2014 Best of Des Moines- SHOPPING

2/26/2014

For more than 20 years, we have called upon you, our readers, to vote in our annual “Best Of Des Moines” contest. And every year it gets stronger in every way: More categories are added, more networks are joined, and more social media buzz and excitement is stirred. So it’s clear this contest truly means a great deal to our local community and its people — the business owners, professionals and service providers who take pride in their hard work and innovative ideas. It’s also important to local consumers to know their own hard-earned dollars are going to the best and their choices as consumers are informed ones.

Cityview readers cast a record 6,000-plus votes in 2011. Our elation over that number now seems silly, as we counted more than 11,000 votes in this year’s Best Of Des Moines poll — our strongest yet. The Cityview you are holding is typically one of our largest issues in page count each year, and, as such, gives our staff some aching migraines. But we couldn’t be more proud.

Now here are the choices our readers voted as the best in shopping, dining, nightlife, sports and recreation and everything else the Greater Des Moines metro area has to offer. Congratulations to our winners and the runners-up.

EATS

SHOPPING

NIGHTLIFE/CULTURE

SPORTS/REC

BEST OF THE REST

 

Best Local Men’s Clothing Store

Badowers

Last year’s runner-up garnered all the votes it needed from Cityview readers this year to earn the top spot. Men may not be known for their love for shopping, but at Badowers, voters agreed it’s just as much about the shopping as it is about the experience. Voters prove Badowers is the best fit for men to get fitted with customary class and coolness.

2817 Ingersoll Ave., 283-2121, www.badowers.com

Runners-up: Mr. B’s; G and L Clothing

 

Best Local Women’s Clothing Store

Aimee

Apparently it’s not all about the bride with local voting women this year, as the ultimate woman-power vibe put off by Aimee has won the ladies over, forcing reigning queen, Bridal Elegance, to hand over the illustrious tiara. A natural fit in the East Village neighborhood since it opened its “palace” doors in 2004, voters have come to love the style, experience and powerful feminine feel Aimee offers with every visit.

426 E. Locust St., 243-0045, www.aimeestyle.com

Runners-up: Mint L.A.; Funky Zebras

 

Best Local Thrift Shop

Encore Thrift Store

Thrift stores are just about being thrifty. Most people who shop at places like Encore do it not just because they respect the value of the dollar but because it’s a symbol of charity, goodwill and conservation. This year Goodwill was edged by this Hope Ministries benefactor, because voters appreciate not only its quality and selection, but that extra mile as the volunteer hub, church affiliations and devotion to philanthropy. It’s not just a savior to the pocketbook, but to the community.

4640 Merle Hay Road, 265-7272, www.hopeiowa.org

Runners-up: Goodwill; Salvation Army

 

Best Local Vintage Consignment Shop

Dorothea’s Closet

Voters pulled Dorothea’s out of the runners-up column and back to the top spot this year. For people who like to forage the city floor in search of its most authentic finds, voters view Dorothea’s as one of the Western Gateway neighborhood’s finest draws, housing clothing and accessories that bring back the fashions of the 1920s, ’30s, ’40s… every decade through the 1980s and more.

1733 Grand Ave., www.dorotheasclosetvintage.com

Runners-up: Hill Vintage and Knits; Atomic Garage

 

Best Local Clothing Boutique

Mint L.A.

Best Of voters continue to be impressed by Mint Los Angeles, deeming it Des Moines’ “Best New Store” in last year’s contest and now “Best Local Clothing Boutique” for 2014. If votes aren’t enough proof owner Rebekah Risbeck has found a successful niche market, the growth in Mint L.A.’s offerings and locations around the metro make its popularity undeniable, as each store brings women of the Heartland something they often only see in movies — all the latest fashion trends of Hollywood. It’s no wonder why it’s a popular spot for fashion-forward metro women.

Multiple locations, 949-836-5598, www.shopmintla.com

Runners-up: Aimee; Bella Boutique

 

Best Local Bridal Shop

Weddings By Design

Voters have committed to a new favorite in this category this year, Weddings By Design, succeeding last year’s winner Bridal Elegance. It’s not surprising. Weddings By Design has earned its promotion by offering a wide selection of nuptial apparel and accessories showcased in scheduled trunk shows, sale prices and exclusive lines by elite tailors in the industry.

