By Michael Swanger, Jason Hancock, Jared Curtis and Jim Duncan

Eats ~ Shopping ~ Culture ~ Utopia ~ Sports

Over the years, readers have come to expect Cityview to represent the voice of the people, whether it is in the stories we tell that other media outlets won’t, or the way in which we tell them. It’s a role we take seriously every week.

But once a year, we depend on our readers to give us their unadulterated feedback as to the things they like and dislike about Des Moines. We call it our annual Best Of Des Moines readers poll, where we simply tally the number of votes readers cast for a variety of things including restaurants, bars, sports teams, bands, retail and media.

Last year, a record for the number of votes cast was set with our then new online system. But in 2008, total votes exceeded last year’s results by 40 percent, as thousands of readers expressed their adoration and recognition for the things they like the best. We’ve divided the results into five sections: Eats, Shopping, Culture & Nightlife, Utopia and Sports & Recreation.

Congratulations to all our winners and runners-up whose dedication to their craft has earned the respect of our readers.

EATS

Best New Restaurant
Azalea

Jeremy Morrow has done as much to upgrade dining in Des Moines as anyone. First, he introduced Des Moines to California cuisine at Bistro 43, then he took it downtown to 43 before raising the bar for pub food at Star Bar. With Azalea, he returned to both his bistro roots and his downtown stomping ground. The year’s most creative interior design, which includes sculptures from artist TJ Moberg, brings Deco into grandeur. The food, the service and the look all drew raves from some worldly visitors. 400 Walnut St., 288-9606.
Runners-up: Dos Rios, (tie) Bonefish and Smokey D’s

Best Kept Secret on the Local Restaurant Scene
The Continental

With one of Des Moines’ most eclectic menus, The Continental globetrots from Creole and Cajun oysters, to Chesapeake style crab cakes, Mexican empanadas, and cranberry brisket with various stops on the way. It’s a stylish East Village store that bustles like a downtown café should. 428 E. Locust, Des Moines, 255-4111.
Runners-up: Flying Mango, (tie) J Benjamin’s and Black Cat Café

Best Wait Staff
Black Cat Café

The newest member of the Ingersoll coffee club, Black Cat Café brings Brazilian jazz, homemade crepes (three savory and nine dessert), free wireless internet and an East European ambiance with hanging lanterns, mismatched furniture, cozy nooks and a Euro-weighted wine and beer menu. Customers have responded and this cosmopolitan coffeehouse now sports the Best Wait staff honor, too. 3701 Ingersoll Ave., 255-9895.
Runners-up: Centro, Tursi’s Latin King

Best American Food
Drake Diner

This place was modeled after legendary Fog City Diner in San Francisco, which was modeled on 1930s nostalgia. Chrome and steel, neon and checkers set more of a 1960s mood here while the food features blue plate specials and good old American grill work. 1111 25th St., Des Moines, 277-1111.
Runners-up: Jimmy’s American Café,
Legends American Grill

Best Italian
Tursi’s Latin King

Call it a dynasty! Bob and Amy Tursi’s place repeats as winner in a category that represents the city’s restaurant tradition better than any other. Pastas are made from scratch and all sauces are reduced from bone stock at this heirloom, destination restaurant that dates back to the 1940s. Original specialties from New York’s Little Italy share the menu with Des Moines’ Italian favorites. 2200 Hubbell Ave., Des Moines, 266-4466.
Runners-up: Bravo! Cucina Italiana, Sam & Gabe’s Italian Bistro

Best Mexican
El Rodeo

When it comes to Mexican food, this Rodeo bucks your bronco and keeps everyone in the saddle with more than 30 house specialties and 25 combination platters from every regional cuisine in Mexico and Mexican-America. In spirit, these locally owned stores have annexed Margaritaville, without losing a single shaker of salt. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: El Aguila Real, Monterrey Mexican Restaurant

Best Thai
Cool Basil

Liam Anivat’s stylish Clive café edged out its East Side sister restaurant Thai Flavors this year. For a decade now, these two cafés have been educating Des Moines’ palates to the joys of the world’s hottest chilies, cut with the sweetness of coconut milk, or the tang of green papaya. From the lemongrass essence of tom yum gai to the last sip of jasmine tea, the place is beloved for its bargain prices and happy faces. 8801 University Ave., Suite 22 Clive, 225-8111.
Runners-up: Thai Flavors, Ban Thai

