2013 Best of Des Moines- SHOPPING

2/27/2013

As the old adage goes, any job worth doing is worth doing right. Whether you’re flipping burgers at a local bar and grill, parading a catwalk dressed in drag, balancing the budget of a multi-million dollar corporation or running the state government, we believe you should take pride in your work. When you do, it shows, and it is rewarded in community trust, an increase in business and eventually, more money in the old bank account.

Cityview’s Best Of Des Moines contest is an example of such rewards in motion. It’s the people — the client, the customer, the consumer — who appreciate a local person, product or service enough to get out and vote for it as their favorite, as Des Moines’ best above all others. Earning the appreciation, respect and recognition of the public is its own reward, one that is priceless.

In the spirit of true merit and appreciation, we bring you another edition of our Best Of Des Moines — our readers’ choices for all things dining, drinking, shopping and more. “Congratulations” doesn’t quite say enough, but “thank you” is a start.

EATS

SHOPPING

NIGHTLIFE/CULTURE

SPORTS/REC

BEST OF THE REST

 

 

Best Local Men’s Clothing Store

Mr. B’s

The B must stand for Best, because voters picked this store above all others for men’s clothes shopping in the metro. Men enjoy the customer service, skilled tailors and the premiere clothing lines as well as the unique shopping experience that has built a loyal clientele for 40 years. There’s no question Mr. B’s tradition is alive and well in central Iowa and staying strong with Best Of voters.

1995 N.W. 86th St., Clive, 276-8589, www.mrbclothing.com

Runners-up: Badowers; G and L Clothing

 

Best Local Women’s Clothing Store

Bridal Elegance

This isn’t the store’s first “Best Of” win — far from it, in fact. Voters agree Bridal Elegance is the best choice for its selection of quality, name-brand designers. Readers go to Bridal Elegance for those top-notch dresses that will help make those special occasions even more memorable.

2791 100 St., Urbandale, 276-1374, http://bridalelegancedsm.com

Runners-up: Mint L.A.; Aimee

 

Best Local Children’s Clothing Store

Gap Kids

Gap Kids earned the top spot among children’s clothing store options, catering to every child by offering both slim- and plus-sizes as well as casual jeans and tees that keep local kids trendy. The readers love that the store offers a diverse range of clothing, making it a one-stop shop when buying for kids of all ages.

Multiple Locations.

Runners-up: Children’s Place; Kohl’s

 

Best Local Thrift Shop

Goodwill

“Do it Grandpa style” like Macklemore by heading to what our readers have deemed Des Moines’ best place for popping tags, Goodwill. Every trip to Goodwill is an adventure, as the clothes will always be different in style. Shoppers might stumble upon an old concert tee from a favorite band or even make a rare designer find. “Antique Road Show,” here we come.

Multiple Locations.

Runners-up: Salvation Army; Worn

 

Best Local Vintage Consignment Shop

Atomic Garage

This Valley Junction gem is no longer a secret, because our readers have made Atomic Garage a constant in this category. The store offers fun, colorful clothes from decades past that make it popular around Halloween and for era parties. But there is much more than just clothes at the store. You can also find fun accessories and other far-out décor.

127 5th St., West Des Moines, 274-8787.

Runners-up: Dorothea’s Closet; Hill Vintage & Knits

 

Best Local Clothing Boutique

Bridal Elegance

Not just for the brides, this store offers a number of other services and items, making it a one-stop shop for the entire bridal party — the best one-stop shop, according to our readers. In addition to bridal gowns, Bridal Elegance also has bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses, mother’s dresses and tuxedos. Open seven days a week, it even offers in-house alterations and adjustments to get the perfect fit.

2791 100 St., Urbandale, 276-1374, http://bridalelegancedsm.com

Runners-up: Mint L.A.; Aimee

 

Best Local Bride Shop

Bridal Elegance

For a wide selection of the best of the best in bridal wear, the readers have once again voted Bridal Elegance as No. 1. Women in the Des Moines area can’t seem to get enough of the store, voting for it in multiple Best Of categories year after year. Perhaps it’s that personal touch and attention the salespeople give each client.

