Life in Edina is pretty typical for most residents. Lawn care, youth activities and trips to the cabin take up many summer weekends. The importance of family is evident, marked by so many who move into the area to be nearer to family or to enjoy all of Edina’s family-friendly amenities. Undergirding much of our work life-home life balancing acts are the people, places and things that help make living here a bit simpler and extra special.
In this Best of Edina issue, we spotlight some of those people, businesses and service providers that local readers associate with living “the best” life in Edina. If this is your first time flipping through the pages of our “Best Of” issue, be sure to spend a little extra time noting the restaurants and retailers you want to visit. Maybe you’ll discover a new favorite or are getting this issue at a time when you just happen to be in the market for a new service. Share this issue with your friends, especially any new neighbors or co-workers who are just getting familiar with Edina. The Best of Edina issue is always a keeper, a terrific resource for those times when someone asks you to recommend a home builder, a chiropractor, a hair stylist or you are in need of information about any number of life’s necessities and niceties that we all like to have on speed dial.
The Editor’s Picks in this issue include a handful of events, people and places especially compelling to your Edina Magazine editor. These picks are meant to applaud those that don’t necessarily fit neatly into our voting categories but are still among
the best Edina has to offer.
Mostly, we think that you, our readers, are the best. Thank you for continuing to support Edina Magazine and its efforts to celebrate all who make this community the BEST.
See the full Best of Edina 2017 issue here!
FOOD & RESTAURANTS
The Twin Cities are a Midwest dining destination and Edina is definitely in on the edible action. From delicious dishes that have been served up at neighborhood eateries for decades to sizzling hot new restaurants eager to make their mark on the local restaurant scene, Edina has something for every food mood.
Eat up, Edina!
Tavern on France
Best Patio Dining
From your seat on a comfy couch surrounded by fire pits and resplendent landscaping, you can relax under the stars and socialize with a drink in one hand and a fork in the other. The lively and welcoming patio at Tavern on France has a full-service bar, a heady happy hour, and ample tabletop seating to accommodate any size party. Reel in your Monday with the all-you-can-eat fish fry, or go with what they’re best known for—build-your-own items including salads, burgers, pizza, and Bloody Marys. With all the comforts of your backyard, it doesn’t even feel like you’re hanging out on France Ave. Just remember to go home at the end of the night.
Runner-up: Ciao Bella, Third place: Pinstripes
Tavern on France
Best Tavern/Bar
A revamped summer drink menu means pepped-up cocktails featuring lots of of tequila. Or try the bar’s spicy Moscow and Minneapolis mules. This is the kind of establishment where you want to spend happy hour and beyond, Tavern on France hooks you with its high energy, Tavern bleu chips, 25 oz. mugs of beer and notable food and drink specials. Get a free mug of beer with the purchase of a club card and then use it to get 20 percent off food and a discount on all tap beers for life! No time to hang out at the bar? Order takeout food online or let Bitesquad deliver.
Runner-up: Red Cow, Third place: Barrio
Edina Grill
Best Breakfast
When a restaurant company buys a farm, you know they are serious about high quality ingredients. As part of Blue Plate Restaurant Company, Edina Grill was already serving eggs and meat from local suppliers, but with this recent acquisition, your favorite dishes may come from their very own farmer. Edina Grill’s patio is pet friendly. So take a walk and then stop to enjoy popular breakfasts—breakfast Americano, eggs Benedict, or the breakfast bowl which consists of brown rice, black beans, avocado, charred salsa, poached egg, sunflower seeds, and queso fresco. Order free delivery with Amazon Restaurant. Download the Blue Plate app for superb daily deals.
