Best Of Phoenix® 2011 Winners
Shopping & Services
Brand X offers a 1-2-3 process to get your T-shirt made. Step one: Pick your shirt. Step two: Pick your words and images. Step three: They make it for you. All that is left to do is show off your funky style to your friends. Get what you want while not having to lift as much as a finger. Well, okay, you need to turn the pages of the store's catalog to pick what you want, but really, can't you do that much?
Four Peaks Amethyst Mine holds the distinction of being both the last commercial amethyst mine in North America and one of the most inaccessible. Surrounded by the Tonto National Forest, this mine sits on the southernmost peak of Four Peaks in the rugged Mazatzal Mountains, at an elevation of 7,200 feet. There are only two ways to get there: by helicopter or a two-hour drive with an all-terrain vehicle to a place 5,000 feet up called "The Saddle," followed by a 41/2-mile, two-hour hike across all four peaks. Because of its high, remote location, the amethyst mine can be worked only by hand.
Miner Mike Blank makes the hike once a month, a trek that mine owner Kurt Cavano describes as "calf-burning" but which Blank says "isn't so bad. I'm pretty used to it." Until she got pregnant late last year, Blank's wife used to make the hike with him. They would dig rocks out of the mountainside with picks and chisels for two to three weeks, accumulating layers of dirt under their fingernails and in the cracks on their hands. (The Blanks' baby girl, whom they named Amethyst Jewel, was born this past spring.)
There's no running water at the mine. There's nothing outside except a small wooden, white tool shed and an outhouse. "But you don't want to use the outhouse," Blank says with a wry smile. "It's pretty scary in there."
Blank camps on the mountainside at night or sleeps inside the mine, where it's generally about 10 degrees cooler. The mine entrance looks like a cave in the side of the peak, and the main area is only about 18 foot by 6 foot. But after more than 12 years of digging the same vein, the mine itself extends more than 90 feet underground. There's an emergency exit tunnel about 15 feet long dug through the middle of the mine's west wall, its entrance marked by a couple two-by-fours nailed into a makeshift doorframe. "So we don't get stuck like those poor guys in Chile," Blank says. The only light comes from three dusty mining lamps hanging from cables in the upper corners of the cave, powered by the generator outside. On the sides of the mine, thick veins of tiny purple amethyst crystals sparkle in the light.
Four Peaks Amethyst Mine was discovered in 1925 by Jim McDaniels, who reportedly thought it was a letdown because he was looking for gold. Commercial amethyst mining didn't begin there until 1942. The current owners, East Coast businessman Cavano and his London-based partner, Jim MacLachtan, purchased the mine in 1997. A couple thousand pounds of ore are shipped out every year via a helicopter, which also shuttles supplies in every month. The stones mined here are diverse, ranging from pale pink, translucent crystals to deep purple gems with red hues, like the amethyst found in the Ural Mountains of Siberia (which does not mine its amethyst). Gems are tumbled and cleaned in Scottsdale, sent to Thailand for cutting, and shipped back to Arizona, where they're set in rings, necklaces, and bracelets at Sami Fine Jewelry in Fountain Hills. Some of the mine history and gems are on display nearby at the River of Time Museum at 12901 East La Montana.
Twice a year, Sami Fine Jewelry and Cavano give a handful of helicopter tours of the mine (480-837-8168, www.fourpeaksmining.com). The next tours are scheduled for October 15 and 16.
For Sami Fine vice president Stephenie Bjorkman, getting first pick of high-quality gems from Four Peaks Amethyst Mine is only part of the fun. "It is the only commercially run amethyst mine in the United States," she says. "And it is right here in our very own backyard."To see more photos of the amethyst mine, visit www.phoenixnewtimes.com/bestof2011.
The Western Ranchman is supplied with freshly hatched baby chicks on a weekly basis. Warning: Once you see how cute they are, you'll be jumping on the urban chicken bandwagon faster than you can say "farm-fresh eggs." Luckily, the North Phoenix feed-and-tack has everything you will need to begin your journey into the world of backyard chickens. The family-owned and -operated business has been doing this since 1966 — way before chickens became the must-have pet of aging hipsters.
Underground wine cellars are typically reserved for the ultra-wealthy with custom homes. Thankfully, Sun Devil Liquors makes their cellar and pub available to one and all to come and access one of the best wine selections (craft beers, too!) in the Valley. Sun Devil already has a crazy-great liquor store on ground level. Descend the stairs in the back of the store to the cellar and peruse dust-covered bottles old and new, sidle up to the bar and enjoy one of the featured wines or brews, or take a bottle back to the lounge. This subterranean hang reeks of old-school sophisticated alcohol enjoyment.
Best Gold Mines in the Middle of Town
South Mountain Park and Preserve
In 1900, cries of "There be gold in them hills!" could be heard ringing through the streets of downtown Phoenix. But these miners were not referring to the Superstitions and legends of lost Dutchmen. These were claims for mining rights on South Mountain. Today, most of the mines have been filled and covered, but several holes are still visible and accessible (though, for the record, we do not recommend you try to access them). The primary mine on the mountain was the Max Delta in the San Juan Valley, and it still can be seen from San Juan Road. Some clever online research can uncover hikes to a couple other mine entrances that have remained intact since Phoenix incorporated the park in 1924. Good luck!
Best Place to Rent a Jackhammer
A to Z Equipment Rental and Sales
Anybody who's ever tried to dig deep in Phoenix soil knows about caliche — hard deposits of calcium carbonate that take countless whacks with a shovel to break up and dig out. But for those who seriously want to break some ground (and turn that caliche to dust), nothing does the trick like a jackhammer. And there's no place like A to Z Equipment Rental and Sales to pick up a monstrous, vibrating machine that breaks through 60 pounds of damn near anything and sounds like a Gatlin gun. A to Z's electric "demolition hammers" range from 20-pound models to 60-pound beasts that require two-wheel haulers. Rental rates vary, so you'll have to contact A to Z for an exact price, but shattering layers of concrete and asphalt like a demolition warrior is just about priceless.
"No, you can't take my picture!" Marcus Breen hollers. "I'm a picker! We are totally incognito."Apparently, in order for him to score the very best deals, Breen and all the other pickers who are prowling our garage sales and thrift stores, looking for nice things that they can mark up and sell to antique dealers and to their own clients, must remain as anonymous as possible. They belong to a secret underground that allows them to show up, unrecognized, to scam our things.It seems that remaining invisible is just one of many tips of survival in this ultra-exclusive club. Pickers and antiques dealers tend to arrive early for a yard sale or an estate clearance. "If you plan to start selling at 8 a.m., and you see someone looking around your property, that's a picker," Breen says. "We want to be there before you even set up, to see what you've got before the other pickers get to it."Picking is an especially competitive and sometimes nasty sport, Breen says; there's no love lost among these people who make their living reselling our old junk. "I hate showing up at 5 a.m. at an estate sale and seeing three other pickers in line ahead of me. And we're all trying not to be too obvious while we're glaring at each other."Sellers have gotten savvier, Breen laments, since the advent of reality TV shows about his ilk. "It used to be that no one knew we even existed, but now you've got things like Storage Wars and American Pickers, and so when you start wheeling and dealing, people are less willing to cut you a deal. They're like, 'Are you going to resell this?' I liked it better when it was easier to blend in."
In the old days, places you frequented for years made you feel special with extra treats and freebies, but mostly with a kind of familiarity that only commitment and loyalty could buy. Today, every shop and service has some kind of "secret" deal, one that's broadcast far and wide via not-so-secret e-mailed coupons or Constant Contact campaigns. And, anyway, who wants to pay for their extras?
That's another reason why we love Savant Day Spa. It's worth the trek to the Westside for us, because at Savant we get to use a secret word that's truly secret, and just by uttering it, we're not only part of a special club, but we get one special service for free. It makes us feel like a total insider, and all because we were smart enough to get our hair and nails and, well, everything else done at this well-appointed spa.
Last time we were there, we whispered the secret word (which keeps changing and which you won't find in any Groupon offer or on Facebook — it's really secret!) and got a free hand massage while we were having our roots dyed. Later, Dan, the owner of Savant, walked us to the door and, as we were leaving, whispered the new secret word ("pixie") to us — for next time. Sure, we feel a little silly with all this make-believe espionage, but no sillier than when we announce to one of the friendly nail techs that we want little ladybug decals on our newly painted talons
.Both the secret word and the service you get make us feel special, which is the whole point. But even without it (and, if you ask someone who works there, they'll be sure to tell you the secret word — it's that simple!), you'd be hard-pressed not to have a relaxing, beautifying time at this top-notch salon. Haircuts and coloring, brow waxing, scalp treatments, aromatherapy sessions, facials, massage — this place offers it all, much of it available in thrifty spa packages and à la carte, and all of it super-professional and fashion-forward.
