St. Lawrence Market
Toronto, Canada · Food
About St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market is a historic public market in downtown Toronto that has been operating since 1803. Renowned as one of the world's top food markets, it houses dozens of vendors selling fresh produce, specialty cheeses, meats, and hot ready-to-eat meals. Housed inside a classic brick hall, it offers visitors an authentic taste of the city's rich culinary diversity.
Don't miss
- Sample the legendary peameal bacon sandwich on a fresh roll from Carousel Bakery.
- Explore the lower level to discover specialty spices, artisan pasta, and unique handmade souvenirs.
- Browse the Saturday Farmers Market to shop seasonal produce directly from southern Ontario growers.
- View historic city exhibits and cultural art displays on the upper level at the Market Gallery.
Plan your visit
Visit on a Saturday morning to catch the bustling Farmers Market, or arrive around 10:30 AM on weekdays to beat the midday lunch rush.
Admission to the market is completely free, and no tickets are required to enter. You only pay for the food, drinks, and specialty goods you choose to purchase.
The market is an easy 10-minute walk east from Union Station or King subway station in downtown Toronto. You can also take the 504 King streetcar and get off at Jarvis Street.
Tips for visiting
- Bring an empty stomach so you can sample treats from multiple stalls throughout your visit.
- Keep some Canadian cash on hand, as a handful of smaller vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Keep in mind that the market is closed on Mondays, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Head to the basement or upstairs gallery areas to find extra seating when the main level gets packed.
- Pick up edible Canadian souvenirs here, such as local maple syrup, artisanal mustard, and jams.
St. Lawrence Market FAQ
Is St. Lawrence Market open every day?
No, the market is closed on Mondays and open Tuesday through Sunday. Operating hours vary depending on the day, with Saturday opening the earliest to host the farmers market.
What is the most famous dish to try at the market?
The peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery is the market's most celebrated specialty. Visitors also love the fresh Montreal-style bagels, seafood rolls, and Portuguese custard tarts.
Is St. Lawrence Market wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes, the building features elevator access to reach both the lower level and the mezzanine areas. Keep in mind that aisles can become quite congested and harder to navigate during peak weekend lunch hours.
Are there places to sit and eat inside the building?
Yes, there are several public seating areas and counter spaces scattered around both the main floor and lower level. Tables fill up quickly at lunchtime, but turnover is usually fast as people finish their snacks.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: aiguiseur, bourgajd on Pixabay.