Find great gifts at these charming Roncesvalles boutiques
Forget about getting your friends, family members or partner a gift card. If you really want show them how much they mean to you, head to one of these indie gift shops in Roncesvalles where you’ll find an assortment of unique gems.
Scout
405A Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2N1You won’t find anything cheap or mass-produced in here, just an impressive assortment of gifts and goodies made by local designers. Many of them are also handmade, giving your gift that special touch of uniqueness. From stationery to soaps to scarves, it’s almost impossible not to find the perfect one for any occasion. Top things off with a card – they have racks and racks from which to choose.
Old Country Shop
355 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2M8There’s no other way to describe the interior of this shop other than magical. Stepping inside feels like being transported to a small town where all the gifts are thoughtfully arranged on wooden shelves. The window display is a piece of art unto itself, with figurines, chocolates and other knickknacks set on green cloth. You can find rare gifts inside, like angel chimes and handcrafted horses. Whatever you buy, you can sleep well knowing that it’ll last for many years.
The Chocolateria
361 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2M8Chocolate is one of the most universal and timeless gifts ever, but skip over the common brands and go for something more thoughtful and personalized. At this Roncesvalles confectionary shop you can choose from pre-selected chocolate packages or assemble your own; if you choose the latter, there are tons of gorgeous gift boxes from which to pick. And, if you really want to surprise someone, give them the gift of a chocolate-making class where they can learn to make their own chocolates or truffles.
Ecotique
191 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2L5If you guessed from the name that this store is incredibly eco-friendly, you guessed right. All the gifts have been chosen because they’re natural, organic, reusable, recyclable/recycled, locally/ethically made or any combination of the above. It’s Ecotique’s way of making a difference in the world, and you’ll also see the benefits of this approach in the gorgeous, high-quality gifts. The selection is mighty impressive and sure to please anyone on your list.
Likely General
389 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2N1It’s a gift shop that looks like a finely decorated living room, with shelves on one side and hanging gifts on the opposite wall. One of the most unique things about this store is that owner Brooke Manning has teamed up with Toronto artists to feature their work and also invites them in regularly to host gift-making workshops. If you’re stuck for ideas, you can ask Brooke – or have a tarot reading while you wait for inspiration to strike.
Sweetpea's Inc
163 Sterling Rd, Toronto, ON M6R 2B2Other than chocolate, no gift is given with greater frequency than flowers. There are so many types and varieties at this eco-friendly florist that you're sure to find a bouquet to suit anyone – even those who insist they don’t like flowers. This shop doesn’t just stock flowers and plants, however. Sweetpea’s carries a wide assortment of gifts, cards, furniture and home decor items. With a surprise around every corner, it’s the perfect place to go whether you’re last-minute shopping or preparing months in advance.
Scooter Girl
187 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, ON M6R 2L5If you’re looking for a gift for a little one, make this shop the first stop on your list. There’s everything from wooden dollhouses to little beginner instruments, with a variety of options that’ll suit any boy or girl. Best of all, the toys here are safe and made outside of sweatshops, so you can give your gift knowing it’ll be both fun and socially conscientious. There’s an educational aspect to the toys, but they’re so much fun kids won’t realize it.
