Image: Emily J. Davis
Our readers’ choice awards highlight the city’s favorites in 2012.
You picked them. Over 500 of you participated in this year’s “Best Of Edina” online voting, and for that we are grateful. The awards for Edina’s crème de la crème were presented at our “Best Of” party on June 21 at the Westin Edina Galleria, and here is a rundown of the winners with descriptions, from A-Z (minus X, because we have 25 categories, not 26). Get to know the best Edina has to offer, from auto service, to flower shops to pizza delivery.
‘A’ is for Best Auto Repair Shop: Grandview Tire & Auto
The thought of an honest car repair shop where the mechanics are on a first-name basis with their customers might seem old-fashioned, but not for the mechanics at Grandview Tire & Auto. “We’ve got some of the highest loyalty rates because of how we treat our customers and develop the relationships we do,” says general manager Rick Murphy. Besides offering complete auto repairs and maintenance, Grandview Auto has also taken advantage of the Internet and offers weekly web coupons, oil changes and recommended service reminders. –Anna Zeck
5415 70th St. W.; 952.944.1119
Runner-up: Edina Tire and Auto
Third place: Bobby & Steve’s
‘B’ is for Best Burger: Convention Grill
“We keep the burger pretty simple here,” says Convention Grill owner John Rimarcik. The popular burger joint has served up patties since 1934. “We let folks fix ‘em however you want: it’s just simple beef, with four kinds of cheese to choose from.” The burgers start at $5, and each additional topping cost 95 cents. “We’re not the new guy on the block or trying to set any records,” he offers humbly. –Jacob Wheeler
3912 Sunnyside Rd.; 952-920-6881
Runner-up: Edina Grill
Third place: Salut
‘C’ is for Best Children’s Shop: Creative Kidstuff
Crazy and colorfully wrapped Creative Kidstuff packages have been delighting children across the Twin Cities since 1982. From a soft plush lamb for Baby to a cool rock science kit–and virtually everything in between–the Edina store in Galleria is always stocked with the latest, greatest and more than a few classics. It’s still the go-to spot for parents and kids looking for something special. –Julie Pfitzinger
3555 69th St.; 952.926.4512
Runner-up: Oh Baby
Third place: Goodnight Moon
‘D’ is for Best Doggy Day Care/Kennel: Augusta Doggy Day Care
“Hugs and kisses” are the specialty for kennel guests at Augusta, which has locations in Edina and Wayzata. This hot spot for the canine community also offers daycare options, in-home training to help pet owners and their four-legged friends create good habits (or maybe break a few bad ones) with love and care–and probably more than a few kisses. –Julie Pfitzinger
7019 Amundson Ave.; 952-914-0292
Runner-up: Pets are Inn
Third place: Adogo Pet Hotel
‘E’ is for Edina Creamery, which is Best Place to go for Dessert:
You’d be hard-pressed not to sing praise for Edina Creamery. The ice cream extraordinaire has been doling out scoops of homemade goodness for decades. Come for the ice cream and stay for the red vinyl stools, black and white checkered floor and 1950s décor. Choose from a rotating list of 50 flavors, including classics like triple chocolate and vanilla bean and new twists like peanut butter chocolate chunk and blueberry cheesecake. –Anna Zeck
5055 France Ave. S.; 612.920.2169
Runner-up: Cheesecake Factory
Third place: Sweet Retreat
‘F’ is for Best Florist: Flowers of Edina
Over 30 varieties of premium flowers are available at Flowers of Edina, one of the area’s only full-service florists. Flowers of Edina’s army of expert florists craft a stunning arrangement from scratch, often using locally grown flowers purchased from local farmers. For a lovely summer bouquet, owner Janine Krieter recommends sunflowers, snapdragons or lilies to brighten up your abode. –Anna Zeck
7029 Amundson Ave.; 952.944.5770
Runner-up: Bachman’s
Third place: Garden Gate
‘G’ is for Golf Course: Braemar
As the only public course in Edina, Braemar Golf is the place to play a round. The facility offers 27 regulation holes, a driving range, a golf dome and two executive courses. After opening in 1964, Braemar was ranked among the top 75 public courses by Golf Digest. Today, the course boasts the highest volume of golfers in Minnesota. After opening a month earlier than normal this year, Braemar is enjoying a banner season. –Jacob Wheeler
6364 John Harris Drive; 952.903.5750
Runner-up: Interlachen
Third place: Edina Country Club
‘H’ is for Hot Mama, which wins award for Best Boutique
Hot Mama caters to the trendsetter, the trend follower and the mom who wants to look and feel her best in comfortable and stylish clothes. Looking for a super summer dress for a special party? How about your own version of ‘play clothes’ for a day at Edinborough Park? This Edina store is where it all began for Hot Mama–now in 11 states–and more popular than ever. –Julie Pfitzinger
3914 W.50th St.; 952.746.8255
Runner-up: Bluebird Boutique
Third place: Whymsy
‘I’ is for Best Interior Designer: KBI Design Studios
