Click here to view photos from the 2014 Best of Edina celebration at Pinstripes.
What does the number 50 bring to mind for you? Fifty states in the union; 50 stars on the flag; 50 years in a golden anniversary; 50 cents to deposit into a parking meter. How about 50 reasons to celebrate Edina? Without further adieu, welcome to our 10th Best Of Edina edition of Edina Magazine. To celebrate the 10th anniversary of this annual homage, we’ve devoted an entire 13th edition of the magazine to the Best Ofs. Subscribers will receive the special issue along with their regular March issue of the magazine.
Thanks to presenting sponsor Refined LLC and event sponsor Corset Styling!
Food and Restaurants
“Please sir, I want some more,” the destitute orphan Oliver Twist famously asks in Charles Dickens’ novel. We could be forgiven for asking the same. For the food, glorious food here is delicious. Here are 12 categories that celebrate cuisine in Edina.
Bakery
Wuollet Bakery 3608 W. 50th St. 612.922.4341
Think about dessert and Wuollet comes to mind. Renowned favorites include old-fashioned sugar-coated doughnuts, frilly tea party cupcakes and the royally elegant Princess torte. This full service bakery’s signature cake has a hand-rolled sheet of pastel green marzipan, feathery light cake layers and a filling with “Bavarian cream that is custard and whipped cream folded together.” Don’t forget the French bread, Vienna bread, Swedish lympa, buffet buns and other savory delights. Everything is made fresh and often with Old World Finnish family recipes in a tradition that dates back to 1944.
Runner-up: Patisserie Margo Third place: Patrick’s Bakery & Cafe
Breakfast/ brunch
Edina Grill 5028 France Ave. S. 952.927.7933
Since 1999, the Edina Grill has served up a traditional style that pushes the bar for breakfast. Here the meal can linger into an all day brunch. Wake up your pallet with a classic American breakfast, fresh squeezed orange juice or housemade bloody Mary mix. Or order the toad in a hole with “everything that you would want in a breakfast in a puff pastry” or try the innovative weekly breakfast feature. The menu changes frequently so new choice dishes are always waiting to be discovered.
Runner-up: Original Pancake House Third place: Good Earth
Burgers
Convention Grill 3912 Sunnyside Road 952.920.6881
If you want classic food in Edina, the Convention Grill instantly comes to mind. Since opening in 1934, the restaurant has become a landmark for generations of happy customers. Old time family favorites like hamburgers are prepared with time honored methods. Each hamburger comes on a top-quality bun from the New French Bakery. The Convention Grill looks like a throwback to a Hollywood movie set. Remember to order a chocolate malt, thick as molasses and big enough to share.
Runner-up: Red Cow Third place: Tavern on France
Ethnic food
Rice Paper 3948 W. 50th St. 952.288.2888
Authentic Vietnamese food with a modern twist flourishes at Rice Paper. Every dish has a story that goes back to owner An Nguyen’s childhood in Vietnam. Explore exotic tastes with the new moon tofu, pagoda greens or midnight market dumplings. The cuisine shines with tongue tantalizing zip that comes from a mix of traditional Vietnamese and Chinese ingredients with a dash of creative interpretation. “It is very fresh and very light. There is nothing else like this,” says Nguyen.
Runner-up: Cocina del Barrio Third place: Raku
Happy hour
Tavern on France 6740 France Ave. S. 952.358.6100
Tavern on France has an impressive lineup of happy hour specials. A full bar offers special cocktails like the mango tango-tini. Pair it with one of the 10 happy hour appetizers. The gluten free flatbread pizza has won over even non-gluten fans. The fun, energetic atmosphere makes the Tavern on France happy hour a consistent winner. “We are good at making people feel special,” says general manager Megan Clark.
Runner-up: Cocina del Barrio Third place: Pittsburgh Blue
Wine selection
Beaujo’s Wine Bar & Bistro 4950 France Ave. S. 952.922.8974
Go around the world in a glass, half-glass, flight or bottle of wine at Beaujo’s Wine Bar & Bistro. Most of the 30 vintages on the list come from small vintners in Europe, South America and the United States. The wine list features tasting notes full of delicious details. Take pleasure in the flavor of fine wine and enjoy a chat with the well-informed staff. An encyclopedia of wine knowledge spills from every word.
Runner-up: France 44 Wines & Spirits Third place: Salut Bar Americain
Kid-friendly restaurant
Edina Grill 5028 France Ave. S. 952.927.7933
The Edina Grill rolls out the red carpet for children every day. Children get goldfish crackers for a snack to keep them occupied. Coloring offers another diversion. A special menu featuring fun items includes pancakes shaped like the silhouette of Mickey Mouse with blueberries for the eyes, spaghetti tacos and cheesy noodles. Every kid dish comes on a lunch-style tray with a few extras that make for a full meal.
Runner-up: Mozza Mia Third place: Snuffy’s Malt Shop
New restaurant
Red Cow 3624 W. 50th St. 612.767.4411
In less than a year, the Red Cow has gained an impressive following. The popular tavern offers a complete menu of trendy food favorites along with an upscale bar. Families love the fun cow décor, lipstick red booths and sophisticated food items. The Red Cow’s housemade deep-fried cheese curds with a side of triple berry ketchup stand on their own. Pair that with an impressive selection of craft beers and smart-labeled wines.
Runner-up: Hello Pizza Third place: Rojo Mexican Grill
Outdoor dining
Tavern on France 6740 France Ave. S. 952.358.6100
Once again, Tavern on France is the top outdoor dining spot in Edina. With a large patio of 20 tables, this neighborhood restaurant and bar has a full menu, Sunday brunch and even happy hour. Two outdoor firepits provide a warm atmosphere year round. A nicely landscaped area provides a buffer and separates the outdoor patio from busy France Avenue. It’s surprising how private the outdoor dining area feels.
Runner-up: Salut Bar Americain Third place: Ciao Bella
Private party venue
Pinstripes 3849 Gallagher Drive 952.835.6440
Pinstripes offers activities that get everyone involved. Bowling, bocce or sitting around a cozy fire pit breaks the ice. Such activities make any occasion from a wedding to a birthday party feel less formal. Large or small, corporate or social, events feel fun and flexible at Pinstripes. A lovely space, breath-taking views and pleasing menu fill celebrations at Pinstripes with good memories.
Runner-up: Mozza Mia Third place: Pittsburgh Blue
Bartender
Mozza Mia – Joey McClymonds 3910 W. 50th St. 952.288.2882
People should love the work that they do. For bartenders, this is especially true. Joey McClymonds enjoys the interaction with customers at Mozza Mia and meeting new people every day. “I have been doing it (bartending) for 10 years now and have been in the neighborhood that long. I’ve met everyone three times over.” He invented the limoncello mojito drink with housemade limoncello, triple sec, fresh mint and simple syrup. “It warms you up.”
Runner-up: Edina Grill – Amy Danielson Third place: McCormick & Schmicks – Craig Stuck
Pasta Dish
D’Amico & Sons – penne with Italian sausage 3948 W. 50th St. 952.926.1187
Simple food prepared well wins hearts. D’Amico & Sons’ penne with Italian sausage combines quality pasta with a creamy sauce of canned tomatoes, whipping cream and real Italian Romano. Fennel seed and red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. D’Amico & Sons penne (pronounced pen-NAY) has only a few ingredients but, oh, do they go together. For nearly two decades, the dish has been a customer favorite.
Runner-up: Arezzo Third place: Edina Grill - Mac ’n cheese
Healthcare & Wellness
Minnesotans are a hearty bunch. We jump into freezing water in the winter for a good cause. We run, bike and hike during humid, sweat-soaking summer days. And, we know how to stay healthy. Here are your best of choices for Health and Wellness in Edina.
Best Chiropractor
Chiropractic Health & Wellness 3400 W. 66th St., Suite 128 952.835.6750
In the summer, you’ll find us hearty Minnesotans tubing behind a high-speed boat. In the winter, scaling a black diamond. After either of those activities, you can find us in the chiropractic office. Chiropractic Health and Wellness has branded itself as a one-stop-shop for all things wellness in Edina. From aches and pains to general health issues to food allergies, this dynamic team specializes in developing unique treatment plans for their patients.