Best Chinese
Café Su

For a second straight year, voters stuck with their old Valley Junction favorite, after a brief flirtation two years ago with Paul Fleming’s PF Chang’s chain store at Jordan Creek. Café Su has always been more pan-Asian than Chinese, but it’s also become an anchor in the metro’s most original shopping district. This year, it rewarded fans by reinstituting lunch service. 225 5th St., West Des Moines, 274-5102.
Runners-up: (tie) P.F. Chang’s and Tsing Tsao, Hy-Vee

Best Japanese
Taki Japanese Steakhouse

The bustling restaurant combines a teppanyaki steakhouse with the city’s most comprehensive sushi bar, serving the decadent likes of uni (roe of sea urchin) and toro (fatty underbelly of blue fin tuna). From the sushi master to the tableside service, this place matches its flair for theater with equally dramatic flavors. 2677 86th St., Urbandale, 331-3030.
Runners-up: Ohana’s Steakhouse, Appare Japanese Steakhouse

Best Vietnamese
A-Dong

A-Dong has been Des Moines’ most popular Vietnamese café for several decades now. In its second location, it’s still the voters’ favorite place for pho, and a whole lot mho. Try the bone-stock soups, fresh exotic vegetables and spices, the huge selection for vegetarians and enticing Southeast Asian drink specials. 1511 High St., Des Moines, 284-5632.
Runners-up: Saigon Cafè, Café Fuzion

Best Place to Chow After 2 a.m.
Big Tomato Pizza

From the bars’ last call in the wee morning ’til near dawn, Big Tomato offers pizza by the slice. So, their simple little walk-up counter has become the most frequently suggested direction when bouncers need to point people to the exits come closing time in the Des Moines bars. But unlike other halfway houses between taverns and after-hours parties, Big Tomato actually serves great pies. 2613 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, 288-7227.
Runners-up: Perkins, El Rey Burritos

Best Steakhouse
801 Steak & Chop House

This legendary downtown restaurant is the only place in Iowa serving Stockyard’s beef, the gold standard in American steaks since the 19th century. That’s a large part of the reason 801 has been recommended by the likes of John Kerry and Tom Brokaw, explaining its huge popularity with political and media celebs every caucus season. 801 Grand Ave., Des Moines, 288-6000.

Runners-up: Texas Roadhouse, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar

Best Breakfast
Waveland Café

The Waveland’s been packing them in for decades with an “everybody-knows-your-name” friendliness and “need-a-refill” ambiance. The long-time staff indulges customers with generous plates full of Iowa traditions — home grown bacon, eggs, sausage and love. The hash browns have a cult following. 4708 University Ave., Des Moines, 279-4341.
Runners-up: Drake Diner, Perkins

Best Coffeehouse
Mars Café

Mars came from outer space last year to unseat the previous perennial champion Java Joes. This makes two in row in one of perhaps the most competitive food & beverage category because Des Moines is blessed with an original coffeehouse culture that most cities only dream about. Mars features an all-star line-up of catered treats, a wine list featuring rare East Euro bargains and free Wi-Fi. 2318 University Ave., 369-6277.
Runners-up: Starbuck’s, Java Joes

Best Place for a $5 Lunch
Tasty Tacos

This longtime favorite of legislators, and other bargain hunters, serves a familiar Mexican-American menu. What separates it from the pack, while inspiring a cult following among several generations of Iowans, are its unique taco shells, including a partially fried shell proven to have addictive properties. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: McDonald’s, (tie) El Rodeo, Jimmy John’s, Manhattan Deli

Best Place for a $10 Dinner
El Rodeo

El Rodeo and Drake Diner have been taking turns winning this distinction and they traded places again this year. While others might offer cheaper dinners, no one offers so many choices under $10. Which leaves room for some south-of-the-border cocktails. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: A-Dong, Drake Diner

Best Power Lunch
Palmer’s Deli & Market

When a place without full table service wins in this category two years in a row, something special is obviously happening. Palmer’s stores do their own baking, without butter, and they make their own soups and breakfasts, too. Their delis offer amazingly fast service for those who are into speed power lunching. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Centro, Nick’s Bar & Grill

