 

George Restaurant

If you fancy a tasting menu for your family dinner or a group party, head to George Restaurant. It offers inventive tasting menus that put a spotlight on the best local ingredients. Plus, it has three separate rooms for intimate dining events. Do you have a large party? You can open up the three private rooms into one majestic room for parties of up to 120 pax. 

Terroni Adelaide

Want to enjoy Italian classics with your group of friends? Planning an intimate dinner to celebrate a family milestone? Book a semi-private dining room at Terroni Adelaide. It also features a patio for al fresco dining, which is best enjoyed in the warmer months. Best of all, the restaurant offers a wide selection of Italian classics, from pasta & pizza to affogato. 

Bosk

Bosk is a chic private dining spot located in the exquisite Shangri-La Hotel. It features a modern room accentuated with wood panelling and creative lighting. It’s perfect for corporate dining events or any upscale group dinners you need to plan soon. The food is equally exquisite, too! Bosk serves Asian spins on modern Canadian cuisines. How many people can fit in Bosk? It accommodates 36 people for a seated party or 45 for a cocktail event. 

• As the patio season comes in, people start to crave spending more time outdoors. And the easiest way to do that is to dine out the al fresco way. But what exactly is al fresco dining? 

What’s with the term? What is al fresco dining?

Al fresco is an Italian term that means “in the fresh air” or “in the shade.” Dining al fresco simply means eating outside or out in the open air. But you shouldn’t confuse it with going on a picnic and eating at the park while sitting on a blanket. Al fresco dining typically involves comfortable seating, refined tablescapes, and a casual yet party-like atmosphere. 

What does al fresco dining include?

Al fresco dining can take many forms and happen anywhere—from cafes and gastropubs to lavish restaurants. But generally, here are the ever-present elements of this type of dining:

• Outdoor setting: A defining characteristic of an al fresco dining experience is it takes place out in the open air. So when you dine out and are offered to eat al fresco, you can expect to be seated on a patio, terrace, or rooftop bar. 

• Warm weather: Restaurants usually offer al fresco during warm weather or patio season. It’s a good way to experience the cheerful weather with your loved ones. Some patios are heated to ensure a good temperature during breezy summer nights.

• Casual party-like atmosphere: Patios and terraces for al fresco dining are often decked with lounge furniture, plants, umbrellas, awnings, and other elements that make the space casual and welcoming. These spaces can usually seat ten or more to truly create a party-like atmosphere perfect for hanging out or people-watching. 

What are the common al fresco dining ideas?

While restaurants can technically serve any food or drinks al fresco, here are some dining ideas that are perfectly suited to an outdoor setting: 

• Candlelit dinners: Having a candlelit dinner on a tree-lined patio while gazing at the stars and listening to soothing live music sounds romantic. And that’s exactly what you can get in some fine dining restaurants in Toronto. It’s a great dining option for anniversaries and other special occasions with your lovely spouse or partner. 
• Afternoon tea: There’s nothing more elegant than enjoying your afternoon tea the al fresco way. You can enjoy your tea and biscuits or finger sandwiches while relaxing under the shade of a luxurious-looking parasol on a gorgeous street-level patio.

• Special or seasonal menus: Most restaurants create a special menu for their al fresco diners. They use seasonal produce and offer meals perfect for the outdoor setting. These could include summer salads, barbecue classics for sharing, grilled peaches with mascarpone cream, and fruit-filled desserts suitable for the weather. 

What are the other benefits of al fresco style dining?

Still on the fence about the al fresco style? Here are a few more reasons to consider it:

It’s relaxing and helps improve your mood. 

Dining in the open air improves your mood and helps you relax. After shopping or walking around the neighborhood for hours, stop by one of the patio restaurants nearby. Order a cup of tea or a salad plate, ask to be seated on a patio or rooftop terrace and enjoy the view. You will surely feel relaxed as you hang out and enjoy the al fresco-style dining. 