Runner-up: 50th & France Chiropractic & Wellness Third place: Moore Chiropractic
Best Dental Clinic
Southdale Dental Associates 7373 France Ave. S., Suite 600 952.896.1111
With seven dentists at Southdale Dental Associates, the clinic offers several services to help patients maintain healthy teeth, from relieving simple toothaches to cosmetic contouring. With a staff that’s committed to the patients they serve, a visit to this office will put a smile on anyone’s face.
Runner-up: 44th Street Dental Third place: Park Dental
Best Orthodontist
Dr. Bradley Pearson 7450 France Ave. S. 952.926.2551
Pearson Orthodontics has been a well-known Edina business since 1959 when Dr. Lloyd Pearson hung out his shingle. Now his son, Dr. Bradley Pearson, has taken over. “About half of our staff members have more than 20 years of experience,” says Mary Shackle, treatment coordinator. “We have a great continuity of care. We’re very detail-oriented.”
Runner-up: Edina Orthodontics (Centennial Lakes) Third place: Dr. Scott Bowlby (Edina Orthodontics, 50th and France)
Best Pediatric Clinic
Southdale Pediatric Associates, Ltd. 3955 Parklawn Ave. Suite 200 952.831.4454
Whether it’s asthma or allergies, bring your kiddos to Southdale Pediatric Associates. The convenient hours, including an evening clinic open Monday–Thursday until 9 p.m. and a Saturday morning clinic open from 8 a.m.–noon, the walk-in strep clinic and the allergy clinic make this a winner. Pediatricians treat patients from birth to age 21, which allows them to get to your whole family. Plus, there’s an on-site X-ray lab, which means a broken bone won’t be such a pain-in-the-you-know-where.
Runner-up: Metro Pediatric Specialists Third place: Pediatric Services, P.A.
Best Yoga Class
Corepower Yoga 7495 France Ave. S. 952.835.9642
What better way to beat the winter cold than with 60 minutes of transcendental bliss in a room heated to 100 degrees. Whether you’re there for heart-pumping exercise or to find Namaste peace after a busy day, the Corepower studio near Centennial Lakes Park will make March feel like July. Those who start hot yoga quickly become fans for life.
Runner-up: Blooma Third place: prAna
Best Fitness Studio
Fitness Together 5008 Vernon Ave. 952.927.0300
Fitness Together leads the pack for one-on-one personal fitness training. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, tone and tighten muscle or improve your health, Fitness Together pairs you with a personal trainer who creates a workout plan just for you. All Fitness Together trainers have degrees as well as additional certifications and fitness training.
Runner-up: Crossfit Edina Third place: Corepower Yoga
Best Golf Course
Braemar Golf Course 6364 John Harris Drive 952.903.5750
When you play 18 holes of golf at Braemar Park’s 500 acres of rolling hills, the nearby city drifts away. Named for Edina’s Scottish heritage, the first round of golf was played here in 1964. The park and golf course have expanded and grown ever since. Featuring 27 regulation holes, two 9-hole executive courses, a pro shop, driving range, practice putting green, indoor golf dome and meeting rooms, this golf course has been rated among the nation’s best by Golf Digest.
Runner-up: Edina Country Club Third Place: Interlachen
Best Medspa/Rejuvenation Clinic
Skin Rejuvenation Clinic 6545 France Ave. 952.920.6545
The recently expanded Skin Rejuvenation Clinic celebrates 10 years in business this June. That and bragging rights for being named the best medspa/rejuvenation clinic in Edina. “We’re unique because we have a physician here 100 percent of the time,” says Dr. Beth Hagberg, one of three physicians on staff, who started the clinic with her husband Mark, a fellow physician. “The physicians do all the injections and a majority of the laser work, too.”
Runner-up: Spalon Montage Third Place: Zel Skin Clinic
Home
Edina’s a fun place to go out on the town. But time spent at home is always best. Luckily, our community offers great services to design and spruce your home and homestead according to your tastes.
Best builder/remodeler
John Kraemer & Sons 4906 Lincoln Drive 952.935.9100
John Kraemer & Sons are taking home their third Best of Edina award this year. The family-owned company has been building and remodeling luxury homes since 1978. In that time, “We have never gone out of business, reorganized, or changed owners,” says sales and marketing director John Kraemer. Whether constructing a large estate or lakeside cabin, the Kraemers listen to the desires of each client. Your dream home is a consultation away.