Best Seafood
Waterfront Seafood Market

Perennial champion Waterfront combines a retail fish market with a sit-down restaurant and a trendy bar. Their seafood is so good that other top restaurants actually buy their fresh fish from Waterfront. Daily specials pack this place earlier than any other in town — there can be a wait as early as 5:30 p.m. Both the clam chowder and the gumbo are deserved legends. 2900 University Ave., West Des Moines, 223-5106.
Runners-up: Splash Seafood Bar & Grill, Bonefish Grill

Best Burger
B-Bops

The once and forever king (17 years in a row), B-Bops keeps Des Moines happy with nostalgic rock ‘n’ roll, fresh-grilled burgers, fries that stay hot, chili, pork loin fritters, chicken, salads and shakes. These burgers would be popular at any price, but the real winner is your billfold, with quarter-pound burgers, your way, for less than a buck and a half. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Red Robin, Drake Diner

Best Pizza
Big Tomato Pizza

King of the darkness, Big Tomato offers the most eclectic, accommodating pizza in town. For the displaced Hawaiian, there’s Spam and asparagus pie. For the health food police, there are honey wheat crusts. For meat eaters there is all the decadence of this pork state. And for contrarians, there are white-sauce toppings. Don’t forget some “Italian fries” (crusty cheese bread). 2613 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, 288-7227.
Runners-up: Frank‘s, Felix & Oscar’s

Best Bakery
La Mie

In this era of starter mixes and extended shelf lives, La Mie represents a great, lost art form — pure, scratch, French-style baking. The pecan rolls sell out early each morning, encouraging their fans to try new delights from the heirloom world of butter and cream baking: breads, croissants, brioches and fruit pastries. 841 42nd St., Des Moines, 255-1625.
Runners-up: Sweet Binney’s, (tie) Highland Park Bakery and South Union Bread Café

Best Dessert
Sweet Binney’s

Ryan Binney came to Des Moines from Giorggio Armani’s café in Boston. In the season of cupid, it’s worth mentioning that he came here for love. Stephanie Binney runs the business end of things so that Ryan can concentrate on baking decadent treats that help make weddings perfect and afternoon visits to their little bakery on University addictive. 8527 University Blvd., 270-9128.
Runners-up: Cheesecake Factory, Flarah’s

Best BBQ
Famous Dave’s

This Minnesota company is the PF Chang’s of the barbecue world. They carefully research authentic regional cuisines for the purpose of recreating them in a much broader market. Famous Dave’s offers every regional sauce and every barbecue style you can find in America, from Carolina pulled pork to Texas brisket, plus plenty of napkins. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Uncle Wendell’s, Flying Mango

Best Fried Chicken
KFC

As in the Republican caucuses, Iowa voters went against the national trend this year electing Yum! Brands Inc.’s troubled flagship company as their favorite. This comes even as KFC announces it is remaking itself — with un-fried chicken scheduled to play a major role. The company lost market share in recent years as it struggled to find cooking oil that could do what trans fats do. Multiple locations
Runners-up: Popeye’s, Dahl’s Foods

Best Delicatessen
Palmer’s Deli & Market

This hometown company now has neighborly stores all over the metro, delivering cafeteria-style choices in homemade soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts. All feature low-cholesterol baking while some stores offer made-to-order breakfasts and gourmet carry out, including a rather famous meat loaf. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Manhattan Deli, Jason’s Deli

Best Onion Rings
The Tavern

Two West Des Moines institutions fought it out again this year with The Tavern trading places with Maxie’s at the top of this list. While The Tavern has gone to court, successfully, to protect its pizza recipe from being duplicated, its onion rings recipe is what voters keep saying should be patented and stored in the vault. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Maxie’s, La Pizza House

Best French Fries
McDonald’s

More than 30 years ago, Ray Kroc risked McDonald’s reputation, and changed the food world forever, by betting customers would accept frozen processed fries. The food police are forcing the chain to change its cooking oil, for the third time now, but we bet they will be back here again next year. Unlike most other fast food competitors, McD has resisted coating its pure potatoes with flours and starches. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: B-Bops, (tie) Okoboji Grill and Legend’s American Grill

Best Chicken Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings

This Minneapolis company began in Ohio but always had their heart in Buffalo. With 14 dipping sauces, trivia games, big screen, high def TV and boisterous spirit, it’s THE sports bar for the West Glen crowd. 6925 Mills Civic Pkwy., West Des Moines, 221-9464.
Runners-up: Hooters, Chicken Coop

