Tecolote Market

What is Tecolote Market? Tucked into the lower level of St. Lawrence Market at 91 Front Street East, Tecolote Market marks chef Elia Herrera’s celebrated return to the Toronto food scene following her Calgary chapter at Milpa. Named after the Nahuatl word for owl—a heartfelt tribute to her grandmother—this intimate eight-seat counter trades the white-tablecloth formality of her past venture, Los Colibrís, for the lively, approachable spirit of a traditional Mexican mercado. The compact stall pairs a handful of high-top wooden counter stools overlooking an open preparation line with grocery shelves stocked with house-made salsas, pantry goods, and freezer-ready dishes.

Tecolote Market Menu & What to Order Herrera draws straight from three generations of family recipes, turning out comforting Veracruz-style plates that elevate classic market fare. The braised shredded beef tacos and crisp poblano empanadas are immediate standouts, built on hand-pressed corn tortillas and finished with vibrant, layered salsas. Round out an order with a refreshing guava or tamarind agua fresca, or grab a bowl of citrusy coconut ceviche for an easy plant-based lunch.

Know Before You Go Seating is strictly first-come, first-served across just eight counter stools, meaning peak lunch hours and weekend market rushes fill up fast. Takeout is always available if you want to assemble a mobile lunch or stock up on frozen take-home enchiladas and bottled hot sauces. The stall follows general St. Lawrence South Market hours, operating Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays.