Summer may be ending, but with the dreaded earlier sunset comes an exciting perk of living in this city — the nightlife. September is when Toronto comes alive with arts, culture, fascinating food experiences and pop-ups and plenty of other cool things to do when the sun and temperature goes down. From a Peter Pan-themed bar to a midnight market, here are the best ways to make the most of your evenings this season.
Night markets and festivals
Midnight Market
Once you step inside Midnight Market, located on College Street, straddled between Kensington Market and Little Italy, you’ll be hit with elements of various Asian cultures, including an array of fusion snacks and baiju-infused craft cocktails. The night market-inspired bar will transport you to the bustling night markets of Asia. Glimmering neon lights and retro street signs adorn the space, evoking the energy of Tokyo’s old-world alleyways or Yokocho, which hosts many bars, restaurants and shops.
24 hour spots
Commisso Brothers & Racco Italian BakeryÂ
Open around the clock since 1957, Commisso Brothers & Racco Italian Bakery in North York is a go-to spot for delicious Italian sandwiches and late-night cravings. Whether it’s the middle of the night or early morning, you can rely on this bakery to satisfy your hunger with its hot table offerings. In addition, Commisso offers a deli counter and meat market, making it a convenient place to grab some groceries while indulging in the massive and satisfying sandwiches.
The Famous Owl of Minerva
Experience the authentic taste of Korea at the Famous Owl of Minerva, where traditional Korean cuisine is perfected to satisfy even late-night cravings. This renowned restaurant takes pride in delivering rich and bold flavours through carefully crafted dishes, such as sizzling bulgogi and steaming bibimbap. The Famous Owl of Minerva has become a beloved destination in Toronto, offering 24-hour dining at its Yonge Street location.
Kettleman’s Bagels
 Toronto’s 24-hour bagel shop, Kettleman’s Bagels, specializes in traditional Montreal-style bagels. Handcrafted, Kettleman’s produces 1,200 to 1,300 dozen bagels daily using a 400-year-old recipe. With a wood-burning oven and an open concept space, Kettleman’s Bagels offers fresh bagels topped with poppy or sesame seeds. Kettleman’s has multiple locations and a menu featuring various sandwich options.
Go Place
Go Place is a luxury leisure club and spa located at First Markham Place, offering a 24-hour wellness experience with over 68,000 square feet of Jacuzzis, speciality baths, saunas, treatment rooms, lounging and dining areas 365 days a year. Soak away tension in the speciality baths and detox in the therapeutic sauna before indulging in fine cuisine.
One-of-a-kind experiences
Neverland Experience Bar
Join Peter Pan and the Lost Boys on an immersive adventure to Neverland, where you’ll never grow old! Climb aboard The Jolly Roger, play pirates with Captain Hook, and save Tinkerbell using faith, trust, pixie dust and a bit of alcohol. Experience this timeless classic with a 90-minute immersive theatre session, two bespoke cocktails and interactive activities. Watch out for Captain Hook and the ticking crocodile while enjoying the magical Neverland-themed cocktails. This experience pops up for two nights only — Sept. 23-24!
Communal Table 2023: Autumn Equinox FeastÂ
Get ready for a fun and delicious collaboration between the Bentway and The Depanneur on Sept. 14. In anticipation of the Autumn Equinox, feast on a specially curated feast that will originate from the sky, the water and the land. Gather around communal tables, bring your own plates and cutlery, and enjoy a family-style dining experience in the unique urban setting of the Bentway.
Ristorante Sociale
Step back in time to an era of sophisticated dinner parties and clandestine rendezvous at Ristorante Sociale. Nestled in the vibrant nightlife hub of King Street West, guests are invited to savour Ristorante Sociale’s authentic Italian cuisine crafted by Michelin-recognized chef Kyle Rindenella, while a party unfolds around them, featuring dining room dancers and DJs who keep the festivities going well into the late hours.
Restaurants with a view
AP
Last year, renowned Montreal chef and TV personality, Antonio Park, delighted Toronto with the launch of his eponymous restaurant, AP. Perched atop the Manulife Centre, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Toronto skyline, the experience begins with a private elevator ride to the rooftop bar, where guests can indulge in the uncharted territories of Latin-infused Japanese and pan-Asian cuisine, with a hint of Canadian influences.
The Rooftop @ The Broadview HotelÂ
With its breathtaking views of the Toronto skyline, this venue offers one of the most stunning vistas in town. Its 360-degree glass facade, complemented by a pyramidal skylight and spacious rooftop terrace, creates an unforgettable setting. Expect a carefully curated selection of sharing plates like sesame-crusted shrimp, along with a choice of elegant cocktails and wines.Â
Don Alfonso 1890Â
First impressions on arriving at Don Alfonso 1890 are that it’s undeniably one of the most upscale places in the city. Situated atop the Westin Harbour Castle, overlooking picturesque Lake Ontario, the eatery exudes sophistication. The food is a testament to both finesse and creativity — from the seared Quebec muscovy duck breast to the Manitoba tenderloin wrapped in layers of Swiss chard — each bite evokes visions of a Mediterranean feast.
