‘Tis the season to hit the stores for all sorts of gifts – whether it be for kids, friends, colleagues or bosses – we’re all searching for the perfect present. Thoughtful but not trying and affordable but not cheap. What better way to celebrate Kingston’s wonderful local businesses than by allowing them help you finish your holiday shopping.

I’ve picked a few of my favourite places in town and listed them under categories for Christmas shopping inspiration.

This edition is for the Foodie in your life, the friend who appreciates cooking or enjoying a great meal. Gifts from these spots are bound to impress!

Check back every day this week for a new list!

Kingston’s Olive Oil Company:  Located on Brock street, the Kingston’s Olive Oil Company is a foodie favourite. Even the Chef a Riva, Gananoque’s five-star restaurant, has said that they are incredibly knowledgeable with amazing products. They offer beautiful gift baskets or small stocking stuffer packages and just recently began selling specialty salts. With a variety of price points, this place is perfect for anyone in your life who appreciates top notch ingredients.

Bread and Butter Bakery:  I’ve never met a Kingstonian who hasn’t enjoyed a treat from this delicious family-owned bakery. They also offer great gifts for those who love to eat but don’t love to bake or cook. They sell gift certificates for the “pie of the month” club which means a pie a month for a year – the gift that keeps on giving! They also have a  “cooks night off” gift certificate which is 1 quiche, 1 baguette, 2 soup and 4 squares – that feeds four people for about $30.

Bella Bistro: I’ve written about this farm-to-table spot and their amazing burgers and the truth is that everything on their menu is delicious. A gift card here is a perfect treat for just about anyone – even non-foodies! Read about their burgers if you haven’t already.

Riva: I recently wrote about Riva’s cooking classes. They are incredibly fun and a wonderful gift idea. Sign a friend up for a class to enjoy together! Classes are $70 each but include a four course meal after an hour of learning. Find out more.

Card’s Bakery: Whether it be a small batch of sugar cookies or a beautiful kitchen accessory, Card’s bakery has plenty to offer to anyone who enjoys baking or baked goods.

Cooke’s: This place has food from all over the world and it’s gift basket heaven. If you want a no-fuss gift with a big pay off, head to the back and marvel at every combination of goodies wrapped up with coffees, chocolates, preserves and more with a wide price range.