Do you dream in denim? We do from time to time and the only real solution is a trip to Izzy’s Emporium. Choose from over 60 designer denim brands, all at discounted prices and feel free to try as many on as necessary. With a selection like this, your one favorite pair could very well turn into three, four, or ten.
» 21 Barnard St., Andover, 978-475-0195, izzys-emporium.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Izzy’s Emporium, 21 Barnard St., Andover, 978-475-0194, izzys-emporium.com
If you’re the type of person who adores selecting the perfect gift for any occasion, you need to check out Rose & Dove’s retail location in the old mill district of Lawrence. You’ll have a great time wandering around a store that beams with character and brims with gifts. Gourmet foods, home accents, and estate beer and wine are just the beginning.
» 181 Canal St., Lawrence, 877-689-4141, roseanddove.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Valentine’s,
27 Water St., Newburyport, 978-463-0002, valentinesstores.com
Even if your eyeglasses or contacts need adjustments, you’ll immediately see why customers choose Andover Eye Care. Owner Todd Berberian will chat you up like you’re a longtime friend as he shows you eyewear options that include his own line of specs as well as a great selection of designer frames and sunglasses. Why look anywhere else?
» 77 Main St., Andover, 978-749-7300, andovereye.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Andover Eye Care,
77 Main St., Andover,
978-479-7300, andovereye.com
Look in the closet of the best- dressed men of the North Shore and you’ll find one thing in common: they all shop at Giblees. For over 50 years, Giblees has been outfitting gentlemen in the finest designer clothes, from Alden to Zanella. Its new location, which also features women’s clothes, celebrates the next generation of Giblees’ grandness.
» 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4080, giblees.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Giblees, 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4080, giblees.com
North Shore native fashion designer Gia Ventola takes a leap of fashion faith by bringing cutting-edge couture to Peabody. There’s something for everyone here, from Trash & Luxury tees to way-above-standard staples like trenches, party dresses, and denim. Take a fashion risk and you’ll be in good company; Ventola’s fashions have been donned by divas like Cher, Pink, and Destiny’s Child.
» 9 Sylvan St., Peabody, 978-538-0800, giaventola.com.
Readers’ Choice:
J.Mode, 17 Front St., Salem, 978-744-7007, jmodefashions.com
It’s a pleasant surprise to find a chic boutique celebrating the styles of France and Italy tucked in Old Town Marblehead. French + Italian Owner Aimee Lombardi expresses her passion for these countries by cherry picking unique and casual clothing, accessories, shoes, books, and other treasures.
» 129 Washington St., Marblehead, 781-639-5129, french italian.com.
Readers’ Choice:
First Date Boutique,
28 Chestnut St.,
Andover, 978-247-8999, shopfirstdate.com
Real men eat quiche and wear jeans. They also know to shop at John Farley Clothiers for the finest casual clothes that are both timeless and stylish. Along with a handsome line of custom shirts, smart blazers, and jeans, you’ll find Tommy Bahama, Swiss Army, and many more American and European designers.
» 31 Water St., Newburyport, johnfarleyclothiers.com, 978-462-5401.
Readers’ Choice:
Giblees, 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4080, giblees.com
Do you yearn for the days of fashion yesteryear when women wore white gloves, long pearls, and short bobs? Look no more; Modern Millie is an adorable shop in downtown Salem, small in square footage but vast in vintage treasures. Pop in to find great dresses and accessories and good, old-fashioned friendly service.
» 103 Washington St., Salem, 978-745-0231, modernmillieshop.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Modern Millie, 103 Washington St., Salem, 978-745-0231, modern millieshop.com
Just when you thought a good ol’ bookstore was as prevalent as Tyrannosaurus rex, you stroll into Andover Bookstore. It’s hard to believe a place like this still exists. The second oldest book store in America, Andover Bookstore was founded in 1809. Sit by the fireplace and enjoy free coffee and cookies. Browse through a great selection of staff favorites and new books. This bookish haunt boasts a very friendly staff, too.
» 89R Main St., Andover, 978-475-0143, andoverbookstore.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Cornerstone Books, 45 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-744-1831, cornerstonebooks-salem.com
Looking for a new road or mountain bike? Take a spin to the Cycle Loft and check out their huge selection of bikes, gear, and accessories. The 16,000-square-foot facility has virtually everything the bicycle enthusiast needs to keep the wheels turning. An added bonus is that the knowledgeable staff is helpful, but not pushy. We especially love the café on the ground floor where you can sip a coffee and flip through the latest bike magazines.
