In this edition of our #SpendLocal series, we're in Stoneybatter, Dublin 7.
Christmas shopping is going to be very different this year. These are uncertain times for the retail industry, and since we are being encouraged to stay at home as much as possible, many of us probably won't be able to - or even want to - visit our favourite shops to pick up gifts for friends and family.
That means that online shopping is likely to get a huge boost, but local businesses needn't lose out. We're encouraging everyone to #SpendLocal as much as possible, even if that means visiting your local businesses' online stores instead of going there in person.
Over the next couple of weeks we'll be taking a look at a number of different areas of Dublin, showcasing the best businesses in Dublin for Christmas gifts. Support them if you can!
Mooz, 1 Manor Street
This little grocer is the place to go for premium quality Mediterranean food and ingredients. They specialise in artisan cheese, charcuterie, oils and vinegars, tinned goods – and as far as Italian food goes, they say that “If we don't have it you don't need it...”.
They have a great selection of gift hampers too – select from their pre-made range, give them a budget to make it up to or design your own.
L. Mulligan Grocer, 18 Stoneybatter
Go onto the website of this gastropub and you can order growlers – reusable glass jugs – filled with two litres of the craft beer of your choice. It’s a €10 deposit for the growler itself, and the beers are priced individually – a nice alternative to bottles or cans.
L. Mulligan also host regular virtual tasting sessions – sign up, have the beers sent out and then log in on the night. Why not buy tickets for you and a friend or family member that you won’t see for a while? It’s the next best thing to sitting in the pub.
lmulligangrocer.clickandcollection.com
Love Supreme, 57 Manor Street
The much-loved coffee shop is currently selling gift vouchers on its website – each valid for a year. Choose from €20, €50 or €100.
The Fabric Counter, Unit 4, Brunswick Court
This delightful haberdashery shop on Brunswick Street North specialises in craft, quilting and dress fabric. They have a wide selection of products available to buy on their website, with gift vouchers from €5 all the way up to €100.
Damn Fine Print, Unit 1, 32 North Brunswick Street
As well as providing access to print facilities and courses on printing techniques for everyone from beginners to experts, Damn Fine Print also has a wonderful online store.
You can buy work from their featured artists as well as clothing, books, frames, print supplies and gift vouchers to the value of €50, €100 or €200.
Social Fabric Café, 34 Stoneybatter
Another one of Stoneybatter’s favourite coffee shops, Social Fabric sell bags of Cloudpicker coffee beans and their own homemade granola.
Like many others, they are also selling vouchers from their website, valid for one year, so you can give the gift of great coffee and delicious food.
Lilliput Press, 62 Sitric Road
The independent Lilliput Press bookshop on Sitric Road is one of the city’s most charming places to stock up on reading material.
While the shop is sadly closed, staff are continuing to work from home and fulfilling orders from their website – have a browse here before you hit the multinationals.
Lilliput Stores, 5 Arbour Hill
This beautiful little grocery shop has an online store full of quality products including their own range of sauerkraut, kimchi, chilli sauce and more.
They do vouchers, but why not choose your own selection of products and make up a hamper for a loved one?