Runner-up: Refined Third place: Traditions by Donnay Homes
Best home retail/furnishings
Gabberts 3501 Galleria 952.927.1500
Since 1946, Gabberts Design Studio & Fine Furniture has provided quality items and professional interior design services. From custom finishes, fabrics and textures, each showroom contains handpicked furniture designed to dazzle and inspire your personal style. Customers are invited to kick back and take in all Gabberts has to offer with a hot cup of complimentary tea and animal crackers.
Runner-up: Room and Board Third place: Pottery Barn
Best interior designer
Engler Studio Interior Design 3948 W. 50th St. 952.564.6488
The three-woman team at Engler Studio Interior Design, whose work has earned several American Society of Interior Designers awards, specialize in beautiful yet livable home designs, new construction and remodel residential spaces. Head designer Linda M. Engler’s warm and friendly personality matches her dedication to clean, simple, balanced and complication-free design.
Runner-up: Style Infused Living Third place: Martha O’Hara Interiors
Best landscaper
Southview Design International Market Square, 275 Market St., Suite C24 651.455.8238
After more than 6,000 projects and 36 years of service, Southview Design has earned its spot among the best landscapers. Whether big and luxurious or small and modest, designers and project managers tailor each project to a client’s budget, values and lifestyle. Services include drainage, front entry design, garden design, outdoor rooms, patios and swimming pool design. Request a quote online today, and let Southview Design help you reach your home improvement goals.
Runner-up: Topo Third place: Lee’s Landscapes and Design
Best garden shop
Sunnyside Gardens 3723 W. 44th St. 612.926.2654
The sun always shines on Sunnyside’s happy and healthy gardens. What began as a small garden plot 70 years ago has evolved into one of Minnesota’s go-to places for unique plants, landscaping and garden accessories. Check out Sunnyside’s blog for garden tips and inspiration and stop by the Garden Center to learn more about the Gardeners’ Club Loyalty Program.
Runner-up: Spruce Third place: Savory’s Gardens
Kids & Family
You want the best for your kids. From birthday parties to music lessons to summer camp, you strive to find the top-notch opportunities close to home. You voted; here are your best of choices for kid and family picks in Edina.
Best Community Event/Festival
Edina Art Fair P.O. Box 24122 952.922.1524
The Edina Art Fair has worked hard to make this a family-friendly event. “We have great entertainment and a fun family zone,” says Rachel Thelemann, executive director at 50th & France Business and Professional Association and producer at the art fair. “Our focus is on art, and our community appreciates that. We work hard to bring in local, returning and national artists.” This year’s art fair is scheduled for June 6-8.
Runner-up: 4th of July Parade Third Place: Taste of Edina
Best Kids’ Birthday Spot
Edinborough Park 7700 York Ave. 952.833.9540
Forget Pin the Tail on the Donkey or a festive piñata. At Edinborough Park, your birthday kid can invite up to 10 friends for indoor playground fun. “Birthday packages are really simple and easy,” says Angie Lindholm, Edinborough Park birthday party coordinator. “We provide everything. Families just have to show up.” Plus, with all that running around, you won’t even be able to tell that they’ve had six pieces of cake.
Runner-up: Pinstripes Third Place: Pump It Up
Best Music Lessons
Schmitt Music 2906 W. 66th St. 612.238.9930
With 4,000 weekly music lessons, one of the best selections of saxophones and trumpets in the country and 15 stores operating in the Midwest, it’s no wonder Schmitt Music earns this top spot. “The Edina location is the largest lesson-offering store in the company,” says director of education, Michael Wright. “It’s a great store. People are very happy with the services and education they receive.”
Runner-up: Linden Hills House of Music Third Place: Steven Leung Studios
Best Preschool/daycare
Especially for Children 5015 W. 70th St. 952.946.9971
Especially for Children is no stranger to the “Best Of” list. A winner in 2012, this infant-through-preschool childcare center prepares kids for kindergarten and beyond. “Children feel safe and nurtured here,” says director Susan Wilson. “They learn through play. We want them to have a good foundation so they love learning throughout their entire life.” Especially for Children has capacity for 143 children from six weeks to preschool.
