St. Lawrence Market is a long-running food market in Toronto’s Old Town, with stalls selling fresh produce, meat, seafood, cheese, baked goods and prepared meals. Its history on this site reaches back to 1803, and the South Market’s brick exterior and high interior give the shopping halls a distinct old-city feel. Come to browse ingredients, chat with merchants or eat as you explore. The peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery is a local classic; you’ll also find bakeries, specialty shops and a gallery upstairs. Explore both levels, and leave time for the underground souvenir shop.
A market with roots in 1803
St. Lawrence Market has served Toronto as a marketplace since 1803. The site and its buildings have changed over time, but food shopping remains central to the market’s identity. Today, more than 120 vendors sell specialty groceries and prepared food, alongside non-food goods.
The South Market is the main indoor destination. Its brick exterior and high ceiling give the hall a historic character, while two levels of stalls make it easy to spend time browsing. You’ll find fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, cheese, breads and other baked goods, as well as pantry items and ready-to-eat meals. Some merchants can also advise on how to use the ingredients they sell.
What to eat and shop for
For a Toronto specialty, look for the peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery. The classic version pairs peameal bacon with a Kaiser roll; egg and cheese are options mentioned in descriptions of the sandwich. St. Lawrence Market is also a place to pick up fresh pasta, seafood, cheese, pastries and produce, or to choose a meal from one of the food counters.
The selection extends beyond groceries. Bakeries, small shops and stalls selling Canadian-themed gifts give you more to browse between food stops. The underground level has a souvenir shop, useful if you want to look for a keepsake without leaving the market. Take a few minutes to look around both floors rather than staying only in the busiest part of the main hall.
The weekend market and gallery
The market’s wider complex has a long tradition of weekend markets. Saturday is associated with the farmers’ market, where local producers bring goods such as seasonal produce. An antiques market has also been held on Sundays. The North Market has undergone changes, so check the market’s official website for current details before planning a visit around a particular weekend event.
The Market Gallery is upstairs in the old council chambers and presents rotating displays of art, photographs, documents and historical objects. It adds a cultural stop to a visit focused on food and shopping. If you are visiting on a busy weekend, allow extra time to move through the stalls and find somewhere to sit, as seating can be limited in some areas.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I spend at St. Lawrence Market?
Allow about one to two hours to browse the stalls, explore both levels and stop for food. Add time if you plan to visit the gallery or shop for groceries.
What should I eat at St. Lawrence Market?
The peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery is a local classic. The market also has prepared meals, seafood, baked goods and fresh pasta.
When is the market less crowded?
Weekday visits and early mornings can be quieter. Weekends tend to be busier.
Is there more to see than food stalls?
Yes. You can browse shops and souvenirs, visit the Market Gallery upstairs and explore the market’s lower level.