Runner-up: Original Pancake House, Third place: Good Earth
Red Cow
Best Restaurant
Comfort and sophistication are served in the form of salty cheese curds with Red Cow’s famous triple berry ketchup and burgers with ridiculous amounts of cheese and candied bacon. “Most people come for the best burgers in the Twin Cities,” says Josh Hoyt, director of operations. The Double Barrel Burger won the Twin Cities Burger Battle last year with two thin house ground patties made with 21-day aged ribeye, short rib, brisket and chuck, and topped with white American cheese, grilled onions and creamy horseradish sauce. Flip through Red Cow’s new cocktail book featuring premium classics, house creations, and more than 30 wines by the glass.
Runner-up: Pittsburgh Blue, Third place: Edina Grill
Editor's Pick: Agra Culture Kitchen & Press
Best Place for Healthy Eats
This is a go-to Edina hot spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner or even a quick bite on the run. The industrial urban vibe inside the restaurant puts about as much pep into your mood as its organic, artisan and wholesome menu. The large patio space is perfect for summer snacking on some our favorites like the Thai plate, the deconstructed sushi salad, the salmon salad sandwich or the always popular Agra Bowl. Raw juices and smoothies are refreshing accompaniments. There’s also a beer and wine list because in summer, indulgence need not always wait until five o’clock.
Even the children’s menu offers healthy sides like broccolini, brown rice and fruit, so mom and dad won’t feel one bit guilty bringing the offspring to this kid-friendly eatery. And for busy families trying to put nutritious food on the table at home, Agra Culture offers takeout. Delivery is available via services like Bite Squad. You can even hire Agra Culture to cater events.
Free Wi-Fi, electrical outlets along the counter seating space and ample street parking are among the additional reasons you’ll likely find our editor hanging out here. Healthy, homey and convenient ranks Agra Culture among the best in Edina.
Be sure to pop in next door to SotaRol (owned by the Agra Culture proprietor Aaron Switz) for even more variety in fast casual food options. The customizable sushi rolls and bowls are equally interesting, appetizing and healthful.
Editor's Pick: Public Art Edina
Best Community Working Group
Summer strolls outdoors in Edina are extra-special thanks to the work of this group of creative thinkers. Jumpstarted with city seed money over 12 years ago, Public Art Edina has since worked to secure funding for public art on display throughout our fair city. Ask your friends and family in neighboring communities and you’ll quickly learn what an exceptional effort this truly is on behalf of Edina residents. There aren’t many places in the metro area that have such an extraordinary emphasis on public art. It’s a true gift to walk along the Promenade or shop at 50th and France and be inspired by the creative works of talented artists.
Some permanent public art displays in Edina have been donated to the city by generous residents or funded through the Edina Community Foundation. Others have been purchased by the city. Edina Public Art also sponsors an annual exhibition of rotating art pieces on loan from artists for at least a year with some selected to remain for an additional year. Residents are encouraged to vote for their favorites throughout the summer.
Another project sponsored by Edina Public Art has been the imaginative wrapping of city-owned utility boxes. Through this project, utility boxes that could otherwise be dull green eyesores are wrapped in whimsical prints and patterns.
The work of Edina Public Art members past and present has had a positive community-wide impact that can only make residents proud. Public art sets Edina apart, another reason this city is among the best–therefore, we think Edina Public Art is the best!
HOMES
You’ve got to live somewhere and in Edina, the options are outstanding. From new construction to home renovation to interior and landscape design and plenty of furniture stores, you’ll discover so much creativity and expertise around every corner to help personalize your living space.
John Kraemer and Sons
Best remodeler
Ninety-eight percent of John Kraemer and Sons projects are referral based, which for this family-owned company is the greatest compliment. They have in-house finish carpenters, project managers, job superintendents, and a safety division and cabinet shop, which allow the company to achieve a high level of quality and customer service. Each client is assigned one project superintendent who stays with the job until it’s complete. Nothing can unnerve Kraemer and Sons during a historic remodel. These remodelers have installed steel beams to hold up a 100 percent structural brick framed wall in a 1903 St. Paul home while building an addition. They’ve even removed hay and circa 1900 newspapers from inside plastered walls of a historic 13,000-square-foot home.
Runner-up: MA Peterson, Third place: Noonan Construction
Sunnyside Gardens
Best Landscape Designer
Sunnyside Gardens has been enhancing neighborhoods with flowers and foliage and helping customers realize their vision for outdoor garden and living spaces for more than 82 years. Sarah Davis, general manager, says they added a landscape component 10 years ago. “We started the landscape business because of the need for the service. We sold a lot of plants and people wanted help with the planting and design part of it. Once we started, we realized what customers wanted, so we added landscape and garden design, installation, hardscaping, softscaping and maintenance.” It’s always the right time to plan your landscape project. Sunnyside is open year-round; the garden center is closed January and February.
Runner-up: Yardscapes, Inc., Third place: Bachman’s
The Waters
Best Senior Living Residence
The social calendar for a senior living at The Waters might resemble that of a respected movie star. Tai Chi, yoga, billiards, Bible study, social hour, BBQs, spa treatments, Rummicube, tea parties and excursions in the city are just a few activities you can choose from when you call The Waters senior community home. Residents live in independent senior living apartments and if needed, may choose from personalized home health care and hospitality services. Memory care apartments are also available.
Runner-up: Sunrise Senior Living, Third place: 7500 York
Gabberts
Best Interior Designer
Located in the Galleria, Gabberts is a furniture showroom full of beautiful interior decor to inspire customers. But did you know Gabberts also has a full-service design studio with some of the most talented designers in the business? “Our customers rely on Gabberts for the individual attention they receive all the way from the friendly greeting by a live person when they call us or enter our showroom, to the guidance they receive from our designers all the way through to the white-glove delivery provided by our experienced drivers,” says Becky Lepley, Gabberts general manager. Her biggest tip for hiring an interior designer: the earlier you get your designer involved, the better.
Runner-up: Katie Bassett Interiors, Third place: Martha O’Hara Interiors
John Kraemer and Sons
Best builder
Clients have come to appreciate the open-book way John Kraemer & Sons has done business for 39 years in Edina. “We pride ourselves on the best quality and value, but also the highest transparency imaginable, and that’s really kind of a breath of fresh air for people in this industry,” says John Kraemer, vice president and third generation luxury builder. “I think that what really sets us apart is our intense commitment to transparency.” Every bid, invoice and receipt is open to the client at all times. Where the company takes transparency a step farther is when it passes every discount offered in the building process on to clients.
Runner-up: Great Neighborhood Homes, Third place: Carl M. Hansen Companies
HEALTH & WELLNESS
No two people are alike and there’s no one size fits all when it comes to getting and staying fit. That’s why the outstanding variety of health care and fitness options in Edina ensures all residents can live a healthy life that fits their personal lifestyle.
YMCA Southdale
Best Fitness/Yoga Studio
YMCA Southdale believes their services, not a contract, will keep you around. And with 180 classes to choose from per week, a state-of-the-art fitness center, summer camps and programs, personal training, sports leagues, access to all Minnesota YMCAs, free child care while you work out, middle school mentoring and service learning programs, they are right. What matters even more to Y members is that the nonprofit organization exists to strengthen and build communities, welcoming all people and ensuring everyone has equal opportunities to become healthier and be embraced by their community. Give it a try with a free week pass (individual or family). Contact Karl Wilbur, sales director at 952.897.5476, or karl.wilbur@ymcamn.org.
Runner-up: CorePower Yoga, Third place: Pure Barre
Edina Orthodontics
Best Orthodontic Clinic
Going to a clinic doesn’t always put a smile on your face. But patients of Edina Orthodontic Clinic have been smiling about their treatments for more than 40 years. The clinic treats children, teens and adults. Schedule a free consultation to see what type of treatment fits your needs and be well on your way to a beautiful, healthy smile. Want to show school or team spirit on your grill? Visit the brace painter in the Fun Zone on their website to try out your color combinations.
Runner-up: Pearson Orthodontics, Third place: Family Orthodontics, P.A.