2791 100 St., Urbandale, 276-1374, http://bridalelegancedsm.com

Runners-up: Weddings by Design; Schaffers

 

Best Local Purse Store

La La Handbags

Nothing brings together a great outfit like a purse to match. When on the hunt for the perfect purse, our readers turn to La La. Always up on the latest trends, the store receives new styles and merchandise regularly to supply its customers with the newest products. Although the store specializes in purses, it also carries plenty of belts, scarves and other accessories to go with that hot new purse.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Coach; Von Maur

 

Best Local Shoe Store

Von Maur

Shoppers of all genders, ages and walks of life are bound to find a shoe to fit their style at Von Maur, our readers’ top pick this year. Whether you’re looking for tennis shoes, sandals, boots or designer and dress shoes, Von Maur has it all. With its frequent sales and clearances, it covers every budget, dedicating an entire room to all the on-sale shoes.

Valley West Mall, 1551 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines, 223-1311

Runners-up: Peep Tow; Fit 2 Be Tied

 

Best New Store

Mint L.A.

With clothes, bags and accessories, Mint L.A. has everything needed to revamp the wardrobe. Moderate prices and a wide selection of inventory make it a favorite among voters. A second store recently opened in West Glen, making it even more available for customers to get that Mint fix on either side of the metro.

5515 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines, 836-5598; 340 S.W. 5th St., Des Moines

Runners-up: Funky Finds; Whole Foods

 

Best Local Music Store

Way Back Records

Cityview readers say Way Back Records has the best selection of rare and classic vinyl as well as CDs, posters and other music memorabilia (sometimes autographed or used by a famous musician) that’s otherwise hard to find. If it doesn’t have what customers are looking for, the employees will take requests and relentlessly search until they find the records to add to the store’s already vast collection. No wonder the readers voted it above all others this year.

3524 6th Ave., Des Moines, 282-5073

Runners-up: ZZZ Records; Jay’s CD and Hobby

 

Best Local Store for Gamers

GameStop

GameStop is to gamers what Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory is to the plump, candy monger Augustus Gloop. To Cityview readers, GameStop is the best local store for everything gaming. The store carries both new and used games while also offering a unique trading system, giving the power to the players.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Jay’s CD and Hobby; Gamers

 

Best Local Bookstore

Beaverdale Books

Looking for a good read? Cityview readers turn to Beaverdale Books for the best selection. Unlike chain bookstores, Beaverdale Books is warm, friendly and personal, making it the winner again this year.

2629 Beaver Ave., Des Moines, 279-5400, www.beaverdalebooks.com

Runners-up: Barnes and Noble; Half Price Books

 

Best Used Book Store

Half Price Books

When it comes to sharing, there’s nothing quite like the intimacy of passing along a good book after you’re through with it. Voters said Half Price Books is just the place for such an exchange among friends, family or strangers. A book can be something two opposite people might have in common — a link between two souls — and Half Price Books has rows and rows of them. It also hosts specials throughout the year such as the 15th annual Half Pint Library Book Drive, running through March 31, which benefits non-profits. The store also offers music, games and movies in its vast collection. Stop in and prepare to spend some quality time.

10201 University Ave., Clive, 224-4429, www.hpb.com

Runners-up: Plain Talk Books and Coffee; Beaverdale Books

 

Best Local Car Wash

Mister Car Wash

Mister Car Wash does the best job of getting our readers’ cars looking brand spanking new. Not only does the express wash offer everything voters are looking for down to the last detail, but the lounge inside allows users to kick back with a a snack while they wait.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Executive Laser; Soaks

 

Best Local Auto Shop

Westside Auto Pros

If you don’t know these guys from making use of their services, you probably remember the silly ads. This shop offers a number of auto services and caters to fleets as well. Readers voted it the best because of the fast and quality work, not to mention the above-and-beyond customer service. It’s these great traits that keep customers coming back and makes it No. 1 with voters.

1901 N.W. 92nd Court, Clive, 225-9090, http://westsideautopros.com

Runners-up: Drake Garage; Higgins Plaza

 

Best Car Dealership (Domestic)

Stivers Ford Lincoln

If you’re looking for American-made, our readers recommend Stivers above all others. Not only is it Des Moines’ favorite, but it’s “Iowa’s No. 1 Ford and Lincoln dealer.” Along with its new inventory, the dealership also offers a number of certified and pre-owned vehicles, and Best Of voters like that.

1450 E. Hickman Road, Waukee, (888) 360-5284, http://stiversfordiowa.com

Runners-up: Karl Chevrolet; Willis Cadillac

 

Best Car Dealership (Foreign)

Willis Auto Campus

The readers have spoken, and they think the best place to get a classy, foreign car in town is Willis Auto Campus. The selection is massive, the service is friendly and readers appreciate that a handshake still means something to seal a deal.