2020 Grand Ave., Suite 400, West Des Moines, www.weddingsbydesigndm.com

Runners-up: Schaffer’s Bridal; Bridal Elegance

 

Best Local Tuxedo Shop

The Tux Shop

This is a new category this year, because it’s not always all about the gown. And how fitting that voters’ favorite bridal shop also their first choice for tuxes. The Tux Shop promises to be “a Perfect Fit” to its customers, offering in-house tailoring to make each suit a custom fit. Measurements can be submitted online as well as appointment scheduling, making it not only comfortable for customers but convenient for their busy lives, too. So whether attending a wedding, gala or prom, voters know where to go — The Tux Shop.

2020 Grand Ave., Suite 400, West Des Moines, www.weddingsbydesigndm.com

Runners-up: Soiree Couture; Skeffington’s

 

Best Comic Book Store

Mayhem

For 20 years, Mayhem has been providing home for comic books, trading cards and games of all types. With more than two decades of showing this niche clientele that it understands and shares its passion, voters have clearly spoken. Mayhem is the inaugural winner of this new category. Its two well-stocked stores (one in Ames) and spacious game room tout weekly and special events throughout the year, keeping fans of comic books, games and trading cards always in the loop.

7500 University Ave., 271-8104, www.mayhemcomics.com

Runners-up: Cup o’ Kryptonite; Jay’s CD and Hobby

 

Best Local Purse Store

La La Handbags

When ladies of Des Moines are looking for that perfect purse to match the occasion and the outfit, they turn to La La Handbags. Voters chose La La as their favorite yet again, with four locations in central Iowa always rotating in the newest fashions in handbags, belts, scarves and accessories, La La keeps that high bar raised for the competition.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Funky Zebras; Bella Boutique

 

Best Local Shoe Store

Peep Toe

Voters went local when choosing a favorite shoe store this year and decided to honor Peep Toe with the top tier over last year’s winner Von Maur. People are talking, and word has gotten out beyond the East Village that Peep Toe is where to go for a wide selection on the cutest shoe designs and styles. To the foot-fetish folks, Peep Toe offers a euphoric fix both online and in-store.

313 E. Fifth St., 210-7458, www.peeptoedm.com

Runners-up: Fit To Be Tied; Fitness Sports

 

Best New Store

Stitch

The East Village shops often fare well in this competition, and this year its new addition, Stitch, is bringing the title back to the neighborhood as voters’ favorite new store for shopping. The urban craft room offers a variety of yarns, modern fabrics and needle craft supplies, as well as a score of classes for those who’d like to learn or hone the craft and keep it as one that is handed down from generation to generation.

315 E. Fifth St., 288-0655, http://stitchdsm.com

Runners-up: Soiree Coulture; Dick’s Sporting Goods

 

Best Local Music Store

ZZZ Records

The Des Moines metro has proven over the last decade the market for music, even in its more primitive forms, is not just in demand but a growing trend, with several options from which consumers can choose. But voters like to stick with what they know to be good — in fact, they’re calling it the best —  ZZZ Records. ZZZ has proven to music-lovers in Des Moines that it is a pumping part of the scene’s pulse.

2200 Ingersoll Ave., 284-1401, www.zzzrecords.com

Runners-up: Reiman; Way Back Records

 

Best Local Book Store

Beaverdale Books

The Beaverdale shopping district is getting a lot of love from Cityview readers this year, though Beaverdale Books garners the most votes in this category almost every year. Its selection is vast, and the staff members on hand each possesses a passion for books, a love for reading and a knowledge on the subjects that is even more vast and eclectic.

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

Runners-up: Barnes and Noble; Half Price Books

 

Best Local Used Book Store

Half Price Books

Championed again this year, Half Price Books is deemed the readers’ choice… literally. With locations across the country, it’s already a popular place with a famed reputation for selection, sales, bargains, educational programs and more. That’s why it’s the one to beat in this category year after year.

