Five Must-Visit Independent Shops in Toronto

In our 5 Shops series, we point you in the direction of our favorite independent shops across some of the world’s best cities. From food markets to unique designs, we found a diverse and exciting mix of local retailers where you can pick up one-of-a-kind pieces.

As Canada’s largest city and business hub, Toronto has seen much of its retail space taken over by large multinational retailers in recent decades. As a born-and-raised Torontonian, I’ve witnessed firsthand the authentic connection to place and sense of community that is lost when a cherished shop closes its doors for good. Thankfully, some of Toronto’s most beloved independent retailers have survived, largely due to a devout clientele that remains committed to supporting Canadian makers.

For visitors to Toronto, the below five shops provide a window into the local culture – both the history of the city and the people who continue to mold its identity today.

Best for souvenirs: Collected Joy

While most visitors to Toronto head to trendy West End boutiques for shopping, locals know some of the city’s best-kept secrets lie in the east. In the quaint neighborhood of the Beaches lies Collected Joy, an independent shop that’s been a local go-to for Canadian-made goods and up-and-coming Toronto makers for nearly a decade.

Equally as warm as the welcome you’re likely to receive from the owner Sharon upon entry are the wool throws and cozy socks throughout the shop. Shelves are lined with Canadian-made, all-natural candles and tranquil pottery pieces by local ceramicists. An apothecary section displays locally made bath, makeup, and skin-care products that are as nourishing to the body as they are for the planet.

The “at-home bar” department, meanwhile, is an emporium for foodies, with cocktail syrups, jams, and beloved local brands like Sloane Tea and Soul Chocolate. I’d recommend a visit to the Beaches for any visitor to Toronto – but if the east end is too far afield, head to Collected Joy’s second midtown location in Mount Pleasant Village.

Best for local design: Arts Market

Skyrocketing rents have made it nearly impossible for artistic entrepreneurs to operate their own storefronts. Happily, since opening in 2011, Arts Market has become a vital year-round market that provides permanent spaces for artists and designers to sell their wares. Across three locations – two in the east end and one in the west – Arts Market houses thousands of handmade goods from over 150 local creatives.

From pottery to photography to vintage finds, the impressive variety of products keeps locals (and visitors) coming back again and again.

Best for vintage: Black Market and Public Butter

From Kensington Market to Trinity Bellwoods to Leslieville, Toronto is teeming with indie vintage and secondhand shops to explore. Yet long before the city’s vintage boom, Black Market was the place for vintage finds for local punk rockers and arts students from nearby OCAD (the Ontario College of Art and Design). Today, locals know to look for the discreet open door on Queen St West leading down a black-and-white swirl-painted staircase into a sprawling basement hideaway filled with racks of nostalgic finds, including flannels, band tees, and retro jackets.

As the institution approaches its 30th anniversary, the second generation of Black Market shoppers heads to their sister shop in Parkdale, Public Butter. Here, visitors can expect to find a more carefully curated collection than the encyclopedia of vintage housed at the flagship store.

Best for food: St Lawrence Market

As the culinary capital of the country, Toronto has no shortage of food options – but nothing compares to St Lawrence Market. Since it first opened back in 1803, the market has expanded to three buildings in the St Lawrence neighborhood of downtown Toronto, becoming not just a local but a national institution.

Browse 120 food stalls and shops spread throughout the main and lower levels of the original market building, the South Market. Its peameal-bacon sandwich makes Carousel Bakery one of the most popular vendors. If you like yours with some spice, head to Kozlick’s Mustard, a little stall that has been serving up mustard since 1948. For a taste of the East Coast, Buster’s Sea Cove offers popular lobster rolls and fish and chips.

Cheese lovers won’t want to miss Alex Farm, whose consistently friendly service makes it a favorite place to buy cheese. If visiting over the weekend, head to the North Market across Front St for the Saturday farmers market, a tradition that dates back over 200 years. Aside from delicious food, the third building, St Lawrence Hall, serves as a space for retail and city offices, offering visitors a glimpse into the area’s historical significance.