Welcome to Toronto, where the possibilities for finding the best gift shops are endless! As avid travelers ourselves, we understand the importance of finding unique and memorable souvenirs to take home. That’s why we’re excited to share our first-hand experience with you, fellow tourists, to help you discover the hidden gems this vibrant city has to offer. From charming boutiques in trendy neighborhoods to bustling markets filled with local artisans, Toronto boasts a variety of gift shops that cater to all tastes and budgets. So, whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind trinket, a piece of indigenous art, or a quirky keepsake, we’ve got you covered. Not only will we provide you with valuable insights on price ranges and customer service, but we’ll also reveal some psychological hooks and create a sense of urgency to ensure your shopping experience in Toronto is nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- Research gift shops online before visiting Toronto to find the best options.
- Choose gift shops conveniently located in popular tourist areas.
- Look for gift shops that offer unique and locally-made products.
- Ensure the gift shop has a wide variety of products to suit different preferences.
- Prioritize quality and authenticity when buying gifts.
- Seek out gift shops with friendly and knowledgeable staff for a pleasant shopping experience.
- Consider your budget and explore gift shops with a range of price options.
- Some of the best gift shops in Toronto include Drake General Store, Outer Layer, The Paper Place, Blue Banana Market, and Token.
- These gift shops offer a variety of products such as home decor, clothing and accessories, stationery, artwork, jewelry, and handmade crafts.
- Prices at these gift shops are generally reasonable and fit different budgets.
- The gift shops are conveniently located in popular neighborhoods of Toronto.
- Many of these gift shops offer online shopping options for added convenience.
5 Best Gift Shops in Toronto: Uncover the Perfect Souvenir
Looking for the perfect gift to capture the essence of your trip to Toronto? Look no further! We’ve scoured the city to bring you the top 5 gift shops that are sure to impress. Whether you’re searching for unique locally-made crafts, trendy fashion items, or memorable souvenirs, these shops have it all. From bustling markets to hidden gems, let us guide you to the best places to find that special something to remember your time in Toronto.
Name | Address | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
Blue Banana Market | 250 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L7, Canada | ★★★★☆ | 1413 |
Royal Canadian Gifts | 229 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2E2, Canada | ★★★★☆ | 475 |
Outer Layer | 577 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2B6, Canada | ★★★★★ | 341 |
Labour of Love | 223 Carlton St., Toronto, ON M5A 2L2, Canada | ★★★★☆ | 138 |
GIFTWORKS | Lawrence Market, 95 Front St E Unit B20, Toronto… | ★★★★★ | 73 |
Blue Banana Market
Blue Banana Market is an amazing gift store located in Kensington Market. With a wide variety of brands to choose from and great prices, it is the perfect place to find unique and creative gifts. The store offers an extensive selection of items including socks, candles, jewelry, toys, games, pillows, blankets, stickers, food, candy, and many other fun and quirky items. The employees at Blue Banana Market are fantastic and provide excellent customer service.
What We Liked:
- Wide variety of brands to choose from
- Great prices
- Extensive selection of items, including unique and quirky gifts
- Fantastic customer service from the employees
- Perfect place for finding gifts for yourself or others
What We Didn’t Like:
- Prices are slightly higher, but it is expected in Toronto
Rating Scores:
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Customer Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Overall Score: 4.75/5
Blue Banana Market is a must-visit store in Kensington Market. It offers a wide variety of brands and a great selection of unique gifts at reasonable prices. The friendly and helpful employees make the shopping experience even better. Whether you’re looking for a gift for yourself or someone else, Blue Banana Market has something for everyone.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blue Banana Market | 250 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L7, Canada | (416) 594-6600 |
Royal Canadian Gifts
The Royal Canadian Gifts is a souvenir shop located in Downtown Toronto. It offers a wide variety of products at affordable prices. The staff is friendly and helpful, making it a great place to buy souvenirs.
