Newburyport’s French Lessons will have you looking tres chic! The classy boutique offers a number of designer names such as Citizens for Humanity, Sevens, Paige, Joes, and many more. Enter this denim dreamland to find the perfect pair of jeans for you.
French Lessons
26 State St., Newburyport
978-499-0499, frenchlessons-boutique.com
Readers’ Choice:
Izzy’s Emporium
21 Barnard St., Andover
978-475-0194, izzysemporium.com
It’s hard not to feel like a celebrity at Royal Jewelers in Andover, but great service alone isn’t why this is the best jewelry store on the North Shore. With its own David Yurman boutique and a wide selection of top-quality rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, ranging in price from affordable to out-of-this-world, it’s no wonder that customers come from Boston and beyond for that must-have item.
Royal Jewelers
58 Main St., Andover
978-475-3330, royaljewelers.com
Readers’ Choice:
Jambu
38 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead
781-639-9600, jambujewelry.com
For a wide range of kitchen supplies from the most dependable brands, it’s hard to beat Tri-City Sales in Salem. The great selection of refrigerators, microwaves, stoves, dishwashers, and supplies will make your kitchen a comfortable place to prepare and store food as well as a shining work of art.
Tri-City Sales
26 Highland Ave., Salem
978-744-6100, tri-city-sales.com
Readers’ Choice:
McCormick Kitchens
135 Broadway, Saugus
781-231-4200, mccormick-kitchens.com
For 100 years, Delande Lighting of Salem has been a family-owned business. Step into the full-service showroom and you are surrounded by beautiful lighting fixtures for your home or office. If your tastes are hard to match, Delande will customize any lamp shade based on your personal needs.
Delande Lighting
22 New Derby St., Salem
978-744-2609, delandelighting.com
Readers’ Choice:
Lucia Lighting,
311 Western Ave., Lynn
781-595-0026, lucialighting.com
Ladies, we all know that shopping for lingerie can be frustrating, especially in a mall where service is often nonexistent. Night and Day is the solution to all our shopping woes. The knowledgeable staff will work with you to find the garment that fits you the best (be sure to ask about a bra fitting). And when it comes to sexy and elegant, nothing beats the selection at this Andover mainstay.
Night and Day
63 Park St., Andover,
978-475-0343, nightanddaylingerie.com
Readers’ Choice:
Undercover Wear
2 Main St., Andover
978-474-6000, ucwboutique.com
So you want to be a rock star? Then head over to the West Newbury School of Music, where you can learn to master anything from the violin to the drums. The school’s intimate setting provides for strong student-teacher relationships and will help you reach your musical potential. Be sure to sign up for “The Science of Sound and Composition” then rock out during Friday jam sessions.
West Newbury School of Music
11 Maple St., West Newbury
978-363-1579, wnsom.com
Readers’ Choice:
Accel. School of Music
9-11 Peabody Sq., Peabody
978-884-5274, accelschoolofmusic.com
Bring your four-legged friend to The Barking Cat in Salem, and you’ll hear a few barks and meows as thanks. This shop sells top-quality gourmet treats, toys, food, leashes, and more, as well as plenty of healthy items. Good luck getting your pet out of here, though; we recommend some coaxing with an Old Mother Hubbard biscuit.
The Barking Cat
266 Essex St., Salem
978-745-2275, thebarkingcat.us
Readers’ Choice:
Marblehead Pet Supply
20 Bessom St., Marblehead
781-631-3500
Landry & Arcari’s massive supply of gorgeous woven rugs in formal and traditional designs makes this rug store a top choice for anyone looking to spruce up the homestead. For a perfect match, design your own rug and they will weave it for you. From cleaning and repairing area rugs to installations and customization, this Salem rug destination will add perfection, style, and pizazz to your home, no matter what budget you walk in with.
