LIGHT CARRY: A HANDFUL OF STRATFORD & PERTH COUNTY’S GO-TO TAKEOUT JOINTS 

WORDS & PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN

Stratford – and, by extension, Perth County – lends itself to takeaway. A coffee to carry, a sandwich in hand, something sweet tucked alongside – then out into the streets for window shopping, into the theatres for a performance, or down to the riverbank for a nosh. What follows is a simple survey of what you might pick up and bring along your way:


SIRKEL FOODS 40 Wellington St, Stratford sirkelfoods.com

Located across from City Hall in the heart of Stratford, this Festival City staple offers a beloved takeaway ritual: loaded sandwiches, fresh salads, and baked goods crafted each morning. Best enjoyed as a picnic along the banks of the Thames.


THE FLOUR MILL 6 Water St S, St Marys theflourmill.ca

Set along the quiet banks of the Thames in St Marys, The Flour Mill pairs historic millhouse charm with refined, locally rooted cuisine and pantry goods that feel both timeless and indulgent.


TAYLOR’S DELICATESSEN 118 Downie St, Stratford taylorsdeli.ca

Just steps from the Avon Theatre, this cozy spot brings a chef’s touch to the humble sandwich – fresh-baked breads, house-made charcuterie, and deeply satisfying flavour combinations.


LITTLE GREEN GROCER 129 Downie St, Stratford thelittlegreengrocery.com

This charming boutique market is where thoughtfully sourced regional goods and chef-prepared meals turn everyday provisions into something distinctly Stratford: crafted, elevated, and altogether nourishing.


HARTMAN’S COFFEE & TEA 2 Ontario St, Stratford @hartmanscoffeetea

Located beside The Relic Lobby Bar & Perth County Inn (two of our fave stops in Stratford), this brand new micro-café is where lovely owner Liesa Hartman serves thoughtfully-sourced espresso-based coffees and loose-leaf teas, as well as muffins and sandwiches crafted using regional ingredients – plus a tightly curated drinks fridge worth a peek.

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Chris Tiessen
Chris Tiessen
Chris Tiessen is co-owner of TOQUE Magazine, where he works as a writer and photographer covering food, culture, travel, and life across Ontario.

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