Everyday Gourmet
the spice traderToronto
(Aug.05.05)
Ask any chef worth her salt (coarsely ground sea, of course) for her secrets and we’re betting they’re all in the details. And now that we’ve found The Spice Trader., we no longer need to covet the culinary skills of others – we’ve got a cupboard full of our own (literally). Tucked away on Queen Street West this apothecary styled store lets you create cuisine at a whole new level. From 4-course meals (some of our friends seriously love their kitchens) to the smallest snack (convenience is key to getting some of us into ours) the right spices set the stage. And their stock of handpicked organic herbs, spices and gourmet salts will leave you breathless but not overwhelmed.
Rich cherry wood shelves line the walls and rows of olive green tins invite you to explore. There are whole spices for chefs who like grinding their own (and top of the line grinders, mortars & pestles and more) plus perfect powders and blends for easy everyday use.
Not sure where to start? Owners Neil Bougourd and Allison Johnston happily talk tips (a dash of ginger powder in the eggs makes French toast a force to be reckoned with), while opening sample tins so you can experience the fragrant aromas for yourself.
And don’t miss The Olive Pit, the complementary basement boutique. Bleached cabinetry and a terrazzo floor evoke images of Tuscany while you browse gourmet oils (over 50 varieties of olive alone, including some kosher), vinegars and olives. With a tasting bar and bulk purchases available, our seasoning secret-weapon stores were just too good to keep quiet.
The Spice Trader / The Olive Pit
www.thespicetrader.ca
877 Queen St. W. (at Bellwoods)
647-430-7085