Essence of Life

50 Kensington Avenue       Website
Phone: 416.506.0345

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Posted by Staff
January 28, 2008

Rating: 3.6/5 (21 votes cast)

Essence of LifeEssence of Life in Kensington Market is one of the best health food stores in the city. The prices here are much better than Noah's and the Big Carrot; and the selection is amazing. There's a good selection of bulk products including apple butter, organic peanut butter and tahini.

Jen Meglis on April 23, 2008 at 11:00 PM

This is the best store in toronto. I can always count on this store for the best prices on organic baby food and organic dairy products. It is also fun to shop in with a great bohemian vibe.

Diana Lee on April 23, 2008 at 11:03 PM

The staff here is amazing-- they are so knowledgable and friendly. It's a staple in the market and the cheapest place to buy organic food. Their deals are always changing!

Anonymous on May 10, 2008 at 4:36 PM

You really need to check expiration dates when shopping there. I bought stuff that was already expired twice and have since learned my lesson.

stuff on May 13, 2008 at 2:07 PM

it's cheap because they own the building, buy in bulk and buy soon to expire goods.
so yeah, double check before you buy things.

Anonymous on May 17, 2008 at 11:20 AM

This is the greatest health food store in the city!! Since moving here from Vancouver, I've discovered that organic food in Toronto tends to be way overpriced. This store allows me to still afford the great food that I love while on a student budget. They also have the best price on Greens+, which is another product that I can't live without.

amber on August 10, 2008 at 11:12 AM

I like the store and shop there - but the expiration dates are hard to find, past due or missing. watch carefully or buyer's remorse. still a great store.

Victoria on October 15, 2008 at 11:59 AM

This store is by far the best health food store I have found in the city. The product selection and the prices cannot be beat. Although I no longer live nearby, I drive in every second weekend to stock up here. And they are constantly getting in new products. The staff is also very informed and helpful. I have never had a problem with expiry dates at this store, but have with the health food store a few doors down from it.

lor on February 9, 2009 at 8:12 PM

I was just wondering if they sell any of lorna vanderhaeghe products!

Jay on February 26, 2009 at 12:37 AM

probably the best store I have visited with much better pricing than others - store layout not so inviting cos of restricted space. Knowledgable staff and new stuff often coming in. Be careful to look at expiry dates on everything

jiffypop on March 26, 2009 at 11:00 AM

I do really like this store, but I agree with the expiration date comments. They were trying to sell meat at a reduced price that was about 3 days expired. I'm pretty sure that is illegal or close to it??

Liz on July 18, 2009 at 10:58 PM

Oh, definitely - this store is AMAZING! I love Kensington and whenever Im there I stop by. I admit Im a bit addicted to this place by now :P. I love Homocan natural therapy supplements and also organic foods & such, plus the all-natural Pharmacy products, SUCH a good selection :-D - I could spend $100's :P. Plus, the Staff here is so pleasant and knowledgeable. There is a place near my area, in North York that I can't stand, I've only been twice, it sell's similar stuff but w/ not as good selection and much higher prices for the same stuff they 'do' sell and the Staff at this place in North York are SO rude I won't go back! But at 'Essence of Life' they're always nice and make you feel like you want to go back and welcome and free to shop w/out feeling like some weirdo :P LOL. And the prices are MUCH better, I have to say. I love this place, hope it's always here. Peace :).

Louise on July 25, 2009 at 6:45 PM

Best prices, always. Chill vibes. Always stocking up on the almond milk from them. I think anywhere there's a bargain you need to be careful about checking expiration dates; however I noticed some other shops where things like dips would be long past overdue (gross) and intentionally went to Essence to find the spinach dip I was craving, due mid-August.

Gabriel on October 23, 2009 at 1:10 PM

All the accolades and compliments are true. I have been shopping there for years, prices are great and the selection can not be found in other stores in Toronto. I never had a problem with an expiry date. Love the place the knowledge of the people working there. Its a pleasure to be served by stuff that is pleasant and not arrogant and full of themselves as in so many other "health food stores". Cheers to good health!!!!!!!!

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