Explore this dynamic west-end Toronto neighbourhood for unique fashion, lifestyle and foodie finds.
The College Street stretch from Bathurst to Ossington streets is a pedestrian-friendly strip with some of the city’s best cafés and restos. Nestled between an endless selection of places to dine are some of Toronto’s best independently owned stores.
In spite of one or two forays into the hood by chain stores, Little Italy remains a “shop local” haven, where indie store owners greet their regulars, and you can find everything you need in just a few blocks.
On a snowy winter’s day, bundle up and bring your reusable tote to check a few items off your holiday gift list — or kick off the new year with well-deserved splurges. Check out these eight great local shops for distinctive mementos, wellness goods and more!
Shop local (really local)
Red Pegasus is your one-stop shop-Toronto hotspot, packed with cards, homewares, bath and body products, jewelry and other accessories. Pretty much anything you can dream of can be found on the shelves of this little store! And by supporting this independent shop, you also support local companies like Lisbeth Jewelry and Skipping Stone Soap.
Curate your life
Arguably the most sartorial shopping spot in Little Italy, Monocle Shop, Toronto brings the magazine’s style to life. The quaint yet curated storefront showcases the full range of Monocle products and the magazine-cum-lifestyle-brand’s latest collabs reflecting its latest edition and aesthetic. Readers should pick up one of their guides to far-off destinations and “gentle living.”
Feather your nest
Ranging from small accessories and soaps to statement furniture, Ziggy’s at Home offers a fresh look at home decor and design. This contemporary store has calming scents, colourful glassware and accessories to help you create a functional yet dapper home. This store’s green offerings include home fragrance product refills.
Go into full bloom
Add a bit of colour to your home on even the coldest winter days at Botany Floral Studio. Show someone you care by giving them fresh blooms, a small succulent or a tabletop terrarium chosen from Botany’s selection of flowers, plants and gifts. Or treat your own #cozycorner with an everlasting bouquet of dried bunny tail grass in hues like soft mauve and raspberry.
Tip your hat
Karyn Ruiz of Lilliput Hats is one of Canada’s finest milliners. Drop by Ruiz’s showroom and atelier to learn how each Lilliput hat is handmade using precise traditional techniques. Most famously, Ruiz’s intricate feather-trimmed leather designs were worn by Gord Downie during The Tragically Hip’s final tour. Trade your toque this winter for a classic wool beret.
Treat your BFF
Shop locally for the furriest members of your family. College Street’s Pet Uno stocks a selection of accessories, food and treats for dogs, cats, birds and rabbits. Gone a bit too wild frolicking in the park? Get your four-legged friend fresh and fancy again by booking them into the Pet Uno Grooming Spa.
Shop for vintage finds
Japanese street style rules the day at Shoppu, a vintage and secondhand boutique featuring eclectic finds hand-picked by proprietor Miki Maehara, who makes regular buying trips to Tokyo and beyond. Unique fits, out-of-the-box cuts and unexpected hemlines define the shop’s playful and arty womenswear aesthetic.
Treat yourself
Step out of the cold and into the warmth, peace and tranquillity of Health Hut. This luxurious little boutique makes it easy to shop for products that are good for both you and the environment. Wellness and self-care are at the heart of every item in the store, from adroitly curated books on personal growth to locally crafted silk eye masks and skincare.
Getting to Little Italy:
Take the Line 1 Yonge-University subway to Queen’s Park station, then catch the 506 College streetcar westbound to Bathurst Street.