» 28 Cambridge St., Burlington,
781-272-0870, cycleloft.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Salem Cycle,
72 Washington St.,
Salem, 978-741-2222, salemcycle.com
Just walking into Rouge Cosmetics makes you feel like the America’s Top Model title is within your grasp. Here, you’ll discover the ultimate lines of skin and body care and makeup, plus everything else you need to feel and look lovely. Great customer service, makeup lessons, and Girls’ Night Out Parties add to the allure.
» 322 Derby St., Salem, 978-740-1044, rouge.com.
Readers’ Choice:
The Beauty Cafe,
Wayside Commons,
2 Wayside Rd.,
Burlington, 781-273-1700, thebeautycafe.nu
Are you one of those persnickety purse ladies who only carries the latest and greatest bags? You need to plug Dresscode into your GPS and head straight to bag heaven. There, you’ll behold a collection of trendy brands that are otherwise not found north of Boston.
» 2 Elm Sq., Andover, 978-470-0300, dresscodestyle.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Bearskin Neck Leathers, 7 Old Harbor Rd., Rockport, 978-546-2258, bearskinneckleather.com
Looking for a bangle or bauble to jazz up that little black dress? Jambu carries an eclectic collection of designer jewelry that is truly unique. Whether you are looking to sparkle with simple silver hoops or dazzle with the drama of a semi-precious mega stone, you’ll find it at Jambu.
» 38 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead, 781-639-9600, jambujewelry.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Julie Smith Accessories, various locations,
shopjuliesmith.com
Sure, every colorist knows the difference between a fabulous foil and a horrendous highlight, but Joanna Howell Giraud’s mastery of the color spectrum is peerless. Recognized nationally by Allure twice for a spot in the Top Ten and by Town and Country in its “Who’s Who in American Colorists,” Giraud Studio leads a talented team of colorists to paint the town in shades of perfection.
» 169 Bay Rd., South Hamilton, 978-468-3202, giraudsalon.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Runway Salon (Jamie Pratt), 1 Merrimac St., Newburyport, 978-463-0006, runwaysalon.com
You got the big strappy Jimmy Choo sandals and the little strapless number from Dolce & Gabbana. So it makes sense to find your way to the makeup department at Nordstrom for that luscious lipstick to complete the look. You’ll find all the best brands and a few exclusive lines, plus the most helpful salespeople who all really want you to look your best. Here, it feels less like a large department store and more like a trip to individual beauty boutiques. » 210 Andover St., Northshore Mall, Peabody, 978-278-7400, shop.nordstrom.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Rouge Cosmetics,
322 Derby St., Salem, 978-740-1044, rouge.com
A Signature Facial at M. Lekkakos Salon, Spa & Boutique has the fingerprints of someone who understands beauty at an elevated level. That someone would be Miss Massachusetts 2004 Maria Lekkakos, who adds extra goodies like a complimentary foot, hand, scalp, and décolleté massage to her Signature Facial.
» 154 Main St., Wenham, 978-468-9540, mlekkakos.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Classic Faces Day Spa, 215 Newbury St., Peabody, 978-535-6460, classicfaces.com
There’s nothing like a mani/pedi to make you feel polished. The new Vero Salon and Spa is a great place to enjoy a hand or foot treatment or try one of the fabulous Caribbean therapy sessions that includes exfoliation and a seaweed masque. Whether you enjoy a hot stone pedicure or a French manicure, you will leave feeling perfectly polished and pampered.
» One Central St., Middleton, 978-750-4004, verosalonspa.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Spa Ni’joli, 116 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen,
978-682-9772, nijoli.com
Whether you need a brow shaping or a bikini wax, Interlocks Salon & Day Spa is the place to go to take it all off. With over 50 employees, Interlocks offers a wide array of waxing treatments for every part of your body, including your fingers and toes (and for your man, too)! You’ll love the city vibe, immaculate space, and friendly staff. » 58 Merrimac St., Newburyport, 978-465-3010, interlockssalon.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Blush Skincare and Sunless Tanning, 149 South Main St., Bradford, 978-478-8880, blushskincare.com
This place is hot, and not just in temperature. Bikram Yoga Merrimack Valley attracts students in big numbers—especially people who never thought they’d try yoga. The studio is less focused on the spiritual aspect of yoga and more on getting you flexing, bending, and stretching as much as possible (and that includes your internal organs). You’ll find yourself in a perfect pose in no time.
