Where to Shop Local in Montreal this Christmas

If you’re reading this right now, chances are you’ve procrastinated and are stuck on what to buy for your friends and family this Christmas. Not in the mood to face the mall crowds and want your gift to stand out? Why not shop local! Not only is it good for Montreal’s economy, but it’ll ensure that you show up to the party with a unique goodie bag. Whether you’re searching for the perfect housewarming gift or a present for that special someone, support your local shops and visit one of these six homegrown gems.

Photo courtesy of Frank & Oak

Frank & Oak
With a new downtown location (with three floors!) that recently opened on rue Stanley downtown, along with their Mile End headquarters, Frank & Oak is the place to head over to for the men on your list. From dapper bowties to beard grooming kits, their shop is guaranteed to make the man in your life smitten with whatever you choose to gift him.
Holiday buy: A Homemade Gin Kit.

Photo courtesy of La Montréalaise Atelier

La Montréalaise Atelier
Proud Montrealers know Sabrina Barilà’s brand, La Montréalaise. But did you know that the designer opened her very own boutique in Montreal earlier this year? Located on rue St-Viateur East, the atelier boasts the same selection found on the online store, along with other unique designs.
Holiday buy: An iconic “La Montréalaise” sweater or bag.

Photo courtesy of Gendron Confiseur Chocolatier

Gendron Confiseur Chocolatier
Formerly housed by Godiva, this chocolate shop is the new sweet spot at La Maison Ogilvy. Opened by a brother and sister duo, Gendron Confiseur Chocolatier concentrates on dark chocolate. Chocolate lovers will appreciate the fact that everything here is handmade without any preservatives or artificial flavours.
Holiday buy: Their chocolate bowls for the perfect housewarming gift.

Photo courtesy of Fou D’Ici / by Vandim Daniel

Fou d’Ici
Have a foodie on your list? Fou d’Ici’s upscale grocery store makes for unique gourmet finds. Dubbed Montreal’s urban food market, it’s located near the Quartier des Spectacles. Housing a host of organic products and local produce from shops like La Cornetteria and Point G, shop around for groceries, homeware, and gifts!
Holiday buy: One of their themed gift baskets.

Mariouche Gagné – Photo courtesy of Harricana

Harricana
Located on rue Saint-Antoine West, Mariouche Gagné’s Harricana boutique has become a Canadian staple over the years due to the fact that everything here is made from ethical and recycled furs from Quebec. Harricana is perfect for the eco-friendly person on your list since their products are crafted with the ultimate respect for nature.
Holiday buy: A pair of earmuffs.

Photo courtesy of The WANT Apothecary

The WANT Apothecary
The WANT Apothecary is sure to impress the smart and worldly traveler on your list. Byron and Dexter Peart, the duo behind the shop, also design their own in-house leather brand, WANT Les Essentiels de la Vie. Their carefully curated items – or should I say essentials – range from a variety of bags to outdoor accessories.
Holiday buy: Leather totes for him and her.

For more ideas and things to do in Montreal, check out The Ultimate Guide to Montreal’s Mile End!