Best Secret Private Shopper
"The Book" at Zinnias at Melrose
We love you, Phoenix shoppers, and we're giving up our most closely held secret to prove it. In fact, it's not just our secret. Up 'til now, no one has known about The Book at Zinnias at Melrose. But now you do, because we're blabbing. You can thank us later.Here's how it works: At Zinnias — the city's latest and greatest Seventh Avenue antiques and collectibles mall — there's this book that's kept behind the counter. If you're looking for something, say a specific vintage coffee pot or a piece of furniture, you can write it down in the book. The dealers who work there read the book and can add your "must have" to their list of stuff they're looking for.Big deal, right? Lots of antique stores have "want lists." But here's what makes the Zinnias book different: People who are not antique dealers — just everyday shoppers and collectors like you — can also ask to see the secret book, which is kept tucked away under the counter at Zinnias. If they have what you're looking for, they can sell it to you from their private collection, and Zinnias doesn't seem to mind."It's like a very low-fi Craiglist, for collectors," Zinnias owner Michael Robertson confides. Robertson let us look at this ultra-private book and pointed out items that customers had found for other customers. Why, since Zinnias doesn't take a cut from all this goodwill, is this good for business? "We're doing just fine," Robertson says. "So why not let collectors share in the fun?"
Best Place to Stock
Your Underground Bunker
Allied Surplus
When the apocalypse comes (or maybe just when the dust storms outside are particularly nasty) nothing beats an underground bunker for comfort — provided you have all the essentials. And Allied Surplus has them all. You'll need food, and this military supply store stocks a wide selection of emergency, ready-to-eat meals ranging from canned "scrambled eggs and bacon" and "seafood chowder" to granola and pouches of "chili mac." Just add water and a heat source. Speaking of heat sources, Allied Surplus stocks a really handy Esbit Pocket Stove for less than 13 bucks. If you want better water, pick up a water-purification filter pump or some purification tablets. If things get really hairy (or dusty), AS has Israeli M-15 gas masks. Oh, and there are plenty of can openers, flashlights, and first aid kits to choose from, as well. With so many survival tools to choose from, going underground doesn't seem so bad, after all.
Like many of the best things in life, Last Chance just isn't what it used to be. Back in the day (like, the mid-'90s) you could pick up a Kate Spade purse for under $20 ($19.97, to be exact), a Nicole Miller ballgown for under $40, five pairs of Hush Puppies for well under $100. But now Hush Puppies are out of style — again — and the folks who run Nordstrom's clearinghouse for all returns and the crap it didn't sell at it department stores or outlets are onto us. More important, they're onto the network of re-sale experts who truly seem to live at Last Chance. These days, you can't just snatch up every Prada purse that lands on the pile; there are rules and limits. And, yes, that takes some of the fun away. (Although really, did you need that fifth Louis Vuitton?) Still, there are bargains to be had in this musty, well-lit basement in the former Colonnade Mall, where, on a recent Saturday afternoon, shoppers packed the aisles, trolling for TOMS espadrilles and Hobo wallets as "That's the Way I Like It" by KC and the Sunshine Band played overhead. We must admit, there's nothing we like better than a big score at Last Chance. Uh huh, uh huh.
There are so many things that make this old gas station turned coffee shop cozy and charming, from the vintage pump out front and the exposed industrial piping in the ceiling to the comfy couches and red brick walls adorned with local art. This is a hangout place, where hip Phoenicians gather to gab over a cup o' joe or cloister in a corner with their laptops. Of course, all the quaint ambiance in the world wouldn't matter if the coffee sucked. Thankfully, Copper Star serves up some delicious brews, from frozen treats like green tea smoothies and blended double chocolate mochas to hot Americanos and chai lattes. Everything is made fresh, so expect to wait for your drink (especially on weekends), but while you're waiting, there's no shortage of people to chat up, free magazines to read, and pastries to ogle.
On average, we fill a minimum of three punch cards a month at this Fifth Street coffee house. Some might say we have a problem — and they might be right. But that's not going to stop us. Just over a year old, JoBot brews its own special blend of locally famed Cartel coffee and serves to-die-for homemade scones — and crêpes. Not just any crêpes; these are some of the best in town. Sweet or savory, we love them all. Hang out inside at the bar and chat with the locals, and when it gets too crowded, move next door to the quaint living room or take your business outside to the covered patio. Open 'til midnight Sunday through Thursday and 24 hours Friday and Saturday, JoBot's got you covered whether you're looking for your morning fix or attempting to sober up after a late-night binge.
We're suckers for a good crêpe. Light and eggy, savory or sweet, the prospects of grabbing a cuppa joe with a crêpe on the side have us salivating just thinking about it. Lucky for us, at Cupz N' Crepes each part of that dynamic duo stands on its own. The drip coffee is rich and bold, and the fully stocked coffee bar serves up all your favorite espresso-based treats. And the crêpes are just as varied and delicious, whether they're packed with bananas and nutella or eggs and bacon. Cupz N' Crepes will definitely have you coming back for more.
Best Coffee House, North Phoenix
Cave Creek Coffee Company
You know those little leaf patterns that baristas create with cream or milk on top of your coffee? Well, the leaves at C4 (as Cave Creek Coffee Company's also known) are perfect — so beautiful that you almost don't want to ruin them by taking a drink. But then you'd miss out on the delicious house blend javas here. Whether you like your coffee dark, medium, or light, C4 has your strength (in house blends called Black Mountain, Black and Tan, and Cowgirl, respectively). Caffiends with a sweet tooth will also relish C4 drinks like the Mocafe (spiced Mexican hot chocolate) and the Mocha Latte (made with Ghirardelli chocolate). And the atmosphere at C4 — which draws an eclectic crowd ranging from old bikers to young artists to families of tourists — is damn cozy, as guests can chill at candlelit tables by the wine bar or in comfy oversize chairs by the coffee bar.
Tucked away in the Southwest Valley, Ground Control serves up delicious coffee drinks from beans that are roasted and ground on site. Ground Control has the usual suspects — Americano, cappuccino, and iced mocha — and signature drinks such as Cafe Sisu (a white and dark chocolate drink); or Cafe Roma, a flavor that mixes dark chocolate, caramel, and praline. The shop offers a variety of blended coffee drinks, including a lactose-free CocoMochaNut and a Blended Fruit Blast with mango, strawberry, peach, banana, sour green apple, and wildberry, a super-fruit antioxidant. Don't look for Wi-Fi at this old-school gathering place, which encourages you to bring a book or a friend instead of a computer. Check out Ground Control for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and don't leave without trying the homemade gelato.
One of the best things about Coffee Rush in Chandler is the view — where else in the Valley can you sip a hot, fresh cappuccino while cooling your heels next to a big blue man-made lake? And it's not just the cappuccino and lake that make this place awesome. Just walk in and get a whiff of all the delicious mochas and lattes. There are almost too many menu items to choose from. But if figuring out whether you want a scrumptious caramel nut latte or a strawberry vanilla java or a tiramisu mocha or a regular ol' Americano is the hardest decision you'll make all day, that's not so bad. The atmosphere here is cool, too, with free Wi-Fi for costumers, a pet-friendly patio, and a friendly staff that treats even newbies like regular customers.
There's a reason many other coffee shops in the Valley use beans from Cartel Coffee Lab: flavor, baby. Lots of it. Cartel's beans create rich and nutty espressos, smooth and sweet iced toddies, and chocolaty mochas. Baristas at Cartel roast their coffee beans on site, which means everything is super-fresh. And if you want to know every little detail of how your coffee is made and what's in it, the baristas at Cartel can tell you. This is a place for coffee connoisseurs. In fact, the baristas are so confident in the absolute perfection of their coffees that any request to change up the recipe is likely to be met with rolling eyes or a raised eyebrow. So if you want to order a coffee with "one pump caramel, one pump white mocha, two scoops of vanilla bean powder, with whipped cream and caramel drizzle on the top, no ice, double-cupped," go to Starbucks. But if you're just looking for a damn good cup of coffee that doesn't take five minutes to order (but, be warned, might take a good long time to make), then Cartel's got you covered.
Yes, we have coffee in the Valley — and good coffee, at that —but, more important, we have a lot of great coffee shops with great neighborhood vibes. The very best of Scottsdale is found at the local neighborhood hangout Echo. It is totally okay with your setting up a laptop and camping for the day. Echo will make delicious coffee treats or brew a cup of black drip for you. It also serves food, so after hours of staring at the screen, when the belly starts to rumble, Echo will help you take care of that and make you an afternoon espresso drink, the best we've found in these parts.
While the coffee at Cup O' Karma is decent, there are three things for which this place is better known. First, the iced teas are to die for. Patrons can choose from a wide variety of teas (hot, cold, or even blended like smoothies) and fruity flavors like tangerine. The place's green and chai teas are particularly delectable. Second, there's plenty of seating and the Internet Wi-Fi signal is super-strong (it's rare to go into Cup O' Karma and not see at least three people pounding away on their laptops). Third, proceeds from the sales of Cup O'Karma's beverages goes to a charity called Seeds of Hope, which works with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Throw in the local artwork on the walls and live acoustic music, and Cup O' Karma's got their recipe for success.
