St. Lawrence Market Toronto
A historic Toronto landmark offering over 100 vendors with fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique crafts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier to explore
St. Lawrence Market Toronto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Toronto landmark offering over 100 vendors with fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique crafts.
"One of the best food markets in the world, a must-visit for any Toronto foodie!"
🎯 Go on a Weekday
Avoid weekend crowds for a more relaxed shopping and dining experience.
🥪 Try the Peameal Sandwich
Don't leave without tasting the legendary peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peameal Bacon Sandwich
Carousel Bakery
The iconic sandwich that put St. Lawrence Market on the map. A must-try for any visitor!
Uno Mustachio Italian Sandwiches
Basement Level
Indulge in hearty Italian classics like 'The Godfather' – a delicious veal and eggplant parm sandwich.
Artisanal Olive Oil
Domino's Foods (Lower Level)
Discover high-quality olive oils and enjoy a zero-waste refill experience.
Sunday Antique Market
North Market (Sundays)
Hunt for unique vintage finds, designer brands, and collectibles every Sunday.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Embrace the Culinary Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go on a Weekday
Avoid weekend crowds for a more relaxed shopping and dining experience.
🥪 Try the Peameal Sandwich
Don't leave without tasting the legendary peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery.
🫒 Refill Your Olive Oil
Bring your own bottle to Domino's Foods for zero-waste olive oil refills.
🛍️ Explore the Sunday Market
Discover vintage clothing, accessories, and unique treasures at the Sunday antique market. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go on a Weekday
Avoid weekend crowds for a more relaxed shopping and dining experience.
🥪 Try the Peameal Sandwich
Don't leave without tasting the legendary peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery.
🫒 Refill Your Olive Oil
Bring your own bottle to Domino's Foods for zero-waste olive oil refills.
🛍️ Explore the Sunday Market
Discover vintage clothing, accessories, and unique treasures at the Sunday antique market. +1
💰 Shop Smart for Produce
Fruit and vegetables are often fresher and more affordable than at regular grocery stores.
🍝 Sample Italian Delights
The basement level offers amazing Italian sandwiches like 'The Godfather' from Uno Mustachio. +1
🍣 Fresh Smoked Salmon
Get perfectly portioned, delicious smoked salmon from the fish market.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Lawrence Market is a beloved Toronto institution, praised for its incredible food variety, fresh produce, and unique vendors. Visitors rave about iconic eats like the peameal bacon sandwich and Italian subs, as well as the vibrant atmosphere. Some find the weekend crowds overwhelming, and a few note that prices can be higher than expected for certain items.
"The market never goes wrong in making your day go better
They have tons of things been sold cooked and even made here!
You can get types of cheese, pasta, meat, se food both cooked and raw
And to complete the taste, the market has a bakery that serves one of the best dishes that completes you totally
Always amazing to be here during summer to just grab and relax with some live music running outside the market on the weekends
Also has great views of the CN tower"
E Sayed
"I was surprised and amazed by this market. Very impressive. Often time when you hear market it come to mind its for the local. But this market is quite different many tourist all over world come to visit this place. This is a food lover paradise. Local nearby farm product like fruits vegetables and pastries cheese even flower are all very fresh. But price is not cheap. Just buy what you can eat there and be sure to ask seller if the product you want to buy is allow to take out from there country and be sure also that you are allow to bring back to your country specially agricultural product and processed meat. Some countries have stricter bans than others"
O I
"It was so much fun! I personally can walk around this place all day long and eat all day long. Their seafood looked SO good 😊 I didn’t get to try this time but I will next time for sure. I was in a mood for more breakfast kind of things, we got pastry and coffee from across the street and ate outside on picnic table"
Kanae Malbrough
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Lawrence Market is easily accessible via public transit. Take the TTC streetcar (e.g., 504 King) or subway to King Station and walk a few blocks east. Driving is also an option, with several parking garages nearby, though they can be pricey.
Yes, there are several parking garages in the vicinity of St. Lawrence Market. However, parking can be expensive, especially on weekends. Consider public transit or ride-sharing for a more budget-friendly option.
From downtown Toronto, the most convenient ways to reach St. Lawrence Market are by streetcar (like the 504 King) or a short walk if you're in the eastern part of the core. It's a central location, making it easy to reach.
Absolutely! St. Lawrence Market is bike-friendly with bike racks available. It's a great way to enjoy the city and arrive at the market.
Yes, St. Lawrence Market is very well-served by Toronto's public transit system (TTC). Numerous streetcar and bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from the King subway station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter St. Lawrence Market. Admission is free for all visitors.
