This store is a model of what a bookstore should be. Every shelf was dusted, floors were clean, and the staff were all incredibly helpful. I stayed over an hour just enjoying the calm, spotless environment. read more

This bookstore has a very welcoming energy. The employees are approachable and genuinely care about your needs. The entire place is well-lit, dust-free, and smells fresh. It's obvious they prioritize hygiene just as much as customer service. read more

I went to a party at Ben McNally Books while I was in Toronto for a conference. It was the perfect venue for a bunch of writers and publishing folks, an attractive, welcoming bookstore where one could escape awkwardness by browsing the glorious bounty on the shelves. I guess this is a relatively new independent bookstore--I kind of missed the golden age of independent bookstores, but am always thrilled to see new ones sprouting up, defying the powers of Amazon. Ben McNally is apparently related to McNally Jackson in New York, and it shares that bookstore's wonderful qualities. It's a beautiful space, richly decorated with detailed woodwork and fancy chandeliers. And of course, it's packed full of books and books and more books. I didn't get as much browsing time as I might've liked, but from what I saw, the selection was broad and well curated. I have favorite independent bookstores where I live, and Ben McNally Books has the same warmth and spirit. Toronto is lucky to have this place. read more

I stumbled upon this bookstore while exploring Toronto and it gave a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Once you walk through the doors, there is a certain calm that overcomes you. The selection of books that they had was so intriguing. I found myself looking at a wide selection of books that challenged my perceptions of history and historical figures. The staff was very friendly and approachable when you need help. There are not many places to take a seat and read through a book. I only saw a small amount of pop culture books and a small selection of children's books to one side. I might have spend an hour or so in this store but there were never more than 10-15 people in the store. It seems like this place does not ever get really crowded and adds to the appeal of coming to this bookstore over others. read more

I tend to drop my books in the bath, so I'm not a huge proprietor of fancy book stores such as this one. Having said that, it doesn't mean I wouldn't one day LIKE to be able to drop an expensive hard cover book in the bath and not think anything of it, much like I would like to have expensive wine jellies on my toast every morning, but that ain't happening any time soon. This is a gorgeous store filled with hard-cover books that I imagine fancy British type people have lining their shelves in their homes. In fact, the shop itself reminds me of what an old English library in a contemporary English home might look like. One that I would be refused to touch anything in. Which is sort of the case with this store......everything is so beautiful, you don't want to screw it up. Well, at least I don't. read more

See all

I found Ben McNally on Yelp while looking at gifting options for my Aunt. I live in California and knew that it would be difficult to ship a gift to her due the pandemic. I reached out to Ben McNally through e-mail and Danielle assisted me in ordering 3 books and shipping it to my Aunt with a birthday note. We stumbled upon challenges with the courier but Danielle was able to resolve the issue. Thank you! read more

I'm embarrassed to admit that I don't read many books, although I do work in the publishing industry as an editor. ...I guess I do read a lot, but not much recreationally. I'm writing this review because I had a good experience working with this company. The good people at Ben McNally are both friendly and experienced. read more

This bookstore deserves kudos. Daring to open in the middle of the financial district surrounded by print stores, Tim's Horton's and other nondescript buildings and business. Away from art houses, galleries and cafes. Away from the type of businesses that would bolster the demographic that would easily swing by and keep you in business. Or maybe... Ben did it BECAUSE there was nothing around and wanted to be King of this particular hill! Either way, Ben's store seems to thrive in a sea of grey and cold concrete. From the outside, this bookstore like it's fellow business looks completely innocent and maybe even boring looking but once you walk inside, oh, you are set for a treat. A haven from the noise streets outside, Ben McNally Books is a island of serenity from the loud buses, cars and the rat race, well, racing just outside. As much attention has been given to the selection of books on the shelves as in the decour, which will remind you of an Victorian bookstore of times gone by. Far from musky, the place is airy and with a tiny hint of modern chilled attitude. Although I am not sure if that is just coming from Ben himself. Full Disclosure: I have been to this place many times on various events, heck, even I have held one of my own events in this locale and I would do it again. I had a lot of positive feedback from the famous 30 books in 30 minute review. I must admit I sometimes wonder how Ben stays in business and I can only imagine that in between the book sales and the private events he holds here, that maybe that is how he pays the bills. Whenever I am in the area and have a few minutes to kill I will pop in here, relax and a bit and browse through their collection. Recommended. read more

When I want to read a boatload of magazines for free, I go to Chapters or Indigo. When I actually want to buy a book, I'd rather fork my money over to small bookshops like Ben McNally Books. Those who favor hushed environments and a well-edited selection of books will love this place. And by hushed, I mean dead-silent like a cathedral after hours. So keep your oohing and ahhing over the lit-porn to a minimum. This place is a temple of literature where the devout come to browse and meditate. Ask the owner Ben for his recc's and he'll spout off authors you never heard of. His logic: Why bother promoting the bestsellers? That said, he still carries the likes of Ondaatje, Murakami, and Atwood. Hey, man's gotta pay da rent somehow. TIP: Bring a hankie to stem the flow of drool over the cookbook section. read more