Bountiful Baskets is one of the largest volunteer-run co-ops in Arizona, with well over 100 locations from Sahuarita to Bullhead City and just about everywhere in between. In Phoenix alone, there are about 18 locations. It's entirely volunteer-run with no requirement to opt in every week. Decide on Tuesday whether you want a basket full of produce the coming weekend — 15 bucks for the regular basket or 30 bucks for the organic offering — and you're good to go. They also offer weekly deals on bread, cases of produce (peaches, tomatoes, whatever's in season), Asian/Mexican/Italian packs, and lots of holiday fun, such as DIY cookie kits. Just make sure you show up every once in a while to volunteer!
Eating locally grown, fresh produce is nutritious, delicious, and good for the economy and environment, but sometimes acquiring the aforementioned produce is just so . . . difficult. There are more farmers markets and local food outlets than ever before. Desert Roots Farm, a Community Supported Agriculture farm (CSA) in Queen Creek, makes getting farm-fresh fruits, veggies, and herbs super-easy. Twelve-week seasonal memberships (or six-week during the summer) come in whole and half sizes. More than 10 pickup locations span the Valley. If that's not convenient enough, for an extra five bucks a week, they'll deliver the seasonal eats directly to your home or work.
Out in what used to be a rural part of the Valley sits this wonderful 70-year-old farm, where the organic peaches are there for the picking (for a price), and so much more. Talk about agri-tourism. This hardworking family has a lot on its plate, running a country store and bakery, working a seven-acre vegetable "patch," giving grand tours, looking after a campsite with 25 full hookups for the motor-home set, and hosting weddings, birthday parties for the little ones, and other big-time life events. Even Muhammad Ali has checked things out on the farm — we hear he had a great time. But it's those peaches that pull us back year after year, basket after basket, bite after bite. Sweet!
Baby artichokes the size of your thumb. Tiny carrots, in little bundles, that taste somehow like they've been dipped in brown sugar. Beets so fresh they still have dirt clods stuck to their roots. No gourmet repast is done right without fresh ingredients, and we always find them at Vincent's weekly farmers market during the cooler months. We sometimes have to elbow well-known chefs and restaurateurs out of our way to get to the high-end cheeses (sold by the hunk or in entire wheels!) at this casual, European-type outdoor market, but that only makes us feel more gourmet, somehow. Dig the locally grown, organic vegetables; the delicious just-baked pastries from Vincent's own pastry chef; and one or another of the Valley's best-known chefs, preparing a stunning gourmet entrée right before your eyes. Our only complaints are that parking is a bit tricky (although lately there's been a park-for-pay lot nearby) and that it's best to arrive really early — the place usually opens at 7 — because when the good stuff is gone, it's gone.
Every Thursday, we make the journey out to Mesa (we're talking deep Mesa, as in Queen Creek Mesa) for Superstition Farms' weekly SuperFarm Market. Not only because the market's held inside a nice cool barn but because — it's on a real farm! Not in a parking lot. This is a real live dairy farm. Stock up on fresh meats and seafood, straight-from-the-farm eggs, milk, cheese, butter, locally made breads and sweets, and delicious gluten-free, lard-free tamales from Tamal le Cuisine. Hayrides and a petting zoo are in full effect for the kiddos, and if you don't feel like cooking, you can always grab dinner on the farm from Chef Matt or one of the visiting food trucks.
Ward Walston arises at about 2 on Saturday mornings to bake his delicious breads — the Black Forest rye, the multigrain sourdough, the salt-free sunflower wheat, and many others. Around the break of dawn, Ward's wife Leslie then drives over from Tempe up the 51 and sets up shop at the farmers market on East Cactus (one of the Valley's oldest), warm, fresh bread in tow. She also sets out a bunch of jars of delicious peanut butter handcrafted in Michigan and shipped to Arizona every week. Leslie is a mistress of the soft sell at the market — she lets her family business' products mostly speak for themselves. That they do. She offers bread and peanut butter samples to the dozens of folks who stop by, and that, far more often than not, turns into sales. That's the American way, right? As for us, we keep on returning to Leslie's little stand week after week.
The Valley is filled with health food stores offering food and vitamins. What makes Healthy Habit Health Foods in CenPho the best is the bonus offerings — including a knowledgeable staff, classes, and a live radio show filled with nutritional advice. The website is a superstore in and of itself; get a recommendation for a local practitioner, or browse for everything from low-carb baking goods to organic pet supplies. And food and vitamins, too — naturally.
Dirt-cheap produce and a truly impressive selection of seafood (parrot fish!) and meat and poultry (chicken feet!) are just the tip of the iceberg lettuce (one thing you might not find) at Mekong Plaza. This old Target-turned-awesome plaza holds much more than just your typical Asian market — it's home to a handful of great little eateries and, of course, a place to get your nails done. Before you get lost in the market, grab a cheap bowl of pho at the ridiculously named UnPHOgettable (clever) or take your chances at Com Tam Thuan Kiev — over 100 dishes of authentic Vietnamese food (good luck!). You'll also find Thai, noodles, and even dim sum.
Best Little Japan
Southeast corner of Priest and University drives, Tempe
What's better than Japanese pastries? Almost nothing. Maybe that's why we spend so much time cramming curry and melon pan into our waiting gobs at Arai Pastry, at the corner of Priest and University drives in Tempe. When pastry doesn't suffice, we head right next door to Fujiya Market. Walk in the door and expect to be greeted with a welcoming "irashaimase" from the staff. They're welcoming you to the store and their bountiful stock of imported milk tea, Japanese candy, and bento boxes prepared daily. Next to that is a fast-food teriyaki joint, and next to that is an Irish knickknack shop. Oh, wait, wrong continent. Anyhow, everyone needs a spot to get their Japanese fix. Who would have guessed Tempe is the place to go?
If you're into cooking at home and find yourself in need of anything from paprika to pita, look no further then Tempe-based Haji Baba. The marketplace section is small but packed, so take a chance, buy some, and figure out what to do with it once you are back home. The prices allow for an adventurous spirit. And while you're there, pick up some falafel or other pre-prepared items. Just in case.
Galangal, epazote, mace, mahlab. If you're used to buying your spices from your local grocery store, you probably have no idea what we're talking about. All those foreign words are actual spices — not "spice," spices. You know that stuff that makes food taste better, right? You can find exotic spices like these and more at Penzeys. High-quality whole seeds, cracked seeds, ground seeds, regional spice mixtures — virtually every spice that you never knew you needed is right here at Tempe Marketplace. A serious must-visit for any spice-hound.
It's no wonder Arizona's best olive oil comes from the happy trees at Queen Creek Olive Mill. For more a decade, the East Valley olive oil producers have been sustainably farming the best olive varieties for our arid climate. The pesticide-free olives are harvested at just the right time and then cold-pressed into extra virgin olive oil. The oils have a smooth nutty flavor, with just a hint of sweetness that you won't find in your average grocery-store brand. And don't even get us started on Queen Creek's balsamic vinegars. The barrel-aged vinegar is made from the highest-quality Modena grapes and imported from Italy; once QCOM gets hold of the vinegar, it makes it better with the addition of strawberries or mountain figs. Look out for unique flavors, like the tangy blood orange olive oil, white balsamic crema, or the spicy chili-infused oil, sure to give a kick to your favorite recipe. If you can't make the trek to visit the mill, you can find QCOM's products at your local Whole Foods.
Gone are the days when kids would pop by the local candy shop for penny candies and licorice whips on their way home from school. Now, they're more likely to be purchasing iPhone apps than Hershey bars. But we still can get our nostalgia fix at Rocket Fizz, where owners Brad and Kim Fry and their kids offer up Gobstoppers, saltwater taffy, and Twix bars with as much zeal as Sammy Davis Jr.'s Candy Man. The Frys stock more than 600 varieties of pop (we don't dare use the modern vernacular of "soda" here), including Brain Wash cola, Flathead Lake huckleberry, and the many crazy flavors of Jones Soda Co. You'll also find a ton of old-school and rare candies such as Bueno bars and Twin Bing. One look at the wall of saltwater taffy and the coolers of ice-cold birch beer and cola and it's hard not to squeal like, well, a kid in a candy store.
Have you noticed how all the cool parties have those DIY candy buffets, where you can fill cute bags and cups with brightly colored confections? Feeling as if you may not have the skills to pull it all together? That is where Chandler-based Couture Candy Co. comes in. They have it down and will do all the work for you. Think tables full of glass jars loaded with candy and colorful lollipops scattered about. If it involves candy and you want it looking cool, the best place in town to tap is Couture Candy Co.
Cupcake stands, you say? How very 2010 of you! The "it" way to serve up cupcakes is on floating, light-up, or suspended towers. Cake Hole Project is the combined brainchild of an architect and a surveyor. These funky contemporary designs come in all shapes and sizes, from tabletop models to twirling, ceiling-mounted numbers. Throwing a small tea for four? No problem, because Cake Hole Project has displays for eight cupcakes. For bigger bashes, the company makes crazy towers for up to 40 cupcakes. Have something else in mind? Reach out to these creatives, because they offer custom designs too. Cupcake lovers, unite!
