Toronto is a city with plenty of activities and places to see, especially when the weather is good. When the weather is poor, traveling to the St. Lawrence market can be a great excursion. With over 120 specialty shops under one roof on two floors, this can be a fun and delicious place to explore.
Tip: If the weather is really poor, take the King Street streetcar heading east and get off at Jarvis. Ask the driver to point out the market for the three minute walk.
The market is housed in the big building above, protecting shoppers from weather elements.
A rendition of the original market. A market has been here since 1803 and this is one of the best in the world.
Once inside head for the center to Carousel Bakery for a peameal bacon sandwich. This Toronto creation is essentially a back bacon made from lean pork loin – it’s delicious.
Diagonally across is Future Bakery. Customer favorites here include custard tarts and pecan butter tarts. There are so many wonderful breads and desserts here, deciding what to get may be your biggest challenge of the day.
If you take the stairs in the center, at the bottom is a shop with all kinds of Canadian souvenirs. The moose head is not just a decoration, but can be bought as a souvenir. It is probably cheaper and easier than trying to acquire a real moose head, if you’re so inclined.
Many of the stores in the market have a wide variety of items. Honey World, pictured here, has over 50 varieties of honey from places as far away as New Zealand. Rube’s Rice, a little farther along also carries over 50 varieties of rice.
This is another bakery on the lower level. As you can see, the difficult part is deciding what to get.
If it’s dull outside, there’s plenty to brighten your visual senses. You’ll be able to spot fruits you know well, and exotic imports from all over the world.
Flowers can also light up your day. A visit here feels like you’ve covered everything imaginable to eat under one roof. If it’s not too busy, don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn more about what you’re seeing.
If the weather is not too bad, you can take a 10 minute walk back to Union subway station and view the mix of old and new architecture.
