Cheese Boutique - Toronto's Culinary Wonderland

                  The Cheese Boutique is an example of a successful family business that was passed down for 3 generations! The boutique opened its doors in 1970 and since then has delivered every imaginable cheese under the sun from all over the world.  These guys really know their stuff.  Even if you are vague in your description of what you like, you know " its kind of crumbly and tangy,..." well you get the idea, the staff are all knowledgeable and they have to be! They serve local chefs who apparently come here for their ingredients, such as proscuito, foie gras? , truffles and of course.. cheese!! :P

It's also way more than just cheese here, they have prepared foods from all over the world, lavender bread..(which I've never tried, but sounds so inviting!) Who doesn't love the smell of lavender? White asparagus? There are fresh produce and candied flavoured strawberries from the local farmers.  There are tarts, pies, meat pizzas (oh so delicious!), expresso to go and just in time I noticed from the wrap around counter, the deli meat that hangs above the busy employees and not one of them are standing still for a moment!  

There's a cheese cave too! Oh did I mention, there is cheese here? No touching in here, but the staff are happy to let you in to take a peak.  Within seconds you smell the aromas of cheese filling your nostrils in every unimaginable shape and size.  It's perfect.  When you come out you will find spices, and condiments from every part of the world, and a whole section just dedicated to chocolate truffles!  

What I love about this place is the stacks of toothpicks for all of your sampling desires! Every where you turn there is a sample or two to nibble on.  There are often demos which will offer tastes of local wine and crackers to go with any kind of cheese you love.
 
I never spent a dime, but was so overwhelmed to take pictures that I couldn't decide anyways on what I wanted, and for some time I felt like a tourist in my own city!  Next time, I'll do my homework, so I'll be more prepared to take home more than just pictures :)

Cheese Boutique – Toronto’s Culinary Wonderland
Toronto’s famous Cheese Boutique isn’t just a store, it’s a foodie destination. Home to over 500 varieties of cheese, imported delicacies, cured meats, baked goods, and fine wines, it’s worth planning a visit.

Hours: Open daily, usually 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Sundays slightly shorter; check before you go).

Parking: Free on-site parking is available, but weekends can be busy. Arrive earlier in the day for easier access.

Best Photo Spots: Snap a shot by the iconic cheese vault, the beautifully stacked aging rooms, or the European-style displays of hanging prosciutto. The colourful produce section also makes for a vibrant backdrop.

Tips:

• Try the samples—staff are friendly and love sharing their knowledge.

• Don’t miss the upstairs section with specialty goods and the café.

• Bring a cooler bag if you’re traveling far—cheese and charcuterie are too tempting to pass up!

Discovering Milne Dam: A Hidden Gem in Markham

 After lunch on my day off - we decided to explore Milne Dam in Markham and hopefully check out some autumn colours! Just minutes away from residential neighborhoods, the park feels like a complete escape into nature. The moment you step onto the trails, you’d never guess how close you are to busy roads and suburban life. It honestly feels like you’ve been transported to the middle of nowhere.

The lake views are serene, especially framed by the fall colors. There’s something calming about the open water, with its glassy surface reflecting the sky and trees. What really stood out to me, though, were the suspension bridges that guide you toward the dam. 

Walking across them felt like an adventure in itself—there’s a playful sway as you step, and the views from the middle are stunning.

I did bring my DSLR along, hoping to capture the beauty of the dam and the flowing water. Unfortunately, it’s been a while since I’ve played with my camera settings, so instead of the silky soft-water effect I had in mind, the photos came out with water resembling snow! Don’t be fooled, though—it was definitely autumn, and the scene in person was spectacular.

One note for fellow explorers: the end of the route near Markham Road was blocked off due to erosion repair. It didn’t take away from the experience, though—it just means I’ll have to come back when it’s reopened.

If you’re looking for a quick escape into nature, Milne Dam is a beautiful spot for a peaceful walk, a little photography, or just to recharge by the water. It’s proof that you don’t have to go far from home to feel like you’ve left the city behind.

I also caught a few people with their fishing lines in the water, didn't think this was legal but apparently it is of course with a license.  Sadly I saw a duck washed on shore, which I think could have been from the fishing line, but I have no idea we couldn't get close enough to tell.

On a brighter note, here's are some tips if you are planning to travel here.

If You Go: Travel Tips for Visiting Milne Dam

• Location: Milne Dam Conservation Park is at 8251 McCowan Road, Markham, just south of Highway 7.

• Parking: There’s a large parking lot near the main entrance. Fees apply during peak seasons, so bring a credit or debit card.

• Trails: The main loop offers about 2 km of walking, with easy, family-friendly paths. Perfect for a casual stroll or light cycling.

• 
  Best Views: The suspension bridges and dam lookout are must-sees. If you’re a photographer, bring a tripod for those dreamy long-exposure shots of the water.

• 
  Wildlife: Keep an eye out for ducks, geese, and even the occasional heron along the shorelines.

• Facilities: Washrooms are available near the main entrance, and there are picnic areas if you want to make a day of it.

• Seasons: Autumn is gorgeous for foliage, but spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery.