The Best New Specialty Food Stores in Toronto, 2012

The best new specialty food stores in Toronto in 2012 seemed to like one place in particular â Kensington Market. From sustainable fish-mongers to the meat-minded and others in between, the Market seemed especially enticing to new specialty stores opening in 2012. That said, there were plenty of specialty stragglers spreading themselves across the city, too, with a new food co-op opening in the west end and some healthy eats over in the east.

Here is the list of the best new specialty stores in Toronto in 2012.

See also:

The best gourmet food stores in Toronto

Sanagan's Meat Locker

Such meat marvelousness! While carnivores got a scare in early 2012 with the news that European Quality Meats would be closing its Kensington Market location, that worry was soon replaced with anticipation as Sanagan’s announced it would be taking over the space. With 12 times the square footage and a fancy new deli and take-out counter, Sanagan’s unveiled itself in August to the hungry delight of meat-eaters everywhere.

Hooked Kensington Market

After opening its inaugural shop in Leslieville in 2011, Hooked decided to look west in 2012, eventually taking over the former Sanagan’s space in Kensington Market. A smaller version of the original location, this Hooked is stocked with all sorts of sustainable seafood, including responsibly grown oysters, mussels, and clams, fresh scallops, local trout and much more. The shop also offers prepared seafood dishes for when you don’t feel like cooking.

Healthy Planet Danforth

Carrot Common got a little “healthy” competition when Healthy Planet opened just a few blocks over during the summer of 2012. But more than just a health food grocery store, Healthy Planet arrived with a full-fledged espresso and juice bar, along with a vegetarian take-out counter and hot table backed by an impressive lineup of veggie chefs. Healthy Planet has since offered daily soups, salads, stews, snacks, and more.