Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s true gems. It’s a place that’s hard to describe with words and easier to tell through sentiments as the neighbourhood thrives through feelings.
Graffiti covers most walls in this neighbourhood, ranging in colour and style.
If Kensington Market had to be a song it would be a mix of Call on Me by Janis Joplin and Kiss Off by The Violent Femmes. If it was a flower it would be that dandelion that has pushed its way up through the sidewalk. If if was an artist it would be Keith Haring and Basquiat.
This community is the living embodiment of an artistic movement.
The area is filled with different statues and murals, flags and cultures. It’s a place that you feel at home with just by walking around. Where you could be dressed anywhere from your pajamas to a suit and you wouldn’t get a crude glance.
From telephone polls to fire hydrants, everything is a canvas in this community.
This Torontonian community is located beside Chinatown, between Spadina Avenue and Bathurst Street. It’s a place that has some of the most heart, artistic flare and urban charm in Toronto and it’s an excellent excursion when visiting the city.
The CN Tower visible seen through the telephone cables and spray paint.
When going to Kensington Market there are three places you have to eat at.
First is the Big Fat Burrito. Ask anyone where to eat in Kensington and they will answer with this place. Packed with flavour, these burritos are great for any mood you’re in and will leave you wanting more.
The Big Fat Burrito, one of the best burrito joints in Toronto.
If you like sweets, stop by Pancho’s Bakery for churros. These Spanish pastries are addicting and hit the spot when you have a sweet tooth. The dulce de leche ones are a personal favourite of mine, the confection mouth watering with the sweetness of the churros.
Finally, the best place to eat in Kensington Market is the KOS Restaurant. Great food for a great price topped off with an all day breakfast menu. However, the highlight of this restaurant is the Greek Vegetarian Burger. As a vegetarian, there’s always a few things you miss, a good burger on a patio is one of them. Luckily for us this burger is by far the best one I’ve had. I make my way to Kensington on a regular basis just to get one. Even if you eat meat you can’t miss this dish, it makes you forget that it’s not a real hamburger and fall in love with the veggie burger.
Trucks expressing creative outlooks.
If you are visiting Toronto during the winter make sure to join in the festivities for the Annual Kensington Market Winter Solstice celebration. It’s an event like none other in Toronto, where performers, singers and circus groups put on a night to celebrate the solstice. People walk in a parade after dark with lanterns as faces are covered by brightly painted masks. Afterwards, people make their way down to a bonfire where drums are played and groups perform dances in the crackling light.
The website for the Annual Kensington Market Winter Solstice. http://www.redpepperspectacle.com/2016-winter-solstice-festival.html
Colourful murals line buildings in Kensington Market.
Kensington Market is full of creative expression whether it’s through food or art. It’s one of the well know communities in Toronto and it’s definitely a hot spot when visiting the city. Grab your camera, your appetite and your friends, and head down to one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods that make Toronto so special.