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

Runners-up: Plain Talk Books; Beaverdale Books

 

Best Local Auto Shop

Westside Auto Pros

Clutching their title and holding strong, Westside Auto Pros proves that hard work pays off with customers — that, and friendly services and a meaningful handshake. For the second consecutive year, voters have deemed Westside Auto Pros as the premier place to trust for auto care and repair. “Ron the Car Guy” has become a recognizable face and a trusted auto consultant and advisor.

1901 N.W. 92nd Court, Clive, 25-9090, http://westsideautopros.com

Runners-up: Terry’s Auto; Drake Garage

 

Best Car Dealership (Domestic)

Stivers Ford Lincoln

Considered to be “Iowa’s No. 1 Ford and Lincoln dealer,” Stivers hits another homerun with Best Of voters again this year. Its already vast inventory of autos has grown out of its acreage allotment along Hickman Road, so Stivers is expanding to meet demand. Its popularity is apparent, and another Best Of plaque by voters is evidence hanging on the wall that Stivers is not just great, it’s the best.

1450 E. Hickman Road, Waukee, 888-360-5284, http://www.stiversfordia.com/

Runners-up: Willis Auto; Karl Chevrolet

 

Best Car Dealership (Foreign)

Willis Auto Campus

Once again voters have recommended Willis above all others for the best place to buy a foreign-made vehicle in Des Moines. Whether it’s for the vast, eclectic and elite selection of cars, trucks and vans, or if it’s the trustworthy, friendly service and salesmen and women on campus, Willis is the favorite with Best Of voters again this year.

Runners-up: Toyota of Des Moines; Hummel’s Nissan

 

Best Motorcycle Shop

Fenders Cycle

Emerging from a runners-up placement in years past, Fender’s Cycle has revved up its competitive edge and turned just enough heads to earn the title for Best Motorcycle Shop this year. In 2007, Fenders Cycle moved into a larger 7,200-square-foot facility in Des Moines, allowing it to offer what its customers consider to be better service, a bigger inventory of quality products and at affordable prices.

109 E. Army Post Road, 256-9062, www.fenderscycle.com

Runners-up: Struthers Brothers; Big Barn Harley

 

Best Bicycle Shop

Bike World

Readers have voted Bike World as the best in its field yet again. Along with its vast inventory of bikes, voters count on Bike World for all their cycling needs and accessories. Cyclists turn to Bike World for expert consultation, repair and maintenance as well as quality products.

Multiple locations, http://bikeworldiowa.com

Runners-up: Rasmussen; Ichi

 

Best Liquor Store

Ingersoll Wine and Spirits

With 20 years in the business and several Best Of awards on the wall behind 2,500 different wine varieties, it’s no wonder our readers give Ingersoll Wine their votes year after year. With new wines available daily and a knowledgeable staff, this wine store has an undeniable following, and that’s something to celebrate.

1300 50th St., West Des Moines; 3500 Ingersoll Ave., 255-3191.

Runners-up: Hy-Vee; Central City Liquor

 

Best Wine Store

Hy-Vee Wine and Spirits

Famed for its vast selection, knowledgeable staff and sampling events, Hy-Vee shines in the eyes of our readers yet again. Wine brands are tagged with descriptions of the wine, and designated with sale prices and staff recommendations. So even a novice wino can feel like a pro and be sure to find a flavor to suit his or her taste.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Ingersoll Wine and Spirits; Gateway Market

 

Best Pharmacy

Hy-Vee

The Midwestern grocery store chain takes home another win for its drug store. Of course, it helps that the pharmacists who work at Hy-Vee are smart, friendly and discrete, the prescriptions are cheap enough to save patrons a drive to Canada and the drive-thru makes it so convenient that Hy-Vee is a fair and obvious choice for voters.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Medicap; Bauder

 

Best Health Food Store

Campbell’s Nutrition

Will any other health food store be able to take out this longtime favorite? Campbell’s wins this category every year, proving three things: 1. It’s been a quality food store for more than 60 years in the metro, 2. It’s a longtime known and trusted niche store and 3. Its patrons are beyond loyal.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Whole Foods; Hy-Vee

 

Best Grocery Store

Hy-Vee

If you could legally marry a store in Iowa, Cityview readers would walk the aisle — “where there’s a helpful smile” — with Hy-Vee. It’s one of this contest’s great repeaters, taking home awards for multiple categories ranging from its food, drinks and services. Hy-Vee remains a local favorite among Cityview readers.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Fareway; Dahl’s

 

Best Furniture Store

Homemakers

Homemakers is the favorite among our readers consecutively year after year. The likely reason is in the name: Merely browsing the store gives one the feeling of home. It’s the furniture store our readers have turned to for years.

