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

Have an upcoming event in Toronto but not sure how to pick a venue? 

If you’re looking for a place in downtown Toronto, there are quite a few Toronto restaurants with private dining rooms, beautiful patios, and good food. 

But before you finalize and reserve a place for the event, you have to keep in mind some vital factors. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect event venue in Toronto. 

1. How’s the Ambiance? 

The ambiance of the venue sets the mood of the event. Whether it’s a corporate event or a private celebration, you don’t want the venue to be so loud and happening that you can hardly spend quality time with your guests. Look for a place that has a soothing and cheerful atmosphere, where both you and your guests will have a gala time, and the event will be a success. 

2. Convenient Location

When you’re choosing a private dining event venue, the location has to be easily accessible for everyone. So try to pick a place that’s situated in a well-connected locality, where there are ample amounts of public transport available. If you have people coming over from different cities, it’s important they can easily navigate the venue without complications. 

3. Seating Capacity

Another crucial thing you have to consider is the seating capacity of the place you’re booking. If you have a guest list of 20 people, you don’t need a massive venue—a small one or a specific portion of a larger venue would be sufficient. And likewise, if your event will have a large number of attendees, you need a space that can comfortably accommodate all the people. Before you finalize a venue, take a look at the available space yourself, and inquire with the manager of the venue about its seating capacity. 

4. Parking Capacity 

Not just seating, you’ll also have to make sure the venue has enough parking space for your guests. It’s always a good idea to have a prior estimate of the number of cars you’d be expecting because a lack of parking area could create a big mess on the day of the event. Check with the venue manager for the parking capacity of the space you’re planning to book. 

5. Is It Indoor or Outdoor? 

When you’re hosting an event, you can choose either an indoor space or an outdoor space as the venue. Indoor seating or private dining rooms are often the most preferred option, because they keep you protected from unpredictable weather changes, offer privacy, and feel cozier in general. But if the event is during summer or fall and there’s no chance of rain, you could very much enjoy your event under bright sunshine. So first decide whether you’d like to go outdoors or indoors, and then find a suitable place. 

6. What’s on the Menu? 

A vital part of your event is the food. Before deciding on a venue, know about its catering menu, the cuisines and drinks that they will be serving, and whether you can customize the menu or not. If you’re booking a restaurant, you might speak to the chefs about their specialty dishes that will surely impress your guests. 

7. Bonus Tip: Plan in Advance 

Be it a personal or corporate event, the key to a successful event is to plan in advance, if possible. From budget to guest list, food, venue, and other logistics—you’ll be able to manage everything perfectly when you have enough time at hand. Moreover, restaurants Toronto with private dining rooms can get reserved quite fast, so the earlier you make your booking, the better.

Private Dining Toronto: Book Blu Ristorante for Events 

If you’re looking for Toronto restaurants with private dining rooms, Blu Ristorante is the best place you can find. Thanks to the beautiful interior, charming ambiance, and lip-smacking authentic Italian food, it has become a popular venue for the corporate events Toronto offices host. Here you get to experience the best private dining Toronto has to offer, thanks to the mezzanine level that’s ideal for romantic dinners, large gatherings, or any other event. 

Read in detail about our private dining facility here, and contact us at [email protected] for making a reservation. 

The holiday season calls for festive drinks, and sparkling water is an elegant, versatile choice that can elevate any gathering. But if you’re wondering how to make sparkling water taste better or how to serve it with flair, we’ve got you covered.

Inspired by Italian traditions, we at Blu Ristorante have tried and tested these creative ideas to help you enjoy sparkling water in sophisticated and flavorful ways. 

Let’s explore what to add to sparkling water for a memorable holiday experience.

1. Serve Sparkling Water Italian-style with Citrus and Herbs

One of the simplest yet most refined ways to elevate sparkling water is by infusing it with Italian flavors. Add slices of fresh citrus like oranges, blood oranges, and lemons, complemented by sprigs of rosemary or thyme. This combination not only enhances the water’s taste but also makes it visually appealing.

Why it works:

• Citrus brings refreshing brightness, while herbs add earthy depth.
• Sparkling water with lime benefits include hydration and a dose of Vitamin C, making it both tasty and healthy.

2. Create a Sparkling Water “Mocktail” Bar

For a family-friendly holiday gathering, set up a DIY sparkling water bar inspired by Italy’s aperitivo culture. Provide guests with a selection of natural syrups like pomegranate, elderflower, or Sicilian lemon. Offer garnishes such as fresh mint, basil, and edible flowers.

How to set it up:

• Arrange small bottles of flavored syrups.
• Display sparkling water in elegant carafes or glass bottles.
• Provide garnishes in bowls for easy access.

This setup encourages creativity and ensures everyone learns how to enjoy sparkling water in their own way.

3. Infuse Sparkling Water with Italian Flavors Using Balsamic Syrup

Balsamic vinegar is a cornerstone of Italian cuisine, and its sweet, tangy profile works beautifully in sparkling water. A small drizzle of high-quality balsamic syrup or vinegar in your drink creates a sophisticated flavor profile reminiscent of Italy.

Steps:

• Add a teaspoon of balsamic syrup to a glass of sparkling water.
• Stir gently and garnish with a fresh strawberry or basil leaf.

Why try it:

• This combination is refreshing and highlights the creative ways to serve sparkling water with minimal effort.

4. Pair Sparkling Water with Fresh Seasonal Fruits

Take inspiration from Italian desserts and combine sparkling water with slices of fresh fruit like pears, figs, and grapes. Let the fruit sit in the sparkling water for a few minutes before serving to infuse it with natural sweetness.

Benefits:

• This is a healthy way to answer what to add to sparkling water without artificial flavors.
• The natural sugars from the fruit create a balanced, subtly sweet taste.

For a festive touch, serve in stemless wine glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

5. Chill Sparkling Water with Decorative Ice Cubes

Elevate your holiday presentation with decorative ice cubes made from Italian-inspired ingredients. Freeze water infused with rosemary, edible flowers, or citrus zest into ice trays. Drop the cubes into your sparkling water for a burst of flavor as they melt.

How to serve sparkling water like Italians:

• Use crystal-clear glasses to highlight the decorative cubes.
• Pair with small Italian bites like bruschetta or marinated olives for a complete experience.

These ice cubes are not just practical—they’re a conversation starter.

Conclusion

Sparkling water doesn’t have to be plain or boring this holiday season. With these creative ways to serve sparkling water inspired by Italian traditions, you can impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to your celebrations. 

Whether you’re exploring sparkling water with Italian flavors or discovering how to serve sparkling water like Italians, these ideas will leave everyone asking for more.

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