Runner-up: Step by Step Montessori Third Place: The Berry Patch
Best Summer Program/Camp
Camp Kici Yapi 7355 York Ave. 952.835.2567
Summer camp just got a facelift with Southdale YMCA’s Camp Kici Yapi. This camp jam-packs exciting structured activities into each week like archery, kayaking and climbing. Let your kiddos explore these 80 acres of spectacular wooded land in Prior Lake. Kici Yapi is also well known for its outstanding Horse Camp featuring 52 horses and both trail and ring riding.
Runner-up: Primrose School of Edina Third Place: Edina Art Center
Best High School Teacher
Ryan Gallagher 6754 Valley View Road 952.848.3800
It’s no surprise that business teacher Ryan Gallagher is among the most popular at Edina High School. His Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) marketing class routinely competes at state and national competitions, which help his students hone their skills in marketing, advertising, entrepreneurship, sales and job interviews. He’s not a traditional teacher, say his students, but he can relate to them very well.
Runner-up: Brian Simpson Third Place: Alejandro Diaz-Andrade
Best Doggy Daycare/Kennel/Boarding
Pets Are Inn P.O. Box 390481 952.837.1877
Pets Are Inn is a one-of-a-kind boarding experience for Fido and Tabby. Your pets actually stay in private homes. Since most pets are accustomed to living in a home environment, Pets Are Inn believes that shouldn’t change, just because you go on vacation. Pre-screened and approved host family homes happily welcome your pets and care for them while you’re away. No kennels, no cages, just a welcoming home for your furry friend.
Runner-up: Adogo Pet Hotel Third Place: Pampered Pooch Playground
Best Pet grooming/services
Bone Adventure 5045 France Ave. S. 612.920.2201
Bone Adventure has supplied the Twin Cities with first-rate products and grooming since 1987. Sticking to its passion, Bone Adventure has created a place for pet owners to find high quality pet care basics, healthy pet foods and treats, and toys that are fun, functional and well-designed. A family business born out of the joy and love that pets bring to life, Bone Adventure offers innovative items and great service to families and pets.
Runner-up: Zoom Groom Third Place: Edina Pet Grooming (at Edina Pet Hospital)
Best Veterinary Services
Westgate Pet Clinic 4345 France Ave. S. 612.925.1121
With a dynamic team of 10 veterinarians, Westgate Pet Clinic has been a staple in Edina since 1973. Services extend beyond the walls of the clinic, though. From a timely blog that highlights topics like pets with diabetes to an interactive “Ask Your Veterinarian” page, Westgate Pet Clinic cares for pets and their owners.
Runner-up: Southdale Pet Hospital Third Place: Edina Pet Hospital
Best Class/Program for Seniors
Edina Senior Center 5280 Grandview Square 952.833.9570
With 1,500 members and loads of activities for residents 55 and older, it’s no wonder the Edina Senior Center earned the top spot in this category. “We’re a very welcoming and friendly place,” says recreations supervisor Donna Tilsner. “From cards to travel to athletics, to bowling leagues and book clubs, we’ve got it all. We consider ourselves a hidden gem in Edina.” Well, not so hidden anymore.
Runner-up: YMCA Third Place: Welcyon
Personal & Professional Services
You’re a successful Edina businessperson, homeowner and community participant, but every once in a while you need someone to have your back. That person could make you relax or look pretty, or help you with your home search or personal finances.
Best financial advisor
Joseph Hulbert 8300 Norman Center Drive, Suite 1150 952.921.1997
As a financial and investment advisor representative, Joseph Hulbert and the team at Morgan Stanley have a passion for helping others manage their present and future cash goals. Outside of the office, Hulbert is also involved in the Edina community as a board member of the Edina Hockey Association. So while he helps others make smart investments at work, he also invests time back into the community.