» 43 High St., Suite 310, North Andover, 978-689-9642, bikramyogamv.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Bikram Yoga Merrimack Valley, 43 High St., North Andover, 978-689-9642, bikramyogamv.com
When you’re speeding along the superhighway of life, do you really have time to cuff a pair of pants or hem that favorite skirt? Shaban and his team of tailors at Shaban’s Collection not only have time to stitch the perfect hem, but they can also create a custom Egyptian cotton shirt or stunning single-breasted suit.
» 28 Chestnut St., Andover, 978-475-5996, shabanscollection.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Shaban’s Collection, 28 Chesnut St., Andover, 978-475-5996, shabanscollection.com
DogSpa is the ultimate place to pamper your pooch; think Canyon Ranch for canines. We’ve even thought of donning a leash and growing a tail to sample an aromatherapy treatment. The place is immaculate and the cut impeccable. The humans are pretty doggone nice, too, and there’s even a bakery and sampling of hot canine couture and accessories. » 45 Enon St., North Beverly, 978-922-9227, beverlydogspa.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Bark Plaza Doggie Day Spa, 14 Forest Ridge Dr., Rowley, 978-903-0323, barkplazaspa.com
Spots go quickly on Janda Ricci-Munn’s roster to train professional elite and elite amateur athletes. The triathlete, sports trainer, and 2007 IronMan World Championship amateur winner has coached many athletes to victory, while encouraging many others to attain new levels of success. Make no mistake about it, his training regimens are not for the weak of heart, but if you’re up to the challenge, Ricci-Munn will take you to the finish line.
» Gloucester, 978-283-1034, jandariccimunn.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Jeremee Norman, B&S Sport Science LLC, 45 Congress St., Dock 19/20, Salem, 978-828-4166, bnssportscience.com
Frank Corcoran has made the world a better place by training his massage therapists to give the most knot-releasing, pain-freeing, relaxation-inducing massages, far superior to a dose of Percocet. He also has assembled a cadre of caring people who genuinely want you to live your life well. You leave LivingWell somewhere between cloud nine and over the moon.
» 207 Washington St., Salem, 978-740-9355, livingwellsalem.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Spa Ni’joli, 116 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen,
978-682-9772, nijoli.com
Toying with the idea of hiring a house cleaner to tidy up but concerned with the chemicals they use? Put the mop down and call Green Clean. The team uses planet-friendly products and practices eco-friendly house cleaning, plus they are car-free and walk or bike to your home. Add “good for the planet” to the list of reasons you need help around the house. » Salem, 978-744-8698, greencleansalem.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Green Clean, Salem, 978-744-8698, greencleansalem.com
Salem’s historic Hawthorne Hotel brims with an old-fashioned New England charm that is both regal and relaxing. People-watching in the gracious lobby, enjoying a drink nestled near the fireplace at the Tavern, or delighting in a sumptuous brunch at Nathaniel’s are all part of the charm. Just walk out the door to Pickering Wharf or Front Street and sample many of Salem’s bewitching attractions.
» 18 Washington Sq., Salem, 978-744-4080, hawthornehotel.com.
Readers’ Choice:
blue The Inn on the Beach,
20 Fordham Way, Newbury, 978-465-7171, blueinn.com
Think of Latitude Sports Clubs as your personal muse to get in shape. Here, you’ll find endless inspiration to get in the zone. Racquetball, wally ball and basketball courts, indoor tracks, executive pools, cardio and free weights, group exercise classes; the list of ways to get fit at this premier sports club goes on like an Olympic marathon.
» 191 Elm St., Salisbury, 978-462-5662, latitudesportsclubs.com, plus locations in Andover, Bradford, Methuen, and Peabody.
Readers’ Choice:
Bodyco, 108 S. Main St., Middleton, 978-777-7741, bodycofit.com
One could never call Petros Markopoulos a simple petal pusher. Rumor has it that his love for flowers bloomed at an early age when he fell in love with a multi-colored rose bush in Greece. Petros, who also owns Ithaki, is a man whose passion for posies is as perennial as the sky is blue. Whether he is designing centerpieces, creating topiaries, or selecting stems for a bouquet of roses, his work at Flowers By Petros is a floral fashion statement.
» 36 Central St., Ipswich, 978-356-0003, flowersbypetros.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Art Bouquet by Josipa, 40 Atlantic Ave.,
Marblehead, 781-631-1572, artbouquet.net
Located in a charming Victorian house in Andover, Marissa Michaels is a great place to go for grooming. Michaels is a modern salon with a funky vibe and lots of great music. Whether you want a classic cut or a stylish new look, you will emerge as a dapper dude with great-looking hair.