Landry and Arcari
63 Flint St., Salem
978-744-5909, landryandarcari.com
Readers’ Choice:
Khouri’s Oriental Rugs and Carpeting
56 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead
781-639-1441, khouris.com
In general, guys hate to shop. Thankfully, Nordstrom in Peabody has taken the pain out of shoe shopping for men with not only the best quality but also the best selection of dress shoes, business shoes, boots, and everyday strollers. Make a statement with a pair of Salvatore Ferragamo “Torrent” Oxfords or get ready for a night out with a pair of Mark Nason “Declan” boots. Either way, you’ll be walking in serious style and it only took one stop.
Nordstrom
210 Andover St., Northshore Mall, Peabody
978-278-7400, nordstrom.com
Readers’ Choice:
John Tarr
49 Main St., Rockport
978-546-6524
Searching for strappy stilettos, fabulous flip-flops, striking sandals, or casual comfort shoes? Cuoio in Marblehead is the place to be. Whatever your style, they have shoes to complement your look. The boutique’s wide selection offers the choices of a department store in an intimate setting. Accommodating, honest, and helpful service will assist you in suiting your many foot fancies.
Cuoio
26 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead
781-631-0100
Readers’ Choice:
Viola Lovely
15 Walnut Rd., South Hamilton
978-468-1775, violalovely.com
You just planned a weekend getaway, but you need to gear up. Your next move should be a stop at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Danvers. Nowhere else can you find the latest camping, fishing, and hunting gear, all while reloading your golf bag with new clubs, restringing your tennis racket, and outfitting the entire family with athletic clothing and shoes. And don’t forget the life-sized human punching bag. SUV rentals not included.
Dick’s Sporting Goods
96 Commonwealth Ave., Danvers
978-646-6400, dickssportinggoods.com
Readers’ Choice:
Palazola’s
85 Main St., Gloucester
978-283-9180
Lively Kids in Newburyport will have your little ones looking lovely and stylish no matter what they do to the clothing. Adorn your baby girl in adorable summer dresses or your future baseball star in a “Little Papi” Red Sox tee. Of course, there are plenty of fashionable onesies, shoes, and socks to pick through, as well.
Readers’ Choice:
Lively Kids
15 State St., Newburyport
978-465-7650, livelykid.com
When it comes to the finest selection of high-quality watches and the best service, there’s only one place worth your time: Royal Jewelers in Andover. From the most luxurious designs of Vacheron Constantin to the most popular Tag Hauer lines, nothing beats Royal’s dedication to providing the best watch for the best value.
Royal Jewelers
58 Main St., Andover
978-475-3330, royaljewelers.com
Readers’ Choice:
The Watchmaker
379 Main St., Stoneham
781-438-6977, thewatchmaker.com
Jennie Cudmore founded Salem’s Crunchy Granola Baby to provide “green” families with organic and natural items for babies and young children. With a great selection of lotions, soaps, toys, linens, and more, babies will have premium products while parents enjoy wonderful customer service and the notion that their little ones can get an early start on protecting the environment.
Crunchy Granola Baby
72 Washington St., Salem
978-741-0800, crunchygranolababy.net
Readers’ Choice:
Hip Baby Gear
80 Washington St., Marblehead
781-631-5556, hipbabygear.com
In 1897, Cornelius Leary opened Leary’s Wine and Spirits in Newburyport, where locals would come to fill buckets of wine from the barrels he brought in with a horse and wagon. Times have changed but fortunately, fine wine tastes are just as discerning. Leary’s exotic selection, exceptional prices, and great service outshine the rest. Ask the staff for advice or come in on a Saturday for a wine tasting.
Leary’s Wine and Spirits
202 Merrimac St., Newburyport
978-462-4451, learysfinewines.com
Readers’ Choice:
Pamplemousse
185-189 Essex St., Salem
978-745-2900, pmousse.com
It’s raining and the kids are bouncing off the walls. What do you do? Take them to Imajine That! in Lawrence, a clean, fun, and safe place for children ages six months to eight years to play, learn, or celebrate a birthday party. The facility’s attentive staff supervises every square foot of playspace, including the super market, mini post office, bouncy house, jungle gym, art center, and music rooms. Memberships are available.
