Toronto's Kensington Market
I’ve heard many great reviews of the wonderful Toronto Kensington Market and finally had the chance to explore it myself on a recent trip. On a rainy Saturday, I headed with a girlfriend to the market and as most market days go, we spent a greater portion of the day exploring little boutiques and of course different treats to eat.Here are my top 5 suggestions while at the market;
1. Blackbird Baking Co.
Seriously amazing baked goods, mostly fresh breads, croissants, scones, and cinnamon buns. This spot is adorable, delicious and I feel as if I can still imagine the smell lingering in my nose. If you are visiting someone while in the city, this is a great spot to pick up a fresh loaf of anything, because it's all amazing!
2. Café Novo
This coffee spot has great coffee, open space to do some work and nice outdoor seating to watch the strolling friends of the market. Great to grab a coffee in the middle of your hustle and bustle just as you stroll through the streets.
3. Eative
I was blown away by Eative. They are a Toronto grown company who makes natural, sugar free, lactose free sorbet from a liquid nitrogen freezing process. I had the pleasure of meeting Damien one of the owners who was planning to purchase the location in full after the company branches out into more franchises. They plan to expand in other locations across the city and eventually the country. Great concept, and I have to say wildly entertaining. Although they did tell me that most people who had my reaction were below the age of ten, I still stand by my hysteric laugh as the liquid nitrogen invaded the colourful mixing bowls to make flavours like passion fruit guava and grapefruit honey!
4. Good Egg
Love the name of this spot of course. You can often find me referring to someone as “a good egg” so I naturally had to check it out. They have awesome gifting items, with a focus on books and stationary. They carry Rifle Paper Co, which of course is a favourite of mine. They also has TONS of amazing cook books which I sadly didn't have space to carry home! They also had fashion books, health books and tons of other great finds.
5. Toronto Popcorn Company
For any popcorn addict like myself, this gem is a haven. They have every kind of popcorn you can possibly imagine. Seriously! Th specialize in flavours like s’more popcorn with marshmallow and chocolate, cinnamon caramel, espresso caramel, dill pickle, jalapeno cheddar and so many more. There is a flavor for everyone. A real treat and bonus, they let you samples everyone and trust me I challenged that!
I hope my recommendations at the market help you explore and find what you love!