The food court isn't what it used to be. From gourmet hotdogs topped with all the goods to fresh lobster rolls and over-the-top desserts, the just-opened 3,400-person capacity Wellington Market takes the urban food hall to the next level.
Located at the bottom of The Well, a sprawling and shiny new mixed-use development that’s been celebrated for its design (some have called it "the mall of the future"), the new venue brings libations, local produce, artisan fare, and a variety of elevated casual dining options.
Credit: RioCan
Wellington Market officially opened this week with 35 tenants including food retailers and grab-and-go counters, and span 70,000 square feet of space. This includes a bustling central, fully-licensed bar, The Pier.
While the service may be quick by nature, a Snakes and Lattes location invites guests to stick around after their last bite and rent a board game to play on-site (or perhaps, pre-meal: loser buys).
Credit: RioCan
A joint venture between RioCan REIT and Allied Properties REIT, The Well, located where the former Globe and Mail building resided at Front and Spadina, has become a go-to culinary destination as of late, thanks to a slew of new restaurants opening up shop within its sleek and varied real estate. This includes everything from the stunning rooftop spot Aera, to Canada’s first-ever Prince Street Pizza location (its addictive pizza has aptly made its rounds on social media).
As an anchor to these existing spots to wine and dine, Wellington Market offers a one-stop shop for flavours from around the world – from Montreal-style bagels to Caribbean-inspired juices and Brazilian Açai bowls and smoothies.
Credit: RioCan
"The opening of Wellington Market is the result of the collective efforts of our dedicated team, tenants, community and partners who came together to bring a one-of-a-kind experience to Toronto. We are grateful for the tremendous efforts of this visionary team, whose dedication and collaboration brought us to this significant milestone", says Oliver Harrison, SVP, Leasing and Tenant Experience, RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust. "We are excited to share this evolution of the Toronto food and drink scene and have everyone experience it in their own unique way."
Wellington Market offers a spot to support local vendors, discover new flavours, and satisfy cravings of all kinds.
Credit: RioCan
Notable vendors include beloved Ossington and Roncesvalles Cuban sandwich spot La Cubana; Rosie's Burgers, which was founded in 2020 and has four locations now across the city; Queen west's go-to fish and chips spot, Hooky's; gourmet Japanese-style hotdog joint, Japadog; and Gus Tacos (to name just a few). Meanwhile, those with a sweet tooth will appreciate Big Fat Cookies and the fully-loaded shakes from Shake Therapy.
Credit: RioCan
In addition to quick eats, Wellington Market makes a no-fail spot to grab a host or hostess gift, with options like boxes of doughnuts from mocha doughnut spot Isabella's, a range of pies from Sweetie Pies, and stunning blooms from Bunches Flower Collection. Additional merchants are set to open in the coming months.
Wellington Market isn't the only sleek new food hall giving Toronto's foodies something to talk about. A massive, European-style food hall is set to open in the celebrated Waterworks building next month.
