If you are a Toronto native, you know that Kitten & The Bear is the go-to place for homemade jam and scones.
Pre-pandemic, this adorable family-run corner in Parkdale offered freshly baked scones, seasonal jams and intimate afternoon tea service.
When they expanded to a bigger location in 2019, I was happy to see that the charm they are known for was not lost.
Their signature pink menu board, their crystal chandelier and their vintage teacups followed them along to an intimate little shop with a wider seating area framed by exposed brick and velvet green booths.
When we were in the middle of our wedding plans just before the pandemic hit, Kitten & The Bear was one of the places I looked into for my small Bridal Shower, and as the vendor for our wedding favours.
Since we were planning a brunch wedding, we thought a customized jar of Kitten & The Bear jam paired with antique gold spoon would be a theme-appropriate favour for our guests.
Alas, that bridal shower never happened and neither did the brunch wedding. But somehow, this little jam was destined to be part of our wedding story. When we decided to have a backyard wedding, our cake maker used their signature jams for our wedding cake.
We had a naked vanilla cake with buttercream filling and a combination of Kitten & The Bear’s signature Strawberry, Raspberry & Cream and their Classic Raspberry. It was delectable.
Just like many small business during the pandemic, they started offering curb side pick-up and home delivery services for those wanting to bring the KATB tea and scone experience at home.
They made use of their space by expanding their pantry and filled their brick walls with shelves filled with speciality teas, chocolates, candies, honeys, mustards as well as luxurious hand creams, linens and vintage tea cups.
Even though I truly miss having afternoon tea here with my friends or my Mom, I am really happy they continue to be the city’s gem for all things whimsical and delicious in the confectionary world.
And that is what inspired me for this post!
With Valentine’s Day coming up, the heart shaped cookies and specialty chocolates from their pantry inspired me to create a bright luxurious spread, followed by indulgement.
Let’s start with those cookies.
Reminiscent of a Wes Anderson movie, these peach and pink heart shaped cookies reminded me of something I would find in a Mendl’ Bakery box.
Nestled just on top of Kitten & The Bear’s store front is the Bake Shoppe, who make delectable pastries (like homemade Pop Tarts!) and these adorable biscuits d’amour, sold through Kitten & The Bear.
And now the chocolate.
Confectioned by another Toronto icon, these stunning too-pretty-to-eat delicacies are from Nadia & Co, who’s Instagram feed will make you feel like you’re floating in a Versailles tea room.
There is nothing more luxe that her Champagne Rosé & Strawberries White Chocolate, that looks like a milk bath sprinkled with golden flakes and rose petals. The Sea Salt & Dark Toffee is my favourite. It looks like golden star dust against a a dark chocolatey galaxy, imprinted with a gold stamp.
Until we return to back to afternoon dates over teacups and fresh out-of -the-oven scones in that cute little corner in Parkdale, I’m happy to be able to re-create the experience of whimsical delicacies at home.
xo ✨💕🍫
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