Gift cards don’t always get the credit they deserve. Often dismissed as an impersonal present, they’re seen as a thoughtless last-minute hail Mary. But choose a gift certificate from somewhere they genuinely love — bonus points if it’s a local or Canadian business — and suddenly you’re gifting freedom: They get the perfect fit, shade or size, the thrill of shopping post-holiday sales and the joy of picking out something they actually really want. Plus, yes, they’re a convenient lifesaver when you’re down to the eleventh hour and cannot brave the mall.
Whether it’s for a discerning foodie, someone furnishing a new space or an unbelievably hard-to-shop-for stylish friend, here are the best and most delightfully unexpected gift cards to give this year.
Foodie gift cards
Pilot Coffee Roasters
For the caffeine devotee, a Pilot Coffee Roasters gift card can unlock a monthly coffee subscription of seasonally rotating beans. They’ll discover new favourites with every delivery.
Grape Witches
Every wine lover has their preferences — so instead of guessing, let them choose from Grape Witches’ selection of rare, organic and biodynamic bottles from small independent producers.
Gusto 54
Know someone who’s consistently craving Italian? Gift them a card they can use across Gusto 54’s six restaurants, including favourites like Gusto 101 and Yorkville’s Trattoria Nervosa.
Mamakas
If you’ve got a foodie in the group, odds are they already have a soft spot for Mamakas on Ossington. Treat them to their favourite meal at this lovely Greek spot.
Miku
Sushi lovers will be delighted by a Miku gift card. Treat them to Aburi-style favourites, stylish cocktails and one of Toronto’s most beloved Japanese dining experiences.
Lifestyle gift cards
Etsy
Ideal for lovers of all things unique, handmade or vintage, an Etsy gift card is an easy way to support a huge variety of independent local makers.
PetSmart
Skip the guesswork. A PetSmart gift card lets pet lovers spoil their furry family members with toys, treats and holiday goodies — free from any unnecessary “do they already own this?” stress.
Tonies
Have a little one on your list? This beloved audio player sparks imagination through stories, songs and screen-free play. With a Tonies gift card, kids can explore new characters, games and challenges — keeping them entertained for ages one through nine.
Fashion gift cards
Poppy Barley
Poppy Barley makes beautifully crafted, Canadian-made leather accessories built to last — from the most comfortable flats and slingbacks to this season’s trending bucket bags.
Knix
Known for their leak-proof underwear, the Canadian brand also creates dreamy loungewear and sleepwear made for holiday lounging. A Knix gift card is perfect for the chic friend who loves pieces that blend form and function.
Simons
This Quebec-based department store (now taking up major space at the Eaton Centre) offers delightful, affordable fashion from in-house labels Twik and Contemporaine and a rich assortment of artisanal home finds.
Jewelry gift cards
Leah Alexandra
From eye-catching gem bracelets to custom-fitted permanent jewelry, there’s so much to love at Leah Alexandra. Skip the stress of choosing the “right” piece — gift a card and let them pick something they’ll treasure for years.
Jenny Bird
Pieces by this beloved Toronto-based designer top the wish lists of many stylish women. From sculptural earrings to chunky statement chains, there’s a gold (or silver!) find to match anyone’s style.
Mejuri
This cool (and Canadian!) company helped usher in a new era of jewelry shopping. The brand is always adding new pieces, so they’ll definitely find something they like, whether they’re celebrating a milestone or nothing at all.
Beauty gift cards
Living Beauty
For the beauty obsessive on your list, this gift card is pure gold, a ticket to under-the-radar brands such as Biologique Recherche and La Bonne Brosse, or spa services like holiday glam makeup or a pre–New Year skin glow-up.
The Detox Market
The destination for all things clean beauty, The Detox Market stocks only the best. Think: organic skin care that truly works, natural makeup that feels super luxe and self-care treats guaranteed to help anyone relax.
Saje
If their love language is “things that smell like a spa,” they’ll go wild (but like, in a mindful way) for a gift card from Saje. From stress to immune system strength to gut health, this purveyor of wellness and diffusers has an essential oil for that.