212 N.W. 100th St., Des Moines, (877) 351-4620

Runners-up: Toyota of Des Moines; Hummels Nissan

 

Best Motorcycle Shop

Struthers Brothers

Bikers are chomping at the bit to get back on two wheels after a long winter. Any time is a perfect time to check out a new motorcycle from Struthers Brothers, this year’s Best Motorcycle Shop winner. It carries top names such as Suzuki, Triumph and Kawasaki and provides both new and used models.

191 N.W. 2nd Ave., Des Moines, 282-3634, www.sturthersbros.com

Runners-up: Big Barn Harley Davidson; Fenders Cycle

 

Best Bicycle Shop

Bike World

Readers support the store that supports the sport, and they say Bike World is the best. The store carries everything cyclists need, including bikes, helmets, shoes, clothes and accessories, not to mention the experts behind the counter who are there for consumers’ consultation needs. It also offers parts and people qualified to make the necessary repairs when things go wrong on the road.

Multiple locations, http://bikeworldiowa.com

Runners-up: Rasmussen; Ichi

 

Best Liquor Store

Hy-Vee

An important aspect of a liquor store is selection, and Hy-Vee is the best in that criterion, according to our readers. It carries every kind of spirit from beer, liquor, wine and all the fixins to do up a cocktail right. For the indecisive or experimental, the store also hosts liquor, beer and wine tastings frequently, and our readers know it’s going to be a good night when they find themselves stumbling into a tasting event by accident while grabbing a quick case of beer.

Multiple locations, www.hy-vee.com

Runners-up: Ingersoll Wine and Spirits; Central City Liquors

 

Best Wine Store

Hy-Vee

With a wide range of brands, styles and discounts, Cityview readers have voted Hy-Vee as the best wine store in Des Moines. Whether they favor whites, reds, Italian or Iowan, or something in between, our readers know Hy-Vee is stocked with wines from all over the world to give them the best and freshest flavors for a smooth, delicious vino every time.

Multiple locations, www.hy-vee.com

Runners-up: Ingersoll Wine and Spirits, Gateway Market

 

Best Pharmacy

Hy-Vee

Hy-Vee has good drugs, from name-brands to generics. It also has so many locations in the greater metro area that it’s easy for our readers to fill or pick up their prescriptions in almost any neighborhood. Safety is an important consideration in the pharmaceutical business, so each Hy-Vee prescription goes through a safety verification process. Responsible. No wonder it’s been voted the best.

Multiple locations, www.hy-vee.com

Runners-up: Walgreens; Medicap

 

Best Health Food Store

Campbell’s Nutrition

Offering both local and organic food, Campbell’s is committed to promoting good health, which is why it has made the top tier of this category so many years by voters. It carries a wide range of vitamins, supplements and gluten-free products, too. After 75 years in business, Campbell’s staff knows what they’re doing, even if its novice customers don’t.

Multiple locations, http://campbellsnutrition.com

Runners-up: Whole Foods; Hy-Vee

 

Best Grocery Store

Hy-Vee

Hy-Vee stores are big, but we’re not sure they have any room left on the wall for another Cityview Best Of Des Moines award. Our readers love that Hy-Vee offers everything in a superstore’s range but with the friendliness of a neighborhood mom-and-pop shop. Want groceries, household items, medications and a sit-down meal from the in-house restaurant? This is where to go. That’s why voters choose Hy-Vee as the best year after year.

Multiple locations, www.hy-vee.com

Runners-up: Fareway; Dahl’s

 

Best Furniture Store

Homemakers

Boasting Iowa’s largest furniture store, readers love Homemakers, where they can get stylish couches, beds, rugs, accessories and everything else needed to make a house a home, all at affordable prices. And free cookies!

10215 Douglas Ave., Urbandale, 276-2772,

www.shophomemakers.com

Runners-up: Slumberland; Redeker’s

 

Best Jewelry Store

Joseph’s Jewelers

Is there a better gift for a woman than jewelry? No, no there’s not. Jewels are keepsakes that can be passed down for generations. Folks at Joseph’s know that, and our readers know they know that. When looking to lavish their loved ones with a nice gift, Best Of voters turn to Joseph’s for their happily ever after.

Multiple locations, www.josephsjewelers.com

Runners-up: 2AU; Anglo International

 

Best Antique Store

Brass Armadillo

With a prime location along a national interstate highway, more than 450 antiques and collectibles in store — and a really catchy song on its radio commercials — it’s impossible not to know about the Brass Armadillo. Voters gave it top honors this year. Be sure to carve out some time for a visit, though, because with so much to browse, it could be a while.

