What to Buy in Toronto: An Essential Shopping Guide

Toronto, Canada's biggest city, is not just a vibrant multicultural hub or a city full of skyscrapers and green spaces. It is also a shopping paradise where global brands, local crafts, and unique food specialties coexist. Here's a narrowed down list of what to buy in Toronto.

Maple Syrup

When people mention Canada, it is impossible not to think about maple syrup. This sweet delight is a staple in Canadian households. You can find various maple products at farmers markets or specialty stores like the Maple Syrup Store.

Canadian Ice Wine

Ice wine is a sweet dessert beverage made from grapes that have naturally frozen on the vine. It is a pride of Ontario, making it an excellent gift to bring home. Visit the LCBO or wine boutiques for the best selections.

Toronto Raptors Merchandise

Toronto is home to the Raptors, 2019 NBA champions. A Raptors jersey, hat, or jacket would be an exciting purchase for any NBA fan. Check out the official Raptors Team Store inside the Scotiabank Arena.

Inuit Art

Inuit Art, especially soapstone carvings and prints, is a valuable form of Canadian Indigenous art to possess. These unique art pieces can be found in the numerous art galleries in Toronto, like the Craft Ontario Shop or the Toronto Inuit Art Foundation.

Local Crafts and Design Pieces

Toronto is also teeming with local artisans who excel in pottery, jewellery, textiles, and more. Shops like Distill Gallery and Spacing Store offer items that embody the city's creative spirit.

Premium Chinatown Goods

Toronto's Chinatown, one of North America's largest, offers a wide variety of goods – from Asian spices, teas, and fruits to Chinese handicrafts and jade jewelry. It is a cultural marketplace experience you shouldn’t miss.

Peameal Bacon Sandwich

The peameal bacon sandwich, or Canadian bacon, is a Toronto food specialty. Bring a taste of Toronto to your kitchen by purchasing peameal from a local butcher or farmer's market.

Vintage Clothing

If you appreciate fashion with history, Toronto has a vibrant vintage clothes scene. Check out Kensington Market or stores like House of Vintage and Black Market Vintage for high-quality retro finds.

Indie Records and Vintage Books

For music and book aficionados, the indie records and vintage book stores in Toronto serves a treasure trove to explore. Browse through stores like Sonic Boom Records and BMV Books to discover rare albums and titles.

Canadian Designers' Apparel

Fashion enthusiasts will enjoy browsing the latest collections of Canada's top-tier designers. Areas like the West Queen West and Yorkville host boutiques showcasing the works of Jeremy Laing, Pink Tartan, and others. So whether it's edibles, clothing, art, or sports gear, this storied city has a lot to offer. Just remember to bag these Toronto-specific items on your shopping spree in this dynamic Canadian city.