Southdale Pediatric Associates
Best Pediatric Clinic
The kids love the turtle and fish tanks at Southdale Pediatric Associates and parents appreciate the personalized care. “We recognize one type of care doesn’t fit all. Each family and child is unique. We come to visits with the view that we provide the best care for each family and it might be different for one family to another,” says Dr. Lori Skallerud. The clinic provides full-service care including a full lab, x-ray, and convenient day, evening and weekend hours. To keep everyone healthy, they intentionally don’t have toys and other germ-sharing items in the waiting areas. So pack a few things to entertain your child.
Runner-up: Metropolitan Pediatric Specialists, Third place: Fairview Southdale
44th Street Dental
Best Dental Clinic
An all-inclusive oral health clinic with four generations of patients, 44th Street Dental is on the leading edge of utilizing the newest techniques and equipment. The clinic’s latest technology is a 3D Cone Beam scan that gives the ability to see and diagnose all teeth and facial anatomy. They’ve been using CEREC for same-day dental restoration since 2003. Dr. Steven J. Veker and Dr. Carl E. Schneider are members of Edina Rotary Club and their clinic supports Feed My Starving Children, Community Emergency Services, and People Serving People.
Runner-up: Dentistry for Children and Adolescents, Third place: Park Dental
Skin Rejuvenation Clinic
Best Medspa
The staff at Skin Rejuvenation Clinic has performed more Halo Laser procedures than any other cosmetic practice in the world (as of Nov. 2016). Dr. Beth Hagberg has traveled the country training other physicians to use the Halo Laser. The physicians at Skin Rejuvenation Clinic administer all the anti-aging, advanced laser treatments and injectable services themselves and offer free 30-minute consultations, which is an unparalleled value. The clinic now also offers diVa laser treatments for vaginal rejuvenation.
Runner-up: Lili Salon Spa, Third Place: Zel Skin & Laser Specialists
Chiropractic Health and Wellness
Best Chiropractic Clinic
After more than 30 years of practice, prestigious awards, accolades and best-of lists, Dr. Tim Fargo, executive director of Chiropractic Health and Wellness is most proud of helping people who have unsuccessfully tried everything else, get out of pain, live longer, better lives, be more productive and perform at a higher level. Fargo is also bringing more spinal structure, curvature, and correction rehabilitation techniques into the clinic so that more scoliosis patients can be treated effectively.
Runner-Up: 50th & France Chiropractic, Third place: Edina Family Chiropractic
Edina Eye Clinic, P.A.
Best Eye Clinic
The exceptional care patients have come to know hasn’t changed at Edina Eye Clinic in decades, but they do see a difference. That’s because the clinic recently completed a full renovation with a fresh new look and a few added rooms. Clinic manager Wendi Johnston says their doctors meet people’s visual needs differently than most ophthalmologists. “We are unique in the style of exams we do. Our doctors do a lot of the work. They see patients in their office, do the exams and get prescriptions squared away. Most ophthalmology clinics have technicians who do that.” Edina Eye Clinic, P.A. fits contacts lenses and performs advanced laser cataract surgery, both of which can accommodate for stigmatism and multi-focal vision.
Runner-up: Edina Eye Surgeons, Third place: Southdale Eye
Dermatology Specialists
Best Dermatology Clinic
For the third year in a row readers voted Dermatology Specialists the best in Edina. These highly respected and board certified dermatologists are dedicated to serving their patients with first-rate medical, surgical, and MOHS care, including cosmetic services. Everyone on staff has a desire to care for and educate patients about skin, hair, and nail diseases and address cosmetic concerns to improve their quality of life. The staff is excited to welcome Dr. Gregory Hannon to the clinic this year.
Runner-up: Zel Skin & Laser Specialists, Third place: Edina Skin Care Specialists
SHOPS & RETAIL
The unique blend of shops in Edina makes finding the perfect outfit, gift or accessory a cinch. Outstanding customer service, convenient parking and one-of-a-kind finds are the icing on our specialty shopping cake.
