Quebec Street in downtown Guelph is home to a marvelous array of shops, restaurants, salons and stores. You can find everything you need on one beautiful street directly from Guelph’s small business owners and champions of the “shop local” movement.

We have met with many of the business owners to get to know their stories a little better and why they do what they do. Read on to learn more about the wonders of the Quebec Street shops and then take a stroll to see for yourself!

(in alphabetical order)

Acqua Salon Co,  30 Quebec St. 

Website: acquasalon.com      Instagram: @acquasalon.co 

Pina Marfisi has owned and operated Acqua Salon since 1997. With a successful and well-rounded background in the industry, Pina has created an award-winning salon, filled with highly educated staff, training them personally to offer a high level of service and a unique experience.

Pina wants you to look and feel your best with each visit. Relax, enjoy, feel the buzz Acqua creates, and let us craft a look for you that leaves you feeling energized, rejuvenated, and powerful. Our team is comprised of friendly men and women, with the skills in the latest trends in haircutting, design and makeup. with the goal in finding the right look just for you.

SHOP B,  38 Quebec St.

Website: shopb.ca       Instagram: @shopb.ca 

Michele Lee is the owner of Shop B… a cute little women’s clothing shop in downtown Guelph. She originally opened her business as Blush in 2004 and refreshed the name in 2018. Michele is always changing, growing & evolving along with her customers.

She loves to create and style!  She loves helping her clientele feel super excited about how to wear their new Shop B pieces.

Boon Burger Cafe, 23 Quebec St.

Website: boonburger.ca      Instagram: @boonburgerguelph

Margaret LeSage is originally from Winnipeg, home of the first Boon Burger Cafe. Boon Burger was a favourite lunch spot for her and she remembers mentioning to a colleague that if franchise opportunities were ever available for Boon, then she wanted one. She relocated to Alberta to complete an MBA and in 2014 she drove to Winnipeg for Christmas and a visit to Boon. The back of the menu referred to franchise opportunities and the rest is history She liked the vibe of Boon and Guelph and decided the two belonged together. Boon Burger Café, Guelph opened October 2016 and enjoys providing tasty vegan food to an enthusiastic community.

Creative Edge, 9 Quebec St.

Website: creativeedgegifts.com  Instagram: @mycreativeedge

Heather Grummett moved to Guelph and opened her gift store, Creative Edge, in 1999. She has always loved combining antiques and rustic décor to create a space that is warm and welcoming to her customers.  As an artist, she creates many unique pieces for the home and garden – including twig furniture, benches, picture frames and a variety of items from reclaimed materials. Guelph has become her home and she enjoys supporting the community by also carrying products from over 35 local artists and food producers.

Comfort and Co, 31 Quebec St.

Website:  comfortandco.ca         Instagram: @comfortcoguelph

Wendy is the owner of Comfort & Co. She opened the business in January of 2017. Wendy has had many careers over the years and felt that opening her own business is the culmination of all of these skill sets. Her goal is to create an inviting store that focuses on quality, textural, curated items. Being part of Guelph downtown was a conscious decision because of the upsurge in quality restaurants and boutiques. Being part of the downtown and Quebec Street community has been a rewarding experience.

Dimar Shoe Repair, 15 Quebec St.

Website:  dimarshoerepair.com    Instagram: @dimarshoerepair

Diego and Pablo Hadarits are the proud owners of Dimar Shoe Repair. The business is 30 years old and between them have over 40 years of experience in the shoe and leather repair industry. Their goal is to always do the best quality job possible for their customers using the finest of materials available. Their quaint old fashioned shop takes pride in excellent craftsmanship and their wide selection of shoe and leather care products, that truly make them a niche store.

Fallowfield, 35 Quebec St.

Website:  fallowfieldkids.ca  Instagram: @fallowfieldkids

Owned by Manchester born and bred Vicky Canham. Fallowfield sells a beautiful selection of ethically made, sustainable children’s clothing. The idea for the business came after a short stint working at Grey Rock Clothing in Guelph and also watching the “life changing” documentary: The True Cost. The clothes that Fallowfield sell are sourced from sustainable suppliers all over the world, including Canada. Sizes go from newborn to 11 years and there’s no GIRL/BOY section either in the store or online which customers really appreciate. As well as clothes, Fallowfield also has a small line of fairly made toys and gifts. More recently the shop has started a ‘Pre-loved’ section in the shop, where people can bring back any organic children’s clothing in return for a store credit.

Grey Rock Clothing Co, 29 Quebec St.