» 38 Florence St., Andover, 978-474-1825, marissamichaels.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Indra Salon, 7 Elm St., Andover, 978-470-8800, indrasalon.com
Indra Salon remains a cut above the competition. Top stylists in a hip salon create a great vibe where clients can unwind, sip wine, and enjoy a complimentary hand-and-neck massage. Whether you get a cut, color, or foil, you’ll feel like you’re ready for the runway when you step out of Indra.
» 7 Elm St., Andover, 978-470-8800, indrasalon.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Indra Salon, 7 Elm St., Andover, 978-470-8800, indrasalon.com
The Beauty Cafe owner and makeup artist Karen DeVincent not only brings 20 years of experience at high-end cosmetics counters, but she also has another special talent: eyebrow design. If you are particular about your brow arch, the first thing on the menu at The Beauty Café you need to check out is a brow design by guru DeVincent.
» 24 Wayside Rd., Burlington, 781-273-1700, thebeautycafe.nu.
Readers’ Choice:
Spa Ni’joli, 116 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen,
978-682-9772, nijoli.com
On the North Shore, Spa Ni’joli has quickly become the day spa of choice to escape the stress of everyday life and enjoy an oasis of pampering. Delicious body wraps, relaxing massages, and expert facials await you in a soothing atmosphere. A caring staff and simple scheduling system allows you to get relaxed and refreshed easily.
» 116 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen, 978-682-9772, nijoli.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Vintage Salon & Day Spa, 26 Newburyport Tpke., Rowley, 978-948-7090, vintagesalonanddayspa.com
Curator and Director Elissa Della-Piana inspires artists of all ages at her gallery in Wenham. Whether you are an artist searching for space to showcase your work or an art lover looking to discover new talent, you’ll find inspiration at Gallery Della-Piana.
» 153 R Main St., Wenham, 978-468-1944, gallerydellapiana.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Lepore Fine Arts, Horton’s Yard, 58 Merrimac St., Newburyport, 978-462-1663, leporefinearts.com
The semi-private, 18-hole Gannon Municipal Golf Course in Lynn has been challenging North Shore golfers for about eight decades. This par-70 track is in fabulous condition, and the historic clubhouse adds elements of charm and nostalgia to the course.
» 60 Great Wood Rd., Lynn, 781-592-8238, gannongolfclub.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Gannon Municipal Golf Course, 60 Great Woods Rd., Lynn, 781-592-8238, gannongolfclub.com
Finding an authentic Irish pub on the North Shore is as unexpected as discovering a leprechaun in your lunch box. But once you realize it’s true, it’s just as fun. At The Peddler’s Daughter, you’ll find great food, a fun atmosphere, and, naturally, an endless supply of brewski. Also be sure to check out the regular schedule of live music which includes DJs
and Irish bands.
» 45 Wingate St., Haverhill, 978-372-9555, thepeddlersdaughter.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Kitty O’Sheas Irish Pub, 298 Cabot St., Beverly, 978-927-0300, northshoreonline.com/kittyosheaspub
Looking for a cozy spot to canoodle on a couch and enjoy a sensual city vibe, awesome music, and hot events outside of Boston? Sizzling nights are in store at Glory, Andover’s lively lounge which regularly plays host to some of the hottest events and coolest cats around. Sex and the City comes to the suburbs!
» 19 Essex St., Andover, 978-475-4811, gloryrestaurant.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Strega, 92 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-741-0004, stregasalem.com
Cheers to Strega for creating a hip spot to share a small plate or a sip a martini and drink in the vibe. The spacious lounge area is comfy and full of personality, the ideal backdrop for bar drama. Whether you want to meet, be discreet, or just enjoy a drink and an app, you can find your spot at Strega.
» 94 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-741-0004, stregasalem.com.
Reader’s Choice:
Strega, 92 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-741-0004, stregasalem.com
If you’re looking to unwind after a round of golf, watch a game with the buds, or enjoy a pizza or burger, head on over to 466 Pub and Grill. Here you will discover a modern man-cave where you can relish a victory or soothe a defeat with good food and drink. » 466 Newbury St., Danvers, 978-744-9662.