It’s less cramped than indoor dining.

Patios and terraces suited for al fresco dining are often less cramped than indoor restaurants. The tables and chairs are usually spread out to maximize the space. So if you prefer proper social distancing when dining out these days, al fresco dining is perfect for you.

The al fresco style is also conducive for intimate conversations or heart-to-heart talks, given the open space and distance between tables. It’s great for dates and catch-ups with friends.

Food tastes better when enjoyed outside.

We’ve said it: food tasted better when enjoyed outside. It’s all because of the atmosphere—from the open air & lush greenery to chill music and soft lighting. You will surely relish your laidback lunch with friends or dinner dates with your spouse. 

Final words 

Because of its outdoor setting and casual yet intimate atmosphere, al fresco dining is a good alternative to the traditional indoor dining experience. So as the warm season comes in, maximize your time outside by dining in one of the must-try patio restaurants in your area.

Picture this: an evening aglow with soft, warm lighting; the scent of delectable dishes wafting through the air; the gentle strains of live ambient music creating an enchanting backdrop. What’s even better? All of that is happening in a private dining room with your loved one. 

So, if you’re seeking an unforgettable date night experience, you must consider private dining. Whether it’s the allure of a hidden garden oasis, the intimate sophistication of a wine cellar, or the sky-high elegance of a rooftop venue, the realm of private dining offers endless possibilities. Ready to learn more? Here are private dining options for your next date night. 

Intimate Indulgence at Blu Ristorante, Toronto

For those who understand the art of crafting an unforgettable evening, Blu Ristorante in the heart of Toronto beckons. This contemporary Italian haven doesn’t just offer a meal; it also presents an experience. Picture yourself stepping into a private room adorned with warmly lit stonewalls and grand mirrors. Cozy leather seating welcomes you while the soft glow reflects off crisp white-linen table settings. This intimate space accommodates ten to 26 guests, making it perfect for a private celebration or an intimate dinner for two. The romance is palpable, and the restaurant’s modern Italian cuisine is a journey for the senses.

The Skyline Oasis: Rooftop Private Dining

Want to take your girlfriend or wife somewhere elegant and romantic for your anniversary date? Rooftop private dining venues in Toronto offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the cityscape, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for your evening. Whether you choose a sleek, modern rooftop lounge or a charming terrace tucked away in a hidden corner, the city’s twinkling lights provide a captivating atmosphere. Imagine savouring gourmet dishes while immersed in the ethereal glow of the skyline—a memory etched forever in your heart.

Vintage Charm: Wine Cellar Dining

Step into a world where history and luxury intertwine. Wine cellar dining offers an intimate and cozy ambiance reminiscent of a bygone era. Surrounded by walls adorned with carefully curated wines, you and your partner will relish in the charm of old-world elegance. Indulge in a carefully crafted menu that complements the diverse array of wines at your fingertips. As you explore the symphony of flavours from your dry-aged steak or glass of exquisite wine, you’ll find that each sip and bite tells a story, enriching the narrative of your date night.

Garden Serenity: Private Garden Lounges

Is your partner a huge plant lover? Surprise them by letting them escape the urban hustle and retreat to a haven of tranquillity. Private garden lounges immerse you and your partner in nature’s embrace, where lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the outdoors set the stage for an intimate dining experience. As you dine under a canopy of stars, the world’s worries melt away, leaving only the company of your loved one and the delectable dishes before you. It’s a serene escape that captures the essence of both romance and relaxation.

Cultural Fusion: Ethnic Private Dining

Transport yourselves across continents without leaving the city. Ethnic private dining experiences blend the allure of diverse cuisines with the intimacy of a private setting. From the vibrant spices of Indian cuisine to the delicate flavours of Japanese fare, these dining options in Toronto and nearby cities open doors to cultures and traditions around the world. These are perfect date ideas, especially if you and your boyfriend or husband are both foodies-slash-wanderlusts. Go and immerse yourself in your next dining adventure! 