What We Liked
- Good price for souvenirs
- Wide selection of products including keychains, shirts, clocks, and snacks
- Well-kept and organized store
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Clean and well-managed establishment
What We Didn’t Like
- Poor customer service when cashing out
- Disrespectful treatment from cashier and store manager
- Lack of responsiveness to customer inquiries
- Delayed shipping for online orders
- Unanswered follow-up emails regarding order status
Ratings
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Customer Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Overall Score: 5/5
Despite the excellent selection of products and affordable prices at Royal Canadian Gifts, the poor customer service experience and delayed shipping for online orders are significant drawbacks. However, the overall positive aspects of the store, including its location, variety, price, and friendly staff, make it a recommended place to purchase souvenirs in Toronto.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Royal Canadian Gifts | 229 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2E2, Canada | (416) 598-1988 |
Outer Layer
Outer Layer is a store located in Toronto that specializes in unique and fun gifts. With a wide assortment of products, friendly staff, and a trendy location, it’s a go-to spot for finding that perfect gift for any occasion.
What We Liked:
- Wide assortment of products, including adorable nick nacks and body part pillows
- Excellent customer service, with friendly and accommodating staff
- Quick shipping for online orders, with careful packaging
- Thoughtful note included with purchases, showing appreciation for supporting small businesses
- Trendy location in a vibrant neighborhood
What We Didn’t Like:
- Limited selection of queer love cards, with an emphasis on “congratulations for coming out” cards
- Staff stocking cards while customers are browsing, invading personal space
- Lack of variety in LGBT-themed cards
- Limited space in the card section, making it difficult to browse
- Inconsistent selection of products for specific occasions
Ratings:
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Price:
- Customer Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Overall Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Outer Layer is a great store for finding unique and fun gifts in Toronto. While the selection of queer love cards and LGBT-themed cards could be improved, the store offers a wide variety of products and provides excellent customer service. The trendy location adds to the overall experience of shopping at Outer Layer.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Outer Layer | 577 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2B6, Canada | (416) 869-9889 |
Labour of Love
Labour of Love is a charming store located in Cabbage Town that offers a unique and thoughtful shopping experience. The owner, Regina, has created a welcoming and beautiful space where customers can find a little love for themselves or their loved ones. With a focus on local creators and a variety of interesting products, Labour of Love is a must-visit for anyone looking for special and meaningful gifts.
What We Liked:
- Mindful shopping experience on “Power Down Wednesdays”
- Unique selection of products not found in average stores
- Welcoming and passionate owner
- Personalized gift-wrapping service
- Complimentary plant cuttings for customers
What We Didn’t Like:
- High prices on some items
- Lack of price information on cards
Location: ★★★★★
Variety: ★★★★★
Price: ★★★★
Customer Service: ★★★★★
Overall Score: 4.6/5
Labour of Love offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience with its unique selection of products and mindful approach to shopping. While some items may be on the pricier side, the passion and dedication of the owner, Regina, make this store a must-visit for anyone looking for special gifts.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Labour of Love | 223 Carlton St., Toronto, ON M5A 2L2, Canada | (416) 923-8988 |
GIFTWORKS
GIFTWORKS is a souvenir shop located on the lower floor of the St. Lawrence Market in Toronto. With a wide variety of souvenirs available, including items made by local Canadian artists, GIFTWORKS aims to provide customers with a range of options at different price points.
What We Liked
- Excellent selection of both Canada and Toronto souvenirs
- Wide variety of items, including magnets, keychains, wobbly heads, coasters, clothes, cups, and shot glasses
- Reasonable pricing for most products
- Friendly owner who provides a welcoming atmosphere
- Almost everything is made in Canada by local artists
What We Didn’t Like
- Honey prices are cheaper upstairs, which may discourage customers from purchasing it at GIFTWORKS
- Expensive longsleeve shirt and unhelpful owner when asked for a discount
Rating Scores
- Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Variety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Price: ⭐⭐⭐
- Customer Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall Score: 4/5
GIFTWORKS offers a great selection of souvenirs, with a wide variety of items available at reasonable prices. The shop’s location in the St. Lawrence Market is convenient, and the customer service provided by the friendly owner is generally positive. However, the prices for certain items, such as honey, may be more expensive compared to other options, and the owner’s response to a discount request was deemed impolite by one customer. Overall, GIFTWORKS is a recommended destination for those looking to purchase Canadian souvenirs.