Runner-up: Jon Kattke Third place: Charles Schwab – Benjamin Fife
Best hairstylist/barber
Leaux Dyer – Bespoke Hair Artisans 3918 W. 49 ½ St. 952.224.4062
An idealist who sees beauty in everything, Leaux Dyer specializes in hair cutting, styling and extensions. Coworkers describe Dyer as witty and caring—a fine addition to the Bespoke Hair Artisans salon, which opened three years ago. The boutique salon specializes in custom cuts and color, and Dyer crafts each style to suit the personality of her client. “Leaux always goes above and beyond to exceed her guests expectations,” says owner Lisa Williams. “She’s a great listener, too.”
Runner-up: Laura Lee – Salon Lili Third place: Jason Deavalon – Jason Deavalon Salon
Best photographer
Andrew Vick - Vick Photography 952.929.4295
Andrew Vick has captured more than weddings and portraits; his portfolio includes work for the MN Teen Challenge, Star Tribune, Minnesota Bride and Steamboat magazine. As lead photography for The Living Room Studios, Vick refers to the camera as an extension of his heart. “I hope to leave the world a better place because of it,” he writes in an online bio. For crisp, colorful and detailed photos full of energy, Vick delivers quality photography.
Runner-up: Elissa Kadeau – Little Bean Photography Third place: Kate Schmitt – Kate Sweet Photography
Best massage therapist
Carrie Pederson – Lili Salon Spa 3464 Galleria 952.224.3300
After spending 15 years as a physical therapist assistant, Carrie Pederson went back to school to become a massage therapist, so she could treat not just partial aches, pains and injuries, but the whole body. In addition to experience, Pederson brings passion and joy to her work. She realizes how stressful modern working environments can be on our necks and backs, and focuses on therapeutic and stone massages to ease those tensions. “I love my job because I love making people feel good,” she says.
Runner-up: Gina Tarara Third place: Anna-Lisa – Elements
Best real estate agent
John McWhite – Coldwell Banker Burnet 3033 Excelsior Blvd. 612.805.1577
As a member of the 3 Million Dollar Month Club, John McWhite is also ranked in the top 2 percent for U.S. realtors. Past clients recognize McWhite for his personable approach and reliable marketing and negotiation skills. Before joining Coldwell Banker Burnet in 2007, he worked in AT&T sales, which gave him a solid sales background before transitioning to real estate.
Runner-up: Anne Shaeffer – Lakes Sotheby’s Third place: Skip Thomas – Remax Results
Best salon/spa
Spalon Montage 3909 W. 49th ½ St. 952.915.2900
“The Spalon Way” is a saying at Spalon Montage: “The first part of being beautiful is being comfortable. We make sure you get both.” Customers can relax and feel great in their own skin after receiving complete hair, skin, body and nail care services. For those seeking a private and sublime escape, the 20-year-old professional salon also offers three retreat packages to help you unwind and feel refreshed.
Runner-up: Lili Salon Third place: JUUT
Best insurance agent
Matt Boockmeier – State Farm 5100 Eden Avenue, Suite 105 952.928.0455
Matt Boockmeier’s resume seems intimidating—he’s a former NFL scout and member of the 1997 NFC Champion Green Bay Packers. But don’t let that deter you from seeking his services. Since 2002, Boockmeier has built a reputation for outstanding insurance service. He specializes in helping others relocate to Edina, and his mission is simple. “Insurance doesn’t have to be boring,” he says. “We do the right thing all the time, enjoy the interactions with our clients and have fun!”
Runner-up: Mike Nelson – State Farm Third place: Mark Hornig
Retail
Edina is known not just Twin Cities-wide, but internationally, for its shopping prowess. So picking the Best of Edina’s Retail was no easy task. Thanks to you, the readers of Edina Magazine, for pulling it off.
Best Small-Business Customer Service
Corset Styling and Fashion Boutique 5400 France Ave. S. 952.224.2495
Staring into a closet and creating unique outfits can be difficult even for experienced fashionistas. Corset’s wardrobe styling services help women searching for their fashion identity, while pairing pieces that can stand on their own or be put together for a show-stopping outfit. Owner and lead stylist Jodi Mayers says that putting together the perfect look is all about education. Corset’s staff help clients understand what looks good on them, which leads to customer satisfaction and self-confidence.