10215 Douglas Ave., 276-2772.

Runners-up: Slumberland; Redekers

 

Best Jewelry Store

Josephs Jewelers

Judging by how many women are voting with weddings in mind, it’s safe to say metro jewelry stores are doing alright this year — especially Josephs, which was voted the favorite by our readers again this year, and the year before that, and the year before that… For 141 years, Josephs has made Iowans bling, and voters appreciate that.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Artisans; Anglo International

 

Best Antique Store

The Brass Armadillo

Among the many things to do in the metro, browsing The Brass Armadillo is one that may not come to mind to some people, but to Best Of voters, it’s a favorite pastime activity. The store is an experience in itself, with vintage antiques, movie star memorabilia and a plethora of other collectibles.

701 N.E. 50th Ave., Des Moines, 106 S.W. Linden St., Ankeny, www.brassarmadillo.com

Runners-up: West End Architectural Salvage; Found Things

 

Best Gardening Store

Seed

Why, oh why have we never had this category in the Best Of Des Moines contest before? Well, we do now, and Seed is the one that has grown in the hearts of gardeners across the metro. At Seed, both novice and experienced growers can feel connected to the creative staff and exploit the many innovative gardening ideas and tips they have to offer.

500 E. Grand Ave., 244-3277, www.seedisaneed.com

Runners-up: Goode Greenhouse; Piney Ridge

 

Best Art Gallery

Moberg Gallery

The name Moberg Gallery appears in Cityview every week in the calendar or art sections. It’s always offering interesting, new exhibits as well as a stage for brilliant local artists, and our readers recognize that. It’s easy to stop on a weekend afternoon or weekday lunch hour and get lost in thought and imagination for far longer than intended.

2921 Ingersoll Ave., 279-9191, www.moberggallery.com

Runners-up: Des Moines Art Center; Kavanaugh Art Gallery

 

Best Hair Salon

Salon TEC

This year’s favorite among voters for its third consecutive time, Salon TEC has once again proven its prestige by garnering the most votes. For the latest styles, a friendly, trustworthy staff of certified professionals and a fun day doing something for yourself, our readers say it’s Salon TEC all the way.

1234 Grand Ave., West Des Moines, 222-0200.

Runners-up: Salon Utopia; Bombshell Betty’s

 

 

Best SPA

East Village Spa

The East Village Spa is a destination kind of place, and readers vote it the best in Des Moines year after year. For all things cosmetic, relaxing and pampering, it’s a perfect way to wind the day away, whether for hair styles, hair removals, messages or tanning. And the bridal package is something the ladies tell their friends about.

4100 315 E. 5th St., 309-2904.

Runners-up: Sahar’s; Spa at West Glen

 

Best Tanning Salon

Sun Tan City

Sun Tan City fans got out the vote this year, deeming it the best in Des Moines in this competitive category, where the winner changes from year to year. Voters like the expertise, tanning selections and acclaimed customer service and know they’re in good hands there.

5435 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines, 457-8267.

Runners-up: Classic Tan; Sun Seekers

 

Best Place to Get Your Nails Done

East Village Spa

Also voted as Des Moines Best Spa overall, East Village Spa is where our readers say to go for the city’s best manicures. Voters likely enjoy all the different options and the opportunity to be pampered like princesses.   

315 E. 5th St., Suite 121, Des Moines, 309-2904, www.evspa.com

Runners-up: Top Nails; Elegant Nails

 

Best Body Piercing/Tattoo Shop

Color Works Tattoo/Prysm Body Piercing

When it comes to something permanent, like tattoos and some of the latest trends in piercings, customers know to go where the credentials are on the wall and the atmosphere is pristine. They find it in the Valley West Mall at Colorworks/Prysm, which was voted as Des Moines’ best in its category again this year. Our readers tout it as having a safe and knowledgeable staff and offering the top-of-the-line quality products.

