From celebrity chef Mark McEwan’s fresh food market to the opening of Canada’s first Anthropologie, the Shops at Don Mills offers Toronto shoppers an up-market mix of retail. The eagerly anticipated lifestyle center, which boasts valet parking, outdoor music and street furniture, opened in spring of 2009 replacing a traditional enclosed mall that was demolished (with much controversy) in 2006.

Here are some of the shops and boutiques that are creating the most buzz across the city.

AnthropologieTorontonians often have to wait a long time for their favourite American chains to make their way north of the border. The wait is over for fans of Anthropologie, the women’s apparel, accessory and home furnishing boutique which already has legions of Canadian fans shopping online. Now the fashion-saavy can browse the beautiful boutique in the flesh. From from the stunning collections of dresses, sweaters, shoes and bags to the bedding, curtains, frames and linens, this shop is already bursting at the seams on Saturdays with excited fashionistas.

McEwan

Bymark chef Mark McEwan had a vision of a grocery store with offerings a cut above what you’ll find on a shopping trip to your local Loblaws or Metro. That vision has manifested itself with McEwan, the celebrity chef’s first self-branded supermarket. The gourmet marketplace, which span 22,000 square-feet, is a dream come true for foodies looking for premium ingredients, locally-produced food and after-work take-aways that are a little more imaginative than whole chicken with potato wedges.

The mouth-watering take-out (called RMR – Restaurant Meal Replacement) includes choices like braised brisket with pearl onions, stuffed quail with and osso bucco shepherd’s pie – all prepared right on the premises. The shop also boasts a sleek coffee bar for java on the go.

McNally Robinson Booksellers

This family-operated Canadian chain of independent bookstores is one of the anchors at the Shops at Don Mills. A welcome change from the usual Chapters or Indigo found at most Toronto shopping centers, in addition to the massive selection of literature this Manitoba based bookseller features a busy calendar of author readings, book signings and live musical performances. Also located in the store is the Prairie Ink Restaurant & Bakery, a fully-licensed eatery with a healthy menu.

The Shops at Don Mills also features several other mall favourites such as Aritzia, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria and Tristan. Check out the official Shops at Don Mills website for a complete store directory and hours of operation. The site also offers a section listing store sales and promotions as well as contests and events.