It's December, which for many Toronto media outfits means lists. Lots of 'em. And because we don't think we should miss out on the fun, it's time for our own annual poll where we ask our readers what you think makes Toronto great.

Of course, we're not interested in any lists that anoint bland chains like The Mandarin best of anything. We believe what's worth celebrating is the many independent stores, businesses and organizations that make Toronto a unique, vibrant place to live, eat, shop and hang out.

It's with that spirit in mind that we're opening up the nomination period for this year's Best of Independent Toronto poll. Keep reading for this year's list of 100 categories. Place your nominations in the comments below or email them to bestof [at] blogto [dotcom].

Best Fashion + Design

Best Place to Buy a Suit
Best Place to Buy a Dress
Best Sneaker Shop
Best Shoes
Best Jewellery
Best Eyewear
Best Place to Buy a Wedding Dress
Best Kids + Baby Store
Best Hats
Best Vintage Fashion
Best DIY Spot
Best Cards, Paper and Stationary
Best Flowers
Best Contemporary Furniture
Best Vintage Furniture
Best Custom or Re-Furbished Furniture
Best New Clothing Store
Best T-Shirts
Best Design Store
Best New Furniture Store
Best Place to Pick up Stuff Made from Local Designers

Best Fitness + Beauty

Best Fitness Club
Best Yoga
Best Spa
Best Nail Salon
Best Hair Salon

Best Food + Drink

Best New Bar
Best New Dance Club
Best Hipster Hangout
Best Pub
Best Lounge
Best Karaoke
Best Live Music Venue
Best New Restaurant
Best Late Night Chinese Food
Best Burritos
Best Roti
Best Vegetarian
Best Brunch
Best Cafe
Best Burgers
Best Falafel
Best Barbeque
Best Crepes
Best Latin American
Best Churasquiera
Best Dim Sum
Best Fish 'N Chips
Best Gelato or Ice Cream
Best Indian
Best Pizza
Best Korean
Best Oysters
Best Pub Food
Best Salad
Best Sandwiches
Best Tapas
Best Steak
Best Cheap Sushi
Best Splurge Sushi
Best Soup
Best Thai
Best Pho
Best Bread
Best Baked Treats
Best Bagles
Best Butcher
Best Cheese
Best Fruit and Veggie Store
Best Health Food Store
Best Fish Store

Best Art + Film + Books + Music

Best Contemporary Art Gallery (Emerging Artists)
Best Contemporary Art Gallery (Established Artists)
Best Photography Gallery
Best New Media Gallery or Organization
Best New Gallery
Best Local Film Festival that's not TIFF
Best Place to Watch a Film
Best Video Rentals
Best Art Supply Store
Best Book Store
Best New Book
Best Comics
Best Place to Watch a Play
Best Theatre Production Company
Best CD/Record Store

Best Web + Tech

Best Podcast
Best Videocast
Best Fashion Blog
Best Photoblog
Best Web Comic
Best Unconference
Best Startup
Best Tech Evangelist
Best Real Estate Site
Best Tech Shop

Best Green

Best Eco-Friendly Retailer
Best Green Company
Best Green Service
Best Green Organization
Best Bike Shop

Do you think a worthy category is missing? Please let us know! The nomination period is open from now until the end of 2007. The poll will be posted and voting will commence in January, 2008. Photos by myself and Tanja.