Guide to St Lawrence Market, Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is a city that knows how to eat, and if you want to experience the city’s culinary culture at its finest, a visit to St. Lawrence Market is a must. This historic market, located in the heart of Old Toronto, is a perfect spot for food lovers, offering everything from peameal bacon sandwiches to freshly baked bagels and international delights. My first time to the St Lawrence Market with my dad was filled with incredible eats and we let our eyes guide us.
A Brief History of St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market has been feeding Toronto since 1803, making it one of the oldest markets in North America. Originally a small wooden structure used by local farmers and traders, the market has undergone multiple transformations over the years. The South Market, as we know it today, was rebuilt in 1902 and remains a bustling food hub. The North Market, once home to weekly farmers’ markets and antique sales, is currently being redeveloped into a modern facility to better serve the community. Despite these changes, St. Lawrence Market has stayed true to its roots, remaining one of the best places in Toronto to shop for fresh produce, gourmet ingredients, and artisan goods.
Getting to St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market is located in the St. Lawrence neighborhood in downtown Toronto. The area is one of Toronto’s oldest and is known for its well-preserved heritage buildings, vibrant food scene, and walkable streets. In addition to the market itself, the neighborhood features the iconic Flatiron Building (Gooderham Building), St. James Cathedral, and a mix of modern condos and historic architecture. It’s a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and parks nearby.
Located at 93 Front Street East, the market is easily accessible by public transit, car, or even on foot if you’re staying downtown.
- By TTC: Take Line 1 (Yonge-University) to King Station, then walk east along King Street and south on Jarvis Street. The walk takes about 10 minutes. You can also take the 504 King streetcar and get off at Jarvis Street.
- By Car: Parking can be tricky in the area, but there are several paid lots nearby. Street parking is limited, so it’s best to arrive early if you’re driving.
- By Bike or Foot: St. Lawrence Market is pedestrian-friendly, and there are plenty of bike racks in the area if you’re cycling.
Paying at the Market: Cash or Card?
Most vendors accept credit and debit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller stalls or purchases under $10. The market does have ATMs on-site, but you might want to withdraw cash beforehand to avoid service fees.
Pro tip
Short on time or maybe you just want someone to show you where to go and what to eat? Book a food tour to avoid the lines and get what you want in a timely manner. This private food tour with Urban Adventures inside St Lawrence Market will satisfy all your cravings!
What to Eat: Must-Try Foods and Vendors
With over 120 vendors inside the South Market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the delicious choices. To make your visit smoother, here are some must-try foods and where to find them.
1. Peameal Bacon Sandwich – Carousel Bakery
If you eat just one thing at St. Lawrence Market, make it the famous peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery. This Toronto staple consists of juicy, cured pork loin rolled in cornmeal, grilled to perfection, and served on a soft bun. Simple yet irresistible, this sandwich has been a local favourite for decades.
2. Portuguese Custard Tarts – Churrasco’s
Pastéis de nata, or Portuguese custard tarts, are a little bite of heaven. Churrasco’s makes some of the best in the city—flaky, creamy, and caramelized just right. Pair one with a coffee for a mid-morning treat. This was one of our top bites during our entire trip to Toronto. My dad wouldn’t leave the market before having one even if there was a bit of a line up.
3. Bagels – St. Urbain Bagel
If you love Montreal-style bagels, St. Urbain Bagel is a must-visit. These hand-rolled, wood-fired bagels are dense, chewy, and perfectly golden. Grab a fresh sesame or poppy seed bagel, and don’t forget to slather it with their house-made cream cheese.
4. Seafood – Buster’s Sea Cove
Craving seafood? Buster’s Sea Cove is the go-to spot for some of the freshest fish and seafood dishes in the city. Their lobster rolls and fish tacos are legendary, and they always have a great selection of daily specials.
5. Ukrainian Perogies – European Delight
For comfort food lovers, European Delight serves up homemade perogies filled with potato and cheese, meat, or sauerkraut. They’re pan-fried and served with sour cream, making them a perfect cold-weather snack.
6. Cheese and Charcuterie – Olympic Cheese
If you’re a cheese connoisseur, Olympic Cheese has an incredible selection of Canadian and international cheeses. Grab a few varieties along with some cured meats from Di Liso’s Fine Meats and make yourself the ultimate charcuterie board.
7. Butter Tarts
Butter tarts are one of Canada’s national food groups. Just joking, but they are beloved from coast to coast. Grab yourself one with or without nuts or raisins. The addition of pecans, walnuts or raisins is hugely contested amongst Canadians. Some are purists while others love the sweet and crunchy additions. No matter your preference, the gooey centre and thicker tart shell make for a decadent sweet treat to pair with coffee.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
- Go Early: The market gets busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early means fresher selections and fewer crowds.
- Come Hungry: There’s no shortage of food to sample, so don’t eat a big meal beforehand.
- Bring Reusable Bags: If you’re planning to shop for groceries or souvenirs, a sturdy tote bag will come in handy.
- Chat with Vendors: The people behind the stalls are passionate about their products and love sharing recommendations and cooking tips.
- Check the Market’s Schedule: The South Market is open Tuesday to Saturday, while the North Market (when completed) will continue to host the Saturday Farmers’ Market and other special events.
A Toronto Icon for Food Lovers
St. Lawrence Market isn’t just a place to buy groceries—it’s a true food destination that embodies the spirit of Toronto’s diverse and delicious culinary scene. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite, shopping for high-quality ingredients, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, this market offers a taste of the city you won’t find anywhere else. So grab a peameal bacon sandwich, sip on some fresh-pressed juice, and explore one of Toronto’s most beloved landmarks.
Pin this for future travels