This is exactly what I seek in an independent bookstore that I can't get at chains. Please support shops like this. If I lived near this bookstore it would be a go-to. The owner is friendly and it feels very personal with very careful curation. I found a great selection of books on food and cooking and writing, and anthologies of poetry to suit my tastes. There were intriguing displays of literary fiction and creative nonfiction. It's spacious, yet cozy and so very well thought out. I could have browsed for hours. It's sophisticated without being cold or uninviting. It makes me sad that in the US and Canada, indeed all over, we risk losing shops and neighborhood resources that add such richness to our communities. read more

Ben McNally Books - This doesn't do the shop justice. It's very cozy and inviting inside. - Bookstores Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Charming independent bookstore in the heart downtown Toronto. It has tasteful decoration, soft lighting, lovely display and nice collection of books. I wish I could spend more time in it if I wasn't just passing by. It was pretty empty on a Monday afternoon, but I hope it's doing well. When chain bookstores are closing down because they can't win the price war, hopefully independent bookstores like this can survive for providing readers a pleasant experience to discover good books. Go in and escape from the busy streets for a moment, you'd be delighted. read more

Once I get through the 26 or so books in piles on my dresser, waiting to be read, this will be my new favorite bookstore. Oh nuts to that ... it's my favorite now! Let others sing its praises; let's just say it's not Chapters or Indigo .... a treat in itself! read more

This is my retreat during a crappy day at work. Here I get distracted, then I get inspired, maybe even academic with some non-fiction, and definitely drop some $20s on every visit. You can feel their editorial nature in the very selection of literature, and the way they arrange by topics on the tables. They are not about best-sellers-- they're about the good stuff, the real stuff. On my last visit, they knew all about Roberto Bolano's novels for my book club, and also helped me choose a thoughtful gift for a teenager. I always get into a conversation with the gentleman behind the counter-- he's really interested in why I select certain books, and I just love chatting with him. Even better, he always makes a recommedation for next time. The pristine silence does tend to make the experience a bit museum-y. Case in point: I knocked one star because I dropped a book yesterday (a hardcover), and could feel the management's eyes bore into my back. Then they started asking amongst themselves, "Who dropped the book?" although it was obvious by my red face and shaking hands. (Oh, and I was the only customer....and they weren't kidding either). read more

VIBE I thought I was the only one that came here during a crappy day at work. When I worked in the area, Ben McNally was my refuge. It's hard wooden foors and wooden panels and neatly stacked books everywhere. The ladders are even perfectly adjusted. It's true that it's quiet that if you dare have the wrong high heel on that day, you will feel like an elephant in the room. SELECTION A great literary selection (not so much travel but I get it). Ben also puts on some amazing events. David Sedaris has made appearances here so I would get on the mailing list. OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK Ben McNally's is right up my alley (oh dear...forgive). If you're in the area and have a choice and don't have a Kindle/Kobo (or even if you do) support local. This is a great place to purchase a gift for the book lover. read more

I love visiting the bookstore at lunch, it's nice to have a place like this in the steel and glass financial district. I always find something interesting for myself or friends. Service is helpful but unobtrusive. I just wish there were more books. read more

Brilliant boutique book store with a moderately large collection of extremely well-curated books waiting in lovely shelves under chandeliers. Also, expert advice from the lovely staff & (presumed) owner. You're shopping on Bay Street now, baby! read more

See all

Just came home and experienced a wonderful gem in the city - the bookstore Ben McNally Books, which hosted the launch of a new book by one of my co-workers. I had thought that bookstores like this weren't around much given the growth in businesses like Chapters and Indigo. But Ben McNally is one of those throwbacks to another time - before the cookie-cutter bookstores made their way into the retail sector. This beautiful wood-panelled store was a great place to experience, and when I have time, will spend more time there to get a thorough look at everything it has to offer. Given it's only 10 minutes from where I lived in downtown Toronto, I'll pop into Ben McNally more often. read more

Very disappointing experience. They have a nice space and selection, but the management, Jesus!, extremely censorious and inquisitorial.

Definitely a great place to go for a signing or speaking event. I went to Johann Hari speaking event and not only enjoyed the talk (fyi he should definitely do a TED talk) and loved the vibe the store provided. It's warm, cozy, and the staff is very friendly. Will definitely be coming back. read more

My sister and I made a special trip to Ben McNally books today. I want to attend a book signing next week and wanted to review the book before the event. The picture of the shop on the website created my curiosity. I wanted to cheer the courageous person who has a book store in the financial district of T.O. when we know how difficult it is to stay afloat in retail...but who in that neighbourhood buys books? We saw a number of folks in the store on this Friday afternoon of a holiday weekend. What a delightful surprise. The shop is charming and gives the feeling of old world good taste...magnificent light fixtures...great variety of titles and themes effectively displayed right in front of you. So easy to choose and see the wide selection. The friendly and congenial staff made our visit a pleasure.This is one retailer proving against all odds, that there is appreciation for quality and service. My plan was to buy one book, I bought two. We will return. Driving into Toronto from Whitby to Ben McNally's was certainly worth the adventure. read more