Did you know that March is Irish Heritage Month in Canada?
No? Me neither. It makes total sense, though, since Mar. 17 is the day most of the world celebrates a famous Irish pastime: drinking — a.k.a. St. Patrick’s (or St. Paddy’s) Day. I’m kidding, of course, but I know many of us will be at a local pub on Tuesday celebrating Irish culture (with a pint). This year, however, I thought I’d explore the Irish side of Toronto beyond some of its famous bars.
As someone with Irish lineage on my mother’s side, I’ve actually never been to Ireland or explored much of my heritage beyond enjoying the occasional Guinness. I decided this is the year I finally learn more about the culture that shaped my maternal family; the year I truly embrace my “Irishness.” Don’t worry, I won’t subject you to a long-winded story about my great-great-grandpa Cillian and his leprechaun sightings, though that is an unbelievably tall tale, if I do say so myself. Instead, we’re going to explore Ireland the way I know best: by shopping in Toronto.
#YourIrishEdit: A ‘Made in Ireland’ pop-up at the Eaton Centre
The first stop on my unofficial “Irish Shopping Tour of Toronto” happened almost by accident. While rushing through that downtown mecca, the Toronto Eaton Centre, I stumbled upon a boutique pop-up right in the middle of the mall. The #YourIrishEdit Ireland shop (Level 2, near the Albert’s Way entrance) features 14 “Made in Ireland” brands spanning beauty, home, health, and fashion.
The #YourIrishEdit Ireland shop at the Eaton Centre features “Made in Ireland” brands spanning beauty, home, health, and fashion.
Ross Perkin
You can sample products, enjoy whiskey tastings, and catch live performances from acts like The O’Deadlys and Alana & Leigh Cline. It’s open until Mar. 17, and you can even enter to win a trip to Ireland courtesy of Tourism Ireland.
The Irish Design House: Authentic craftsmanship in Leslieville
My next stop is a staple for anyone who spends time in Leslieville. The Irish Design House, at 756 Queen St. E., is a perfect independent boutique carrying everything from heavy woollen sweaters to traditional pottery and modern jewelry. It was founded in 2013 by Sinead Clarke, an Irishwoman who moved to Toronto intending to stay only a year but fell in love with the city instead. A fashion designer by trade, Sinead uses her keen eye to bring us the best of Irish craftsmanship without the flight across the pond.
I couldn’t pass up the chance to shop for myself here. I tried on one of their unisex Aran Mills Sweaters, a classic fisherman knit that should be a staple in every wardrobe. It reminded me so much of the one my grandfather always wore that I had to take one home. I also snagged some beautiful Nicholas Mosse pottery and a wool blanket woven in Donegal. Honestly, who needs Hudson’s Bay when you have Donegal knits?
A taste of the Emerald Isle: Importing treats on the Danforth
Finally, I headed north to the Danforth to check out From Here to There, 1344 Danforth Ave. This spot wasn’t even on my radar until an Irish-born friend showed up at my place with classic treats. It’s a one-stop shop for anyone craving a taste of the Emerald Isle, specializing in imported sweets, biscuits, and chocolates.
I was like a kid in a candy store … literally. I settled on some nostalgic items my grandad used to bring me, along with a few “must-tries.” Confession time: I have never tried an Irish Spice Bag! Since I’ve seen them all over social media, I grabbed a McDonnell’s Spice Bag mix to try at home. I also picked up Jam Mallow biscuits, Daddies Brown Sauce, and a Club Rock Shandy. Lastly, I couldn’t leave without “crisps” (potato chips, for us Canadians). I polished off a bag of Tayto Cheese and Onion before I even got home. They are a must-try.
If you have a favourite Irish spot in Toronto I missed, send me a DM on Instagram. I’m ready to explore more of the city’s Irish side, and I hope to see you all at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Mar. 15.