Best Feline Immersion
Almost Home Cat Rescue
If you want to experience peace, love and joy all in one place, pay a visit to Almost Home cat rescue. This well-run organization allows the felines to roam free in one big playroom, and somehow, they all seem to get along. The public is welcome to stop in during visiting hours and soak up all that cat power – and hopefully consider adopting one of the residents. It’s a happy respite for these sweet animals while they await their forever home. – Carole Nicksin
Best Vintage Furnishings
Duotone Modern
When you walk in, your first thought might be, whoever owns this place has a very good eye. Owners Joe and Grace Aiello source midcentury modern treasures – furniture, lighting, décor – from all over the Midwest. Pieces recently found in the charming store include a circa-1940s “Chair in the Box” by New Bauhaus designer Nathan Lerner, and an insanely cool set of Thaden-Jordan midcentury sculptural plywood chairs. 534 N. Water St. – Ann Christenson
Best Quinceañera Boutique
Variedades Gonzalez
BY BIANCA CABRAL
As a toddler, my daughter Lexi watched a home video with my family of my sister’s quinceañera and immediately began dressing up in princess dresses and tiaras. The quinceañera is just a party to celebrate a girl’s 15th birthday, perhaps – in the same way that a wedding reception is just a party. In Latino culture, a quinceañera is a cherished tradition that holds great significance, a celebration not just among family and friends but among community.
Now, Lexi’s quince is coming up next spring. Among all the planning, there’s one task that’s the most exciting yet challenging: finding the perfect dress. These traditionally formal floor-length ball gowns come in a multitude of colors, styles and fits, and the quest for just the right one rivals that of a bride’s before her big day.
We went to at least seven different shops in Chicago and Milwaukee looking for Lexi’s quince gown, and I wish Variedades Gonzalez had been our first. The staff truly understands that this journey intertwines as one with the event. The family-owned shop offers a welcoming atmosphere, large gown selection, ample fitting rooms and extensive catalog options with personalized suggestions based on what the quinceañera is looking for. Lexi is down to two options from Variedades Gonzalez – both soft and lightweight, in light, creamy colors to complement her enchanted forest theme. We can’t wait to see her wear her final choice. 5401 W. Morgan Ave.
Best Masseuse
Rachel at Well Spa + Salon
The first time I received a deep-tissue massage by Rachel, I was inexplicably happy for days. Needless to say, I’ve been back numerous times, with equally uplifting results. I have no idea what magic is contained in Rachel’s fingers, but I highly recommend that you book an appointment and experience it for yourself. – CN
Best Comeback
The Waxwing
The pandemic wrought many untimely closings, including this store purveying in locally made artisan goods. Owner Steph Davies moved its operations online, but six years later, The Waxwing has found a new nest on the Lower East Side. It’s a welcome return of Cream City creation. 2201 N. Farwell Ave. – Evan Musil
Nominate Somebody Now!
Best Unnecessary Necessities
Fischberger’s Variety
You don’t need anything in this little store, but you really, really want just about everything. It’s a blast to explore the wares: stationery, home décor, craft supplies, games, international candies and even “blind boxes” – collectibles where what you get is a surprise. 2445 N. Holton St. – EM
Best Way to Beat Big Plastic
ECO MKE Refillery
So long, microplastics! So long, single-use containers! This new shop lets you fill up on shampoo, detergent and more with your own bottles or jars and also sells household goods made from sustainable materials. 221 S. Second St. – EM
Get Uncomfortably Sublime
On a dreary Saturday morning last March, I made my inaugural visit to Hot Spell Sauna. Just a few days later, I was back for more. This is important to know as I describe that first experience. When I imagined going to the sauna, I thought it would feel like being wrapped in a warm hug, that I would sit back and softly melt my stress away. I was wrong. Shortly after entering the small cedar-lined trailer, I was forced to take slow, controlled mouth breaths to prevent the nearly 200-degree air from burning my nasal passages. Sweat poured from every pore, and I stared longingly at the hourglass timer that would release me from my first 15 minutes. Just existing in that heat was hard. These sessions are communal, so I tried to focus on conversation with my companions – both new and familiar.
Finally, I exited into the cold air. A cloud of steam enveloped me, and with slippered feet I took a slow walk into Lake Michigan for my first cold plunge. The 35-degree water felt like a thousand icicles penetrating my skin. I was unable to breathe at all, and within 10 seconds I was out of the water, rushing toward the heat to start it all over again. Each of the remaining two circuits was a little easier, less jarring and more exhilarating. On my drive home, I was acutely aware of my every nerve, vibrating inside my body as if each had been awoken from a long sleep. The elation and relief lasted all day. I was hooked; I booked another session for just four days later. Now, I have a little less dread for the return of winter knowing I’ll be signing up for regular sauna mornings.
Best Tailor-Turned-Boutique
Hyde Park
Tailoring, alterations and dry cleaning have been the backbone of this family business in Tosa for decades. You can still trust the shop to patch a hole or adjust an inseam, but it’s since taken on another claim to fame: selling fashionable, casual-chic women’s clothing, accessories and jewelry. 6738 W. Wells St., Wauwatosa – EM
Best Frame Shop
The Framing Gallery
Sure, this shop has a great selection of frames. But owner Maureen Armstrong Saeger is simply really good at what she does – conserving and protecting treasured art. She guides and listens, without dictating. 733 E. Henry Clay St., Whitefish Bay – AC
Best Women’s Resale Clothing
Boz’s Clozet
Like many consignment boutiques, Boz’s Clozet might not have exactly what you’re looking for, but you’ll likely leave with something great – a jaunty scarf, previously loved designer handbag, flirty dress or piece of costume jewelry. The store is well-organized, and the prices are fair. 221 N. Main St., Thiensville – AC
