A Sweet History of Toronto

About the tour

This full-day bus tour will explore the sweet side of Toronto’s history. Enjoy behind-the-scenes glimpses at some of the historic buildings that have contributed to Toronto’s sweet tooth. With delicious tastings sprinkled in along the way, we’ll visit past and present sites of chocolate shops, biscuit factories, and more!

The tour will conclude with a delicious chocolate tasting and workshop tour at artisanal chocolate shop, Soul Chocolate, in Toronto’s East End.

This tour will be led by Dr. Laura Carlson. Laura is the Manager of Public Programs at Heritage Toronto and is a culinary historian who has presented on a number of topics relating to Toronto’s food history.

Tour Highlights

• Discover the history of Redpath Sugar Refinery, which has been operating on the Toronto waterfront since the late 19th century. We’ll explore the complex journey sugar takes to reach our tables and pantries!
• From Laura Secord to Neilson’s Cocoa to Cadbury, we’ll uncover the rich tradition of chocolate-making in Toronto.
• From Mr. Christie’s Cookies to Weston’s Biscuits, enjoy samples of some of Toronto’s iconic cookie brands.
• All sweets and tastings included in your ticket price!

Lunch and Refreshments

All tastings associated with tour stops are included as part of your ticket. There will also be water and other light refreshments provided on board.

All tastings will have vegetarian options but please be aware that we cannot guarantee accommodations for other dietary restrictions.

Guests also can add a lunch sandwich from Good Behaviour ($12) when purchasing a bus tour ticket. Pre-purchased sandwiches will be distributed when guests board the bus and can be enjoyed at any point during the tour. Good Behaviour sandwich options include:

Classic Sandwich: soppressata, Genoa salami, mortadella, prosciutto di Parma, prosciutto cotto, provolone, giardiniera, iceberg lettuce

Turkey Sandwich: smoked turkey, smoked gouda, grainy mustard, salsa verde, iceberg lettuce

Mushroom Sandwich (Vegetarian): thyme roasted portobello, marinated artichokes, red peppers, pickled eggplant, broccoli rabe, provolone, red onion, mayo, iceberg lettuce

Mushroom Sandwich (Vegan): thyme roasted portobello, marinated artichokes, red peppers, pickled eggplant, broccoli rabe, red onion, iceberg lettuce

Please note: all sandwiches must be pre-ordered when purchasing a bus tour ticket. No sandwiches will be available for sale on the day of the tour. Guests are also welcome to bring their own food and drink on board the bus (with the exception of alcoholic beverages).

Alternate dates

This tour will also take place on Sunday, September 29, 2024.

Transit and Parking Options

The closest TTC stops are on the west and east side of Jarvis Street, via the 114 and 202 buses. There is also a BikeShare station at the intersection of Queens Quay and Lower Jarvis Street.

Paid parking is available via the Green P location at 51 Dockside Drive, within the George Brown College – Waterfront Campus.

Please contact Heritage Toronto at 416-338-0684 or [email protected] for more information.