Bachman’s
Best Florist
Bachman’s floral department has an extensive range of arrangements, both in price and style. Customers love the quality in the nursery with plants that can’t get much more local than those cultivated on Bachman’s growing range just 20 minutes south of Edina. This floral and nursery center is a resource to novice and master gardeners alike. In 132 years of business, this Minnesota company has grown to include wedding and special event services, landscaping and installation services, garden maintenance, wholesale and fundraising options.
Runner-up: Brown & Greene Floral Market, Third place: Flowers of Edina
Evereve
Best Apparel Boutique
It’s not easy for a mom to dodge a fashion boutique in an urban neighborhood alongside coffee shops and restaurants. When the boutique redefines mom jeans as fashion-forward, on-trend and with a fit like a glove, there is no diverting her. Evereve general manager Amy Watkins says, “Our deep respect for moms drives us to go beyond selling clothes. We want to serve our moms by seeking to understand what she needs. We give our hearts in every step of the Evereve experience.” The boutique is on a mission to inspire every mom to embrace her beauty and power.
Runner-up: Bluebird Boutique, Third place: Corset Styling
Editor's Pick: Picadilly Prairie
Best Shop for Unique Gifts and Home Decor
This shop moved from Minneapolis into Southdale Center last year. You don’t see many locally owned stores among the big retailers inside today’s suburban shopping malls. That’s part of the beauty of Lacey Brooker’s strategic decision to relocate to Edina. Piccadilly Prairie hopes to lure some of the mall’s foot traffic into its whimsical universe of unique gifts and home décor. With its hand picked selection of vintage furniture, locally made gifts and artwork, we’re hoping this shop’s bold move to Southdale is a huge success. According to the mall’s website, if you love crackled paint, primitive cupboards, vintage quilts, hand-poured soy candles, and the occasional cast-iron bathtub, then you must visit Piccadilly Prairie! We promise you’ll feel right at home. See for yourself how this shop is bringing a hip new vibe to Edina’s historic mall.
France 44
Best Specialty Foods Store
This locally owned gourmet lifestyle shop is a casual extension of your neighborhood. As part of the Edina social scene since 1959, the shopping experience is based on relationships. “We know our customers and they know and trust us to make recommendations to them,” says Rick Anderson, president and owner. A recent remodel greatly expanded the food section to include more melts, salads and soups, a fresh meats counter and three separate and distinct tasting bars for wine, liquor and beer. Leash up your favorite canine because like so many on this year’s Best of Edina list, the liquor store is pet friendly. No wonder France 44 is a hit.
Runner-up: Whole Foods, Third place: Lunds & Byerlys
Paper Source
Best Gift Shop
A store full of all things you didn’t know you needed? Yes! Bring a friend and share knee-slapping laughs in the greeting cards section. Dream of the eloquent words you’ll pen as you flip through fancy journals, notecards, and stationary. Sip from a new tumbler. Bag a few rubber stamps. Purchase candles that will welcome guests or celebrate a birthday. Discover ways to organize your recipes. Spend hours deciding which planner you won’t be able to live without next year. Paper Source is packed with trendy goods that make gift giving fun and effortless. Inventory changes often so make it part of your weekly routine. Check out the company’s Instagram account.
Runner-up: Ampersand, Third place: Burlap & Brass
Editor's Pick: OH BABY!
Best Place to Shop for Babies and Kids
If innocence, imagination and creativity define a storybook childhood, they also describe the blissful beauty of this upscale children’s shop in the Galleria. Upon entering, shoppers are transported to a child-like fairyland of fancy dress up accessories, whimsical children’s fashion and stylish nursery room decor.
Clothing options include adorable graphic tees and tutus along with superhero inspired tops, caps and pants. You’re sure to discover the most unique outfits for infants, toddlers and younger grade school kids.
