Patio season in Toronto offers an ideal opportunity to get all starry-eyed with your crush. Decked out with twinkle lights or blossoming with flowers, these patios are ready for romance whether you're just testing the waters over cocktails or letting things heat up over dinner.

Here are my picks for the top patios for a first date in Toronto.

Foxley
Al fresco cocktails and small plates are a match made in heaven at this secluded backyard patio on Ossington. Regardless of whether you hit it off, you'll find yourselves swooning over the sea bream ceviche and dumplings stuffed with lamb and duck prosciutto.

Burdock
Keep things casual and fun at this brew pub and music hall in Bloordale. Grab a seat on the side patio and get to know each other over a few pints, then if things are going well, head inside to take in a live show where the deafening volume will call for you to lean in just a little closer.

El Rey
Get to know your new love interest over chocolate coconut pisco cocktails and plates of ceviche verde at this mezcal bar in Kensington Market. If sparks are flying, work up the courage for a kiss with a few shots of mezcal or take a post-cocktail stroll through the market after dark.

Smith
The side patio at this restaurant in The Village feels especially enchanting at night when string lights cast a warm glow over the enclosed area populated with two tops. Kir cocktails and oysters on the half shell might just be the perfect recipe for romance.

Tabule
This pretty backyard patio in Riverside offers an ideal setting for a first time encounter. Start with cocktails and share a few plates of mezze and cocktails before committing to stay for a second course.

Thanks to Strongbow for sponsoring our 2016 Patio Guide

Photos by Jesse Mins.