There appears to be a gift-shop war at the Front Street entry/exit of the St. Lawrence Market in…read moreToronto. Separated by a mere friendly walkway is the 10-year old "The Souvenir Market" and the St. Lawrence Smoke & Gift Shop (SLS&GS), an establishment that's a little more long-in-the-tooth being around since 1976.
I mean, every day, "The Souvenir Market" gets to look over at SLS&GS, emblazoned with an old-timey sign and a newer addition stating they are the "First Gift Store in the Market!" Take THAT across-the-street usurpers!
Who wins the war? Well, by number of customers, neither is doing too shabby. For me, and my desire for maximum eclecticism, St. Lawrence wins by a nose. But I love maple-based treats and things with poop emojis on them ... and SLS&GS has both in abundance ... so, if you're more snooty with your gifting needs, "The Souvenir Market" may be more your speed.
My one purchase recommend: "Canadian Maple Crap in a Bag" for $5. It's actually some pretty awesome macaroons. It is one of many treats SLS&GS has with that sweet, silky maple syrup flavor.
You'll also find all the usual suspects for tourists: T-shirts, mugs, hats, cards, toys, stuffed animals, baby clothes, gloves, socks, clocks, napkins, water bottles, shot glasses, bags, stickers, pencils, sunglasses, snow globes, tea towels, and about a million other things with "Canada" or "Toronto" or "Ontario" on them.
There are two particular areas, IMHO, SLS&GS sets themselves apart from their cross-walkway rivals. SLS&GS has a stronger collection of CN Towers, as well as local sports team stuff (Raptors, Blue Jays, and Maple Leafs).
And, being a Smoke Shop and all, they do have smokes. And newspapers. And Panama hats. And drinks and snacks. And just about anything else you could imagine.
Tourist or local, there's something for everyone at the St. Lawrence Smoke and Gift Shop!