Beyond apparel, Oh Baby’s selection of nursery furniture, bedding and design inspirations are the things of very sweet dreams. But that’s not all. Exclusive gift items for children (magical unicorns), mothers (distinctive jewelry) and even friends (stunning string art) round out the well-curated retail selection available at Oh Baby! Basically, we think Oh Baby is the best, so baby, you’d better check it out.
KIDS, FAMILIES & PETS
Edina residents understand priorities, and that those in our care come first. Top rated local resources help you provide the best experiences and opportunities for your loved ones.
Centennial Lakes Park
Best Place for Kids’ Activities
No matter the season, this 10-acre lake in the heart of Centennial Lakes Park attracts families and kids of all ages. Visitors can soak up the sun in a paddleboat or while casting a line. Once it freezes, lace up your skates and take a winter spin. The 24-acre park is known for beautifully landscaped grounds, gardens, and seating areas scattered around the lake. Walk, run, skip, or cycle on more than one-and-a-half miles of pathways. Enjoy a putting course, croquet and lawn bowling courts. There is also regularly scheduled family entertainment and a banquet facility available to reserve. Catch a sunset movie in the park on Thursdays through August. Bag your favorite veggies at the farmers market from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursdays through September.
Runner-up: Edinborough Park, Third place: Braemar Arena
Especially for Children
Best Preschool/Childcare
Especially for Children is a family and locally owned organization that has been utilizing a play-based learning curriculum for 41 years. Children have a lot of fun as they are growing, learning, and developing the skills that prepare them for kindergarten. They like the special classes, including Spanish, sign language, dance and music and movement. Parents appreciate the excellent communication. “Parents feel that our teaching staff truly love and care for their children. They often feel EFC is an extension of their own family,” says Priscilla Williams, president. “The open, respectful communication between parents and our teachers and directors is one of our most important assets.”
Runner-up: Creekside Children’s Place, Third place: Kinderberry Hill
College Nannies and Tutors
Best Learning/Tutoring Center
College Nannies and Tutors represents everything you want from a learning center. The individualized one-on-one approach starts with a customized learning plan focused on the student’s specific academic goals and needs. They consider the student’s learning style and personality to match each student to a specific tutor who is an expert in the content and a great academic role model. Learning center manager, Genna Fritz, understands how tricky scheduling can be for kids. “Trying to fit in everything from sports, to play practice, to doctor appointments, to family dinners is a full-time job in itself. Our goal is to help simplify the process,” she says. Try weekly scheduling options without contracts.
Runner-up: Mathnasium, Third place: Kumon
Pets Are Inn
Best Doggy Daycare/Kennel
An alternative to kennel boarding, Pets Are Inn offers pet lovers peace of mind knowing when they leave town their pet is loved and cared for in a home with a loving host family that is matched with the pet’s personality and needs, also known as its pet profile. The service provides round trip transportation in vans the dogs often recognize and wait for at the door. Owner Ann Platt says the dogs associate the vans with going someplace fun so they are happy to jump in. Holidays and spring break fill up quickly so book your pet’s stay early.
Runner-up: Pampered Pooch Playground, Third place: Hound Dog Pet Hotel
Westgate Pet Clinic
Best Veterinary Clinic
It’s no surprise this veterinary clinic has puppy classes, but Westgate Pet Clinic also hosts Minnesota’s only kitten class. Their 10 veterinarians have more than 200 years of combined experience and in addition to traditional medical, surgical and dental care, the clinic offers unique and advanced services such as laparoscopic surgery, care for rabbits, rodents and guinea pigs, acupuncture and rehabilitation therapy for weak patients. Westgate has separate waiting areas for cats and dogs. For especially nervous felines, special quiet cat appointments can be made by request. As for the big goofy dogs that love treats and attention, they say “bring it on.”
Runner-up: Southdale Pet Hospital, Third place: Edina Pet Hospital
Editor's Pick: Quinn’s Cup
Best Community Event
There are so many great community events in Edina, it’s difficult to spotlight just one for recognition in this year’s Best of Edina feature. But this particular event, young in years, as it only began in 2014, combines fundraising and family fun in a winter venue that characterizes this community’s resilience, joy and care for one another.