If you like to decorate cakes and cupcakes or make homemade candy — or you've seen Ace of Cakes and you're curious — then ABC Cake Decorating is the place in town to stock up on the goods you'll need. If you are in the advanced category, you can buy your gel colors and frosting tips here, and if you are a total novice you can stock up on cheater supplies, such as plastic toppers to just shove into the icing and be done with it. Either way, or somewhere in between, this is a fun place to browse for confection ideas.
Best Place to Sell Your Cake (Plate) and Buy One, Too
Kitchen Switchin'
Kitchenware stores are toy stores in the eyes of any grownup who cooks or entertains. And just like toys — best loved when new and novel — appliances, gadgets and tabletop decor often end up collecting dust in our cupboards, hoarding premium storage and counter space. Say hello to Kitchen Switchin', a specialty kitchen consignment boutique. This is the place to unload your former kitchen treasure. Owner Christa Kent will buy your goods for cash or accept them on consignment. You can even track your sales online. Don't forget — you can buy, as well. The boutique is filled with small appliances, high-end cookware, kitchen tools, china and glassware. Housed in a Seventh Street bungalow, the goods, many still in original packaging, are neatly categorized and nicely displayed totally irresistible. That Christine Kent is one smart cookie.
Best Housewares
on a Budget
Tuesday Morning's monthly sales
Every month, on a date sneaked to shoppers who've registered on Tuesday Morning's website, lines begin to form in the wee hours outside this cool clearance house. On these special days (and, yes, often they're Tuesdays), the store opens two whole hours early so that addicted shoppers can peruse the latest batch of discounted, high-end housewares and gift items. Cool chairs, swell bath towels and thousand-thread-count sheets, lovely oil paintings, and stacks of other another-man's-treasures make this a shopping staple among fans of a good deal. We hear that really familiar faces who don't have e-mail can leave their name and number with one of the friendly staff members, who will telephone to remind them when the next special sale is about to commence. Another reason to get up early, at least once a month!
Phoenix Knife House is a knife connoisseur's dream. This cutlery company specializes in Japanese knives and carries many blades that the layman probably can't even pronounce. PKH carries a variety of knives from Masahiro, the foremost manufacturer of primo kitchen knives in Japan, along with Fujiwara kanefusa (namesake kitchen knives made by a family known for sword-making for the past 500 years), and Kikuichi knives (made by another family known for sword-making — specifically, samurai swords). Phoenix Knife House also carries "Western-style" Japanese kitchen knives from Misono (many made of silver and nickel, with beautiful wooden handles) and Sugimoto knives, high-quality carbon steel and chromium pieces used by discerning chefs. If you're looking for something cheap, this isn't the place to go (knives run anywhere from $75 to several hundred dollars each), but if you're looking for kitchen knives that will impress your guests at dinner parties, Phoenix Knife House has what you need.
Operating since 1993, Brewers Connection has been the leader in home-brewing advocacy since before it was cool to brew your own brew. The knowledgeable staff makes the complex nuances of home fermentation easily digestible for even the novice brewmeister or wine maker. On top of that, Brewers Connection is the largest warehouse supplier of home fermentable ingredients in the state, so you are guaranteed to find whatever you are looking for. Be on the lookout for owner Jeffery. He's always down to help and he has a pretty sweet 'stache, to boot.
You've probably seen the boxy, clear-glass bottles of Sonoran 200 sitting on the shelves of your local place's beer section before, and maybe you even thought about buying one. Then you saw the price tag. "$25 for a beer?" you thought. "Preposterous!" Which it may well be — for a beer. But Sonoran 200 — made with pure agave nectar and aged on oak for six months — is 40-proof and tastes like butterscotch tequila maple donuts. What it does not taste like is beer. Pour it into a snifter, drop in an ice cube or two and sip, cordially.
We'll say it: Phoenix has beer culture on tap. While there is no shortage of places to buy brew, one place has a selection that can't be beat: Whole Foods in Chandler. Whether you're looking for a Session six-pack or a 750-milliliter bottle of Dogfish Head Sah'tea, you'll find it fresh and reasonably chilled for instant imbibing. And if you like a nosh with your beer, you could do a lot worse than grabbing a BBQ sandwich or some sushi from Whole Foods. One wonders why you would ever need to leave.
Like a beacon in the night, Jerry's vintage sign lures us time and time again. Let's face it — when you're on a beer run, getting out of the car is a pain. You don't want to waste precious party moments. So next time you're in a hurry to get back to the action, or you just don't feel like getting out of your PJs, look for the giant arrow pointing you toward that thirst-quenching 12-pack of Coors or that sweet bottle of Boone's Farm you've been craving.
If you need to pick up some spirits, snacks, or sleek glass pipes perfect for smoking tobacco, but are pressed for time, swing through the drive-thru at Mike's Market in south Peoria. Clerks are friendly and happy to grab whatever you might need, whether it's a Playboy magazine, a case of beer, or a pint of Jägermeister.
Best Drive-Thru
Cigarette Store
On-Auk-Mor Indian Smoke Shop
Need to grab your smokes quick and it is too hot (or you're too embarrassed) to get out of the car? Check out On-Auk-Mor Indian Smoke Shop, which has a convenient drive-thru. On-Auk-Mor even sells super-rare brands, all for cheaper than you can buy anywhere else. And, as a bonus, it is located on the rez, so your purchase is tax-free. The service is pleasant and friendly, and if the kids are in the backseat, a clerk will hand over your smokes with a couple of lollipops for the youngsters. Really.
Tinder Box may be a chain, but there's a bit of local charm in the Mesa location that makes it feel as though Mom and Pop have been running the place forever. Local franchisee Jeff Clayton goes out of his way to make patrons feel welcome. The couches and chairs are big and comfy, there's tons of table space in the cigar lounge (the shop's a little more than 600 square feet, total), and there's a big-screen television airing numerous satellite channels. And chances are, Tinder Box has whatever type of pipe, tobacco, or cigar brand you're looking for. Tinder Box carries everything from popular stogie brands like Montecristo and Romeo y Julieta to high-end hookahs by Savinelli and La Rocca. And if you don't know what you're looking for, Clayton and company will gladly make suggestions and let you smell all their loose-leaf tobacco. Best of all, you don't need to go outside to smoke that stogie — this is a place that prides itself on the smell of fine-burning blends.
Since 1989, Headquarters has been supplying tobacco water pipe enthusiasts with the biggest and best equipment to support their, um, hobby. We were sorry to hear about the demise of Headquarters' longtime neighbor Eastside Records but happy when we heard that our favorite head shop would be taking over the space. The newly expanded store now houses a huge selection of pipes, bongs, and other smoking accessories, including a gorgeous supply of locally made goods, thanks to owner Ted Kaercher's dedicated support of local artisans. The friendly staff is enthusiastic about the goods and more than happy to answer any questions or help you decide whether you really need that four-footer when a pack of rolling papers will do.
The original Herb N' Legend location (at 5950 West McDowell Road) is cool enough, but with the opening of a second location on Greenway Parkway this year, Herb N' Legend went all out. They hired renowned Valley muralist Lalo Cota to paint a noir-ish cityscape mural that wraps around the interior walls of the store; they built a walk-in humidor for cigars that resembles a 1920s speakeasy; they installed a massive tiled mosaic water fountain in the corner (complete with throwaway tiles from U.S. Senator John McCain's guest house, we hear); and they beefed up their inventory to include the most extensive collection of pipes, bongs, vaporizers, hookahs, and other accessories in the city. They even have a separate gallery/showroom for their most expensive, intricate blown-glass pieces (including a colorful octopus bong). Smokers and stoners could go anywhere for their paraphernalia, but those with discerning tastes and an appreciation for glass pipes as art go to Herb N Legend.
Tucked into a corner of The Farm at South Mountain sits the culmination of 37 years' worth of desert plant passion. Steve Martinez opened Succulentia on December 1, 2010. The greenhouse is stuffed with rare and hard-to-find cacti and succulents from Tucson, California, and Texas. Waxy leaf clusters, bonsai-esque plants, and spindly, spiny trees (ranging from $8 to over $1,000) line the tables in no particular order. Also on display is his own personal collection of award-winning plants. "You won't find these at Home Depot," says Martinez. Indeed.
As you drive through Arcadia, you can't help wondering how many trees and plants of the posh neighborhood started on the grounds of Baker Nursery. Established in 1968, the retro nursery keeps things tip-top with organized rows of lush vegetation just begging for a permanent home in your yard. Love and dedication is put into every flower, vine, and shrub by the knowledgeable staff. One trip to Baker's and you will never want to go back to the big-name home-and-garden center for your foliage needs again.
The guys at Relics do all the work for you, poor souls: They travel to Europe to personally select cool old stuff for their shop — and, by association, you. At Relics, they specialize in antique architectural and garden features — think hand-carved fountains, shabby-chic pottery, and architectural ironwork. If you are doing some landscaping, Relics is a great place to stop in to look for special items.