Website:  greyrockclothingco.com  Instagram: @greyrockclothing

Grey Rock Clothing Co. is owned by mother and daughter duo, Lynda and  Morgan.

Lynda originally fell in love with the community on Quebec Street while  she was a customer herself, planning her eldest daughter’s wedding and working with the downtown businesses. This experience lead her to follow her dreams of owning her own business, and with the support of her daughter Morgan, they purchased the business together in October of 2017. Lynda feels very fortunate to be promoting sustainable fabric choices and supporting good working conditions for garment factory workers by purchasing locally made and fair trade.  Owning Grey Rock Clothing has really challenged both Lynda and Morgan to learn more about the garment industry and its global impact and they are excited to share that with their customers.

“Grey Rock Clothing Co. has fallen in love with the strong sense of community we feel from our neighbours and fellow business owners on Quebec  Street. We love that someone  can commute to work, have dinner, grocery shop, bank, watch a movie, grab flowers for the house, gifts for loved ones and enjoy drinks with friends without ever having to jump in the car…downtown Guelph offers all that and we are proud to now be part of that community.”  Lynda, Grey Rock Clothing Co.

IF Footwear, 42 Wyndham St N

Website:  iffootwear.ca         Instagram: @if_footwear

Whether you’re looking for comfortable and functional, bold and edgy, vintage turned modern or luxurious and romantic, IF has the perfect shoe for you. Shoe lovers will fall in love with their exclusive designer brands, including eye-catching footwear created by: Fly London, Hispanitas, Aquatalia, michael by Michael Kors, Sam Edelman, Steve Madden, JJ Heitor and more…

Kennedy Park, 13 Quebec St.

Website: shopkennedypark.com  Instagram: @kennedyparkshop

Kennedy Park has been a part of the vibrant downtown community since 2012. Owners Sara Shortill and Devon Brock handpick clothing, accessories, jewellery and even a few cosmetic and homeware pieces from predominately Canadian designers. Devon and Sara strive to create a warm, welcoming, inspiring space where one can play with and explore their personal style.

Miijidaa Cafe & Bistro, 37 Quebec St. 

Website: miijidaa.ca     Instagram: @miijidaa

‘Miijidaa’ is from the Ojibway language. It literally means “let’s eat.” The Neighbourhood Group of Companies, which is BCorp certified, that brought us The Wooly Pub and Borealis Grille & Bar are also behind the creation of Miijidaa Café + Bistro. Since opening up in summer 2015, Miijidaa has become an integral place for the community to come together to celebrate, do business, reconnect with past friends all while enjoying a welcoming & relaxed atmosphere with friendly service. Carefully prepared cuisine draws inspiration from Canada’s first settlers serving up the best locally sourced ingredients all while telling a story of each dish’s place in history. One could say that Miijidaa is serving up Canadian historical cuisine!

A rustic chic spot filled with natural light in the front café space, a perfect place to sip a latte and people watch as they stroll along Quebec Street or take a seat at the beautiful live edge bar to enjoy a local brew, award winning Canadian wines and creative cocktails. Lunch is served starting at 11:30am and dinner served till late in the evening. The main dining room proudly displays the art of local artists while the large windows make a seemless transition to the oasis of the garden patio. Guests love the cool vibe as they walk in to enjoy an experience of all the senses! Make sure to book a table as Miijidaa fills up quickly.

Modern Tourist, 1 Quebec St.

Website: moderntourist.ca   Instagram: @moderntouristguelph

Elena Zizza has always had a passion for travel and an eye for on-trend fashion and style.  After several years working as a Retail Manager and Buyer in the retail industry, Elena opened her own luggage and travel gear shop, Modern Tourist, in 2009.

Now located in the stunning historic building perched at the top of the Quebec Street shopping area, Modern Tourist welcomes all visitors from near and far into the community.  Whether you are a daily downtown Guelph walker or an ever-wandering travel aficionado or just here for a quick visit, stop by the shop and check out what’s new and unique for everyday carry or the next stop on your bucket list.

While you’re there, share your travel stories with Elena and her staff.  It’s a charming and inviting space to chat about the latest travel news and the best tips to Travel in Style.  Tell us about the gear that helped you out the most and what items will you never take with you again.  The team at Modern Tourist love hearing about your experiences, from cautionary tales to the life-changing moments and connections that bind together travelers and adventurers of all kinds.

On The Verge, 5 Quebec St.