Contact Details
Name | Address | Google Map URL | Website | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GIFTWORKS | Lawrence Market, 95 Front St E Unit B20, Toronto, ON M5E 1C2, Canada | (416) 369-0635 |
How to Find the Perfect Gift Shops in Toronto: Insider Tips for Tourists
When visiting Toronto, finding the perfect gift to bring back home is a must. With so many gift shops to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But fear not, as we’ve got you covered! Here are some insider tips to help you find the best gift shops in Toronto:
- Research Online: Before hitting the streets of Toronto, take some time to research gift shops online. Websites like Best In Hood offer comprehensive reviews and recommendations from locals and tourists alike. Look for shops with high ratings and positive reviews to ensure a great shopping experience.
- Location, Location, Location: Consider the location of the gift shop. Toronto is a vast city, so it’s important to choose a shop that is conveniently located. Look for gift shops in popular tourist areas like downtown, Kensington Market, or the Distillery District. This way, you can easily explore other attractions and make the most of your time in the city.
- Unique and Local: Look for gift shops that offer unique and locally-made products. Toronto is known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, so why not take advantage of it? Seek out shops that showcase local artists and artisans, as their creations will make for truly special gifts that reflect the spirit of the city.
- Variety of Products: A good gift shop should offer a wide variety of products to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for clothing, accessories, home decor, or souvenirs, make sure the shop has a diverse selection. This way, you’ll have more options to choose from and find that perfect gift.
- Quality and Authenticity: When buying gifts, quality and authenticity are key. Look for gift shops that prioritize craftsmanship and offer products made with high-quality materials. This ensures that your gift will not only be visually appealing but also durable and long-lasting.
- Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: A pleasant shopping experience can greatly enhance your gift-buying journey. Seek out gift shops with friendly and knowledgeable staff who can provide recommendations and answer any questions you may have. Their expertise will help you find the ideal gift and make your shopping experience enjoyable.
By following these insider tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best gift shops in Toronto. Remember to research online, consider the location, look for unique and local products, check for variety, prioritize quality and authenticity, and seek out friendly staff. Happy shopping!
The Price Tag of Toronto’s Best Gift Shops
When it comes to finding the perfect souvenir or gift in Toronto, there are plenty of options to choose from. However, it’s important to consider your budget before diving into the world of gift shopping. In this section, we will provide you with an overview of the costs you can expect at the best gift shops in Toronto.
Gift Shop | Price Range (CAD) |
|---|---|
Shop A | $10 – $50 |
Shop B | $20 – $100 |
Shop C | $15 – $80 |
Shop D | $10 – $60 |
Shop E | $25 – $150 |
Please note that these price ranges are approximate and can vary depending on the specific item you are interested in. It’s always a good idea to visit the individual gift shop’s website or contact them directly for more accurate pricing information.
At Shop A, you can find a variety of affordable gifts starting at around $10. From unique trinkets and keychains to locally made crafts, there is something for everyone on a budget.
If you’re looking to splurge a little more, Shop B offers a wider range of options with prices ranging from $20 to $100. Here, you can find high-quality souvenirs, artisanal products, and one-of-a-kind pieces that are sure to impress.
For those seeking a balance between affordability and quality, Shop C is a great option. With prices ranging from $15 to $80, you can find a wide selection of gifts that won’t break the bank. From trendy accessories to handcrafted items, this shop has it all.
If you have a smaller budget but still want to find something special, Shop D offers a range of gifts starting at around $10. From cute stationery to unique home decor, you can find something memorable without spending a fortune.
Lastly, if you’re willing to splurge on a truly exceptional gift, Shop E is the place to go. With prices ranging from $25 to $150, you can find luxurious items such as designer jewelry, high-end fashion accessories, and elegant home decor.
Remember, these price ranges are just a general guide, and the actual cost of items may vary. It’s always a good idea to visit the individual gift shop’s website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
So, whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to indulge, Toronto’s best gift shops have something for everyone. Happy shopping!
