The usual suspects are back for the One of a Kind Show, including our favourites such as The Fishery, 3rd Floor Studios, Birdslovebees, Uppdoo and Crosswind Farms. Some old favourites were noticeably absent, however. Voisin Pure Maple Syrup, which also produces infusions and other maple products, was not there this season – disappointing as I had intended to purchase a some maple butter (I already have A LOT of maple syrup) nor was Beverly’s Bakers (they were not at last year’s spring show either) or DaLish Cosmetics.
All is not lost, however, as I have found some new favourites. They include:
Trudy Ann’s Chai and Spices: Exactly what they are! Delicious teas such as vanilla and apple pie (no artificial ingredients!) and spices for Indian/Indian-inspired cooking (butter chicken, chana masala, tandoori, etc…).
Chocolat de Kat: Delicious, bite sized chocolate bon bons in a variety of different flavours including vanilla, latte and Earl Grey tea. They also sell larger “seasonal” pieces such as bunnies in the spring.
Attilo’s Fine Foods: I’m not sure if I can consider these guys a “new” as I first met them at a farmer’s market last summer. However, I had only tried their oils and vinegars – and they make more than that! While I had seen their olives and pasta sauces, I had not tried or seen their risotto mixes. The online store (both on their own site and at the show website itself) presents a three different flavours (arrabbiata, sun dried tomato and porcini mushrooms), but you can get additional flavours at the show.
La Parelle: A line of reversible bags – colour on one side and black on the other. They come in a variety of sizes and styles and YES, you can put your entire “life” (i.e. wallet, phone, keys and lipstick (if you wear that) in it. They’re also very light – I’ve found that many bags use extremely heavy leather (I’m not always looking for a workout and I’m sure most people feel this way!).
Crooked Tree Fine Foods: Gluten-free, dairy-free spreads made from a mix of cashews and almonds in four different flavours. If you’re into spicy, the chipotle is the one for you (I thought it had more than a bit of a kick, but I can’t handle “true” spicy foods. I tell people the hottest I can go is “Anglo medium” if you know what I mean. It’s not too PC, but it sounds better than “white person medium”). However, if you’re more like me, stick to parsley and chive or lemon and garlic. Turmeric and lemongrass is very good as well. In addition to spreads, they also have crackers made from almond pulp and a crunchy topping, perfect for yogurt, salads or desserts!
