Toronto neighbourhood getting a taste of the Rock with newest Newfoundland store

After 14 years away, Newfoundland-born Craig Pike hasn't stopped loathing the annual struggle to get his hands on some savoury.

But when the actor-turned-bakerbought an addition to his small Toronto bakery, Craig's Cookies, he realized he could bring a touch of home to all thatempty floor spaceand supply those rare, farawaygoods all by himself.

"I've got100 square feet where you can get pineapple Crush or Rick Mercer's book, and everythingin between," Pike told theSt. John's Morning Show.

Pike plans to import syrups, salt and chocolate from the province's homegrown producers, plus candles and other locally-craftedgoodies.

Yes, Peppermint Knobs and roast chicken-flavouredLay's will be shop staples, Pike said.

Pike sees the store as a chance to "build some community in Toronto," he said. "Everything is going to be made by Newfoundlanders and from Newfoundland."

He's noticed a sizeable contingent of ex-pats living in the city, and said prepping the store for its debut Wednesday has already ledToronto residentsto stop by andtellPike about their familiesback home.

"Everyone in the neighbourhood is really excited," he said.

Parkdale, a busy, tightly-packed cluster of streets just west of Toronto's downtown core, is alreadylined with antique shops and specialty stores, with lots of foot traffic from potential buyers who might want to try something new.

And for fellow ex-pats frustrated at the lack of salt meat, Pike hopes the shop will be a holiday-supply haven.

But, Pike says, the one question he gets most is whether he can help Newfoundlanders living away make a proper dressing.

Don't worry, he laughed. "I've got boxes and boxes of savoury."

With files from The St. John's Morning Show

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