701 N.E. 50th Ave., Des Moines, 282-0082, http://brassarmadillo.com

Runners-up: A Okay Antiques; Found Things

 

Best Art Gallery

Olson-Larsen Gallery

Since 1979, Olson Larson has been bringing Des Moines contemporary art by Midwest artists, and for that the readers have made it their pick for Des Moines’ best of them all. The gallery has all types of art: photography, sculpture, paintings and even mixed media. With big-name clients all over town, check this place out for reputable art or just for a fun peek at some crafty creations.

203 Fifth St., West Des Moines, 277-6734, www.olsonlarsen.com

Runners-up: Moberg; Kavanaugh

 

Best Hair Salon

Salon Tec

When readers need a new ’do, they go to Salon Tec. Its stylists are committed to creating the looks people love from the movies and magazines and making them a reality in the mirror. Monthly specials, a customer mailing list and frequent Twitter updates help keep customers current on what’s going on at the salon and even give hair tips. Voting it the best is just a way for its clients to show their appreciation.

1234 Grand Ave., West Des Moines, 222-0200, www.salontecdsm.com

Runners-up: Salon Utopia; Bombshell Betty’s

 

Best Spa

East Village Spa

Readers have voted East Village Spa No. 1 again. After winning in 2011 and 2012, the spa still remains the favorite with our readers. Customers rave about the addictive massages, fair prices and attentive staff. It’s no wonder the salon continues to earn the top spot.

315 E. Fifth St., No. 121, 309-2904, www.evdayspa.com

Runners-up: (tie) Addie Palmer; The Spa at West Glen; Sahar’s

 

Best Tanning Salon

Classic Tan

Whether you’re going on vacation or just looking to get a little color in the midst of this gloomy winter, Classic Tan has got your back and your front. That’s why it was voted as Des Moines’ best this year. With multiple locations around the metro and walk-ins welcomed, that sun-kissed glow is there for the taking.

Multiple locatons, www.classictan.com

Runners-up: Sun Seekers; Soleil Tan Spa

 

Best Body Piercing/Tattoo Shop

Color Works Tattoo and Body Piercing

Color Works has done it again with voters. Tattoos are forever, and readers trust the artists at Color Works to do it better than anyone else. Even if it’s just a piercing, at Color Works, customers know the one holding the gun or the needle is a pro.

1551 Valley West Drive, No. 104B, West Des Moines, 457-3888

Runners-up: Skin Kitchen; Iron Heart

 

Best Place for Aesthetic Surgery

Iowa Clinic

With more than 140 physicians specializing in 40 different practices, our readers claim the Iowa Clinic can meet any and all of their needs. Voters trust that these physicians are committed to giving the best care possible, and this is why our readers have deemed it the best.

5950 University Ave., West Des Moines, 875-9000, www.iowaclinic.com

Runners-up: Heartland; Koch Plastic Surgery

 

Best Outdoor or Sporting Goods Store

Scheel’s

Scheel’s has got it all for every sport, sports fan and sportsman under the sun, and that’s why readers have voted for it over all others. From hunting to snowboarding to soccer to kayaking, Scheel’s offers all the top products. No matter what your sport is, this store has everything Best Of voters need to go pro.

101 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines, 727-4065

Runners-up: Bass Pro Shop; Back Country

 

Best Hardware Store

Ace Hardware

When tackling any kind of home improvement project, readers go to Ace Hardware. For projects that are big, small or somewhere in between, this store and its employees are both knowledgeable and helpful in getting customers the right products for the job. Even if it’s just that craft on Pinterest you’ve been dying to try, our readers say Ace can help get you started.

Multiple locations.

Runner’s up: Millers; True Value

 

Best Locally Owned Store

Frackleberrys

Cityview readers think Frackelberrys is frackin’ fabulous. Holding court in Historic Valley Junction since 2007, which is perhaps the mecca for locally-owned stores in central Iowa, readers say this store has all kinds of fun, little trinkets that make it the best.

224 5th St., West Des Moines, 255-1410, www.frackleberrys.com

Runners-up: Bridal Elegance; Eden

 

Best Shopping District

East Village

When looking to introduce a Des Moines first-timer to this beautiful city, voters agree the East Village is the place to start. Close to many Des Moines staples and landmarks, such as Capitol Hill and the Simon Estes amphitheater, our readers know they can find all types of stores, culture and authentic spots in this area, which is why it is their choice spot to eat, drink, shop and make memories.