The Bottom Line: Private Dining Is Perfect for a Romantic Evening

The world of private dining unveils a tapestry of experiences, each thread woven with romance, indulgence, and exquisite flavours. Whether you find yourself captivated by the elegance of Blu Ristorante in Toronto, enchanted by the city lights atop a rooftop venue, drawn to the vintage charm of a wine cellar, embraced by the serenity of a private garden lounge, or intrigued by the cultural fusion of ethnic dining, there’s a canvas of choices awaiting your touch. These evenings aren’t just about dining; they’re also about crafting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Start planning your private dinner today!

Want to learn more about Blu Ristorante’s private dining option? Give us a call now. 

The holiday season is here, which means it’s time to start planning for your office party. Toronto is buzzing with restaurants, pubs, and clubs, but when it comes to a corporate party, you want to pick the best venue to make sure your colleagues have a memorable experience.

Here are the 10 best Toronto restaurants you can consider to host your upcoming holiday party. 

1. Blu Ristorante

Located King Street West Toronto, Blu Ristorante is an exquisite Italian restaurant, offering lip-smacking food, a tasteful interior, and a dedicated space available for hosting private parties or events. The exclusive menu created by Chef Eric Bucher, Pradhan Jan, and the team gives you the taste of authentic Italian cuisine with a contemporary touch. This place has a capacity of hosting 110 guests, which makes it the perfect venue for your upcoming office holiday party. 

2. Sassafraz

Sassafraz is situated in the heart of Yorkville, boasting a beautiful interior and a soothing ambiance. You could choose to dine inside with your colleagues, enjoying the greenery on the walls, or you can host your party in the outdoor dining area on the patio. Here you can enjoy Canadian cuisine from Sassafraz’s seasonal menu curated by chef Geoff Webb. 

3. Momofuku

Another great place for hosting a corporate party in Toronto would be Momofuku. Situated on University Avenue, Momofuku impresses guests with its stunning interior, Asian cuisine with a modern touch, and a wide variety of options available on the menu. There are 3 levels of seating arrangements available—Noodle Bar, Nikai, and Kōjin. They are suitable for office parties with up to 120 attendees. 

4. New Orleans Seafood & Steakhouse

If you have a small number of attendees for your upcoming Christmas or new year’s party, New Orleans Seafood & Steakhouse located on Scarlett Road, Toronto, would be a great option. The aesthetic interior and the melody of jazz tunes put you in a good mood instantly. Their menu consists of fresh seafood, pasta, desserts, wine, and more. The place is open for sit-down dinners or corporate parties for up to 40 guests. 

5. Moxies Toronto Downtown

Moxies is yet another cool place that will make your office holiday party extra happening. Located on University Avenue, this place has an easygoing vibe, with a chef’s special menu for events offering scrumptious food. The modern interior makes guests feel at home, making it a perfect choice for your next event. 

6. Auberge du Pommier 

If you want to serve French cuisine at your holiday party, consider Auberge du Pommier, located on Yonge Street. During this time of the year, you can enjoy Chef Doug Penfold’s special menu, and indulge in your choice of drinks, be it wine, beer, or cocktails. The French country-inspired architecture and interior decor make the dining experience truly authentic, and it’s also perfect for your office party. 

7. Carisma 

This Toronto Street restaurant marvels its guests with its simple and tasteful interior, warm hospitality, and Italian cuisine. You can host formal corporate events or holiday parties here during the upcoming festive season. 

8. Madrina 

This one’s an ideal venue if you’re planning to have a sit-down holiday dinner with your colleagues. Located on Trinity Street, this place boasts a charming interior. Here you can indulge in Spanish tapas by Chef Ramon Simarro and a wide array of drinks including imported wine and gins. 

