As someone else has mentioned, Essential Ingredient is a hard shop to walk past. On display, the last time I went, were matching red kitchenware - such as a kitchenaid mixer, attachments and le creuset stuff.

Looking through the items available, it is easy to feel that the price was a little on the high side. Nevertheless, I managed to grab a fantastic price for Kitchenaid Mixer that was cheaper than most shops I have went to.

They also sell some awesome hard to find Persian fairy floss, albeit at a price as well.

I have always been attended to when I go into the shop, even when they were busy with the christmas crowd. That said, there's nothing spectacular about the staffs, just like any other retail staffs, which is not a bad thing :)

When walking in Kingston, it is difficult to go past The Essential Ingredient - it is a fantastic looking shop and upon entering, you'll be impressed with the goods in this place. It has a wonderful collection of gourmet that is local to Canberra and it has inspired us to go and see some of the local manufacturers as day-trips out of town. There is also some very difficult produce to get, but as with all things in this game, nothing is cheap. That said, one of their hampers for Christmas would be a great gift.... hint hint!!

Each time I have been in the store I have had no one greet me which I find very disappointing and off putting. However, the food quality is amazing and unique. The kitchen appliances are also unique but there are hardly ever any sales and I find the prices to be very overwhelming.