Readers’ Choice:
Imajine That!
354 Merrimack St., Lawrence
978-682-5338, imajinethat.com
Take the kids to enjoy the same activities you did when you were their age at Salem Willows. Boredom will not be an issue thanks to an arcade, rides, a mini golf course, and a grassy area for eating and napping. Parents can also enjoy the classic Chop Suey sandwich, salt-water taffy, and a game of skeeball while taking in the sights of Salem Harbor. Admission and parking is free.
Salem Willows
167 Fort Ave., Salem
978-745-0251, salemwillowspark.com
Readers’ Choice:
Smolak Farms
315 S. Bradford St., North Andover
978-682-6332, smolakfarms.com
The consistent, friendly, and unbeatable service at David’s Tavern will suit the whole family. The menu is fit for even the pickiest of eaters, offering many options in American cuisine such as seafood, steaks, and signature salads. Sit back, relax, and enjoy some laughs in this casual setting located in the Garrison Inn in Newburyport.
David’s Tavern
11 Brown Sq., Newburyport
978-462-8077, davidstavern.com
Readers’ Choice:
Not Your Average Joe’s
1 Market Sq, Newburyport
978-462-3808, notyouraveragejoes.com
The fabulous mix of genres available at Jabberwocky in Newburyport has a tendency to get children to sit down and read. From fantasy to historical books, all interests are
explored. This independently owned store in Newburyport matches its ideal selection of kids’ books with friendly service. Check out the cards and stationary, too.
Jabberywocky Books
50 Water St., Newburyport
978-465-9359, jabberwockybookshop.com
Readers’ Choice:
Cornerstone Books
45 Lafayette St., Salem
978-744-1831, cornerstonebooks-salem.com
Goodhearts in Reading has a great variety of fabulous outfits perfect for both everyday wear and formal events. For the finest clothing (as well as accessories and personalized gifts), Goodhearts is a one-stop shopping experience. Appointments are available for busy times to ensure superb customer service, and you’ll enjoy shopping for the clothes just as much as your child enjoys wearing them.
Goodhearts
642 Main St., Reading
781-942-9700, goodheartsshop.com
Readers’ Choice:
Scuppers
79 Washington St., Marblehead,
781-631-5221
Escape to the west in your very own Cow-A-Bunga Teen-style room from Bellini Baby & Teen Furniture of Middleton. Choose from other themes such as Gone Fishing, Perfectly Princess, Tea Party, and more. Only need a couple pieces to complement your decor? Bellini sells separate pieces too. From mirrors, chests, and armoires, Bellini has what you need to transform your room from funky to feng shui.
Bellini Baby & Teen Furniture
220 South Main St., Middleton
978-777-4200, bellini.com
Readers’ Choice:
Hip Baby Gear,
80 Washington St., Marblehead
781-631-5556, hipbabygear.com
From classic scoop necks to trendy prints and one-shoulder designs, Chulamama in Danvers will suit your fashion demands. Jeans, shirts, dresses, bottoms, lingerie, swimsuits, blazers, and more are available in fantastic colors, as well as comfortable and cool styles.
Readers’ Choice:
Chulamama
85 Andover St., Danvers
888-424-8526, chulamama.com
Walk into most toy stores these days and you’re likely to drown in a sea of unorganized boxes, balls, and noisy things. Not so at Silly Goose in Essex. This small but compact shop caters to kids who just want to have fun and buyers who don’t want to put up with the nonsense. A new online store also makes shopping for the best toys, puzzles, and stuffed animals that much easier.