9. The Sultan’s Tent & Cafe Moroc 

The Sultan’s Tent & Cafe Maroc on Front Street, East Toronto is a well-known Moroccan restaurant. If you want to jazz up your corporate party and make it out of the box, this place is just what you’re looking for. The vibrant interior, the cozy vibes, and the use of textured fabrics, rugs, and cushions create a warm atmosphere, making your celebration a lot more joyous. Enjoy delicious dishes from their Moroccan-French menu and a variety of cocktails to complement the meals. It can host office parties with up to 200 attendees. 

10. Terroni – Adelaide

Located within the York County Court House, Terroni Adelaide has a warm and welcoming ambiance. The stellar dining room and the blend of modern styling with age-old architecture catch your eyes instantly, while the carefully crafted food menu delights your tastebuds. Terroni has a dedicated space for hosting corporate parties for up to 350 people, which makes it a great pick if you’re hosting a grand holiday celebration. 

To book corporate events and parties at Blu Ristorante, Toronto, contact us here. 

Toronto isn’t only known for its upscale boutiques, beautiful homes, and bustling culture—it’s also home to some of the most interesting restaurants in Toronto, Ontario. Despite its small area, Toronto boasts restaurants that offer a diverse range of cuisines. Visiting this neighborhood means you can eat Lebanese cuisine and grab gelato after. 

Toronto is full of restaurants that offer an elegant and exclusive experience. If you’re looking for private dining in Toronto, here are some must-try spots.

• Blu Ristorante

Blu Ristorante offers contemporary Italian cuisine and a wine bar right there in the heart of Toronto. The modern decor of this restaurant is warm & inviting, but nothing beats its beautiful lush patio. Dining out on this patio will make you feel as if you were away. Your terrific dining experience will even be enhanced by the restaurant’s soothing live music.

• Amal

Looking for a modern Lebanese restaurant in Toronto? Check out Amal. Its food is heavily rooted in culture while making a nod to new traditions. It also has a stunning and heated second-floor terrace that overlooks Bloor Street. Enjoy delicious Lebanese food while hanging out on this terrace decked with plants, pillows, and multiple lounge furniture pieces. 

• The Pilot

The Pilot was originally a clubhouse for musicians, artists, and writers. Today, it still has an artsy ambiance, but it’s now a multi-level pub with an aviation theme. Apart from its main floor front patio, it also has a vibrant, spacious & heated rooftop patio called the Flight Deck. Climb to the Flight Deck and enjoy drinking draft beers and listening to live jazz music.

• Kasa Moto 

Offering contemporary & flavor-packed Japanese food, Kasa Moto is a gem in Toronto. It also offers two options for outdoor dining. You can either dine at a street-level terrace or go up to the rooftop patio. The sprawling rooftop patio is decked with its own bar, space heaters, and cabanas. Dine here at night, and you can enjoy delicious sushi while gazing at the stars.

• Bar Reyna

Situated in a two-story Victorian house, Bar Reyna is a cocktail & snack bar that delivers sumptuous Mediterranean-inspired snacks and signature cocktails. It may have a small facade, but it offers plenty of alfresco dining. It features a gorgeous front patio, along with a spacious backyard patio that can seat 48 people. Try Lamb Baklava when you visit here. 

• The Oxley

A fan of the traditional British pub? Go to The Oxley! It’s a gastropub that offers classic British pub fare—from fish and chips to traditional cask ales. It also has two patios. The front patio is on street level with a view of the Hazelton Hotel, while the courtyard offers a more intimate atmosphere. So go and grab a pint, choose a patio and enjoy your afternoon.

• Sofia

Sofia has created the perfect space for food, art, and drink. It offers contemporary yet nostalgic Italian dishes in a restaurant space that shares a constantly curated art gallery. You can check out the art pieces before sitting and enjoying delectable pasta and wine. Plus, it features an atmospheric patio that makes for an elevated al fresco dining experience.

• Sassafraz

Located in an array of Victorian rowhouses, Sassafraz is a gorgeous restaurant that offers irresistible French-inspired Canadian cuisine, wine, and cocktails. Apart from its lovely interiors, it has a shaded and romantic patio. It’s a perfect place to enjoy sumptuous dishes while people-watching or celebrity-spotting. 