St. Lawrence Market's main building hours are typically Tuesday to Friday from 9 AM to 7 PM, and Saturday from 7 AM to 5 PM. The South Market has different hours, and the North Market (farmer's market) is open on Saturdays. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
The main St. Lawrence Market building is generally closed on Sundays, but the North Market often hosts a vibrant antique market on Sundays. Check the official schedule for specific Sunday events and hours. +1
The St. Lawrence Farmer's Market, located across the street from the main building, operates every Saturday from early morning until mid-afternoon. It's a fantastic place for fresh produce.
Yes, St. Lawrence Market observes holiday hours, which can vary. It's always best to check their official website or social media for specific holiday operating times, especially for events like Christmas or Easter.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You absolutely must try the peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery! Other popular choices include Italian sandwiches from Uno Mustachio, smoked salmon from the fish market, and various international dishes. +2
Carousel Bakery is widely regarded as the place to get the classic peameal bacon sandwich. Many locals and visitors rave about it. +1
Yes, while known for its butchers and meat vendors, St. Lawrence Market offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Look for fresh produce, international cuisine stalls, and dedicated vegetarian vendors.
The market boasts a diverse range of international cuisine, including Italian, Greek, Chinese BBQ, Portuguese, and more. You can find anything from pasta dishes to flavorful curries and tarts.
St. Lawrence Market is an excellent spot for lunch, offering a huge variety of delicious and often affordable options. You can easily spend hours sampling different vendors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the market stalls, the colorful produce displays, and the bustling crowds. The architecture of the building itself is also photogenic. Don't miss the chance to photograph iconic food items!
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside St. Lawrence Market for personal use. However, always be respectful of vendors and other visitors, and ask permission before taking close-ups of individuals.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a prime lens (like a 35mm or 50mm) is great for capturing the market's ambiance. A wider lens can help with the bustling interior shots.
The historic St. Lawrence neighbourhood surrounding the market offers charming streets and architecture, perfect for exterior shots. The nearby St. James Cathedral is also a beautiful landmark.
Morning light can be lovely for capturing the market's freshness, especially during the Saturday farmer's market. Weekday afternoons offer good light without the peak weekend crowds.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & More
Beyond food, you can find artisanal crafts, unique gifts, vintage clothing and accessories (especially on Sundays), and specialty food items like olive oils and spices. +1
Yes, St. Lawrence Market is a great place to find unique Toronto souvenirs, from local food products to handmade crafts and vintage items.
Every Sunday, the North Market transforms into a bustling antique market featuring a wide array of vintage goods, collectibles, jewelry, and fashion. It's a treasure trove for bargain hunters. +1
Absolutely! The Saturday Farmer's Market across the street and various vendors within the market offer a wide selection of fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables.
Yes, Domino's Foods on the lower level offers olive oil refills, allowing you to bring your own container and reduce waste.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the market itself is engaging, the surrounding St. Lawrence neighbourhood also offers historical charm and nearby parks for a break. The North Market's Sunday Antique Market can be a fun exploration for older children interested in unique finds, though it can get crowded. Remember to bring a stroller or carrier for younger children, as navigating the market can be challenging with little ones in tow during peak times.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond food, the Sunday Antique Market offers opportunities to find affordable souvenirs and unique items. While some vintage pieces can be pricey, diligent searching can yield great bargains. Weekdays are ideal for budget travelers as you can often find better deals and avoid the premium weekend pricing that some vendors might implement.
couples
Consider a cooking class for a unique date activity, or browse the Sunday Antique Market hand-in-hand, searching for hidden treasures. The market's location also makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the historic St. Lawrence neighbourhood or enjoying a stroll along the waterfront afterwards.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary Journey Through St. Lawrence Market
Beyond the South Market, the North Market plays a crucial role, especially on Saturdays, hosting a vibrant Farmer's Market with over 200 vendors selling fresh, seasonal produce, baked goods, and local products. This market is a fantastic opportunity to connect with local farmers and producers. On Sundays, the North Market transforms into a lively Antique Market, offering a different kind of treasure hunt with vintage clothing, collectibles, and unique finds.
For those seeking a more interactive culinary experience, St. Lawrence Market also offers cooking classes, providing a hands-on opportunity to learn new skills and create delicious dishes. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious visitor, St. Lawrence Market promises a memorable gastronomic adventure.
Navigating the St. Lawrence Market Experience
Planning your visit is key to maximizing your experience. Decide if you're there for groceries, a specific meal, or to explore the unique shops. The market is divided into the South Market (food vendors) and the North Market (farmer's and antique markets on specific days). Familiarize yourself with the layout to efficiently find what you're looking for. Many visitors recommend a DIY food tour, allowing you to sample a variety of offerings at your own pace rather than relying on costly organized tours.
Don't forget to bring your own bags for shopping, and consider bringing a reusable container for items like olive oil refills, promoting a more sustainable shopping approach. The market is a hub of activity, offering not just food but also a glimpse into Toronto's vibrant culture and community spirit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit