Walking into Ambiente is a feast for the nose and eyes. The first thing to hit you is the smell. The mixture of scents is strong but not overpowering. With your olfactory nerves firing away like mad, the optical nerve gets a dose of colour sensory overload. Neatly stacked candles of all shapes and colours line the tall shelves on either side of the small shop.

The extra large 12" square candles sit in corners by the storefront window. Scents like Vanilla Cinnamon, Lavender Patchouli, Orange Cinnamon and Lemongrass Ocean takes the traditional and twists it slightly. Tradition isn't completely destroyed and customers can enjoy Ylang-Ylang, Gardenia, Ocean, Wild Flower and Pomegranate scented candles. Expect special scents during the holidays. If my inside information is correct they will be just as delicious.

Ambiente imports an exclusive line of handmade candle accessories from India. Wrought iron wall and floor candle holders are available for purchase in an assortment of shapes. Gift givers can take advantage of the gift basket service or the complimentary gift wrapping.

The bath products line the shelves at the back of the store. A sampling area complete with sink is stationed in the corner where customers can sample the products. The bath line consists of soap bars, bath oil, body wash, bath salt, bubble bath, massage oils, body creams and bath bombs. Scents available are Lavender, Fresh Citrus, Romantic Rose and Exotic Vanilla (Lavender, Vanilla and Patchouli).

I purchased some Lavender bath bombs and was extremely pleased with the results. The bathroom was soon filled with a heavenly lavender scent making the perfect atmosphere for a late night bath.

Ambiente was started by Liza Benzvi who started making her own candles with her husband after being disappointed with the poor selection of quality candles in Toronto. This led to selling to friends which brought them here to their new Queen Street storefront. They handpick all the scents and ensure quality, natural ingredients are incorporated into their products.

They do not use any animal by-products and the wax is such high quality that it's classified as food-grade material. The wicks are made of cotton and don't contain any lead. Ambiente products are all handmade making it the first locally produced Candle store in Toronto.

Images: Gail McInnes