Love plants but have a black thumb? There is a business for that. Pearson & Company in Scottsdale leases you the plants, and its staff comes in to water and prune them, and, if they die on their watch, Pearson & Company will replace them. This is a perfect option for those who travel a lot. Or, if your Arizona home is one of many, and you would like a fresh hosta plant when you do the snowbird thing here.
There are countless skits on TV about getting friends to help you move across town. It really isn't funny, though, because friends shouldn't be swindled into moving for you. Hire some creative types who know how to be delicate with your fragile items, artwork, and precious goods. Unlike with your friends, if something is broken, Creative Moving and Packing carries insurance to cover it. So leave it to the professionals and invite your friends over for pizza and beer once everything is in place.
Keep your ride clean for a freaky low price at Clean Freak Carwash on the corner of Seventh Avenue and Van Buren. Get in and out in three minutes with its $5 car wash, or sign up for a monthly plan and get unlimited car washes. Pay $12 a month for a Nice 'n' Clean wash, which includes scented soaps, soft foam scrub, and spot-free rinse. Upgrade to the Freaky Clean wash for $16 and get a few extras, like a rim and tire scrub. Or, for $18, get the Obsessively Clean wash, including triple foam wash, Turtle Ice Wax, and paint protector. Clean Freak also offers free self-service vacuums.
Like many spas in the Valley, this Scottsdale spot offers a relaxing atmosphere and a tranquil feel, but we keep coming to Jurlique for the copper soaking tubs. Filled with salts, flower petals, and detox herbs, they'll let you soak your stress away. Jurlique grows its own herbs on site — that's only one of the ways this spa sets itself apart. With only six treatment rooms, it's not the largest spa in town — and we like that. It's big enough to accommodate a couples' massage room for custom aromatherapy massages, and that's just right by us.
The life of a tiny dog is rough: Jumping around trying to be cute and constantly having people pet and love you is exhausting! Pamper your hard-working pooch with a trip to Mackie's Parlour. The upscale pet boutique has a huge section of gorgeous collars and harnesses to make your prince or princess feel like a million bucks. Don't know what size to get your little one? Owners Vince and Tony are two of the friendliest people you will ever meet and will help you every step of the way — even if it means running around the store to show you every single harness in your pup's size. Like any good pet boutique, the shop offers high-quality dog food and treats, luxury dog beds, and a little bit of bling to help even the saddest pound puppy feel loved.
We originally dropped in to this family-owned and -operated pet supply store because we'd heard about the pair of orange tabbies who live there and like to be petted by customers. We love a good store cat, and so we popped by to say hello to Chong and Quincy — both of whom were fast asleep when we arrived, and wouldn't be roused no matter who was shopping. And shop we did — because we were so wowed by the array of healthy foods and treats and toys for Fluffy and Fido back home. Brothers Steve and Rich have created a unique place for pets and pet lovers alike to browse for animal-friendly stuff. The "Wash" in the title refers to pet grooming and bathing, and it's done in specially designed washtubs designed by a local metal artist. After dropping Spot off for a quick shampoo, stop by the Wag's all-natural pet biscuit bakery, where dog and cat treats are made with all-natural ingredients. Shelves nearby are stocked with the best organic and raw pet foods so that, whether he likes it or not, your pup can get healthy, starting today.Readers' Choice:
If only there were an indie store in Phoenix where we could shop for everything from bamboo toothbrushes to locally made clothing and jewelry, the best bags, and even a pair of TOMS shoes. Oh, wait, there is! You'll have no problem finding cute and unique gifts for your best friend, her baby, your mom, boyfriend, and, of course, yourself, in this adorable shop. Be on the lookout for the newest styles from TOMS shoes, Free People, and the latest and greatest from local designers. Frances also carries a pretty sweet selection of stationery and candles, and don't even get us started on the accessory section.
The neatest little shop in all of Phoenix offers a little bit of everything —including a pair of flight attendants, who recently opened their dream boutique on West Thomas Road — and it's fast become our dream boutique, as well. Wedged into a cozy space right across the street from Phoenix College, Saint 22 offers candles, handmade soap, jewelry, handbags, ceramics, and a ton of artwork and handcrafts made by local artists. Among Saint 22's specialties is a wide variety of fancy yarns and knitting supplies — all of it displayed beautifully in a constantly changing pile of cool stuff. As if that weren't enough, the guys at Saint 22 have called in a lot of local experts to teach us all how to craft and knit and crochet and, well, if this weren't the best boutique around, we'd start thinking about opening our own!
Muse stocks everything a chic label-whore would adore, from a $16 costume necklace adorned with funky, organic twig balls to $150 Design Studio jeans. Sure, the threads are killer, but the reason we flock back to Muse (despite its NoPho Safeway strip mall locale) is the one-on-one attention you'll get here. Not sure whether the lavender Idylle top you're crushing on flattens your boobs? Ask storeowner Victoria Shrewsbury and she'll point you in the direction of a more flattering empire-waisted shift that'll make your girls looks perky (and maybe some fashionable nipple tape to prevent any cold-weather embarrassment). She's like the girlfriend who's willing to honestly answer the age-old question, "Do I look fat in this?" — but perhaps with a little more tact than your friend.
MADE art boutique does just what a good little indie shop should do: It sells the work of our very best local artists and crafters, with a few mainstream treats thrown in for good measure (and sales volume). On recent trips, we found handmade vanilla ginger soaps by Emelmahae, subversive T-shirts by Sebastien Millon, and letterpressed cards by Seesaw Designs. MADE is our go-to spot for Lucky B Design's crystal necklaces and owner Cindy Dach's embroidered kid T's. But lately we've been stopping by just to read the wickedly inappropriate refrigerator magnets for sale. Those we'll let you check out for yourself.
Where else can you attend a false eyelash application workshop/Save the Earth party? Or a belly-dancing garden fete? Even on a day when Devious Wigs isn't hosting a scheduled event, you can make your own party — with a crazy-bright wig or the sparkly accessories this crowded little shop sells. Step into the back for a gander at the low-priced, wildly varied collection of used clothing, or grab a "surprise bag" for a few bucks. Devious Wigs & Things is all the things we love about Grand Avenue — gritty, unpredictable, and a heck of a lot of fun once the party gets started.
You've got a birthday party to get to in half an hour, and an overpowering need for a potato gun. We know the feeling. And we've got the source: Smeeks. This "sweet little shop" is best known for its candy (and you can get sugared up here, for sure) but its selection of old-fashioned (harmonicas) and new-fangled (squirrel underpants?!) novelties keep us coming back, every time we need a fun gift. Or — we'll admit — a little something for ourselves. Hey, everyone needs a set of Japanese erasers shaped like pastries. And the sweet folks at Smeeks will be happy to wrap up that harmonica super-cute, whether it's for you or a friend.
When Phoenicians think of fashion, the name that comes to mind is Robert Black, who began his career as a model and talent agent in the '80s and went on to found the Ford Robert Black Agency. Today, instead of models, Black is offering the clothes off their backs. His Fashion by Robert Black, located in the landmark White Hogan building in downtown Scottsdale's arts district, looks like an especially well-organized dressing room from days gone by. Black and his shopping partner, Doreen Picerne, have scoured the globe in search of a whole new experience in vintage, red-carpet couture for men and women. Unlike any other local vintage clothing store, Fashion by Robert Black was an instant hit when it opened late last year. Black's stock is all one-of-a-kind vintage couture; you won't find any off-the-rack or homemade stuff here. There's nowhere better to play retro fashionista than Robert Black Fashion.
"I make it easy to find a funky piece," says Misty Guerriero, the namesake of our favorite new downtown vintage spot, Vintage by Misty. Israel, London, Paris, Canada, Vegas — Guerriero's eclectic mix of cool clothing, jewelry, and housewares spans the globe. Her stock generally reflects whatever she likes at the moment — right now, that's Missoni prints, giant gold Mimi belt buckles, and anything made from shells. Sip espresso in the back bar area of her boutique off Central Avenue, then shop the racks and cases jammed with colorful, graphic (often designer) apparel and truly unique jewelry at a range of price points.
Our dad used to wear wool cardigans, which made us want to barf with embarrassment. Now, we collect them — and our lives would be lacking if it weren't for Antique Sugar, which not only offers the best in vintage off-the-rack fashion, but has a men's department, as well. That's rare in a vintage clothing store, but not at this swell, roomy boutique, where co-owners Sarah and Ann-Marie have gathered together an astonishing array of mint-condition, lovely-to-look-at garments. But don't just look — try something on! At these prices, collectors of old clothes are right behind you, hoping you won't buy that 1950s felt circle skirt or that great '60s sharkskin suit with the embroidered lapels. After you've selected your new costume, get busy accessorizing — with shoes, bags, and cases filled with amazing costume jewelry, all of it as old as Grandma but twice as shiny! No wonder this place is called Antique Sugar — shopping here is sweet!