• Cibo Wine Bar

You can enjoy handmade fresh pasta, delectable pizza, and other traditional Italian food. The restaurant offers two al fresco dining options. It has a side patio for an intimate dining experience. But if you want to be out in the open, you can stay on the street patio with umbrellas and shades.

• ONE Restaurant

Preferred a charming candlelit patio for your romantic dinner? Go to ONE Restaurant at The Hazelton Hotel. Its tree-lined patio is the perfect place to indulge in a lavish dining experience while welcoming the patio season. Have a plate of branzino or filet mignon while drinking a glass of wine and enjoying your al fresco dining experience with your loved one. 

Planning a corporate dinner event may seem like a daunting task. You may need to scour the internet to find a good restaurant for your group. That’s not to mention you have to consider every guest’s dietary requirements when choosing a menu. But don’t fret, as we’re here to help. Here are some tips on how to plan a corporate dinner event. 

Find a restaurant in a good location.

What are the considerations when looking for a restaurant for a corporate dinner event? First, find a restaurant that can accommodate your group size. So it’s essential to finalize the number of attendees before booking a restaurant. Also, you have to consider the restaurant location. Is it near your main office? Are your guests coming from a hotel? Be sure to consider the distance from the hotel or office to ensure the guests won’t arrive late and potentially miss their meal. And once you find the perfect venue, book it promptly.

Reserve a private or semi-private dining room.

Is the event more than a dinner? Will there be speeches, awards or presentations? It might be better to reserve a private or semi-private space rather than booking multiple tables. A private dining room will have enough space for everyone and the activities you plan to do. Also, it often has the AV equipment you need for speeches or presentations. Go for semi-private rooms if you don’t have a program set but still want to experience exclusivity. 

Ask the guests about their dietary needs.

Since it’s a dinner event, it’s crucial to consider the dietary requirements of each guest. So go out of your way to ask the guests before finalizing the dinner menu. It’s also best to include vegetarian and vegan options on the menu. If someone requests a low-carb meal or a gluten-free dish, make sure to inform the restaurant. And don’t forget the specific allergies your guests bring to your attention. Plan and coordinate with the restaurant promptly; most chefs will accommodate your requests and be happy to offer you various suitable options.  

Pre-select wines, cocktails and other beverages.

Beverages can be one of the highest costs at corporate dinner events. If you don’t want to go over your budget, coordinate with the restaurant to only offer beverages within your budget. Ask to pre-select wines, cocktails and other beverages you want to include in the drinks menu. This way, your guests will still have suitable options when the waiter comes around.

Don’t forget about the event swags.

Giving your guests a swag bag after the event is an effective way to promote your brand. So after settling on the menu and venue, plan the gift bag next. You can include some of your products or items that best resonate with your brand. Make sure the bag is well-designed with your logo. You can even design it with the corporate dinner theme in mind. And don’t forget to include a thank-you note. Pro tip: if your budget permits, opt for high-quality swag items rather than the mass-produced plastic items often handed out at trade shows. 

Allow some time for networking.

Since it’s a corporate dinner event, allow your guests to have some time for networking. Consider scheduling around 30 minutes for it. That will give your guests a chance to meet each before they sit down for dinner. It will also help give people who may be running late a chance to arrive on time for the meal. Prior to the event, be sure to inform your guests about the dedicated time for networking. That way, they will be prepared to bring their business cards, handouts, or any items they may want to give to other people at the dinner event. 

Planning a corporate dinner in Toronto? Come to Blu Ristorante. 

Located in the heart of Toronto, Blu Ristorante’s luxurious and contemporary interiors set the perfect backdrop for your corporate dinner event. We offer private dining rooms that accommodate ten to 60 guests; you can also reserve the entire restaurant for up to 110 guests. Best of all, we have a trained staff ready to help make your event smooth, fun and memorable. We can arrange pre-set menus, audio-visual equipment, flowers etc. 

