I recently discovered a hip and happening website, www.coolhunting.com, that offers a daily update on ideas and products in the world of art, design, culture and technology, as well as videos that get an inside look at the people who create them. While many of these products are outside the boundaries of my modest budget and low-key lifestyle, I may at some point be in the market for customized turtle-shell eyewear, some modern-art inspired furniture or a techno-snappy Olympus camera. And it’s always fun to look.

Cool hunting and gathering websites aside, few things get Winnipeggers as hot and moist as a good deal, or discovering something unexpected in this frozen prairie town.

Here are few of my latest finds in Winnipeg:

Leader General Jobbers Ltd.,a warehouse of chocolate (Lindt, Hershey and more), candy, cereal and other goods. The chocolate is good and the prices are sweet – a perfect shop for all your Halloween, Christmas and other sugar-filled needs. Don’t let the exterior fool you, just like a chocolate truffle – it’s what’s inside that counts. At 259 Sutherland St., 586-8186. Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., cash or cheque only.

The Crusty Bun Bakery and Cafe, a new European bakery serving up hearty artisan breads like dark rye, multigrain and pumpernickel, as well as baguettes, and colourful trays of German pastries and baked goods. All that, and simple but delicious soups and sandwiches, plus the house specialties – pumpkin seed bread and the best twisted pretzels this side of New York City. Go to 1026 St. Mary’s Rd., 257-7311. Open Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. And 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Saturday. Find out more at http://www.crustybun.com/

Sinclair Fashions, a warehouse of fall, winter and summer fashions at liquidation prices – some as much as 80% off. Racks and stacks of quality jackets, ski wear, fleece, and sportswear. I got a snazzy suede jacket for $15, a designer hoodie and cotton T-shirts for $10 each, and a spring coat for $25. Nice stuff at even nicer prices. Located on Berry Street just north of Wellington Ave., near the airport. Open Monday to Saturday, closed Sunday.