Runners-up: Valley Junction; Jordan Creek Town Center

 

Best Local Flower Shop

Boesen the Florist

Nothing can improve a person’s mood faster than a brightly-colored, fresh and fragrant floral arrangement. And when it comes to brightening someone’s day, our readers say Boesens is where to go for the best. To be extra nice, upgrade an order to include fruit and chocolate, too. How sweet.

Multiple locations, www.boesen.com

Runners-up: Hy-Vee; Plaza Florist

 

Best Adult Store

Romantix

Cityview readers love sex. But then again, who doesn’t? Our readers are givers — well, maybe some of them are receivers, but whatever your pleasure, it’s their passion at Romantix, and our readers know it. Male or female, the store caters to that wild side with all kinds of products to get you off alone or with a partner.

Multiple locations, http://romantixonline.com

Runners-up: Christal’s; The Gallery

 

Best Local Hotel/Motel

Hotel Fort Des Moines

Best Of voters apparently enjoy getting treated like royalty, which is the promise of Hotel Fort Des Moines. Located in the heart of the city, and home to the swanky French restaurant, Django, many big names have walked these halls. If it’s good enough for the likes of Mae West and Jack Kennedy, it’s just fine for our readers.

1000 Walnut St., Des Moines, 243-1161, www.hotelfortdesmoines.com

Runners-up: Renaissance Savery; Suites of 800 Locust

 

Best Mom and Pop

Frackleberrys

The best thing about a mom-and-pop shop is that je ne sais quoi extra touch. The friendly employees and the personal experience make it Des Moines’ best, according to our readers. It’s easy to see why it earned top honors this year.

224 5th St., West Des Moines, 255-1410, www.frackleberrys.com

Runners-up: Jay’s CD and Hobby, B and B Grocery

 

Best Iowa Product

Templeton Rye

Not only is Templeton Rye the favorite among our readers, it’s becoming a favorite all over the country. “The good stuff” even had a cameo on HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire.” Bottom line: If it’s good enough for 1920s-era gangsters, then it must be pretty damn good.

www.templetonrye.com

Runners-up: Maytag; Raygun

 

Best Gift Shop

Frackleberrys

Offering all types of gifts from apparel, cards and décor, readers flock to Frackleberrys. With an inventory that’s constantly being updated, guests can always find something new and fresh. It’s a great conversation piece — and it’s just fun to say.

224 5th St., West Des Moines, 255-1410, www.frackleberrys.com

Runners-up: Eden; Raygun

 

Best Local Winery

Jasper Winery

A winery in the middle of Des Moines? Who knew? Not only does Jasper Winery grow its own grapes and produce its own wines that readers love, but there are also special tasting events with which to find a favorite. Better yet, book it as a venue for a private party.

2400 George Flagg Parkway., Des Moines, 282-9463, www.jasperwinery.com

Runners-up: Summerset; Snus Hill

 

Best Place to Buy a Cell Phone

U.S. Cellular

Smartphone, family plans, 4G? What does it all mean?! When readers are faced with complex phone questions or are wanting a new phone with a new plan, they go to U.S. Cellular, which they say is the best place to buy a cell phone. With optimal coverage and great rewards, voters trust their signal to U.S. Cellular.

Multiple locations, www.uscc.com

Runners-up: Verizon Wireless; Sprint

 

Best Herbal/Nutritional Supplement Store

Campbell’s Nutrition

With a wide range of herbal and nutritional supplements, readers picked Campbell’s as No. 1. The staff there is well versed in its products and committed to helping customers get what they need. Our readers swear by it.

Multiple locations, http://campbellsnutrition.com

Runners-up: Max Muscle; New City Market

 

Best Place to Buy Makeup

Vanity and Glamour Cosmetics

It’s not just makeup. For some people, it’s magic. Being able to apply makeup well is a fine art, and our readers like that these artists are more than willing to share their expert craft, as Vanity and Glamour Cosmetics also offers lesson seminars.

412 E 5th St., Suite B, 778-9705, www.vgcosmetics.com

Runners-up: Ulta; Sephora

 

Best Ethnic Grocery Store

La Tapatia Tienda Mexicana

When looking to make an authentic Mexican meal, readers say La Tapatia is the best. For specialty items and real south-of-the-border flavor, voters look no further than La Tapatia Tienda Mexicana. Viva la Mexico!