Butter Toast's new digs in a historic home off Roosevelt Row house one of the best selections of vintage threads around, with the kind of filmy tops, broomstick skirts, and cotton dresses that make up a sweet Bohemian-chic wardrobe. Prices are affordable: $15 for a floral romper, $40 for a red pleated party dress. Our favorite perk of shopping here is co-owner Jasmine Jarrett's excellent eye for what looks good on customers. If you fail to bring in your BFF for a second opinion on that lime green mod shift, Jarrett will give you the lowdown (or the letdown) on whether your thighs look like twigs or tree trunks.
Is it the fact that we never leave this great treasure trove empty-handed? Is it that the friendly staff routinely tips us off to sales at other, nearby antique stores? Is it the fact that this place shares a parking lot with Flo's, one of the best thrift stores in town? When you're talking Zinnias on Melrose, the answer is "yes" to all. This 15,000-square-foot vintage-and-collectibles mall features 36 different vendors, where bargain hunters have scored everything from a 1950s chrome dining set to a pair of chandelier earrings once worn by Mama Cass on the Tonight Show. Proprietor Michael Robertson knows the business: He grew up in his great-grandparents' antique shop and has been scouting estate sales across the nation for decades. He hauls his fab finds back to Phoenix, and we're grateful he does.
Hidden in the shadow of the beautiful Wright House events space, you will find a little old house with a hand-painted sign that you have probably overlooked hundred of times while making the commute from Mesa to Tempe. Waiting inside is an eclectic collection of unique antiques with price tags that won't send you running back to the thrift stores. Cherry Street is packed from floor to ceiling with everything from vintage furs to antique clocks. Set aside a chunk of your day to search through the treasure chests of jewelry and rummage through the mountains of kitchen goods. The selection is always changing, and the woman behind the counter is as sweet as pie and more than willing to help you find whatever it may be that you're looking for.
It's true: People can live perfectly happily having only ever purchased dinged-up, scratched antique furniture. Nobody needs a perfectly preserved dining room suite from 1930 that one can just haul home, set up, and admire without all the fussing around with scratch cover or — worse! — stripper and refinisher. But just once, consider buying a piece of old furniture that doesn't need to be rescued, just to be admired. And when you do, think about doing it at this often-overlooked trove, where the prices are more than fair. We did. A French Deco bed we saw there was calling our name and, even at a price point higher than one we'd have had to restore, it was worth it — because we went from admiring it to sleeping in it, that very same night. Cheap is good, but everyone deserves a splurge every now and then.Readers' Choice:
We put it off for as long as we could: buying a runner for the downstairs hallway in our old, old house. It needed to be an antique, but not too worn-looking. A reproduction wouldn't do (too new-looking), and we knew what that meant: Pulling out a big wad of cash, because vintage rugs in decent shape are hard to come by. But we weren't counting on the newly renovated QCumberz, a kinder, gentler place to shop, thanks to new owners who've reorganized and re-staffed the entire joint. We were surprised to find a half-dozen vintage rugs for sale, several in great shape and all priced to move. We settled on an all-wool, 1920s Clementine Souza rug with a Greek key pattern and most of its original fringe still in place. We got it for a song and had a nice chat with the friendly proprietor on our way out, promising to stop back in soon — and even if we don't need another rug, we'll be there!
Best Antique Store to Buy Jewelry
for Your Girlfriend
Rare Lion Antiques & Jewelry
As pop star Neil Sedaka stated in his 1962 hit, breaking up is hard to do. Especially when there are so many ways to win your way back into the affections of your paramour. There are flowers, expensive gifts, heartfelt apologies, and good old-fashioned begging. If you're hoping that jewelry will do the trick, definitely go talk to Michelle Francis over at Rare Lion in Tempe. The antique shop owner has a particular knack for helping clueless Romeos pick out the perfect pendant or necklace as a making-up gift (or perhaps a birthday or Christmas present as well). Inside a pair of glass cases, Francis keeps a vast selection of bangles, baubles, and bracelets, all of which are of the vintage or antique variety. State what your gal's tastes are, and she'll use her sixth sense to figure out what her heart desires most, like maybe a cute pair of marcasite earrings. If things go your way, bub, she also stocks a variety of gorgeous rings that might be aces when popping the question.
We waited 'til the last minute to buy an Easter gift for a friend of ours who collects jadite, that pretty pale green glassware that was so popular in the 1930s (and has been co-opted by Martha Stewart in recent years). We figured, jadite is hot right now, and there's a ton of it out there and it'll be easy to find! We were wrong. And Easter was nigh. After driving around for hours, from one antique shop to the next, we finally landed at Antique Marketplace, located now in its new, cool, and ever-expanding digs at Seventh Avenue and Osborn. We wept to Marketplace owner Joel about our jadite woes, and he got on the horn and, before you could say "old rare dishware!" he'd found a dealer who was selling a really nice handled jadite Fire King toothpaste tumbler. While Joel was on the phone, we wandered around and noticed that Marketplace offers a lot of stuff we never see at other antique shops. Like a whole case full of fully restored vintage telephones. And a gold-rimmed Jeannette glass bowl that we haven't seen anywhere other than on eBay. And a shelf full of vintage seltzer dispensers in every shade of blue. Clearly, this is the best place to find that rare collectible you're looking everywhere for.
Why can't every thrift store in town be like Flo's? We have to keep reminding ourselves, when we shop here, that we're in a second-hand shop — because the merchandise is all so upscale and everything is so neatly displayed and organized. But the prices remind us, every time. Fine china for a fraction of what you'd pay new (or at any local antique shop, for that matter); flatware and window treatments and throw rugs — and all of it either new or new-ish. Vast racks of like-new clothing, all of it laundered and pressed and looking and smelling as good as new. And while we'd never accuse Flo of swiping anything, we wonder where all those rows of brand new shoes (men's and women's!) came from — all priced at a steal!
People who hoard — whether it be inexpensive designer duds or cool old books and records — flock to this not-for-profit treasure trove way out on the west side. On our last trip, we found a first-edition John Irving novel, a pair of still-sealed Dean Martin record albums, and an honest-to-gosh Ralph Lauren dinner jacket, and paid less than 30 bucks for the whole bundle. The friendly, more-than-helpful staff here are always willing to help shoppers find what they're looking for and have even been overheard hinting at when all the best sales happen and the new stock goes out. No wonder people all over the land live surrounded by giant piles of their belongings, so many of them procured from Peoria's clean, well-stocked Goodwill store.
Best Thrift Store for Vintage Glassware
Sun Health Resale Shop
We shouldn't admit this, but we've lately become obsessed with vintage glassware. Pressed-glass punch bowls; gold-rimmed Jeannette Glass fruit bowls; Depression glass, and anything Anchor Hocking — we can't get enough. And we're blaming Sun Health Resale Shop for fueling our addiction, because we find more old hostess sets and 1950s foil-trimmed Chas Hall tumblers here than in most other thrift stores around — and believe us, we've been to them all! Our last haul included a Libbey Glass cocktail set from 1946 (still in the box), and a shoebox full of crystal highball glasses etched with our initial on them — what are the chances? They're greater at this great place for turning up glassware treasures.
Best Thrift Store That Was Never Meant to Be
a Thrift Store
Eclectic Monkey Emporium (formally Good Thrift)
Located on Main Street in Mesa, this thrift store not only offers funky cool finds, it does good for the local community. The store was never meant for the public. It was created as a place for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault to shop, free of charge. But with so many donations and knocks on the door from residents wanting to shop, Eclectic Monkey swung open its doors to all. Be sure to head all the way to the back to visit the man cave, filled with bike and car parts and hip menswear. The ladies have their own space, too, filled with vintage dresses, round couches, and a chandelier.
Why? Because old people have cool stuff, dude. Do your research on www.craigslist.com and www.yardsalesearch.com and make your way out to Sun City and Sun City West for the treasure hunt of a lifetime. The Sun Cities are home to retirees from across the nation, and when they're ready to part with their wares, the finds can range from World War II memorabilia to handcrafted furniture to other collectibles. Not to be crass, but keep an eye out for estate sales — that usually means there's an open house and everything is up for grabs.
This place for pint-size shopping is packed but organized —by boys and girls and, then, by size. There is also room, somehow, for toys and gear. The store décor is cute and makes the shopping experience fun. The prices are a steal and, yes, the place is jam-packed. But if you are a picker and like to dig for a deal, this is your place.
Best Alternative
to Last Chance
Dillard's Clearance Center
It took a while, but we finally grew tired of the frantic, often bitter crowds and the harried help at Last Chance, and have renewed our former fondness for Dillard's Clearance Center, which is now located at Metrocenter on the east side. Neatly arranged racks of clothing, some of it very current and season-appropriate, are the order of the day here. Weekly unadvertised sales that knock up to 75 percent off of the already reduced prices make us feel like members of a special club, and we dig the impressive shoe department, arranged by size and style (rather than just tossed onto racks in piles, like at other clearance stores). Deeper discounts can be had from special racks of dresses and skirts priced as low as $4.99, and the menswear department always has a huge selection of name-brand and designer suits starting at ridiculously low prices. We're going back!