Silly Goose Toy Store
166 Main St., Essex
978-768-4545, usillygoose.com
Readers’ Choice:
Mud Puddle Toys,
1 Pleasant St., Marblehead
781-631-0814, mudpuddletoys.com
Founded in 1982 by the Lowell Historic Preservation Commission and located in a restored mill, Brush Art Gallery and Studios oozes creativity. Designed to be educational, exhibitions delve into social and environmental issues, thanks to the ethnic diversity of Lowell. Whether you are an artist or an art lover, you’ll definitely find inspiration here and maybe even a few new pieces for your home.
Brush Art Galley and Studios
256 Market St., Lowell
978-459-7819, thebrush.org
Readers’ Choice:
Walsingham Gallery,
47 Merrimac St., Newburyport
978-499-4411, thewalsinghamgallery.com
Get a big-city night-out experience right in historic Salem at Strega. With a lavish red interior and plenty of boom in the sound system, Strega provides the perfect atmosphere to mingle, dance, and drink. Whether you are deep in conversation on one of the leather couches or burning some calories on the dance floor, there’s a good chance you’ll meet new people or, at the very least, put a stressful workday behind you.
Strega
92 Lafayette St., Salem
978-741-0004, stregasalem.com
Readers’ Choice:
Lobster Shanty
25 Front St., Salem
978-745-5449, lobstershantysalem.com
For a wicked good brew fit for Gloucester’s finest sailors and fishermen, nothing beats a “Beer on the Pier” by the docks of America’s oldest seaport at the Cape Ann Brewing Company. The Fisherman’s IPA is a favorite, handcrafted from two-row barley imported from Europe. See how it’s done on Mondays for homebrew night.
Readers’ Choice:
Cape Anne Brewing Co.,
27 Commercial St., Gloucester
866-233-7636, capeannbrewing.com
For the best round without membership fees, head to Far Corner Golf. Manicured greens, scenic tree lines, terrific service, and a variety of terrain make this Boxford course a prime spot. You can even enter Far Corner’s monthly drawing to win a foursome with carts.
Far Corner Golf
778 Main St., West Boxford
978-352-8300, farcornergolf.com
Readers’ Choice:
Tewksbury Country Club,
1880 Main St., Tewksbury
978-640-0033, tewksburycc.com
Spanning 7,021 yards of gorgeous, well-kept greens lies Turner Hill, an award-winning 18-hole par 72-championship golf course. The course’s extraordinary landscape combines the perfect proportion between awesome play and excellent scenery. Inspired by Europe’s grand castles and manors, the Turner Hill mansion has been a standout in Ipswich since 1903.
Turner Hill
3 Manor House Ln., Ipswich
978-356-7070, turnerhill.com
Readers’ Choice:
Ferncroft Country Club,
10 Village Rd., Middleton, 978-739-4040, ferncroftcc.com
For a taste of the Emerald Isle, it’s hard to beat Newburyport’s Port Tavern. The dark wood-and-brick interior, combined with a long bar with plenty of seats and televisions, makes tipping back pints and catching a game old hat. Throw in some Guinness Beef Stew and live Irish music on Wednesdays and Sundays and you’ll see why this is quickly becoming one of the best hangouts on the North Shore.
Port Tavern
84 State St., Newburyport
978-465-1006, theporttavern.com
Readers’ Choice:
Kitty O’Sheas
298 Cabot St., Beverly
978-927-0300, northshoreonline.com/kittyosheaspub
Located on the water in Salisbury, Blue Ocean Music Hall welcomes a variety of national and regional bands, solo artists, comedians, and children’s entertainers year round. Grab a table near the stage or, if the night is right, let down your hair and dance the night away. No matter what, with one of the finest audio and light systems available, as well as great food and ocean views, you’re bound to have a night to remember.
Blue Ocean Music Hall,
4 Oceanfront North, Salisbury
978-462-5888, blueoceanhall.com
Readers’ Choice:
Me and Thee Coffeehouse
28 Mugford St., Marblehead
781-631-8987, meandthee.org
In late 2009, Salem Theatre Company got a new lease on life, so to speak, with its new 60-seat venue on Lafayette Street. What hasn’t changed is the quality of performances you’ll find here, ranging from cultural to classic to contemporary. Whether it’s a musical, a play, or a concert, you’re bound to see a great show every time.
