by Ilona Kauremszky
The St. Lawrence Market, a historic jewel of epicurean commerce that dates back over 200 years, is where local vendors of every description sell their wares, fresh meat, poultry, fish and produce while other merchants narrow in on crafts, kitchenware and handmade goods. [Image credit: iStock.com/Holger Mette]
Here’s how to explore:
Bruce Bell Tours
Historian tour guide Bruce Bell brings Toronto history alive. For those visitors short on time but curious about Toronto’s oldest market, register for an exclusive 90-minute walking tour of Old Toronto which includes a long pit-stop at this beloved market.
Market Gallery
Head to the second floor of the St. Lawrence Market to explore this free museum, housed in the city’s first council chamber. See displays of artefacts, vintage photos, and the signature piece, the city’s original Mayor’s chair that was once actually used in the room.
Carousel Bakery
When visitors ask locals on our famous locally made eats, hands down, we reply, “peameal on a bun.” The sandwich, comprised of cured Canadian back bacon rolled in cornmeal, fried and topped with mustard has been a favourite dating back to Toronto’s early days, when it was known as “Hog Town.” Find it at Carousel Bakery.
Uno Mustachio
A family-run institution that’s been around for four decades, this Italian diner in the basement of the St. Lawrence Market has all the fixings, just like Nonna makes. But the real deal here is the veal and eggplant sandwich. Don’t be bothered by the long lines; perfection is worth the wait.
Future Bakery
Fresh bread comes in a variety of types and sizes at Future Bakery but this local baker also whips up another Canadian favourite, the butter tart. Try the pecan, the raisin or better yet the classic plain.
St. Urbain Bagel
Montreal’s favourite bagels are thankfully available in Toronto and much appreciated from this local bagel maker who dips the dough rings into rosewater before boiling then baking them over a wood-fired oven. The heavenly bread is topped in traditional poppy or sesame seeds but other varieties are also sold.
Kailash
Scarves dangle from the rafters among handcrafted bags, slippers and other merchandise at this compact but well-stocked shop. Products hail from Tibet and Nepal.
Anything Goes
This small bijou atelier has a dazzling collection of necklaces, rings, bracelets and other nifty accessories.
Souvenir Market
If you need to buy the quintessential Canadian-made product, head here and peruse the ample stands and rows of bottles, candies and fudge, all devoted to Maple syrup. This shop on the lower level of the Market offers other popular souvenir items from t-shirts to flags to wall plaques showcasing Niagara Falls and the CN Tower.
On weekends the Farmers Market is bustling with foot traffic as shoppers hit the stalls in search of fresh seasonal produce.
Visit Jorge’s Farm for potatoes, carrots, cabbage, more root vegetables and other organic produce. Portuguese-born farmer Jorge de Andrade comes from a farming family and likes to chat on all things organic.
Another family fruit and vegetable vendor, Ponesse Foods is strategically located at the market’s entrance – and anyway, you can’t miss the big, bold sign that screams: “Ponesse Foods: Quality and Freshness a family tradition since 1903.”