Runner-up: Fitness Together Third place: Nani Nalu
Best Children’s Shop
Creative Kidstuff 3555 69th St. 952.926.4512
This child’s wonderland is stocked with games, kits, toys and books for kids of all ages, even covering expectant mothers and their babies. Creative Kidstuff provides the perfect outlet for imaginations to run wild as the toys are interactive, unique and cater to all interests. These innovative games are even educational, an added bonus that should put parents’ minds at ease and give the whole family a reason to smile.
Runner-up: Pacifier Third place: Oh Baby
Best Boutique
Corset Styling and Fashion Boutique 5400 France Ave. S. 952.224.2495
Corset opened its doors in Edina in September 2012 in order to help women find their go-to looks. Corset houses a huge selection of clothing brands for women of all age groups, from those in their 20s to their 60s. Looks range from a bohemian California feel, to a city slicking New York funk. The wide variety of brands combined with professional wardrobe styling and a laid-back yet doting atmosphere make Corset the ticket for a fashion experience.
Runner-up: Hot Mama Third place: Bluebird
Best Gift Shop/Place to Buy Unique Gifts
Ampersand Shops 3445 W. 70th St. 952.920.2118
Since 2005, Ampersand has been filling homes in the metro area with elegant, unique and hard-to-find gifts. Hosting a party, finding the perfect present and making each room in your house look professionally designed is now an easy task. Ampersand pays homage to local standouts, as it has Minnesota roots in Faribault Woolen Mills and Thymes intermingled with staples such as Simon Pearce.
Runner-up: Gather on France Third place: Patina
Best Jeweler
R.F. Moeller 5020 France Ave. S. 952.926.6166
As people shop for their biggest life moments, R.F. Moeller staff provides the confidence customers need through attentive service and care. Buying the most beautiful pieces is the R.F. Moeller’s highest priority. The store also boasts eye-catching jewelry that stays timeless and chic for years to come. Keeping on trend is equally important, and their newest gem is the De Beers’ “Forevermark” diamond that holds potential to be a girl’s best friend.
Runner-up: Scheherazade Third place: Diamonds Direct
Best New Shop
Corset Styling and Fashion Boutique 5400 France Ave. S. 952.224.2495
Not to be confused with a lingerie store, Corset aims to find the main pieces for each woman’s wardrobe. Open for little over a year, this boutique provides something for everyone: tons of different styles, an expansive selection of sizes (0-20), professional styling services, seasonable wardrobe items and the desire to make even the most wary shopper have fun. Corset has brought a new shopping experience to Edina. If you haven’t already, stop in and see what the buzz is about.
Runner-up: At Home & Co. Third place: The Wow Bar
Best Sporting Goods
General Sports 5025 France Ave S 612.925.4010
This one-stop shop provides athletes and spectators, alike, with the proper gear for a successful season. General Sports has basketball, football, hockey, lacrosse, soccer and running covered. Proud parents and fans can shop a wide-selection of gear emblazoned with local schools’ names and mascots. Referees and umpires can join the fun too, as their uniforms are carried. This Edina staple that has found its identity on France Ave.
Runner-up: Marathon Sports Third place: Athleta
Best Eyewear
InVision 3340 Galleria 952.920.5458
A perennial leader in eye care, InVision combines wonderful service with the latest optical trends. Equipped with style and optical advice, InVision’s staff helps you choose the right frame. With celebrity popular brands such as Oliver Peoples and Robert Marc, there’s no question where to visit when searching for a fashionable new lens. InVision provides bold, fun and high-quality lenses that make a statement at any time of day.
Runner-up: Edina Eye Physicians and Surgeons, P.A. Third place: Edina Eye Clinic, P.A.
Editor's Pick: Best Local Photographer
Lisa Asp – Tangerine House of Design 6129 France Ave South 952.303.3619
Not all Edinans are “locavores” when they shop, but for the sake of celebrating our singular community, we want to highlight popular local photographer Lisa Asp of Tangerine House of Design. A professional photographer since 1995, Asp recently relocated here from Connecticut. “I love photography,” she writes on her website. “I love playing with your kids and seeing their innocent glances and then later that devilish sparkle in their eyes.”
Congratulations to all of our finalists and nominees! Thanks to all who voted and participated in this year's Best of Edina readers' choice survey.