The hundreds of young hockey players (52 teams and 650 skaters in 2017) who participate in this tournament are likely too young to fully understand the depth of loss that initially inspired the event. But that’s the beauty of Quinn’s Cup.
When 8-year-old Quinn Kirsch passed away unexpectedly in 2013 from inflammation of his heart, a condition known as myocarditis, his family and friends sought to preserve some spark of Quinn’s youthful energy and zest for life. A pond hockey tournament seemed the perfect way to honor a lively Edina boy who loved the sport.
Quinn’s Cup fosters that same childlike enthusiasm in all who gather at Centennial Lakes in January. A tragedy is triumphed by team spirit, community support and thousands of dollars raised for the Myocarditis Foundation.
Quinn’s hockey coach and family friend, Clayton Weiby, says “Kids having fun is so consistent with who [Quinn] was. Many kids don’t have much unstructured fun, pickup games.” Kids leave Quinn’s Cup with smiles on their faces. “There’s a therapy component,” Weiby says. “We just made a bunch of people’s day… and we’re helping prevent what happened to him from happening to other kids.”
SERVICES
You can’t do it all. So let the local experts make your life simpler. Edina service providers aim to please and you’ll surely feel good about being in good hands.
Celine Kitzenberg // Promus Financial Group, New York Life
Best Insurance Agent
Celine Kitzenberg connects with her clients on a deeper level than just transacting an insurance sale. “I care very much about educating clients and prospects on the insurance recommendations I make, so at the end of the day, we both know their objectives, and come to a solution that fits their needs,” she says. Kitzenberg helps clients protect their biggest asset—the ability to earn an income. This securities licensed agent has a few tips for readers: work with someone you trust, don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t just buy-make an educated decision that fits your needs best. She loves referrals, the shops at 50th and France, the Edina school system and the Edina Creamery.
Runner-up: Matt Boockmeier at State Farm Insurance, Third place: Patrick Kelly at Farmers Insurance
Kallas Law Office
Best Law Firm
Kallas Law Office staff and attorney and president Mike Kallas develops personal, supportive relationships with clients and often become their go-to problem solver. Established in 1991, the firm provides legal services to individuals and businesses in the Twin Cities and throughout the state, in the areas of real estate, business and estate planning. Kallas Law Office prides itself on providing common sense solutions to a wide variety of problems. Clients often marvel at the solutions and exclaim, “Why didn’t I think of that?”
Runner-up: Hellmuth & Johnson, Third place: Mullen & Guttman
Coley Myhre // Lili Salon Spa
Best Hairstylist / Barber
When Coley Myhre (formerly Wellman) hangs out with friends at Lili Salon Spa every day, she is in fact at work, doing what she loves. This highly sought-after stylist takes time to teach her clients how to recreate their look at home and shares product knowledge and tips with them. Myhre is also a network educator for Bumble and Bumble because she believes that teaching is the best way for her to keep learning.
Runner-up: Bre Nokelby at Lili Salon Spa, Third place: Alli Swanson at Hair District
Spalon Montage
Best Salon / Spa
Clients don’t want their time at Spalon Montage to end. The salon and spa has been rejuvenating and beautifying people in the Edina community for 25 years. They are committed to legendary customer service and advanced technical education for its team members. The timeless “balayage” (a French word meaning “sweep” or “to paint”) hair coloring service is still all the rage. The technique creates a soft, sun-kissed look without the use of foils. Another popular service at Spalon Montage, the Skin Pen, is in the skincare department. This treatment stimulates the skin’s natural ability to produce new collagen, improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars, resulting in smoother, firmer and younger-looking skin.
Runner-up: Lili Salon Spa, Third place: Juut SalonSpa
Are you one of this year's winners? Find information on how to order a plaque and other materials HERE.