Best Nachos
The Library Café

While a great place for the Drake set to tie one on, The Library is actually a study in how to make hangovers go away for the rest of us, as this joint gives its visitors grease as good as anyone else in town. The sandwiches rock, the owner makes his own wing sauce and the nachos are Central Iowa’s favorite by an overwhelming tally. Try the smoked chicken variety for some kick. 3506 University Ave., Des Moines, 255-0433.
Runners-up: Legends American Grill, El Rodeo

Best Family Restaurant
Iowa Machine Shed

Machine Shed owner Mike Whalen recovered from the flogging East Iowa voters gave to his 2006 bid for the US Congress. The incumbent in this electorate, he won convincingly. The Urbandale store, adjacent to Living History Farms, features huge servings, nostalgic trappings from the historic days when Iowa was home to real farmers. 11151 Hickman Road, Urbandale, 270-6818.
Runners-up: Drake Diner, Applebee’s

Best Soup
Palmer’s Deli & Market

Winner of many categories, this hometown company now has neighborly stores all over the metro, delivering cafeteria-style choices in homemade salads, sandwiches and desserts. Voters think their soups are even better than those other things. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Panera Bread, (tie) Gateway Market Café and Jason’s Deli

Best Bar Food
Star Bar

Jeremy Morrow has done as much to upgrade dining in Des Moines as anyone — introducing Northern California style cuisine at Bistro 43, taking it downtown to 43 and then moving on to the all important category of bar food. Star Bar goes far beyond the wings and popcorn clichés into the brave new pub world of seared ahi, pot stickers and BBQ egg rolls. 2837 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, 288-1405.
Runners-up: Francie’s, (tie) High Life Lounge and Legend’s American Grill

Best Bistro Fare
Bistro Montage

French-inspired bistro fare, a menu that changes often and an urban setting on the sizzling-hot Ingersoll corridor help explain why Enosh Kelley’s Bistro Montage keeps winning this award. Kelley has always kept the most French of the city’s kitchens, with classical treatments of duck, skate and beef. Lately, sous chef Nick Illingworth has been taking things further toward the French classics — try the rabbit! 2724 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, 557-1924.
Runners-up: The Grand Piano Bistro, DuBay’s

Best Appetizers Menu
The Continental

With one of the Des Moines’ most eclectic menus, The Continental’s globetrots from Creole and Cajun oysters, to Chesapeake style crab cakes, Mexican empanadas, cranberry brisket with various stops on the way. It’s a stylish East Village store that bustles like a downtown café should. 428 E. Locust, Des Moines, 255-4111.
Runners-up: Trostel’s Dish, Star Bar

Best Place to Blow A Bundle
801 Steak & Chop House

A publisher of the New York Times once said that this downtown steakhouse is better known in Manhattan than it is in Iowa. America’s greatest gourmet and political correspondent, the late R.W. Apple of that same newspaper, was a proud fan of the place during the long caucus seasons. When he died, the Times’ obituary noted that “Apple, and particularly his expense account, were the envy of all other reporters.”
Runners-up: Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, Sage The Restaurant

Best Restaurant Period
Centro

No question about it, Des Moines is an Italian town at the dinner table. Chef George Formaro’s showpiece café combines fresh and local philosophy with Sicilian brick house bread, New York City coal-fired pizza and painstaking scratch cooking. That adds up to this year’s winner, beating out two of the city’s oldest, proudest Italian traditions — Bob and Amy Tursi’s Latin King and Jerry and Julia Talerico’s Sam & Gabe’s. 1011 Locust St., 244-7033.
Runners-up: Tursi’s Latin King, Sam & Gabe’s Italian Bistro

Best First-Date Spot
Black Cat Café

This is one of its many awards the new Ingersoll business received this year. Although they are new on the scene, the public, as shown by their awards, enjoys the dim lighting, comfy furniture and soothing vibe of this hybrid coffee shop/lounge. It offers something for everybody, including coffee, wine, live music and breakfast pizza. 3701 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, 255-9895, http://www.blackcatcafebar.com.
Runners-up: Café Di Scala, Mars Café

Best Wine Selection
Black Cat Café

How does a coffee shop win “Best Wine Selection?” We don’t know either, but as we said before, Black Cat Café offers a little bit of everything, including 16 varieties of wine. You can buy it by the bottle ($20-36) or the glass ($5-7). 3701 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, 255-9895, http://www.blackcatcafebar.com.
Runners-up: Flemmings, Café Di Scala

Best Beer Selection
El Bait Shop

Was there any doubt? El Bait Shop not only offers the best beer selection in town but perhaps the state. Stop by and try one of the 107 beers on tap or the more than 100 offered in bottles. If you can’t decide on one, try a flight, which offers six 4 oz. samplers of any beer on tap for only $6. A great beer selection only adds to the laid-back atmosphere and great food this unique watering hole offers. 200 S.W. 2nd St., Des Moines, 284-1970, http://www.elbaitshop.com.
Runners-up: Old Chicago, Royal Mile.

