Who knew I'd fall slightly in love with a dollar store?
This Dollarama is the real deal...it's a pretty complete outfit with everything ranging from kitchen tools to housewares to birthday cards to cans of olives to St. Patrick's Day decorations. Everything is priced between $1-$3.
What is this place useful for you ask?
Well, lots of things in Canada are just unreasonably expensive. I come here when I want a small quantity of something, something that's for a one-time use, or something I just don't want to spend much money on. Sometimes, I'm surprised by the quality. My $1.50 shower curtain is still holding on strong 16 months later...I've even been complimented on it looking trendy. Crazy! The place is even fairly clean.
The downside (and the indifferent side):
--Staff are pretty inconsistent. They can be friendly and helpful or make a trip to ServiceOntario look like a joy.
--Line-ups can be a bit silly at the cash registers, and I'll just say that the clientele here doesn't always follow recommended British queueing techniques.
--Product availability is a bit inconsistent. I'm regularly surprised at both what I can and can't find.
OVERALL: This Dollarama is a good place for some targeted shopping. I wouldn't buy fresh produce here (not that they sell it), but things like a tiny tube of superglue, a temporary-turned-permanent shower curtain, and Maple-leaf themed napkins, this is a great place to shop.
TIP: No credit cards. Debit and cash only.