St. Lawrence Market is a living tribute to the city’s deep history and lively food scene. With roots reaching back to the early 19th century, this lovely market is a food lover’s paradise that charms everyone who steps into it. Follow me as we dig into the culinary wonders of St. Lawrence Market by diving into its past, exploring the unique specialty stores, and discovering everything there is to know about one of the oldest markets in Canada!
Location
Nestled in at 93 Front St E, Toronto, Ontario, St. Lawrence Market sits at the perfect spot, providing easy access for locals and tourists alike. It’s located in the middle of the St. Lawrence neighborhood in Old Toronto where you’ll be greeted with modern skyscrapers and historic buildings. Being at the center of everything means it’s super easy to get to—whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor. Plus, the mixture of new and old around the area creates a unique and inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for the market’s various tasty eats and cultural offerings.
History
Established in 1803, St. Lawrence Market has been around for centuries, witnessing Toronto’s transformation through the years. Originally an outdoor market, it grew in size and popularity, eventually moving indoors in 1831 to the now-iconic South Market building, a timeless emblem of Toronto’s rich history. As time rolled on, the market expanded to include the North Market and St. Lawrence Hall, becoming the go-to spot for all things fresh, handcrafted, and downright delicious. It’s more than just a market, it’s a living piece of Toronto’s vibrant past and present.
Specialty Shops
St. Lawrence Market’s main attraction is its diverse selection of specialty shops, each with its special collection of products that cater to every taste. Carousel Bakery which is known for its iconic peameal bacon sandwich, is a must-visit specialty shop for those seeking the ultimate Toronto culinary experience. Meanwhile, cheese lovers can head on to the Cheese Boutique to experience a haven of artisanal cheeses from around the world. There are also specialty shops for fresh produce and gourmet ingredients, meat, seafood, and more. You’ll find everything at St. Lawrence Market!
Best Places to Eat
After shopping for goods and fresh products, you can also indulge in delectable bites at the various food joints located inside the market. The Carousel Bakery that I mentioned earlier is one of them, but it’s just the beginning. There’s also Buster’s Sea Cove, a seafood joint where you can enjoy mouthwatering lobster rolls and fish tacos, or Stonemill Bakehouse which is also known for its artisanal bread and pastries.
If you’re looking for a good breakfast spot, Paddington’s Pump serves all-day breakfast food that can be enjoyed while soaking in the market’s lively atmosphere. They’re famous for their fish and chips, a British culinary delight.
Culinary Events and Tours
Other than a place to buy food, St. Lawrence Market also hosts various events throughout the year. From cooking classes to food festivals, the market provides plenty of opportunities for you to engage with the city’s culinary scene.
Guided food tours are also available where you can explore the market’s best-kept secrets, including my favorite Vietnamese food, and other delicious treats. These tours often include tastings that will allow you to savor a variety of flavors while learning about the market’s history and the fascinating stories behind its vendors.
Preserving Tradition: St. Lawrence Hall
Right next to the market, you’ll find St. Lawrence Hall, a charming historic building that’s been a big part of Toronto’s culture and society. Built in 1850, it’s been a hub for all sorts of gatherings—from public meetings to concerts. Nowadays, St. Lawrence Hall is a sought-after spot for weddings, conferences, and events, keeping its historic appeal alive while adding to the vibrant modern culture of the city.
The Bottom Line
St. Lawrence Market is more than just a market, it’s a culinary wonderland that captures Toronto’s rich history and diverse flavors. Whether you’re a local looking for the freshest ingredients or a tourist looking for the best things to do in the city, St. Lawrence Market invites you to explore, taste, and savor the vibrant spirit of Toronto’s food culture!
Contact Info for St. Lawrence Market
- Address: 92-95 Front St. E., Toronto, ON M5E 1C3
- Phone: +1 416-392-7219
- URL: http://www.stlawrencemarket.com
I love, love, love the Peameal bacon sandwich found at St. Lawrence Market. Can’t wait to go back for more.
St. Lawrence market looks amazing. Adding this to the top of the list for my first visit to Toronto. Thanks for all the info!
This sounds like my kind of place—just look at all of that seafood/fish! I’ll definitely check it out when I’m in Toronto next.