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

Runners-up: Skin Kitchen; Iron Heart

 

Best Place for Aesthetic Surgery

Heartland Plastic Surgery

Youth and beauty are two highly-valued things in this culture, and both can be captured at Heartland, according to our readers. With the mission to repair the injured, restore the disfigured and improve the self-image, Heartland’s efforts are recognized by readers for the third consecutive year in this category.

10611 Hickman Road, 254-2265.

Runners-up: Des Moines Plastic Surgery; Koch Plastic Surgery

 

Best Outdoor/Sporting Goods Place

Scheels All Sport

Everything an athlete or outdoorsman of any kind might need can be found somewhere inside the walls of Scheels. Our readers know it, and that’s why they keep voting it the Best of the metro year after year. From boating to fishing to hunting to extreme sports and leisurely camping and outdoor activities, Scheels is all about it, offering the best brands and expert consultation.

101 Jordan Creek Parkway, Building 4000, West Des Moines, 727-4065.

Runners-up: Active Endeavors; Back Country Outfitters

 

Best Hardware Store

True Value

After several years on top, Ace Hardware has been succeeded by True Value, which garnered the most votes this year, making it Des Moines Best Hardware Store, according to our readers. It has everything anyone would need for almost any project, it’s conveniently located just down the street in many neighborhoods throughout the metro, and it’s known for being affordable enough for families and DIY-ers on a budget.

Multiple locations, www.truevalue.com

Runners-up: Miller’s Hardware; Porter Hardware

 

Best Locally Owned Store

Glazed Expressions

Many Iowans adhere to the “do-it-yourself” way of approaching projects, “it’s cheaper than therapy and way more fun,” as goes the Glazed Expressions motto, voted Des Moines Best Locally Owned Store this year. The DIY art studio offers painting on canvas and on pottery as well as glass-fusing, and its knowledgeable and dedicated staff will walk guests through the whole creative process. It’s a great idea for birthday parties, bridal showers, ladies’ nights and family events, which is why our readers like it the best.

8826 Swanson Blvd., Clive, 224-4700, www.glazedexpressions.com

Runners-up: Fenders Cycle; Weddings By Design

 

Best Shopping District

East Village

Despite the vast shopping options other neighborhoods offer, the East Village continues to reign supreme among Cityview readers who say it’s the best year after year. The East Village is a village within a city, bustling with happy shoppers, diversity on every block and friendly shop-owners whom take home countless awards of their own in this annual contest.

Runners-up: Jordan Creek Town Center; Valley Junction

 

Best Local Flower Shop

Boesen The Florist

When words can’t say it, flowers often can, and our readers know it. When searching for the words, they continue to choose Boesen year after year. This is a local shop with national accolades, as well as a wall full of Best Of awards.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Plaza Florists; Hy-Vee

 

Best Adult Store

Romantix

Romantix is making it nearly impossible for any other adult store to be voted Best Of, as it takes the win among Cityview readers yet again. But, that’s because it has all the things adults both naughty and extra nice might be looking for to heat the sheets.

Multiple locations.

Runners-up: Christal’s; Minx

 

Best Local Hotel/Motel

Holiday Inn Downtown

What better way to experience downtown Des Moines than from the view of one of the finest suites or even restaurants the city has to offer? In the hub of the city’s culture, activities and biggest events, Holiday Inn is poised to overlook the bustling Interstate 235, the Iowa Event Center and the downtown hustle, taking the win over last year’s winner Hotel Fort Des Moines this year.

Runners-up: Embassy Suites; Suites of 800 Locust

 

Best Mom And Pop

Glazed Expressions

Also voted Best Locally Owned Shop in Des Moines, Glazed Expression gets top accolades as the best Mom and Pop shop, too. It’s new canvas studio offers scheduled workshops throughout the week, private party rooms available for rent. It’s a fun, relaxing and therapeutic way to spend one’s time, and our readers want everyone to know.