Best Teen Girls Clothing Store Where Grown-Up Gals Can Shop
Urban Angels
If you want a trendy piece but don't want to have to venture into an indoor mall, visit the teen-style store Urban Angels at Tempe Marketplace. It carries a little bit of everything, including T-shirts, dresses, jammies, and accessories of all kinds. Find a small piece to add a trend to your wardrobe or go all out with a show-stopping dress. Why leave all the good stuff for kids?
Once your eyeballs adjust, you'll realize this bounteous cavern contains more than just wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling rhinestone and crystal bibs, in every color that's ever graced a quinceañera or prom. Faux pearls, from believable to cocktail-onion size, share space with handbags drenched in satin roses, statement necklaces, and every kind of hat embellished with every kind of stud. Among the pathologically sparkly bangles, belts, cuffs, tiaras, navel jewelry, and hair ornaments, you'll even find a few baubles targeting goths and hipsters. Prices are clearly displayed, but "Ask assistance for details," as the sign obliquely suggests, to discover secret sale items. Arrrrr!
This is the place to go for straightforward, sort of old-school glasses on the cheap. How does $29 sound? They don't do your vision test, so you'll have to head to your optometrist for that, but bring in your prescription and they'll hook you up with a non-fussy pair of spectacles for a song. We've even seen a funky (in a good way) pair or two come out of Lesco.
We got roped into helping a total stranger pick out an engagement ring for his wife-to-be — not the sort of thing we would normally find ourselves doing, but that's the kind of thing that happens at family-owned and -operated C & G Jewelers. The warm, pleasant atmosphere just sort of fosters this kind of down-home friendliness from staff and customers alike. Not that people go to C & G looking for a nice place to meet others. Smart shoppers and fans of gold and diamonds head there in search of treasures — and always find them, naturally. New and vintage watches, one-of-a-kind cocktail rings and earrings, and tennis bracelets galore — that's what discerning jewelry shoppers want, and always get, from C & G. The friendly atmosphere is just a shiny bonus.
Red Hot Robot's website has an entire page devoted to robots. We don't really have to say much more about them than that, but we will. The store's selection of metal mechanoids is second to none (in the known universe, that is), and Red Hot Robot also carries an artful array of vinyl toys in non-robot shapes. Do you need to get creative with a Munny vinyl toy? Maybe you're looking for some Japanese cell phone straps. If it's the sort of object your inner child desires, you'll find it here. Just don't expect to pay with your lunch money. Red Hot Robot sells designer toys, meaning that (for the most part) you're going to have to pay adult prices. Thank your robot overlords for your striped, plastic credit rectangles, human.
Best of Phoenix is a special occasion. Let's be honest: Fifty-one weeks a year, we're in a bad mood over here at New Times (if we're doing our jobs right) — bursting bubbles, dashing dreams, reminding you what a godforsaken, politically backward, culturally deprived hellhole you've chosen for a home.
Ahem. Sorry, we got carried away there for a moment. Point is, once a year we take the time to celebrate the things we love about Phoenix, our very favorite things. And one of those is Changing Hands Bookstore. In a town where chains rule and originality can be all but impossible to find amid rows of sun-baked little pink houses and white church spires, this bookstore makes our job easy, for it simply is the best. Not just the best bookstore in town, but the best independent bookstore in the country. Not the biggest, no, but certainly the best, because Changing Hands is not just a business. It's a community. Whether you're selling books or looking for new ones, running into old friends or making acquaintances at one of the many workshops, readings, and other events the store offers, you can't help feeling included here, and just a little bit smarter. You can buy a book anywhere (except Border's — sorry, couldn't resist) but there aren't many places left where you can get advice about what to read next from the clerks; displays that point to genres you didn't know you love; and piles of sale books that are practically free. There's nothing automated about this place, and that's what we love. We know more than one Kindle owner who reads the e-book and buys a hard copy, just to have a reason to come to Changing Hands. That's love. That's the love.
Some may consider us dinosaurs of the digital age, but we still love our bookstores, and we even mourned the loss of the Valley's Borders mega-stores. We especially love our handful of remaining independents, including this venerable (opened in 1989) and inviting little shop that sits one long block from the hustle and bustle of Scottsdale Road near Indian School Road. The name gives a big clue as to this store's leanings — mysteries and crime novels. Also available are anything that owner Barbara Peters and her crack staff like, which can mean travel and food books and good old-fashioned wordsmithing. Every visit to the "Pen" is a wonderful adventure, whether an author, famous or obscure, is doing a reading and signing, or not. Raymond Chandler would love this place.
Our bookshelves were already groaning when we happened upon this well-lit, well-organized place, which offers new and used books, CDs, DVDs, and record albums for next-to-nothing prices. Recent bestsellers share space with grand titles you missed a few years ago, all neatly arranged by category and alphabetically by author. Our search for those few missing Anne Tyler hardcovers is over, thanks to the simply titled Used Books and Records, run by a friendly staff who appears to love books as much as we do. One of them pointed us to the rare and collectible aisle, where we scored a first edition Bobbsey Twins and an ancient biography of Thomas Hardy that smells like an old library — love it! Lately, we run straight for this stunning Camelback Road shop every payday, much to the chagrin of our poor, over-taxed bookshelves.
Book Gallery owner Mike Riley is picky about the books that go on his shelves. While this doesn't bode well for people trying to sell him common paperbacks, it's a very good thing for his bibliophile customers, who don't have to dig through a bunch of secondhand Danielle Steele romance novels to find that rare first edition of John F. Kennedy's Profiles in Courage. Riley's inventory also boasts titles like Mr. Citizen by Harry S. Truman (signed by the former president himself), The Lord of the Rings trilogy (first U.K. editions with the original dustjackets), and a first edition of Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises. These are just a few examples of the thousands of rare, antique, and collectible books at the Book Gallery. There are plenty of affordable reads, too, but the magic of Book Gallery is that it's one of the few places to find some truly rare books — not just rare for Arizona, but the entire world.
We admit it. We've got a serious magazine addiction. Why, just the other night, we picked up the latest copies of Bazaar, Country Living, and Martha Stewart Living. And it cost us next to nothing. No, we weren't pilfering in the dentist's office; we were at Bookmans. Better known for used books, movies, and music, the magazine rack at the North Phoenix outpost of this Arizona-based chain is just divine, which is good since we haven't had a magazine fix since Borders packed up and moved out. This is even better, because not only do the mags cost next to nothing, you just might run across a copy of a periodical you missed. Or a whole set of them. In fact, we're wishing we'd grabbed that stack of back issues of the now-defunct ReadyMade magazine. Long after the magazine goes the way of the dinosaur, we bet Bookmans will be there to keep us in reading material. As for those copies of ReadyMade? Maybe they're still there. We'll be right back.
Pop quiz, comic geek: What do fossil records and comic shops have in common? Answer: Both are a window into a time and place that have long since passed. The glory days of comic stores with their boxes jammed full of meticulously plastic-sleeved, cardboard-backed wonders may be gone, but you can relive the memories of them at Ash Avenue Comics. In this shop, spandex-clad superheroes continue their eternal quests to defeat the forces of evil (also in spandex) 24 pages at a time. Just be prepared to wait for the shop to open. There are posted hours, mind you, but they're a bit more like guidelines than hard-and-fast hours of operation.
Porn. Everyone watches it. Young, old, rich, poor. Your priest. Your rabbi. Your County Attorney. Your grandma. Okay, maybe not Grandma, but Grandpa sure does. That's how he stays married to Grandma. That and Jack Daniel's.Free porn on the Internet makes things so much easier, so civilized. But if you want to watch Tera Patrick do the nasty for more than three minutes at a time, you still have to rent the occasional DVD. Free Internet porn is free for a reason, you see. That's why Fascinations is around. The adult store is well lit, scrupulously clean, and hires normal, nonchalant salespeople who can suggest the best bondage flick as if they were selling you a pair of sneakers. This is not to mention the endless supply of sex toys, lingerie, and weird novelties that we can't even begin to describe in these pages for the sake of, ahem, decency.So if you're a regular Joe or Jane, and are jonesing to rent the latest in fetish vids, or are hard up on a Saturday night and need some DVD assistance scratching that hard-to-reach spot, Fascinations is the place for you. And for your grandpa. Just don't let Grandma know.
Vinyl nerds, music connoisseurs, and anyone who yearns for a fresh stack of 12-inch platters full of their favorite tunes have made this downtown record shop a local landmark. Collectors think of Revolver as the best place to score inexpensive upgrades of titles they already own, as well as a great place to fill out their collections with elusive musical prizes. Penny-pinching music fans who think they might want to sample Laura Branigan (but don't want to pay eBay prices) love Revolver, where "Gloria" can be theirs for a buck (thanks to Revolver's stacked-to-the-ceiling back room, where one-buck bargains are the order of the day, every day). Can't think of the name of that song you danced to at your junior prom? The counter help here is unusually happy to assist you in tracking down that elusive song hit from your past. Our last visit netted a still-sealed Boyce and Hart LP, a dead-mint copy of Rachel Faro's ultra-rare third album, and a bootleg CD of some of Sinatra's V-Disc recordings. The well-organized stacks are augmented daily, and an embarrassment of riches awaits anyone in search of old jazz wax for less than $10 a pop.