Give us a call today. Let’s talk about your corporate dinner plans.

If you want to enjoy delicious food and drinks in a soothing ambiance, Toronto has some amazing places to offer. But with so many restaurants, cafes, and bars out there, it can be difficult to pick one when you’re going out. But worry not, we have you covered. 

We have compiled a list of the top 9 Toronto restaurants for outdoor dining that you must check out. 

1. Blu Ristorante

Specializing in authentic Italian cuisine, Blu Ristorante (Toronto) is famous for its beautiful ambiance and scrumptious food. You can choose to sit in the heated patio area, which is beautifully decked up to offer you a cozy, relaxing vibe. Ideal for summers, the warm and inviting atmosphere of the patio is something you’ll feel like coming back to, again and again. You could also check out their grand indoor dining area and bar while treating your ears to the melodies of live music. 

2. Allen’s 

A legendary eatery located in Danforth Avenue, Allen’s is a place you cannot miss out on. The outdoor seating area offers you the much-needed break you need after a hectic day at work. Here you can treat yourself to burgers, whisky, wine, beer, and so on—their menu is pretty extensive. Reminiscent of a New York pub, this place has a classic charm to it, something that both locals and visitors find attractive. 

3. Cano Restaurant

Be it day or night—Cano Restaurant‘s outdoor patio always feels like a great place to hang out, unwind, and indulge in your favorite dishes and drinks. Conveniently located on St. Clair Avenue, Cano Restaurant is an ideal spot to visit with your partner, friends, or family. You can also choose to sit in the nicely decorated indoor area, but the outdoor patio has its own charm!

4. Bymark 

If you’re looking for a premium dining experience in Toronto, Bymark is a must-try. Situated within the Toronto Dominion Centre in Wellington Street, Bymark boasts elevated interiors and a comfortable outdoor dining area. Everything from food, drinks, staff behavior, to the vibe of the place—you’ll find hardly anything to complain about. 

5. Sassafraz 

When you’re in Toronto, there’s nothing like sitting on the Sassafraz patio, sipping on your favorite drink, and admiring the lush greenery and the ethereal decor. Over the years, this place has become one of the most popular venues for outdoor dining, special lunch and dinners, and private events. The all-white decor complemented by a wooden touch creates a calm and refreshing ambiance and makes you feel at home. 

6. Lee

At Lee Restaurant, you’ll experience a unique amalgamation of Chinese traditions and French culinary techniques. Their curated menu serves South-East Asian delicacies. The entire restaurant is decked up in a family-style setting. While the outdoor seating area is beautiful, you’ll also enjoy the vibe and lighting of the indoor space. 

7. Lapinou

Lapinou has turned a simple alleyway of King Street West into a bright and happening outdoor dining restaurant. Inevitably reminding you of the French wine bars, this neo-bistro oozes an old-world charm. From the bare bricks, and lanterns, to the wrought iron seats, everything has an industrial vibe to it, while also being welcoming and cozy. Stay till the evening to enjoy the dreamy fairy lights. 

8. Té 

Té brings to you Korean cuisine prepared with a contemporary touch. With every bite you take, you’ll be reminded of Seoul’s home-cooked meals. The best part about this restaurant is that the dishes are specially made by the chef and her mother. Both the outdoor and indoor spaces boast pretty decor, with lots of wall painting and lights to cheer you up. When you’re here, don’t forget to try out their Japanese craft beer and tea cocktails. 

9. Giulietta 

Last but not least, there is Giulietta, located on College Street. Be it the seating arrangements or the decor, things are marked by simplicity here. And thanks to their top-notch food, expect to see lots of crowds here. On days when you’re craving Italian, a meal at Giulietta’s patio is all you need. 

Explore these places, and relish outdoor dining in Toronto like never before!

Image by TravelScape on Freepik