8826 Swanson Blvd., Clive, 224-4700, www.glazedexpressions.com

Runners-up: Oktopus Screen Printing; B and B Grocery

 

Best Iowa Product

Templeton Rye

La Quercia is delicious, and Raygun is funny, but whiskey gets you drunk. ’Nuff said. It’s such a popular brand around here that it’s hard for liquor stores to keep it on the shelves, and bar owners often charge a little extra because of high demand/low supplies. It has become a perennial “best” among Cityview readers.

209 E. Third St., Templeton, www.templetonrye.com

Runners-up: La Quercia; Raygun

 

Best Gift Shop

Glazed Expressions

Chalk up another “Best Of Des Moines” award for this locally-owned DIY art studio/gift shop. Glazed Expressions is raking them in this year thanks to a large voting fan base. Glazed Expressions offers a shelves of gift items for the do-it-yourselfer, art lover and crafter in anyone’s life.

8826 Swanson Blvd., Clive, 224-4700, www.glazedexpressions.com

Runners-up: Heart of Iowa Market Place; Leona Ruby

 

Best Local Winery

Jasper Winery

These growers have both the grapes and the diplomas that make what our readers consider it Iowa’s best winery. The Jasper County-grown winery has earned national recognition from publications such as The New York Times and Wine Spectator magazine in addition to a mentioning in Cityview in our annual Best Of results issue.

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

Runners-up: Summerset Winery; Snus Hill

 

Best Wireless Phone Carrier

Verizon Wireless

Our readers apparently like to be heard, because the owner of the “Can you hear me now?” catch phrase has been picked as Des Moines’ best cell phone provider for the third consecutive year. With hospitable deals, frequent upgrades to the latest available cellular technology and some really cool apps, Verizon keeps people connected, current and informed, according to voters.

www.verizonwireless.com

Runners-up: U.S. Cellular; Sprint

 

Best Internet Provider

Century Link

Well, if we’re going to have a category for cell phones, we might as well add one for Internet providers, which is what we did this year. Readers voted Century Link above the others. It’s the preferred host for many commercial, residential and even municipal or governmental agencies as well, keeping everyone connected.

www.centurylink.com

Runners-up: Mediacom; Verizon

 

Best Herbal/Nutritional Supplement Store

Campbell’s Nutrition

Campbell’s wins this category again, likely because it’s become the go-to source for vitamins and supplements in the Des Moines metro, according to readers. Its staff is smart and trustworthy, and it offers everything from groceries, to vitamins, to books for customers to learn the best techniques for health and nutrition.

Multiple locations. www.campbellsnutrition.com

Runners-up: Whole Foods; Complete Nutrition

 

Best Place To Buy Makeup

Vanity and Glamour Cosmetics

Taking the win again this year as the best place to buy makeup in Des Moines, readers have voted Vanity and Glamour as their favorite. Our readers think it’s amazing what these artists can do to transform an ordinary face into a majesty all her own.

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

Runners-up: Sephora; Ulta

 

Best Ethnic Grocery Store

La Tapatia Tienda Mexicana

When looking to make an authentic Mexican meal, readers recommend looking no further than La Tapatia. For specialty items and real south of the border tips, voters say La Tapatia Tienda Mexicana is the best in the metro.

Multiple locations

Runners-up: New Oriental; C Fresh Market

 

Best Bank

West Bank

For any type of banking — personal, commercial or small business — readers agree that West Bank is the best bank. The locations and ATMs are popping up across the metro and online banking is made easy, voters say, which are just a few of the reasons why our readers deem it their favorite.

Multiple locations, www.westbankstrong.org

Runners-up: Wells Fargo; Veridian Credit Union

 

Best Place to Purchase a Musical Instrument

Rieman Music Inc.

Whether brass, string, woodwind or percussion, our readers once again have voted Rieman Music as the best place to go to buy a musical instrument. With top names in stock, top quality instruments are a promise, and Cityview readers believe that promise. Rieman also offers professional music lessons. After all, it’s never too late to learn to play.

