Gallery 360
Imagine the perfect art fair: no crowds, no crying kids, and no lawn ornaments—only an eclectic mix of fine pieces, made by skilled artisans. Such is life at Gallery 360, where owner Merry Beck hand-picks paintings, sculptures, and mixed media, as well as ceramics, clothing, jewelry, and gifts for her contemporary gallery and retail shop. The designs—from Karen Gilbert’s museum-quality, hand-blown glass jewelry to Emily Dyer’s whimsical pottery—are fresh and modern. The artists are mostly local. And the friendly and knowledgeable staff is eager to make art accessible. 3011 W. 50th St., 612-925-2400
Extrados
The word extrados refers to the exterior curve of an arch, and is a nod to owner Leah Simon-Clarke and her highly trained staff who specialize in perfecting the arch and curve of their clients’ eyebrows. Other noteworthy services include eyelash perms and extensions, and organic facial peels. The innovative, exclusive product lines that Simon-Clarke sources for her salon-spa further add to the luxury experience. 3100 W. 50th St., 612-920-0227
Hunt & Gather
More boutique than antique store, Hunt & Gather is a hot spot for collectors and treasure hunters alike. Goods are grouped by vendors (almost 30 of them) who create vignettes that tell a story. Their themed collections—art deco, cottage, mid-century modern, Hawaiian kitsch, shabby chic—inspire new ways to use old things. The selection is mind-boggling, and the store is two stories, so set aside plenty of time to explore—or take a cue from regulars and shop often. 4944 Xerxes Ave. S., 612-455-0250
Pinky’s
Bring your girlfriends and pop into Pinky’s for a mani-pedi at this sweet, bubblegum pink, nails-only spot. One of the Cities’ best-kept beauty secrets: Pinky’s $15 manicures and $25 pedicure special, offered Monday through Thursday from 9 to noon. 3100 W. 50th St., 612-925-4000
Michael’s Lamp Studio
This lighting emporium is jam-packed from floor to ceiling with innumerable shapes, sizes, styles, and price points of lamps and shades. From traditional to Tiffany to toile, there’s a shade to match every base—including the antique figurine lamp you inherited from Great Aunt Gertrude—just be sure to bring it with you for a proper fitting. 3101 W. 50th St., 612-926-9147
Shop in the City
A dizzying, if not random, assortment of cards, books, clothes, jewelry, home décor, kitchen gadgets, scented bath products, and Vera Bradley bags and accessories makes this girly general store a stand-by for last-minute hostess gifts, stocking stuffers, and little indulgences. 4737 Chicago Ave., 612-825-2808
Woody’s Pet Food Deli
Michelle and Enrique Palma believe that pets deserve real food, too. After the couple adopted two dogs that were wracked with health issues, they discovered the benefits of feeding them a diet rich in whole foods and free of fillers, preservatives, and artificial flavorings. In an effort to educate other pet owners, the Palmas opened Woody’s this summer, naming it after their Shepherd mix. On the menu: natural treats, supplements, and wholesome, meat-based meals that the owners whip up themselves. 3008 W. 50th St., 612-208-0335
