A Case for Shopping Locally

I'm a big fan of the local magazine NEW. The recent article titled "The Case for Shopping Locally" is pretty much spot on. I think with the recent demise of OX a lot of us have been asking one question: how could I have saved this place? I loved everything about OX, but the answer is simple: make a point of visiting a favorite spot on a regular basis or, at the very least, spread some positive reviews. Share information. I couldn't tell you how many customers come to my shop and ask about good local restaurants, places to shop, hair salons, etc. I'm not shy about sending them to my favorite spots (Ox was one of them).

So, in honor of the NEW article, a couple local places that really rock my world:

ABTees - For quality screen printed shirts (this Heights based shops does all KH's tees and pillows)

Another Man's Treasure - Laura from Swallow and the Swift works there (she makes some of the gorgeous, delicate jewelry at KH) and the owners - Meika and Warren - are sweet, supportive and really know how to put together a rad vintage shop

Feed Your Soul Cookies - Not much needs to say about this shop, except maybe "Yum" (love, love, love the super soft oatmeal chocolate chip cookies). I first used them years ago to create some cute cookie gift boxes as a bridal shower giveaway.

Torico's Homemade Ice Cream Parlor - It's nice to go where everyone knows your name, but what about when they know your scoop? Well this summer I've been mixing it up. Sometimes it's the coffee cookie, sometimes it's the Diet soft serve peanut butter with chocolate jimmies. Take that.

Nha Trang Place - For consistently delicious and affordable Vietnamese cooking. Tip: try the ice coffee. Just not late at night.

Second Street Bakery - When the line out the door for Italian sandwiches and stuffed bread is mostly made up of firefighters and cops, you know you found the right spot. My order: one of each stuffed bread left (they go fast!) and a small prosciutto, mozzarella and roasted pepper sandwich.

Cafe La Rustique - I'm sorry, but they really have the best margarita pizza in the area. I don't care what anyone says. Just try it and don't even try to say you didn't eat 3 slices (minimum).

Wonder Bagels (on Jersey Ave) - Everything whole wheat bagel with low fat cream cheese, lox, onions, tomatoes and capers. Do it. This is coming from a girl who spent her high school years sweating in a Kosher bagel place stirring bagels in a kettle.

Madame Claude Cafe - Off the beaten path, it almost makes you feel like you stepped into a time warp and wound up on a bath street in Paris. Try the mussels with saffron sauce. And, if it's a nice day, sit outside under the white lights.

Antheia Floral Design - Great, little shop across the street from Kanibal Home. Their designs blow my mind. I'm currently digging the little succulent plants they have stocked.

This is by no means the extent of my "favorites" list, just a sampling. Have a craving or a certain need for a specific item? Stop by the shop or send me a line -- I'll probably have a local recommendation for you.