New, hidden record store opens in Toronto
Published April 3, 2025 at 2:03 pm
The east end of the city just got a new record store–you might have to look just a little harder to find it
Recently, Leslieville residents found out that Baxters Vinyl has moved to the area, taking up residence in a small coach house in the Queen Street East and Greenwood Avenue area.
Situated behind the newly opened Greenwood Cafe, the shop–which one supporter on social media called “the best selection of vintage vinyl this side of Yonge Street–specializes not only in selling records, but in buying used vinyl as well.
“We specialize in relocating records and record collections, preserving vintage vinyl and putting sought-after records in the hands of record collectors,” the store’s website says, adding that Baxters also sells records online.
As far as inventory goes, the shop posts some of its interesting and classic records on social media, including albums by Levon Helm & The RCO All-Stars, Tina Turner, Rush, The Eurythmics, Tears for Fears, David Bowie, The Talking Heads and others.
In a social media post, the shop said it will participate in the monthly East Side Vinyl Society meetup at the Flying Squirrel, another east-end spot not far from Baxters.
Last month, the Leslieville BIA said that, come the warmer months, record enthusiasts will be able to pair their vinyl listening/shopping experience with coffee from the Greenwood Cafe on a sun-lit patio.
The BIA also said customers are free to ask the owner to keep an eye out for rare copies of coveted titles.
“Inside, you will find a treasure trove of vinyl records to pass your time browsing through. Looking for something in particular? Just ask to email the owner, Courtney, your wish list and she will gladly keep an eye out for you if not already in stock,” the BIA wrote on social media.
“We can’t wait for patio season out behind [the Greenwood Cafe]. Soon you’ll be able to enjoy the tunes from Baxter’s shop while you lounge in the sun.”
Area residents expressed enthusiasm about the new shop, saying it complements the (somewhat) nearby Pop Music, a record shop on Broadview Avenue that specializes in brand new records.
“Between Pop Music for new stock and now Baxter’s for used classics and rare gems, you barely need to leave the hood,” one resident wrote on Facebook.
The shop is open from Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.