Multiple locations, www.riemanmusic.com

Runners-up: Uptempo; Professional Music Center

 

Best Computer Repair Shop

Dymin Systems

Computers are an ever-present oxymoron in most people’s lives — both convenient and burdensome, depending on functionality. Our readers voted the geniuses at Dymin as the best for computer repair. 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.  

3970 NW Urbandale Dr, Urbandale, 254-9355, http://www.dyminsystems.com/

Runners-up: Little Dog Tech; 600 Monkeys

 

Best Place to Buy an Off-Road Vehicle

Fenders Cycle

For the adventurous spirit looking to explore that unchartered terrain, Cityview readers say Fenders Cycle is where to go for the wheels. What better way to explore than with an off-road vehicle from this locally owned shop that promises to be there when the time for parts and repairs arise.

1109 E. Army Post Road, 256-9062, www.fenderscycle.com

Runners-up: Struthers Bros.; Garvis Honda

 

Best Place to Get a Costume

Theatrical Shop

For the second consecutive year, voters have christened Valley Junction’s Theatrical Shop as the best place to browse for a costume, whether for Halloween, the drag queen or Daddy’s little ballerina, the Theatrical Shop is a fun stop with friendly staff that can help folks find just what they need for that dress-up occasion.

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

Runners-up: Nobbies; Atomic Garage

 

Best Pawn Shop

The Pawn Store

Whether one is looking to buy, sell or trade jewelry, watches, antiques, guitars, tools, collectibles and more, Cityview readers have twice voted The Pawn Store as the best in Des Moines. This category was added last year, and so far, The Pawn Store is the one to beat.

3009 E. Douglas Ave., 277-4878

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

 

Best Convenience Store

Casey’s General Stores 

In the second year Cityview has offered this category, its winner has changed. Last year’s winner, Quik Trip, was vanquished to runner-up, as Casey’s ascended by the vote tallies. The Lamberti family earned the votes, too, by opening ambitious new Casey’s superstores at several central Iowa locations that make it more than a convenience store, according to voters.

Multiple locations, www.caseys.com

Runners-up: Quik Trip; Kum and Go

 

Best Moving Company

Two Men And A Truck

Two Men And A Truck is two for two as voters have decided it is the best moving company in Des Moines again this year — the second year of the category. You see these guys (and gals) rumbling all over town with the white moving trucks and the happy stick-figure drawing logo, so it’s obvious Two Men and a Truck is always on the move, though its not moving from the top spot of this category of at least another year.

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

Runners-up: Iowa Moving 1; Hemmen Moving Inc.

 

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. Our readers say that all this and more makes this longtime smokers staple the perfect place for the smoking aficionado.

9759 University Ave., Clive, 278-8701

Runners-up: Pars and Cigars; Tobacco Outlet

 

Best Cleaning Company

Jill’s House Cleaning

Jill’s House Cleaning doesn’t have a big, fancy website, Twitter or Facebook page; it doesn’t brand itself with a snappy logo; nor does it beckon to passersby from a storefront location. But it’s been providing what Cityview readers consider to be the best cleaning services the metro has to offer since its inception in 2010.

1618 York St., 710-3448

Runners-up: EcoMaids; Molly Maid

 

Best Dog Groomer

Brenda Cosner-Anania

Brenda Cosner-Anania has more than 10 years of professional experience grooming dogs of all breeds and all sizes. Though she specializes in large dogs, she is old hat at grooming techniques for all breeds and all sizes. Her reputation precedes her mostly via word-of-mouth, but she can be found at work at Ingersoll Animal Hospital.

3009 Ingersoll Ave., 274-3555, www.ingersollanimal.com

Runners-up: Dogwoods Lodge; Prancing Paws

 

Best Doggy Daycare

Downtown Doggy

To some people, dogs are part of the family; to others, dogs are their children. For dog-lovers in Des Moines, Cityview readers say Downtown Doggy is the best dog-sitter around, where pooches are pampered and allowed to play in a safe, clean and social environment with a variety of toys, obstacles and games to keep your best friend busy during playtime.

724 Scott Ave., 288-0957, www.dmdoggy.com

Runners-up: Dogwoods Lodge; Premier Pets CV