PHOTOSPREAD: HOLIDAY GEMS

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HOLIDAY GEMS:

WALK THE TALK IN THE DTK

PREAMBLE BY CHRIS TIESSEN; PHOTOS BY CHRIS TIESSEN & CAI SEPULIS

WHILE THE SLOGAN ‘SHOP LOCAL’ HAS BEEN A SORT OF CALL-TO-ARMS FOR COMMUNITY-MINDED WARRIORS FOR YEARS NOW, IT’S NEVER BEEN AS IMPORTANT AS IT IS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. AND IT’S NEVER BEEN EASIER TO UNDERTAKE, TOO, WITH SO MANY GLORIOUS OPTIONS ACROSS OUR REGION.

AS ALWAYS, DOWNTOWN KITCHENER HAS ITS FAIR SHARE OF FANTASTIC INDEPENDENTLY-OWNED BUSINESSES WAITING FOR – AND WORKING FOR – YOUR BUSINESS.

OVER THE PAST COUPLE MONTHS, THE TOQUE TEAM PAID VISITS TO FIVE INDIE DTK ENTERPRISES THAT HAVE PERFECT OFFERINGS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY GIFT LIST. FROM CHARCUTERIE BOARDS TO LEATHER GOODS, HOLIDAY SWEETS TO DIY RAMEN KITS, AFTER-SHOPPING COCKTAILS TO NATURAL WINES FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES – THESE FIVE SPOTS ARE HIDDEN TREASURES RIGHT CLOSE TO HOME.

SO GET OUT THE DOOR. PAY THESE GEMS A VISIT. AND WALK THE TALK.

SHOP LOCAL.

THE GRAZING TABLE KW

341 KING ST E, KITCHENER THEGRAZINGTABLEKW.CA The Grazing Table KW can set you up with the most mouth-watering grazing boxes, boards, and tables for any and every occasion. All fresh. Mostly local. And with no disappointing fillers. And get this: the business’ King St E bricks and mortar also offers an assortment of local goods – from Phlippens’ sauces to Indoorsy Co candles. So grab a box, board, or table today. They’re fun, oh so indulgent, and always announce a celebration. 129

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CRAFTY RAMEN

276 KING ST W UNIT 5, KITCHENER CRAFTYRAMEN.COM This downtown culinary destination has always been a favourite of ours for ramen bowls (‘Miso Meat Lovers’ for me, ‘Northern Warmer’ for Cai, and marinated eggs for both). Indeed, the place’s funky space is the perfect stop along the way. And – with DIY ramen kits, sets of chopsticks, ceramic bowls and more available for that ramen-loving someone on your holiday list – it’s the perfect stop for unique gifts, too.

GOLDIE’S CONVENIENCE

98 QUEEN ST S, KITCHENER GOLDIESCONVENIENCE.CA This natural wine bar with public pool vibes (honestly – those tiles alone have us coming back for more) is a recent addition to the downtown scene. And it's the perfect spot for intimate dates with that special someone, for small gatherings with friends, or for alone time with a glass of something wonderful. Looking for that perfect bottle for home? Goldie’s sells wine (and other curated items) to-go too. 131

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THE CAKE BOX

70 VICTORIA ST N, KITCHENER CAKEBOX.CA This award-winning bakery has been making cakes and taking names for almost two decades now. As the recommended vendor for such esteemed wedding venues as Langdon Hall and Cambridge Mill, owner Yvonne – along with her team – has built a solid business with a golden reputation. From cake pops to cookies, wedding cakes, cupcakes, and macarons – if you’ve got a sweet tooth The Cake Box can take care of it.

BARBER & CRAFT

141 ONTARIO ST N, KITCHENER BARBERANDCRAFT.COM Looking for a mean fade and new leather wallet – all from the same place? Then make an appointment with Adam at his barbershop that also features his own handcrafted leather goods. From messenger bags to card wallets, belts to totes, Adam’s leather goodness is the perfect solution to tighten up any wardrobe. And that new fade’ll certainly help too. 133

Mix it up this season with 6 unique craft beer selections!

AVAILABLE NOW AT THE LCBO