Toronto Union Station area for a few evening hours
 

I'm taking the Via Rail Canadian tomorrow night from Toronto Union Station. I'll have a few hours to spend nearby between roughly 5 - 9 p.m. I've looked at Google Map and there's clearly lots of shopping/eating, etc. available though I'm not much of a shopper. I've been to the CN Tower on past visits and don't care about going back. Anything you like to do fun or interesting open during those hours? Any particular eating recommendation (I will be very casually dressed)? Have thought I might head to Chinatown?

You are going to be located about a 4 minute cab ride from the waterfront at Queens Quay... nice walk around, sunset view, shopping, food, or even a ferry ride nearby...

In the other direction, you can walk through the entertainment district to wander around Queen St. W,... A funky boutique, and bistro area... beware that some businesses in Toronto may close at around 6pm, especially in the Chinatown and Queen St. so wander and then plan on eating before you head back...have fun!

On Front Street you can walk several blocks east to Yonge where there is a cluster of restaurants (also the Hockey Hall of Fame but it will be closing just as you arrive.)
Or you can walk west to University and north to King Street. To the west on King are several blocks jammed with bistros.

Thanks for the replies, folks. I wound up walking over to St Lawrence Market and getting a bite to eat there.

Topping this only to say thanks for the information. We are taking the Canadian this coming Saturday the 29th and are in the same situation. Looking for a meal rather than shopping.

I already knew about those several restaurants on Yonge but am less familiar with the St Lawrence Market so will research that further.

Will have carry-on luggage so that, for me, is always an issue when trying to find a place to sit inside.

Hi Charlotte,

Love the Saint Lawrence Market! So glad you were able to make it there!

I'm thinking the Panorama Lounge in Toronto (which is MUCH bigger than it was a few years back, is very spacious and in my opinion an altogether lovely room) may have a place where you could put your luggage while you go out and get a bite to eat. I remember VIA Rail doing this in Vancouver a few years ago, as I arrived from Victoria 5 hours before departure time and didn't want to be encumbered as I went to English Bay Beach and a favorite sushi joint in that West coast city.

Best wishes, Daniel

I checked my bag at the usual bag check (or so it seemed to me). I think they had me show my boarding pass but I honestly don't remember. There wasn't any charge.

The waiting room for the train is very nice! As was the entire journey. I loved the entire experience and if I'd had time I would have come back on the train instead of flying from Vancouver as I had to do.