If you’re a food lover making the trek to Toronto, Canada, more than likely the St. Lawrence Market is on your list of go-to places. Known for its vibrant vendors and cultural history, it’s a one-stop shop for all things food. However, hidden in the shadows of it’s foodie kingdom is Market Street, a redeveloped side-street kitty corner to St. Lawrence Market’s lower floor.
Unlike any other street in Toronto, Market Street is paved with cobblestone and is one of Toronto’s few pedestrian-only roads. With so many ways to enjoy the street and its offerings without ever having to sit down for a traditional meal, this street is one of Toronto’s best-kept culinary secrets. From specialty shops to a juice bar, chow down at any of these five spots while visiting Market Street for a memorable meal.
1. Balzac’s Coffee Roasters
Nestled in a beautifully restored heritage building, Balzac’s Coffee Roasters is an artisanal, fair trade coffee chain. Balzac’s began business in 1993 in the small theatre town of Ontario, Stratford. With the chain’s newest location (its ninth), you don’t need a ticket to Paris to feel as if you’re being whisked into one of the cafes and boulangeries for which the city is famous. Inside you will find beautiful tiled floors, hardwood, marble and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy assorted baked goods from Circles and Squares, like brownies, biscotti and muffins (ranging from $2-$4 in price), whilst catching up on some reading or people watching. For coffee, this micro-roaster offers a selection of stout, amber and pale roast blends using all fair trade, organic Arabica beans. Just recently, they teamed up with beloved Canadian author Margaret Atwood to create an amber roast organic “bird-friendly” blend supporting the Pelee Island Bird Observatory.
2. Evolution Food Co.
If you’re on a health kick, look no further than Evolution Food Co. Tucked beside Balzac’s Coffee, the airy venue features seating for 20 people. The space, designed by local creative firm, Solid Design & Build, features bold colors like yellow lighting fixtures, reclaimed wood tables, marble countertops and a quick grab n’ go counter. Using wholesome, high-quality ingredients sourced from the St. Lawrence Market whenever possible, the quality of their assorted beverage offerings goes uncompromised. With a rainbow array of cold-pressed juices ($6-8) like the Tropikale (pineapple, spinach, cucumber, kale and lemon) or Pure Gold (carrot, orange, pineapple and lemon), all taste preferences will be satisfied. If smoothies are more of your jam ($6.50-7), then try the Cookies and Cream, blended with dates, banana, raw pecans and Evolution Food Co.’s house-made almond milk.
