RCL Board Presents: A Few of Our Favourite Things
The holidays are here — and with them, that cozy mix of twinkle lights, familiar faces, and a renewed appreciation for everything that makes our neighbourhood special.
This year, your Ritchie Community League Board of Directors wanted to share A Few of Our Favourite Things — from the local shops and cafés that brighten our days to the hidden gems that make Ritchie feel like home.
If this list inspires you to shop local, gather close to home, or keep your hard-earned dollars right here in the neighbourhood, that’s exactly what we were hoping for. And if it simply makes you smile — even better.
After all, we’re a board of neighbours who might have very different tastes, but we all share one thing in common: a love for this community and the people who make it great.
Our Favourite Things in Ritchie
Below, each board member shares a few of their favourite local finds — places, products, or experiences that make Ritchie special. Click through, give them a try, and don’t forget to tag the businesses on social media when you do. Let’s spread the love this season!
Hazel Marriott — West Ritchie Director
Favourite Thing: Needle Felting Kits & Classes
Where: Little Blue Fibre Studio — https://www.littlebluefibrestudio.com/ • @littlebluefibrestudio
Why: “I buy my yarn at Little Blue Fibre and know that kits and classes make a great gift ahem for the creative on your list.”
Favourite Thing: Pre-loved & New Books
Where:
Alhambra Books — 10115 81 Ave
Why: “I especially love the staff recommendations at Magpie — I always find something cool there. Support your local booksellers!”
Erika Heiberg — Events Director
Favourite Thing: Baked Goods & Cheese
Where: Bonjour Bakery
Why: “They mill local grains in-house and the bread is absolutely delicious! But get there early — they sell out!”
Favourite Thing: Coffee & Greenery
Where: Take Care Café
Why: “They’re always trying something new! The courtyard is a cozy oasis and my dogs love visiting too.”
Rick Wilson — New Hall Director
Favourite Thing: Gift Baskets
Where: Relish — https://www.relishbar.ca • @relish.bar.market Relish Bar & Market
Why: “We received a gift basket from a neighbour — it was unique and memorable. They sell them online and in-store.”
Favourite Thing(s): Lemon Lavender Hand Soap, ACME Sausages & Falafel Mix
Where:
Why: “These are household staples for us. Quality local goods from quality local shops.”
Stacy Liu — Secretary
Favourite Thing: Service & Convenience
Where: Ritchie Pharmacy
Why: “Siraj filled a very specific compounded prescription for my daughter. Being able to walk to the pharmacy is amazing!”
Favourite Thing: A Latte at Ritchie Market
Where: Transcend Coffee
Why: “One of my favourite weekly rituals. I love the shared space, the neighbours, and the constant stream of friendly waves.”
Jesse Hunt — Director-at-Large
Favourite Thing:Pizza — especially the Christmas Pizza & OG Pepperoni
Where: Campio Brewing Ritchie
Why: “Seriously: try the Detroit Deep Dish! Great gift cards and the ‘Albeerta’ shirts are iconic.”
Carly Steiger — President
Favourite Thing: Real Deal Strawberry Ice Cream
Where: Kind Ice Cream
Why: “I didn’t know I loved strawberry ice cream until this one. I love that it's woman-owned and community-focused.”
Favourite Thing: Dreamland Whisky
Where: Strathcona Spirits
Why: “A small-batch whisky that can never be repeated — that’s the fun! The Experimental series is always a treat.”
Daniel Morin — Civics Director
Favourite Thing: Bike Repair Services
Where: Old Strathcona Cycles
Why: “Great vibes, great service, fair prices, and no intimidation. Also… there’s a dog!”
Favourite Thing: Massages
Where: PhysiYOGIs
Why: “Friendly therapists who keep track of your progress. And I can walk there — perfect.”
Nicole Ritchie — Treasurer
Favourite Thing: Sunday Afternoon Wine with Friends
Where: Relish
Why: “Their Sunday rotating bottle pours are such a cozy experience. Great gift baskets, gift cards, and one-of-a-kind finds.”
Sarah Winberg — Partnerships Director
Favourite Thing: Brunch or a Pop Up experience at Under the High Wheel
Where: Under the High Wheel — underthehighwheel.com • @underthehighwheel
Why: “The Vaga Bond Alpine Express pop-up is incredible — and comes from a former Biera chef!, their brunch is also sure to please”
Favourite Thing:‘F-It Friday’ Farrow Sando Walks
Where: Farrow
Why: “We speed walk for Chef Beef, Grick Middle, or whatever feature is on. The gift cards are a slam dunk.”
Now It’s Your Turn!
We’d love to hear your favourite things too!
Share your must-visit Ritchie spots with us on social media so others can discover them too.
Give the Gift of Community
Ritchie Merchandise: Online for a limited time, or in person at every Pub Night
Gift a Ritchie Crew Membership: Discounts all year long
Are you a business owner? Join as a Business Member
From all of us on the Ritchie Community League Board — Happy Holidays, neighbours. Here’s to local love, good company, and a bright new year in Ritchie.