Best of Edina 2011

Photo: Tate Carlson

Edina Creamery's homemade cherry nut, chocolate and mint chip ice cream in a waffle cup, winner of Best Place to Go Out for Dessert.

Lucky us, Edina. Within our borders, we’ve got an enviable wealth of amazing restaurants, service providers, shops and stops. And with the mass of new openings in the last year, there are even more options to choose from. But, you know what? Only a handful can truly be the best of the best. And thanks to your votes in our online survey last spring, we know who they are. Behold, this year’s blue ribbon winners.

Best Place to Go Out for Dessert
Edina Creamery
I scream, you scream, heck, we’re all screaming for ice cream. The homemade variety from Edina Creamery, to be specific. The shop boasts some 50 different rotating, rich and creamy flavors, ranging from Kahlua chip to coconut to green tea to bubblegum, so feel free to pony up to the counter and try a few before making the big decision. And, did we mention the intoxicating scent of the homemade waffle cones that fills their old school, 50’s-style parlor? Now, that’s sweet. 5055 France Ave. S.; 612.920.2169
Runner-up: The Cheesecake Factory; Third place: Salut Bar Americain

Best New Shop
STEELE Lifestyle Boutique
There’s something really appealing about the idea of getting in an amazing workout, and then rewarding yourself with a little retail therapy. Enter, the STEELE Lifestyle Boutique, which re-opened in a brand new, much larger space at 50th & France last fall. Even if you don’t workout there, this shop is a must stop, with its handsome selection of high-fashion active wear displayed in a chic, high-energy environment. Favorite brands include lululemon athletica (flattering and high performance workout wear), Chaser LA (vintage-inspired patterned tees) and George, Gina & Lucy (super stylish and functional totes). Better yet? All the items in this shop seem to transition perfectly from gym to street wear. 3908 W. 50th St.; 952.285.8009
Runner-up: Eileen Fisher; Third place: Louis Vuitton

Best Pizza
Mozza Mia
This rookie restaurant knocked it out of the park, due in large part to the eatery’s recipes and behind-the-scenes talent that are anything but amateur. Their pizza features a tender, chewy crust that’s made with Italian flour, yeast and sea salt (for a sourdough flavor), then wood-fired and slightly blackened. It’s topped with a mix of high-quality ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes and their signature, fresh-daily homemade mozzarella—the creation of which is something of an art form. Favorites include selections like the salumi (tomato, fennel salami, aged provolone and pepperoncini), and the fig and prosciutto (La Quercia prosciutto, gorgonzola and carmelized onion). Eat in or take it out, but be warned, your pizza cravings will reach a whole new level. 3910 W. 50th St.; 952.288.2882
Runner-up: Davanni’s; Third place: TJ’s of Edina

Best Carwash
Mister Car Wash
Think fast. Could your car use a wash right now? Given our ever-changing Minnesota weather, the answer is likely “yes.” Thanks to Mister’s Unlimited Wash programs, you can have your car cleaned as often as you like for a reasonable monthly fee, which varies according to whether you simply want express services, or the whole interior/exterior detailing kit and caboodle. Of course, you’re also more than welcome to go a la carte for your washes, featuring special extras like their trademark HotShine Carnauba Shield, a waterfall wax that coats your car for a luscious, lasting shine. 7711 Normandale Rd.; 952.835.2363
Runner-up: Edina Car Wash; Third place: Grandview Tire & Auto

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