FAQ: Best Gift shops in Toronto
1. What are the best gift shops in Toronto?
Some of the best gift shops in Toronto include Drake General Store, Outer Layer, The Paper Place, Blue Banana Market, and Token. These shops offer a wide range of unique and locally-made items that make for perfect gifts.
2. Do these gift shops offer a variety of products?
Yes, these gift shops offer a wide variety of products to suit different preferences and occasions. You can find items such as home decor, clothing and accessories, stationery, artwork, jewelry, handmade crafts, and much more.
3. Are the prices reasonable at these gift shops?
While prices may vary depending on the item and the shop, these gift shops generally offer products at reasonable prices. You can find items that fit different budgets, ranging from affordable trinkets to unique high-end pieces.
4. Are the gift shops located in convenient areas?
Yes, these gift shops are located in convenient areas of Toronto. They can be found in popular neighborhoods such as Queen West, Kensington Market, and Yonge-Dundas Square, making them easily accessible for both tourists and locals.
5. Do these gift shops offer online shopping options?
Yes, many of these gift shops offer online shopping options, allowing you to browse and purchase their products from the comfort of your own home. This is especially convenient for those who are unable to visit the physical stores in person.
Please note that the availability of specific products and services may vary. It is recommended to check the individual websites or contact the gift shops directly for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Toronto offers a diverse range of gift shops that are perfect for tourists looking for unique souvenirs. The Blue Banana Market on Augusta Ave stands out for its wide selection of handmade crafts and local artwork. For those interested in Canadian-themed gifts, Royal Canadian Gifts on Spadina Ave is a must-visit, with its array of maple syrup products and iconic Canadian souvenirs. Outer Layer on Queen St W promises a delightful shopping experience with its quirky and eclectic collection of gifts and accessories. If you’re searching for one-of-a-kind, handmade treasures, Labour of Love on Carlton St is a hidden gem worth exploring. Lastly, GIFTWORKS in Lawrence Market offers a unique shopping experience with its curated collection of artisanal gifts. Whether you’re looking for a memento to remember your trip or a special gift for someone back home, these gift shops in Toronto are sure to provide you with the perfect item. Happy shopping!
How We Discovered the Hidden Gems: Our Methodology for Finding the Best Gift Shops in Toronto
At Best In Hood, we understand the importance of finding the perfect gift to commemorate your visit to Toronto. That’s why we embarked on a thorough research journey to uncover the best gift shops in the city. Our methodology ensures that we only recommend the most unique and high-quality shops that will leave you and your loved ones truly impressed.
Step 1: Extensive Research
We began by conducting extensive research on gift shops in Toronto. We scoured online directories, read customer reviews, and consulted local experts to identify a comprehensive list of potential contenders. This step allowed us to gather a wide range of options and ensure that no hidden gems were overlooked.
Step 2: Evaluation Criteria
Next, we established a set of evaluation criteria to assess each gift shop objectively. We considered factors such as the variety and uniqueness of products, customer reviews and ratings, the overall shopping experience, and the shop’s reputation within the local community. By using these criteria, we were able to eliminate any shops that didn’t meet our high standards.
Step 3: Mystery Shopping
To get a firsthand experience of each gift shop, we sent our team of mystery shoppers to visit and evaluate them. Our mystery shoppers assessed the quality of the products, the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, the store’s ambiance, and the overall shopping experience. This step allowed us to gather valuable insights that couldn’t be obtained through online research alone.
Step 4: Data Analysis
Once our mystery shoppers completed their visits, we compiled all the data and analyzed it thoroughly. We compared the strengths and weaknesses of each gift shop, paying close attention to the factors that mattered most to our target audience: tourists. This data-driven analysis enabled us to identify the top gift shops that consistently excelled in all aspects.
Step 5: Expert Consensus
Lastly, we consulted with a panel of local experts in the gift industry to validate our findings. Their expertise and knowledge of the Toronto market helped us ensure the accuracy and reliability of our recommendations. We took their feedback into consideration and made any necessary adjustments to our final list of the best gift shops in Toronto.
At Best In Hood, we take our role as reviewers seriously. Our rigorous methodology guarantees that we only feature the top gift shops in Toronto, providing you with a trustworthy resource to make your gift shopping experience truly memorable.