I’ve shot weddings in many different venues in Toronto and across the GTA. From rustic barns to grand halls and everything in between. In the past few years, I think restaurant venues, especially in cities, are increasingly becoming a popular choice for couples. Today I’m going to share some of my top restaurant wedding venues in Toronto that I’ve had the pleasure of shooting at. Whether it’s because of their unique space, great food or amazing views, any of these locations would be a great choice for a smaller and more intimate gathering.
A restaurant venue is a great wedding option for a few reasons:
- The food is usually fantastic! And with food already included, you don’t have to worry about finding a caterer.
- The decor is mostly done for you. You don’t have to do much more to decorate other than some additional table lights like candles, and flowers.
- You can often have both your ceremony and reception in the same location, which can be more cost effective. Some restaurants even have outdoor space for ceremonies.
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Bandit Brewery
Bandit Brewery is actually a micro-brewery in the heart of the Roncesvalles neighbourhood. The setup was inspired by the experiences and the atmosphere of German beer gardens.
Why I like the venue:
- It really is a unique space. There is an indoor area that can be used for wedding ceremonies, and the patio is used for receptions.
- The patio can also be covered in cooler months, but the glass walls and roof still provide lots of natural light. Combined with the trees that they keep inside the patio, it’s a very airy and relaxed garden ambience.
- There is even a small area adjacent to the patio where you can set up a couple of lawn games.
- The whole venue is yours and very private.
Things to consider:
Due to the size of the venue, the bridal party will likely only be able to hide in the back alley behind the brewery before entering for the wedding ceremony. Not ideal for inclement weather but something to plan for.
2. Boehmer
Boehmer is a modern French restaurant located in the very popular and hip Ossington neighbourhood between Dundas and Queen street.
Why I like the venue:
- The food really is fabulous!
- The front dining area can the rearranged to accommodate typical wedding ceremony setup and then flipped for reception seating during cocktail hour.
- A small patio area at the front also provides some outdoor space.
Things to consider:
- The main dining area can seat up to 115 guests, with some space towards the back of the restaurant for your vendors and/or musicians.
- There is also a smaller private dining room that is great for very intimate weddings with fewer than 16 guests.
3. Canoe
Canoe is a modern and stylish restaurant located atop TD Tower on the 54th floor with inventive Canadian cuisine.
Why I like the venue:
- The biggest draw is of course the exceptional view of the CN Tower, the lake and the downtown core. On a good day, the sunset views are stunning.
- The windows provide lots of natural light in addition to the great view.
Things to consider:
They have a separate room that can be used for a wedding ceremony. The same room is also used for smaller, more intimate weddings.
Bonus: Propeller Coffee Co.
Though not a restaurant, Propeller Coffee Co. is a unique space for weddings with 80-125 guests. Located near Lansdowne and Bloor, it is regularly a hip and stylish coffee shop.
Why I like the venue:
- The building itself is industrial but not cold, and it provides a very clean canvas.
- Unlike most restaurants, the space feels airy and open.
- Flexible seating setup options for both ceremony and reception (for example, you can have smaller tables or tables put together for two rows of long table for the reception).
Things to consider:
- The immediate surrounding area of the venue is a mix of urban and residential creating a varied and unique environment that may not suit every taste.
- Because it is not a restaurant, food is technically not included. But Propeller has a list of trusted caterers that they work with.
I’d love to hear your favourite restaurant venues, comment below!