Scoping out the Drake's new Rosedale location

The Drake Hotel General Store, known for its quirky Canadiana, is a great source for unusual gifts.

But, for East Enders like me, the Queen St. W. location can be a bit of a trek for Mojito-scented candles ($48) or a "plushtache" ($8) - so I was excited to get a sneak peek at their new Rosedale location (1011 Yonge St.) before it opens on Saturday (Dec. 5).

And it's so cute! The shop looks a lot like the original location, with custom built shelving from reclaimed wood, antiques scattered throughout and even a chevron pattern painted on the floor. It's also got a direct phone line to hotel reservations.

It will have some exclusive products not found on Queen W., like the Pendleton Woolen Mills blankets (top centre of the above photo), and is already packed to the gills with lovely Canadian (or Canadian-connected) items for my wish-list.

Even as I'm posting these photos I'm finding all sorts of cool items I overlooked during my visit - like the anchor pillow in the photo above, which would be a stylish nod to my Maritime roots.

And, for some more gift inspiration, check out our hot home columnist's gift guide and check out our ideas for storing your holiday wrapping paper.

(All photos Connie Tsang)