Multiple locations

Runners-up: Graziano’s; Double Dragon

 

Best Bank

Wells Fargo

For any type of banking — personal, commercial or small business — readers agree that Wells Fargo is their go-to bank. With so many locations and ATMs, both locally and nationally, customers are able to avoid pesky ATM fees. Wells Fargo also offers online banking for easy access to finances anywhere, which are just a few of the reasons why our readers deem it the best bank.

Multiple locations, www.wellfargo.com

Runners-up: Veridian Credit Union; Bankers Trust

 

Best Place to Purchase a Musical Instrument

Rieman Music Inc.

Chicks digs guys who play guitar. And guys find women behind a six-string sexy as well. It’s never too late to learn to play, in which case, our readers picked Rieman as the best. With top names in stock, voters know they’re getting top quality instruments. Rieman also offers professional music lessons. Start now, and this time next year Johnny Depp could be presenting you with the Best New Artist Award at the Grammys. You could be the next YouTube sensation!

Multiple locations, www.riemanmusic.com

Runners-up: Uptempo; Professional Music Center

 

Best Computer Repair Shop

DIT Computers

Computers and their inner workings remain a mystery to most of us mere mortals, so readers voted the geniuses at DIT Computers as the best repair shop to help them out. Not just a repair shop, though, the store also carries a number of other computer items and accessories. The special attention to details and customers is what voters feel sets it apart.

11127 Plum Drive, Urbandale, 254-9355, www.ditcorp.com

Runners-up: Dymin Systems; Little Dog Tech

 

Best Place to Buy an Off-Road Vehicle

Struthers Brothers

There’s a lot of unchartered terrain in Iowa, and what better way to explore it than with an off-road vehicle from Struthers Brothers? Quality parts and repair services can also be found in one stop here, making Struthers Brothers our readers’ favorite.

191 N.W. Second Ave., 282-3634, www.struthersbros.com

Runners-up: Fender Cycle; Van Wall

 

Best Place to Get a Costume

Theatrical Shop

What’s more fun than picking out a Halloween costume or getting dressed up for a theme party? There’s no better place to do it than the Theatrical Shop, according to Best Of results. The friendly staff can help you find just what need for that superhero or monster party your crazy friend is having.

145 Fifth St., West Des Moines, 274-6458, www.theatricalshop.com

Runners-up: Nobbies; Atomic Garage

 

Best Pawn Shop

The Pawn Store

Jewelry, watches, antiques. The Pawn Store has it all. When looking for something not found anywhere else, readers head here. The Pawn Store earned the highest accolades by our readers this year. Haggle with the guys behind the counter and pretend you’re on “Pawn Stars.”

3005 Douglas Ave., Des Moines,

277-4878

Runners-up: Solar Loan and Pawn; A to Z Pawn

 

Best Place to Get Your Nails Done

East Village Spa

Exfoliation, moisture, a little massage, some color — who wouldn’t want to get their nails done at the East Village Spa? Readers keep coming back, which is why EV Spa keeps coming back to the Des Moines Best Of winners’ circle. Voters likely enjoy all the different options and the opportunity to be pampered like princesses.

315 E. Fifth St. #121, Des Moines,

309-2904, www.evspa.com

Runners-up: Top Nails; Truly Nails

 

Best Convenience Store

Quik Trip

“Hello!” That’s what everyone hears when he or she walks in the door — everyone, every time. Readers agree Quik Trip is the best place to stop for friendly service and snack and drink options that are sure to satisfy everyone in the car.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Casey’s General Stores; Hy-Vee

 

Best Moving Company

Two Men And A Truck

As the late comedian George Carlin once noted, our stuff is important to us — we’re obsessed with our stuff, in fact. That’s where Two Men And A Truck come in. Home or business, our readers believe these are movers who really care and who will make their moving experience infinitely better — the best, actually.

3934 N.W. Urbandale Drive, Urbandale, 276-7170, www.twomenandatruck.com

Runners-up: Lint Van Lines; Iowa Moving 1

 

Best Place to Buy Cigars/Cigarettes

David’s Fine Tobaccos

Carrying more than 75 types of cigars alone, selection is one of the things readers love about David’s. Smokers can pick up cigarettes, hookahs and other accessories at David’s, too. All this and more makes it the perfect place for the smoking aficionado, which voters think make it the best.

9759 University Ave., Clive, 278-8701

Runners-up: Hy-Vee; Pars and Cigars