Unwrap the Joy: Downtown Kingston's Holiday Foodie Gift Guide
By Rosalyn Gambhir
The holiday season is synonymous with joy, laughter, and, of course, delectable food. This year, let's focus on the invaluable moments spent with friends and family.
Whether you're hosting a festive dinner party or a cozy brunch at home, I’ve curated a special foodie gift guide to make your festivities stress-free and memorable and ensure that you not only elevate your hosting game but also bring thoughtful gifts for the gracious host. Dive into a world of culinary delights as we explore the must-haves from some of downtown Kingston's finest establishments.
Begin your holiday preparations at The Everly Wine & Provisions, where culinary dreams come true and you’ll be the center of attention with your foodie picks! Peruse their fine selection of wines, reds, whites, and rosés, including local gems from Prince Edward County.
The top pick for celebratory bubbles is the sparkling red Vitivinicola Fangareggi Vigna Rosa Lambrusco 2020 – an absolute must for any occasion, and the Delinquente Wine Co. Tuff Nut Bianco Pet-Nat 2022 has quite the versatility when it comes to food pairing.
And let's not forget the charcuterie and cheese board essentials: Iberian ham, marinated olives, buffalo camembert, and Chef Jamie's fresh pasta and exquisite sauces, all available at The Everly Wine & Provisions. While you're there, elevate your homemade pancakes or vanilla ice cream with the Salt of the Earth maple syrup, boasting the perfect balance of smoky flavours.
Continue your culinary journey at Pan Chancho Bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked French Levain sourdough bread or baguettes fills the air.
Pair this with Cooke's Fine Foods and Coffee's two-year-old signature cheddar and the Isle of Kintyre apple smoke cheddar, a delightful import from Scotland. Don't dare arrive empty-handed; Cooke's wide collection of coffee and teas, complemented by Cartwright & Butler salted caramel biscuits, and chocolates, will make for the perfect gift for hosts.
To enhance your coffee gift, head to General Brock's Commissary, where you can pick up maple sugar, as well as exquisite Donini and local Cocoa Bistro Artisan chocolates – a sweet treat that pairs perfectly with your caffeine selections from Cooke's.
The next stop on your holiday shopping spree is Kingston Olive Oil Company, where Alfoos Mango white balsamic vinegar steals the show, adding fruity flavours to salads and makes the perfect sweet gift for all. Paired with Pan Chancho's fresh bread for dipping, the Black Mission Fig balsamic vinegar and Hojiblanca extra virgin olive oil create an amazing combination that will elevate any dish.
When it comes to gift-giving, I'm all about treating yourself! So, if you're on the hunt to elevate your tablescape for that holiday dinner party or find that jaw-dropping hostess gift, Antique Emporium is your haven. Choose from a selection of cheese boards, serving trays, and chic wine and cocktail glasses. Your bubbly from The Everly will find its perfect match! And Explore the drink-inspired ornaments that double as cherished reminders of good times!
At Card's Bakery, sweeten your holiday gatherings with the most delicious cupcakes and trays filled with thumbprint cookies, shortbread, holiday sugar cookies and more – individually wrapped or in sets – perfect for sharing at work, at home, or makes the perfect gift for friends and teachers. Their gingerbread house window display is a must-see, and don't forget to grab a gingerbread home ornament as a charming gift.
Add a touch of fun to your holiday celebrations with games from Minotaur. Try the engaging Throw Throw Burrito or immerse yourself in the challenge of a 1000-piece puzzle from Cavallini & Co. with vintage designs. Whether you're hosting a family game night or looking for a unique gift, Minotaur is your go-to.
Discover a delightful collection of holiday foodie-themed greeting cards at Amanda's House of Elegance on Princess St. With whimsical and cute illustrations, these cards add a personal touch to your season's greetings.
For the home cook in your life, Happy Thoughts is a treasure trove of culinary delights. Gift a touch of stylishness with silver, rose gold and gold floral spoons that perfectly complement their Sherbet Mugs. Take your loved ones on a culinary adventure with New York bestselling books like Matty Matheson's "Home Style Cookery" and “A Cookbook”. For the little ones, consider the activity book "At The Restaurant" – a creative journey into the world of food. For friends who appreciate a good cocktail, the Maiden Voyage cocktail infusion jar is a delightful choice. With flavours like strawberry rhubarb, it promises a unique and flavourful experience for any mixologist or cocktail enthusiast.
This holiday season, make every gift count by choosing thoughtful, unique items that add joy and warmth to your celebrations and create unforgettable moments. Downtown Kingston welcomes you to a world of festive delights – where each store tells a story, and every gift is a treasure waiting to be discovered.
Happy holidays and happy shopping in Downtown Kingston!
