WEST TORONTO. Since the mid-70s, this family owned enterprise has been providing artisanal cheeses to enraptured Torontoans. It's a hive of activity here, with some people dropping by simply to check out the cheese-aging cave. Others flock here for the free samples, rarely leaving without a purchase of some sort. And it may not even be cheese. Joining ranks with all this dairy goodness are a host of imported delicacies (Turkish figs, Italian olive oil, Hungarian paprika), premium deli meats, hard-to-find produce (fingerling potatoes, truffles), chocolates, coffees, and more. Enjoy some of these gourmet treats in the café; alternatively, pick up the makings of an indulgent picnic lunch. The shop provides cheeses to all the top restaurants in town as well.

MIDTOWN. Sure, they may be a little faddish, but cupcakes have a certain appeal that a slice of cake just doesn't. This charming little corner bakery makes perfect little single serving cakes that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Tempting flavors like the James Brown (chocolate buttercream on chocolate cake), Mango Madness (mango buttercream on vanilla cake) and Curious George (banana buttercream on chocolate or vanilla cake) are popular, but with about 15 daily varieties, you'll have a hard time choosing just one!

DOWNTOWN. The National Film Board's Mediatheque is a film buff's fantasy. At one of 14 viewing stations you can watch hard-to-find animated, documentary, short and feature films from the collection of over 2000, or catch a special screening at the cinema. And the shop sells a vast array of films, from seldom-seen gems to historic works to blockbusters. If you have a DVD collection of epic proportions, or want to amass one, add this to your list of places to check out!

DOWNTOWN. Although it's certainly a destination for scrapbookers, unique invitation makers and crafters, this place has so many unusual papers that you'll be inspired even if you've never given a thought to the subject. Japanese, Thai and other Asian papers, Brazilian marbled papers, origami paper, journals, cardstock ­ the bounty is unlimited and incredibly colorful. A dazzling display!

EAST TORONTO. Classifying WInkel is difficult. On the one hand, with all the retro furniture and classic accessories, it could be called an antique shop. But that ignores the fabulous collection of new stuff they have. You could call it a home design store, but that doesn't give any inkling about all other stuff ­ handmade bags, greeting cards and paper, movie set props, and tons of other brilliant finds. Well, whatever you decided to call it, it's fun and original and the perfect place to find something unique.