Readers’ Choice:
Salem Theatre Co.
90 Lafayette St., Salem
978-790-8546, salemtheatre.com
Blood Orange Grapefruit, Pacific Pineapple, Black Sambuca Coffee, Hipnotiq Haze, Liquid Hard Candy…what’s your pleasure? With a collection of 360 vodkas from around the world and 70 different martini selections, Venetian Moon has put Reading on the map of seriously swanky lounges. Spend a little time downstairs and you’ll swear you are in Miami Beach.
Venetian Moon
680 Main St., Reading
781-944-3633, venetianmoon.com
Readers’ Choice:
Glory Restaurant
19 Essex St., Andover
978-475-4811, gloryrestaurant.com
What separates Cinema Salem apart from its megaplex competitors is that it invokes the true essence of film viewing. Here, the personal touches go a long way. The popcorn is freshly made and right before each movie is about to begin, an employee comes down to the front of the screen to greet and thank everyone for coming to see the show.
Readers’ Choice:
Cinema Salem
2 East India Square Mall, Salem
978-744-1400, cinemasalem.com
Grab some friends, order wings and nachos, and settle in to watch a game at Salem’s Tavern in the Square. A massive number of televisions surround the bar for optimal viewing, so you will never miss an important play. With 30 beers on tap and over 90 selections on the menu, this is what every sports bar should be.
Tavern in the Square
163 Washington. St., Salem
978-740-2337, taverninthesquare.com
Readers’ Choice:
Maddie’s Sail Loft
15 State St., Marblehead
781-631-9824
Marblehead’s seafood hotspot, The Landing, fills with laughter every Tuesday evening for “Trivia Night with Brian.” Start studying your cocktails, love songs, and area codes because the categories are that random. Or at least, bring some smart friends with you.
The Landing
81 Front St., Marblehead
781-639-1266, thelandingrestaurant.com
Readers’ Choice:
The Landing at 7 Central
7 Central St., Manchester
978-526-7494, thelandingat7central.com
Relax, take in the gorgeous view, and make sure to savor your appetite for a meal on the Tiki Deck at Michael’s Harborside, located on Tournament Wharf in Newburyport Harbor. Order a Pomegranate Martini and watch boats sail in and out of the marina as you catch some rays, or stick around for sunset while live bands get your night started off on the right foot. Show up early to snag a prime spot along the rail and you may never want to leave.
Michael’s Harborside,
1 Tournament Wharf,
Newburyport, 978-462-7785,
michaelsharborside.com
Readers’ Choice:
Finz Seafood Restaurant,
76 Wharf St., Salem,
978-744-8485, hipfinz.com
From sandwiches to sticky buns, the skilled bakers at A&J King Artisan Bakers are sure to cure your carb cravings. Owners Jackie and Andy serve a variety of handcrafted breads and pastries, made from local products, ensuring freshness and fluff. Whether you grab a brioche roll for yourself or a North Shore Sourdough boule for the family, this Salem bakery will not leave you disappointed.
Readers’ Choice:
A & J King Artisan Bakers,
48 Central St., Salem,
978-744-4881, ajkingbakery.com
Beach lovers and boaters have been known to take a break from the sweltering sun to curb their chocolate cravings at Stowaway Sweets, just a short walk from Marblehead’s shore. From marzipan to lobster lollipops, Stowaway offers a variety of mouth-watering treats. Be sure to indulge in Stowaway’s scrumptious chocolate sailboats.
Stoweaway Sweets
154 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead,
781-631-0303, stoweawaysweets.com
Readers’ Choice:
I Dream of Jeanne Cakes
1000 Technology Park Dr., Billerica,
978-869-6013, jtcakes.com
You don’t have to take a road trip to the Carolinas for a taste of the succulent South. Instead, head to Burlington and bite into the slow-cooked, moist, and tender BBQ offerings at Lester’s Roadside BBQ. The secret Southern zing is in the special blend of spices and seasonings which make for an authentic taste of good ol’ home cookin’.
