Historic public food market with more than 100 vendors, long ranked among the world's best food markets.
St. Lawrence Market, at 93 Front Street East in Toronto's Old Town neighbourhood, is the city's best-known public food market and one of the most celebrated in Canada. The South Market building houses more than 100 vendors selling meat, fish, cheese, produce, bakery goods, spices and prepared food, and the market has long featured in international rankings of the world's best food markets. Unlike generic shopping, the goods here are almost entirely edible or kitchen-related, with Ontario producers, family-run butchers and specialty importers making up the bulk of the stalls. Souvenir trinkets are rare; the market is aimed at Toronto residents as much as visitors, so vendor quality is high and prices are fixed. Bargaining is not part of the culture, and haggling is considered inappropriate. Most vendors accept debit and credit cards, though a few small counters prefer cash, and Ontario's 13 percent HST is added to non-grocery items. Canada does not offer a general tourist tax refund on goods, so visitors should not expect to reclaim sales tax on purchases. The layout is a long lower-level hall with vendor counters along both sides and a central aisle that becomes crowded on Saturdays, when the market opens early and draws the heaviest foot traffic. Must-visit corners include the peameal bacon sandwich counters, the cheese and charcuterie stalls, the fishmongers, and the mustard, olive oil and spice sellers that suit portable gifts. Seating is limited, so many visitors eat standing or carry food to nearby streets. The atmosphere is loud, busy and distinctly local, especially at midday on weekends. A separate North Market building across the street hosts a Saturday farmers' market and, on Sundays, an antiques market. Food is the main attraction here, with sandwiches, soups, pastries and coffee available throughout opening hours, usually at CAD $9 to $14 for a sandwich. The market is closed Sundays and Mondays for the South Market, so visitors planning a trip should check the current schedule before travelling.
| Hours | South Market Tue-Thu 9am-6pm, Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 5am-5pm, closed Sun-Mon; verify on website |
|---|---|
| Price | Sandwich about CAD $9-14 (US $6.50-10) |
| Address | 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3 |
Location
93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3
43.6487, -79.3715 View on map
Highlights
- Peameal bacon sandwiches, a Toronto signature
- More than 100 vendors under one roof in the South Market
- Cheese, charcuterie and fresh seafood counters
- Saturday farmers' market in the North Market building
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before 9am on Saturday to beat the heaviest crowds
- Prices are fixed; do not expect to bargain
- Bring a reusable bag for produce, cheese and jars
- Allow time for the line at popular sandwich counters at lunch
- Check hours first, as the South Market is closed Sunday and Monday
When to visit
Weekday mornings are calmest, while Saturday morning offers the fullest selection and the biggest crowds.
Accessibility
The South Market is on a lower level with elevator access, but aisles are narrow and crowded on Saturdays, which can make wheelchair and stroller movement difficult.
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Frequently asked questions
When is St. Lawrence Market open?
The South Market is generally open Tuesday to Thursday 9am-6pm, Friday 9am-7pm and Saturday 5am-5pm, and closed Sunday and Monday. Hours can change, so verify on the official website.
Can visitors pay by card?
Most vendors accept debit and credit cards, though some small counters may prefer cash. Carrying a little cash is sensible.
Is it worth visiting for souvenirs?
The market is mainly for food, so souvenirs are limited to items like mustard, maple products and spices. Eating on-site is the main draw.