Katie Bassett prides herself on discovering fresh ideas for her clients and is committed to making the design process fun and easy. Trends are important, but Bassett says that she and her team “always want to stay true to the home”. Every client chooses a signature fabric that ends up being exclusive to their project. “We call it the inspiration fabric,” says Bassett. “It’s the one that just makes our client’s heart sing.” –Julie Pfitzinger
4800 Sunnyside Road; 612.385.1456
Runner-up: Gabberts Design Studio
Third place: Engler Studio
‘J’ is for Jenny Peters, manager of Davanni’s, winner of Best Delivery award
“We tell our customers exactly when we’ll be there, and then we beat that time,” boasts Jenny Peters, assistant manager of the Davanni’s location in Edina. Peters’ most seasoned driver has worked at Davanni’s for 15 years and knows the city’s streets like the back of his hand. Davanni’s, which boasts 21 locations in the metro area, makes fresh dough three-four times every day. –Jacob Wheeler
5124 Gus Young Ln; 952.920.9090
Runner-up: Domino’s
Third place: Milo’s
‘K’ is for Best Kids’ Birthday Party Spot: Chuck E. Cheese’s
There’s nothing that says “Happy Birthday” like pizza, games, prizes, music and lots of energy. From separate play areas for toddlers and older kids, games for all levels of skill and the infamous prize case, there’s no denying the appeal of Chuck E. Cheese’s. Scheduling a birthday party online is a snap–you can even send Evites to your guests directly from the site. So sit back and have another slice of pizza. –Julie Pfitzinger
7505 France Ave. S.; 952.831.4077
Runner-up: Edinborough Park
Third place: Pump It Up
‘L’ is for Best Landscaper: JLM Design Build
JLM Design Build is a repeat winner in the “Best Landscaper” category and with its high level of customer service in both landscaping and remodeling, odds are good that JLM enjoys many repeat customers. Outdoor kitchen? Elegant patio? Cozy stone fireplace? The team can do it all. “We are a relatively small company, but for our size, we do a lot of work,” says Tom Miller. “People know us and know our history.” –Julie Pfitzinger
7141 Amundson Ave.; 952.941.9818
Runner-up: Bachman’s
Third place: Sunnyside Gardens
‘M’ is for Mozza Mia, which wins award for Best Pizza
Since opening just over a year ago, Mozza Mia has racked up accolades left and right. “I think it’s the fact that we make the dough in-house, and we choose quality products and ingredients to toss the pizza,” says executive chef Heather Swan. She recommends the margherita pizza, or if you’re in the mood for a more adventurous slice of pie, the fig and prosciutto pizza. Take advantage of the restaurant’s special with the Edina Theater–dinner for two, including a bottle of wine and gelato for dessert, and two tickets to the Edina Theater for $35. –Anna Zeck
3910 W. 50th St.; 952.288.2882
Runner-up: Davanni’s
Third place: Pizza Lola
‘N’ is for New Restaurant: Cocina del Barrio
Barrio near 50th & France may be know best for its superb tequila selection and laid-back Latino vibe. But Cocina del Barrio wants to highlight its stellar Latin-American cuisine too, featuring a variety of small plates and entrees that include local and sustainable ingredients. Don’t miss the made-to-order guacamole, accompanied by crispy and salty tortilla chips. –Jacob Wheeler
5036 France Ave. South; 952.920.1860
Runner-up: Mozza Mia
Third place: Pittsburgh Blue
‘O’ is for “Open wide!” as in Best Dentist: 44st St. Dental
44th St. Dental is a household name in Edina, as is the Veker name. Dr. Steven Veker’s father Stanley entered the practice in 1946 and he took the helm in 1988. The younger Veker, and Dr. Carl Schneider, specialize in general cosmetic and child dental procedures including laser dentistry, gum disease, therapy, teeth bleaching and whitening. 44th St. Dental is one reason why you see so many pretty smiles around Edina. –Jacob Wheeler
3925 West 44th St.; 952.922.2159
Runner-up: Edina Dental Care
Third place: Centennial Lakes Dental Group
‘P’ is for Best Pet Store: Bone Adventure
With more than 20 years catering to dogs of all shapes and sizes, owner Brian Fulmer says that many neighborhood pups are so accustomed to receiving their treat when they visit Bone Adventure that, in the evening, when the store is closed, “many will just sit patiently by the front door, waiting.” Talk about loyalty. Bone Adventure carries a range of pet accessories–collars, shampoos, treats, toys and much more. –Julie Pfitzinger
5045 France Ave. S.; 612.920.2201
Runner-up: Lulu & Luigi
Third place: Petco
‘Q’ is for Best Quarters for Kids to Play (i.e., Playground): Edinborough Park
Edina’s best backyard is home to one of the largest indoor play configurations in the country, but Edina kids who eventually get to know every inch of this entertaining park just know that it means fun! Capped off with Adventure Peak (complete with four giant tube slides and more) along with a special area for the little and less adventurous ones, Edinborough Park is the best playground around. –Julie Pfitzinger
7700 York Ave. S.; 952-833-9540
