What makes a great date night restaurant? Ambient lighting, attentive but unobtrusive service, food that gives you something to talk about, and the kind of room where staying for one more drink feels natural. Here are 10 Markham spots that nail it.
1. Old Country House — Unionville
The historic Main Street setting is half the appeal. European bistro menu, strong wine list.
2. Pampas Brazilian Steakhouse — Downtown Markham
Theatrical, generous, and works for both new couples and long-married. The rodízio is a conversation-starter.
3. Sushi Kaji — Highway 7
For the omakase experience. The seven-course chef's selection is genuinely memorable.
4. La Forchetta — Markville area
Handmade pasta, warm room, attentive staff. The everyday-special-occasion restaurant.
5. Bar Chef — Downtown Markham
For cocktails and small plates. Less formal, more conversational. The patio is exceptional.
6. Hashi Sushi — Cathedral Town
Quiet, refined, exceptional sashimi. The dinner sets are the best value.
7. Frontera Tex-Mex — Cathedral Town
For when you want fun, not formal. Margaritas, shareable plates, lively patio.
8. SilverSpoon Mediterranean — First Markham Place
Surprisingly romantic given the mall location. The covered patio with retractable roof is the move.
9. The Keg Markham — Don Mills
Yes, it's a chain. The booths, the wine list, and the consistent food make it work.
10. Pearl Garden — Highway 7
For an unexpected dim sum dinner date. Dim sum at 7 PM with shared dishes and tea is genuinely romantic and unusual.
What makes a date-night meal work
Reserve. Arrive 10 minutes early to relax. Order one shared appetizer. Pace the meal — don't rush. Pick a wine pairing if available. Leave room for dessert.
Browse all Markham restaurants.
About the Author
Food & Dining Editor
Marcus Wong has been writing about food in the Greater Toronto Area for over a decade. Born in Hong Kong and raised in Unionville, he brings a lifelong appreciation for Cantonese and Pan-Asian cuisine to his restaurant reviews, alongside an enthusiasm for the increasingly diverse dining scene across Markham and Richmond Hill. He visits every restaurant he writes about, almost always more than once, and pays for his own meals.
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