Today, Mayor Olivia Chow awarded the Key to the City to Robert Biancolin and Maurice Biancolin, owners of the iconic Carousel Bakery at St. Lawrence Market.
For nearly 50 years, the Biancolin brothers have been a beloved fixture of the Market, serving up their world-famous peameal bacon sandwiches and welcoming generations of Torontonians and visitors with warmth, consistency and community spirit.
Under their leadership, Carousel Bakery became a culinary destination recognized far beyond city limits, receiving accolades from some of the world’s most well-known chefs and featured in media across the globe.
As Robert and Maurice prepare to retire and pass the torch, the City of Toronto is honouring not only their contributions to Toronto’s food culture, but also their role in shaping the character and legacy of St. Lawrence Market itself.
The Mayor awards the Key to the City to inspiring individuals from diverse backgrounds who embody the spirit and potential of Toronto, and who have contributed significantly to civic life. The Key to the City is Toronto’s highest honour granted by the Mayor to an individual or a group.
More information, including a list of past recipients, is available on the City’s Key to the City webpage.
Mayor Chow invites residents to share their suggestions for individuals they believe should receive the Key to the City. To nominate someone who has made a meaningful impact on Toronto, visit the Key to the City website.
Quotes:
“Peameal bacon was invented at St. Lawrence Market – and is now known as Canadian bacon all around the world. For half a century, Carousel Bakery has been home to world-famous peameal bacon sandwiches. Bakery owners Robert and Maurice Biancolin have also supported the revitalization of St. Lawrence Market as a thriving marketplace for local businesses. Today, we honour their significant contribution to Toronto’s identity.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
“We are thrilled to be receiving the Key to the City from Mayor Olivia Chow. It is an honour that reflects the legacy we’ve been proud to build at the St. Lawrence Market, a place that holds deep meaning for us. We’ve been fortunate to serve Toronto residents and visitors to this great city for nearly 50 years. The Key to the City will always be a reminder of our hard work, dedication, and a meaningful nod to our famous peameal bacon sandwich, one of the most well-known in the world.”
– Robert and Maurice Biancolin, Recipients, Key to the City
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