Lester’s Roadside BBQ, 376A Cambridge St., Burlington,
781-221-7427, lestersbbq.com
Readers’ Choice:
American Barbeque
5 Railroad Ave., Rowley,
978-948-2626, tabbq.com
Beer lovers finally have a place of their own on the North Shore, thanks to the Grill Next Door in Haverhill. While the selections change regularly, the quality never wanes. The pub’s 36 taps pour everything from lagers and stouts to Belgians and some seriously hoppy IPAs. This is beer country, after all. An 18-seat mahogany bar wraps around the taps while flat-screen televisions keep you occupied between sips.
The Grill Next Door
653 Broadway, Haverhill
978-241-7337, thegrillnextdoor.net
Readers’ Choice:
Gulu- Gulu Café
247 Essex St., Salem
978-740-8882, gulu-gulu.com
At Sugar Magnolias, the vast assortment of pancakes, porridge, omelets, and Benedicts will quickly transform you from night owl to early bird. It’s no surprise that this Gloucester mainstay has such a devoted following, thanks to dishes like The Greasy Pole and the Crab Cake Bene. Consistently fabulous service and generous portions should make this local favorite a must-dine on anyone’s breakfast to-do list.
Sugar Magnolias
112 Main St., Gloucester
978-281-5310, sugarmags.com
Readers’ Choice:
Red’s Sandwich Shop
15 Central St., Salem
978-745-3527, redssandwichshop.com
Sure, their Sunday brunch has your typical eggs and bacon, but when you eat at Nathaniel’s in Salem’s Hawthorne Hotel, you’re in for more than just a meal—it’s an experience. An elegant atmosphere is accentuated by live jazz and an assortment of menu options that feature virtually any ingredient that your appetite can crave. This is what Sunday mornings were made for.
Nathaniel’s
18 Washington Sq., W. Salem
978-825-4311, hawthornehotel.com
Readers’ Choice:
In a Pig’s Eye
148 Derby St., Salem
978-741-4436, inapigseye.com
Sometimes, all you need is a well-cooked burger with the works. When the craving hits, head to 15 Walnut in Hamilton. Cooked to perfection, dressed with caramelized onions, house-cured bacon, and smoked cheddar and served on a freshly baked bun with hand-cut fries, this isn’t just a cheeseburger—this is a culinary masterpiece.
15 Walnut
15 Walnut Rd., South Hamilton
978-468-2434, 15walnut.com
Readers’ Choice:
The Farm
233 Western Ave., Essex
978-768-0000, farmbargrille.com
At Eat Cake! in Newburyport, Hilary Larson designs intricate cakes and cupcakes from her own commercial kitchen. With a list of 15 cake flavors, 17 fillings, and 20 frostings
and coatings to choose from, ordering the right cake for the right occasion is almost as good as tasting it. The complexity of the designs alone will have you wondering whether to eat your dessert or to frame it.
Eat Cake!
9 Prince Pl., Newburyport
978-465-6057, eatcakeonline.com
Readers’ Choice:
Cakes for Occasions
57 Maple St., Danvers
978-774-4545, cakes4occasions.com
Looking for white-glove service and scrumptious dishes for your wedding or a major event? Stop your search and head over to Vinwood Caterers in Ipswich. After 28 years in the business, Vinwood has made a name for itself, thanks to a combination of classic cuisine and the best service around. Whether the event is at your home or at Turner Hill (a longtime client), a luxurious day or evening is sure to be had.
Vinwood Caterers
3 Union St., Ipswich
978-356-3273, vinwood.com
Readers’ Choice:
Sandino’s Best of Thymes
733 Turnpike St., North Andover
978-687-6900, bestofthymes.com
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