The Bookmans location in Mesa has the larger CD stock of the two Bookmans stores in the Valley, but it's not just the size that makes the Mesa location stand out — it's the selection. Of the thousands of used CDs that find their way onto Bookmans' shelves every year, about 30 percent are things you won't be able to buy new at say, Best Buy or Target — such as soundtracks for '80s movies like Less Than Zero, early Modest Mouse CDs on indie labels, and obscure reggae box set collections. The other 70 percent of Bookmans' CDs are Top 40, rock, and indie albums selling for a fraction of the price they'd cost new. There's also plenty of local music in stock — CDs by Jimmy Eat World, Gin Blossoms, What Laura Says, Kongos, and many more Valley rockers line the shelves, at prices as low as $5 a CD. Best of all, you don't need to drop a wad of cash to walk out with a stack of music — Bookmans' trade rates are extremely fair.
Local skate shops have come and gone over the years — except for indie Cowtown. The "family"-owned and -operated skate shop had been slangin' the best boards and gear to Phoenix skate rats since 1996 (that's three years before the first Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game). The owners credit their success to outstanding customer service and knowledge of the industry — two things that are hard to come by these days, especially in the skateboard world (i.e., that shop in the mall). We love Cowtown for its extensive line of the latest and greatest skate shoes, the best shirts, and the biggest selection of boards in the Valley. If you're lucky, you might even stumble upon a few rare collectible decks (we recently scored a Toy Machine Black Worm of Death). Be sure to look out for newest gear from local skate companies like Old Man Army and AZPX, and don't miss the annual shop sponsored contest, The PHX AM.
Most of us are not what are known as "mountain bikers" or "road warriors" — or anything close. We prefer, every so often, to ride a few gentle miles to a local coffeehouse or bookstore or, on (rare) occasion, get some real exercise and try to take the edge off the guilt we feel after eating like idiots. But our rinky-dink bicycle needs love and attention just like those fancy-pants ones, and we have had occasion to frequent many a shop around the Valley over the years. Our favorite? This venerable homegrown spot just north of East Indian School Road. What makes this joint stick out is the customer service — so sincere and helpful that it borders on a counseling session. A woman named Mary (she's the manager) recently figured out just how much we should spend on a new bike, and it was far less than what we had reckoned (or budgeted for). No one at this place will take you for a ride! They'll just send you home with a sweet one.
If you are looking for a big showroom with lots of new bikes, helmets, and wheels, this is not the place for you. But if you need a solid, honest wrench to fix up your clunker or tune up your speed machine, go see Rene at the Garage. A mechanic for 20-plus years, this guy is living his dream with his shop tucked away in El Mercado Plaza, in the center of Guadalupe. He does offer a few bikes on consignment, but his shop mainly is just as the name states: a garage. If he can't fix it or get it fixed for you, chances are, it can't be fixed at all.
Tucked on the western edge of the Foothill Acres neighborhood in North Phoenix, Try Me Bicycle Shop is not exactly where one thinks to go for that rare part to get the old Schwinn or Raleigh up and running again. But this shop has been in business for nearly 40 years and has been collecting the odd part for every type of bike over that time. The showroom is filled with family-friendly cruiser and comfort bikes — nothing super-high- end here. It's that backroom inventory of old and hard-to-find parts that makes this place truly special.
If you never made it to Diane Ribbon and Notion, you have our condolences. Truly, the place was life-altering, if you have an affinity for nostalgia or a need for art supplies. If you like vintage crafts, well, like we said, we're sorry. The giant old warehouse was stuck in the '70s (in a good way), supplying everything from doll heads to pom-poms and a lot in between. Like many old-school art supply stores, it closed a few years ago.Enter Beatrice Moore. Literally. With a truck. The Grand Avenue-based artist and businesswoman bought an obscene amount of Diane's inventory and drove it over to her studio, where she hoarded some of it and packed the rest up to sell in her store Kooky Krafts. Behold: It's the plastic clown head you've been looking for! The fake birds you never knew you needed. The vintage bump chenille that Moore will explain is just about impossible to find. Get inspiration from her fake cakes and colorful wreaths, as well as the art of other locals on display. And walk out with your fair share of vintage craft supplies — who knows when you'll need them?!
We admit we're not so touchy-feely around here at New Times, but we aren't ashamed to tell you that we got all warm and fuzzy when we heard about Treasures4Teachers. Well, that's not exactly true. At first, we couldn't believe that someone had such an incredible idea and made it happen! Then we got warm all over. And excited. And kind of wished we were teachers, so we could take advantage of this amazing nonprofit program. Instead, we'll just tell you all about it. If you are a teacher (and the definition of "teacher" has a wide range, from traditional public school teacher to home-schooler to daycare provider) you can show up at this Tempe warehouse with the proper ID (details on their website) and for $5 a bag (and we hear it's a big bag!) load up on all sorts of teaching supplies — everything from pens and pencils to sticky notes and file folders. Sometimes there's furniture (the rules are different there, no bag) and the stock changes daily, so you never know what you might find — but the teachers we've spoken with says it's always worth the trip.
Wet Paint has been supplying the urban subversive with a wide array of aerosol paints, markers, and drippy inks for more than a decade. But if taking your art to the streets isn't your gig, you can count on Wet Paint for such traditional fine-art supplies as oil paints, charcoal, and watercolors. Over the years, this family-run establishment has extended its influence beyond the retail market with its involvement in community art shows and has fostered and helped shape the ever-growing Valley art scene.
A friend of ours is an art teacher who's always scouting around for great deals, so we're deeply aware that sable hair brushes can't be had for less money than at Aaron Bros. The Camelback location of Aaron Bros. is the one to which the other stores in the chain ship last season's stuff, and anyone interested in a package of high-quality canvases for dirt-cheap or a handful of charcoal pastels should drop in here and head to the back. On our last trip, we scored a children's art set marked down from $30 to five bucks; a slightly dinged painter's palette for $2, and a whole box of artist-quality watercolors for half-off. Frames for your masterpieces are also super-cheap here — check out the always-overflowing table of marked-down frames and photo albums over in the corner.
This family-owned bead store offers an extensive selection of beads, from Bohemian glass to freshwater pearls, in a wide variety of colors and sizes. Prices are reasonable and employees are friendly, not to mention patient with artists-in-training who are just learning the craft. D&I's trained staff offers free beading classes, guides you on how to repair or make your own jewelry and will even create special jewelry, for your special occasion, such as a wedding.
If you are a scrapbooking fool, then chances are you already know about Scrapbooks Etc. in Mesa. If you are a novice, then you need to see all the goodies at this East Valley shop. Beyond scrapbooking supplies, it carries fabric, ribbon, and loads of paper. It also offers sewing and scrapbooking classes as well as classes for kids. This shop offers so many gems you should plan a couple of hours when visiting.
The Creative Quest was born out of a love that four friends had for all things creative and crafty. While this place offers the best art rubber stamps in town, it also has a fabulous array of papers, book-arts supplies and embellishments. Love this stuff but not sure what to do with it? The gals of The Creative Quest also offer hands-on classes that teach techniques and materials, so plan on more than just shopping for stamps at this West Valley hot spot.
If you are a fabric junkie, then this is the spot for unique fabrics that you can't find at other places in town. The big-box fabric stores offer quantity, sure, but everything looks the same. At Quiltz, you'll find fabrics designed by artists, designers, and quilters who really know the wants and needs of crafty creatives who work with fabric. The shop is organized by brand and theme, and also by color, so this makes your shopping easier and/or makes you buy more — either way, the variety is where it's at.
It's not pretty, and, at first glance, it may look like an unorganized mess, but trust us, once you go SAS, you'll never go back. Prepare for a treasure hunt as you wade through a sea of fabrics from a bygone era, dig through barrels of patches and sift through boxes of buttons. Don't worry — you're going to find what you need, though — we swear. And once you find it, you are going to be shocked at how cheap it is. We don't know of another place in town where you can literally put together an entire Halloween costume for under $10. Bonus: This isn't your mother's fabric store — the people-watching is just as good as the prices. We won't go into details — you'll have to check it out for yourself.
This nonprofit needlepoint and knitting shop carries so many different threads and yarns that walking through the place feels like wandering a warehouse — or a big national crafts store (without, of course, the cranky employees who seem to not have time to chat about your project). At Family Arts, someone's always eager to hear about what you're stitching or knitting and to help in any way he or she can. The shop even has an in-house painter who'll take your ideas and turn them into stitchable pieces. And whether your piece requires silk, wool, suede, fur, or cotton, Family Arts has got the goods, with hundreds of threads, yarn, and accessories to choose from. If you don't want to start from scratch, you can pick up one of the store's more than two dozen designer canvases (or have them order one, if you don't see what you want). There are also regular needlepoint and knitting classes for newbies and veterans alike, as well as quarterly trunk shows. Idle hands? Not here.
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