Reader’s Choice: The Bostonville Grille,
325 Broadway, Lynnfield, 781-592-1010, bostonvillegrille.com
If Periwinkles Restaurant were a casino, the clam chowder would be a sure bet. Creamy, rich, and swimming with clams, the award-winning chowder gets nods at the annual Essex Clamfest. Sweet and flavorful, it’s great as an appetizer or summertime meal. » 74 Main St., Essex, 978-768-6320, periwinklesrestaurant.com.
Reader’s Choice: Danversport Yacht Club Grille & Bistro, 161 Elliot St., Danvers, 978-774-8620, danversport.com
With over 400 of the top wines from all over the world you simply can’t beat Pellana when it comes to ordering that perfect bottle with your meal. The vintages and selections change daily, but the promise to pour the best never changes. Cap it off with a lovely list of dessert wines and vintage ports. » 9R Sylvan St., Peabody, 978-531-4800, pellanarestaurant.com.
Reader’s Choice: Salem Wine Imports, 32 Church St., Salem, 978-741-9463, salemwine imports.com
Rawbert’s Organic Cafe is a vegetarian’s stomping ground. Enjoy pizza, roll-ups, soups, salads, sushi, maki, and more. There’s even a kid’s menu, plus prepared foods and a juice bar. Yes, it’s raw as in raw lasagna, nori, and pies, but Rawbert’s does a great job of preparing veggies that are actually cooked, too. » 294 Cabot St., Beverly, 978-922-0004, organicgardencafe.com.
Reader’s Choice: Rawbert’s Organic Cafe, Cabot St., Beverly, 978-922-0004, organicgardencafe.com
When thinking sushi, Peabody is probably not the first place that comes to mind. But for sushi aficionados in the know, the freshness and variety of Fuji Sushi make all the sense in the world. With over 50 types of maki and a wide assortment of sushi and sashimi, there’s more than enough to choose from. Be sure to check out the volcano maki, the lobster maki, and the Red Sox maki. » 136 Newbury St., Peabody, 978-535-1182, myfujisushi.com.
Reader’s Choice: Kame, 250 Cabot St., Beverly, 978-922-9333, kamerestaurant.com
Why drive to Newbury Street when the pearly gates to Porterhouse are here at Wayside Commons in Burlington? The Capital Grille’s debut on the North Shore a couple of years ago raised the bar for fine dining. If you’re looking for a dry-aged steak cooked to perfection or a seared tenderloin that’s impossibly moist with butter-poached lobster, dining at The Capital Grille should be your first choice. We’re still dreaming over the last filet mignon we ate there. » 10 Wayside Rd., Burlington, 781-505-4130, thecapitalgrille.com.
Reader’s Choice: Champion’s Pub, 114 Foster St., Peabody, 978-531-7776, championspubpeabody.com
When it comes to freshness, price, and atmosphere, you can’t beat Brown’s Seabrook Lobster Pound. It is the epitome of a New England seafood experience and a must on your way home from the beach. Pick up a six-pack or a bottle of wine before you get here, select a lobster from the “pound,” or go for the New England standards (clams, oysters, shrimp, haddock, scallops), and get them cooked any way you like. Eat outside on the deck or inside and watch the sun set over the marsh. Classic New England-style seafood dining doesn’t get any better than this. Flip-flops highly encouraged. » Route 286, Seabrook, NH, 603-474-3331, brownslobster.com.
Reader’s Choice: Finz Seafood & Grill, 76 Wharf St., Salem, 978-744-8485, hipfinz.com
Quantity and quality are packed in every freshly made sandwich on the menu at Atomic Cafe. The cranberry walnut chicken salad and grilled pesto goat cheese sandwich are amazing and are served with crunchy pickles, chips, and a smile. It’s the ideal place for coffee and dessert, too. » 265 Cabot St., Beverly, 978-922-0042, 14 School St., Marblehead, 781-631-6464, atomiccafe.com.
Reader’s Choice: Chick-fil-A, Northshore Mall, 210 Andover St., Peabody, 978-977-0740, chik-fil-a.com
If you can’t fall in love at Duckworth’s Bistrot, it’s likely that you’ve lost your mojo. The intimate and cozy ambiance and alluring menu (which you can conveniently order in half portions, so you can nibble together) are just the beginning of the stirring of the senses. Chef Ken Duckworth, trained in Paris and at Boston’s famed Maison Robert, creates nightly masterpieces capped by his pastry chef and wife Nicole’s sweet creations. » 197 E Main St., Gloucester, 978-282-4426, duckworthsbistrot.com.
Reader’s Choice: Ten Center, 10 Center St., Newburyport, 978-463-6652, tencenterstreet.com
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