Website: ontheverge.ca   Instagram: @0ntheverge

Cathy Cole’s On The Verge is a staple for Guelph locals and visitors alike. Open since 1998 On The Verge, is everyone’s go to for witty cards, trendy fashions and eclectic novelty giftware you’re sure no to find anywhere else. If she’s not at the store youn can find Cathy with her family engaging in the local community or grabbing a drink at the Pennywhsitel! Don’t forget to go say hi to the store greeter Meadow (the golden retriever) at 5 Quebec St.

The Outland Supply Company, 11 Quebec St.

Website: outlandsupplycompany.com      Instagram: @outlandsupplyco

Fraser and Meghan Clark opened The Outland Supply Co. in North Bay, Ontario in 2015. Their goal was to curate a collection of outdoor products that are created with a purpose in mind and excel in achieving that purpose; products that can withstand daily use in the backcountry and be relied on when you need them most. The couple and their two young sons relocated to Guelph in 2017 and brought the store with them after discovering the amazing outdoor community that exists in the city. Fraser and Meghan strive to carry brands and products that have a minimal impact on the environment in order to ensure a natural wilderness remains to play in for years to come.

Pretty Chic Boutique, 34 Quebec St.

Website: prettychic.ca         Instagram: @prettychicguelph

Katie McLennan is the owner of Pretty Chic Boutique. The shop opened in 2007, she was thrilled to take ownership in 2015 and truly become part of the downtown she has loved and worked in for many years.

Pretty Chic prides itself in showcasing jewellery and accessories by Canadian designers from across the country.

Katie and her staff have a from the heart commitment to ensure their customers have a great experience in finding the right piece for them.

Refresh Juice Co, 33 Quebec St.

Website: refreshjuiceco.com     Instagram: @refreshjuice

ReFresh Juice Co is Guelph’s first organic cold pressed juice company. Childhood friends Whitney and Amanda started the business 5 years ago, driven by a love for their city and a desire to offer the community healthy, fresh and locally sourced juices, smoothies and snacks. Come on by the juicery to see “what’s fresh”!

The Ten Spot, 19 Quebec St.

Website: thetenspot.com/guelph

THE TEN SPOT^® is the original “anti-spa” beauty bar.

On a mission to make everyone #FeelLikeATen. We think everyone deserves to feel like a ten all the time. it’s all about confidence. A confident woman can do anything: nail her work projects, be a domestic goddess, and look fabulous doing it! no one wants to spend half the day getting monthly beauty maintenance services. That’s why The Ten Spot focuses on efficiency, while maintaining service excellence. Today’s lady wants to be in and out, and leave looking awesome.

walk in…strut out.

Tilted Veil, 40 Quebec St.

Website: tiltedveil.com        Instagram: @tiltedveilbride

Heather Boutilier is the proud owner of a chic and trendy bridal boutique, Tilted Veil. She opened her business in spring 2018 and has loved being part of the growth and excitement of the Guelph community ever since. Born and raised in Nova Scotia, she has moved to Guelph in 2014 and has fell in love with this beautiful city that she now calls home.

Heather has a passion for fashion and thrive for excitement. Through much of her travels, she has experienced many different cultural lifestyles. Through these experiences, she always kept up on the latest trends in fashion. Her goal is to incorporate these fashion forward styles into the wedding industry, providing brides with a unique, intimate experience when searching for their dream dress.

The Truth Beauty Company, 46 Quebec St.

Website: thetruthbeautycompany.com       Instagram: @thetruthbeautycompany

Jennifer Freitas is a leading Canadian beauty expert and the founder of The Truth Beauty Company & True Beauty Talk

Following an extended research on chemicals, additives and the process of consumable elements, Jennifer decided to alter her personal care and food habits in order to ensure the safety and quality of ingredients consumed by both herself and those she loves. Being conscious of these elements allowed her to protect the environment and waters from persistent and bioaccumulative toxic chemicals affecting our bodies functionality.

10 years into green living Jennifer decided to create, The Truth Beauty Company, a consumer-friendly retail platform which offers a viable equivalent to the toxic chemically laden commercial brands available in today’s saturated personal care market.

Whilst keeping tabs on the latest achievements of the beauty, wellness and lifestyle, Jennifer and the Truth Beauty Company team thrive on finding alternatives which are cost savvy, chemical free and eco-friendly for her clientele and entourage. The Truth Beauty Company also focuses on bringing in products and brands that are ‘Made In Canada’ and strives to support ‘Female-Founded’ businesses. The Truth Beauty Company is truly a Candian Eco-Beauty & Lifestyle Shop for the conscious, stocked only with the best, safe & effective products.