The Canada Matchbook List - Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver
Restaurants, bars, coffee shops, hotels & stores with matchbooks
Photography by @matchbookcollector - Locanda dell’Orso, Vancouver
Hello dear phillumenists!
Spring has officially arrived—and with it, the season of fresh starts, patio hangs, and brand-new matchbook discoveries. As flowers bloom and jackets get lighter, we’re heading north to spotlight some of our favorite Canadian cities that are just bursting with charm (and collectible matches).
This month, we’re turning our gaze toward Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Each of these cities has its own vibe—from creative cocktail bars to cozy cafés and design-forward spots where matchbooks are more than just functional gimmicks, they’re part of the experience.
In Toronto, kick off the day with brunch at Sadelle’s at Kith, where the setting is stylish and the lox is legendary. Then stroll through nearby boutiques or art galleries. Later, head to Bar Isabel for a Spanish dinner that’s equal parts elegant and inviting. Their vibe is as on-point as their dishes, and you might just walk away with a stylish matchbook in hand.
Over in Montreal, start with brunch at Le Bar Darling, a dreamy, plant-filled space perfect for a slow morning. Spend the day wandering the Plateau or browsing bookstores in Mile End. When dinner time rolls around, head to Wienstein & Gavino’s for lively Italian fare and a warm atmosphere—and if you're lucky, you might just spot a matchbook tucked by the hostess stand.
And out west in Vancouver, start your day with a cozy breakfast at Café Medina—always buzzing and full of charm. Take your time exploring the indie shops and tucked-away corners of Gastown before settling in for an Italian dinner at Locanda dell'Orso, where the hospitable vibe and Futurist-inspired matchbooks make for a perfect end to the day.
Each of these Canadian cities offers its own flavor of ambiance: Toronto’s creative energy and multicultural mix show up in matchbooks that range from edgy and graphic to classically elegant. Montreal’s mix of old-world charm and modern flair is reflected in matchbooks that feel curated, artistic, and a little bit romantic. And Vancouver’s laid-back coastal vibe is often paired with sleek, design-forward branding that makes every matchbook feel like a mini art piece. Wherever you go, these matchbooks aren’t just keepsakes—they’re tiny souvenirs of the stories, moods, and magic each city brings to life.
As always, we’d love to hear from you. If you’ve recently visited—or live in any of the three cities of the Land of Maple syrup and have found any matchbooks worth mentioning, drop us a note. Your tips help us keep this guide fresh and our phillumenist community thriving.
Wishing you a season filled with sunshine, serendipity, and stunning matchbook finds!
Au revoir!
xx Nadia & Alice