Runner-up: Wooddale Park
Third place: Cornelia School Park
‘R’ is for Best Remodeler/Builder: John Kraemer & Sons
John Kraemer & Sons does it all–remodeling, construction, any size, shape or style. And they don’t subcontract the job: the responsibility is all in-house. Kraemer & Sons does most of its work around Edina and Lake Minnetonka, where 98 percent of its business comes from referrals. This summer the company is building two homes in the Rolling Green neighborhood and on the first fairway at Interlachen Country Club. –Jacob Wheeler
4906 Lincoln Drive; 952.935.9100
Runner-up: Noonan Construction
Third place: W.B. Builders
‘S’ is for Best Salon/Spa: Spalon Montage
Leave your pampering needs in the capable hands at Spalon Montage, the one-stop-shop for beauty, hair and spa treatments. From facials and waxing to manicures and haircuts, the large staff is dedicated to offering the highest quality of service. Notice the new treatments in the esthetics department, like the Obagi blue peel, a deep peel that will leave skin looking younger and fresher. Spalon Montage also cracked the code to a smoothing treatment for hair that is actually safe, providing an alternative to the potentially harmful Brazilian Blowout. –Anna Zeck
3909 W. 49 ½ St.; 952.915.2900
Runner-up: Bespoke Hair Artisans
Third place: Juut
‘T’ is for Tim Fargo at Chiropractic Health & Wellness, the Best Chiropractor
Dr. Tim Fargo at Chiropractic Health & Wellness is that rare, old-fashioned doctor who will do whatever it takes to help a patient, even if that means making a home visit or driving them to another clinic. “My emphasis has always been on delivering the kind of care that I’d want for my own family,” says Dr. Fargo, who has practiced in Edina for over 20 years. “I really try to recognize that people are capable of healing themselves from the inside out.” –Jacob Wheeler
3400 W. 66th Street, Suite 128; 952.835.6750
Runner-up: 50th & France Chiropractic & Wellness
Third place: Burke Chiropractic Center
‘U’ is for “Unique” as in Mish Mash Studio, Edina’s Best New Shop
Mish Mash Studio provides a creative atmosphere brimming with inspiration and ideas for every customer that walks through the door. Whether you’re searching for retro house wares, jewelry handcrafted by a local artist or a Partridge Family lunchbox, you’ll find all of that and more at Mish Mash. Owner Annie Schilling says, “It’s a new adventure every time you come in!” Mish Mash also offers a perfect spot for birthday parties. –Julie Pfitzinger
4504B Valley View Road; 952.920.8243
Runner-up: Athleta
Third place: Pottery Barn Kids
‘V’ is for “Vanishing Spots” as in Best Dry Cleaners: Edina Cleaners
Since 1952, Edina Cleaners has had a rich tradition of quality cleaning and customer service. It may have been your grandmother’s go-to dry cleaners; chances are it’s yours, too. Owner Lee Stotts is the third-generation member of his own family to provide services such as cleaning, pressing and laundering. Try the Red Bag Express Service, which includes an e-mail or text when your order is complete. That’s a time saver Grandma never had. –Julie Pfitzinger
4500 France Ave. S.; 952.927.9991
Runner-up: Mulberry’s Garment Care
Third place: Anderson Cleaners
‘W’ is for “Weights” as in Best Fitness Studio: Steele Fitness
With clients ranging in age from 9 to 90, the personal training offered at Steele Fitness can help anyone meet the health and fitness goals they want to set for themselves. Beginning weekend warriors or skilled elite athletes are all welcome. “To get away from their busy lives and spend an hour for themselves in a way that will improve their health makes all the difference in the world,” says marketing director Lily Smith. –Julie Pfitzinger
3908 West 50th St.; 952.285.8009
Runner-up: CrossFit MN
Third place: Blooma
‘Y’ is for Youngsters, as in Best Preschool/Day Care: Especially for Children
Finding the best place for their child to learn and grow during those precious early years is the top goal of every parent, which is why Especially for Children in Edina is “number one”. Assistant director Kathy Smart believes in a strong sense of community at the center. “We feel like we provide an enriched program with caring teachers,” she says. –Julie Pfitzinger
5015 W. 70th St.; 952.857.1100
Runner-up: Normandale Lutheran Preschool
Third place: Kinderberry Hill
‘Z’ is for Zel Skin & Laser Specialists, Edina’s Best Dermatologist
Dr. Brian Zelickson, repeatedly named among the Twin Cities’ top doctors by Mpls. St. Paul Magazine, is the go-to guy for skin and laser work in Edina. The clinic’s unique blend of innovative technology and high expertise of its staff makes Zel Skin and Laser Specialists the premier skin care destination in the metro area. President elect of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Zelickson is recognized nationally for his contributions to laser medicine and surgery. –Jacob Wheeler
4100 West 50th Street; 952.929.8888
Runner-up: Dermatology Specialists
Third place: Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Institute