Best Microbrewed Beer
Raccon River Brewing Co.

Raccoon River Brewing Co. offers a wide variety of beers, including Tallgrass Light, Bandit IPA, Homestead Red, Stonecutter Stout and Vanilla Crème Ale. They also offer 14 seasonal brews throughout the year. It’s a great place to grab a bite or shoot some stick. Raccoon River is also a smoke free establishment. 200 10th St., Des Moines, 362-5222, http://www.raccoonbrew.com.
Runners-up: Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co., Granite City

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SHOPPING

Best Music Store
Zzz Records

Over the years, Zzz Records owner Nate Niceswanger told us that he doesn’t plan on spending his entire life running a record shop. But we’ve heard it all before from guys like him and Rob Gordon. Face it, Nate, you’re a music junkie. Neither city politics, the threat of eminent domain, the rise of online sales nor the birth of your first-born child has deterred you from continuing to operate our readers’ Best Music Store — and for that we are grateful that you continue to ignore your inner pang of making more money doing something else and working less nights and weekends. Besides, Nate, how many corporations are going to consider your encyclopedic knowledge of pop music an asset when hiring office workers? Stay golden Pony Boy. 424 E. Locust St., 284-1401.
Runners-up: Best Buy, Homer’s Music & Gifts

Best Locally Owned Store
Deck the Walls

In their infinite wisdom, Cityview readers have weighed in with their favorite local store and, in a surprise move, chose a national franchise. Well, say what you will about franchise businesses, but this family-run business has been a fixture at Merle Hay Mall since 1991. So even though the store itself may not necessarily be unique, its longevity is, and that alone makes it worthy of praise. 4000 Merle Hay Road No. 940, Des Moines, 253-0218.
Runners-up: Best Place Ever, East Village Books

Best New Store
East Village Books

Des Moines’ newest independent, locally owned bookstore picked the trendy East Village as its home, and it seems to be paying off. And its goal is to be more than just a book, music and art store. It wants to be a cultural gathering place, hosting appearances and performances, from authors to musicians, as well as opening its doors to educational programs, book clubs, film festivals, political speeches, meet-up groups… the list goes on and on. 510 East Locust St., Des Moines, 244-5999.
Runners-up: Gateway Market, Steve & Barry’s

Best Big Box Store for Everything
Target
A dynasty has begun, as Target once again has been picked by Cityview readers as the place to go when you need to replace your aquarium rocks and get the best deal on men’s dress slacks. Yes, suburbia has its perks, and besides living in an identical taupe-colored house as your neighbor, there is also the fact that, at any time, you’re within a short commute from the wonderful world of Target. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Costco, Wal-Mart

Best Shopping District
East Village

The independent store, long since left for dead in our continually corporatized world, has triumphed over its chain-laden adversaries out west and has been voted the top spot to shop in Central Iowa. The East Village has gone from being the seedy part of town to the pinnacle of sophistication, and the loyalty and tenacity of the storeowners who dared to help in the turnaround is beginning to be rewarded.
Runners-up: Jordan Creek Town Center, West Glen Town Center

Best Place to Rent a Movie
Best Place Ever

Two years in existence, two victories. For the second year in a row, the appropriately named Best Place Ever has been chosen by Cityview readers as the place to pick up a movie. In a town filled with Blockbusters, Hollywood Video and other corporate-owned rental establishments (not to mention Netflix), Best Place Ever has succeeded by catering not just to the occasional renter, but to the devout movie aficionado (some would say snob) who has been marginalized long enough. 1159 24th St., Des Moines, 255-4332.
Runners-up: Blockbuster Video, Netflix

Best Store for Gamers
GameStop

The race for best game shop in Des Moines has been a back-and-forth battle, but GameStop has once again bested its rivals to reclaim the top position. This is the place to go when the urge to steal a car and kill as many people as possible becomes too strong, but you just don’t have the stomach for jail. Just remember kids, you’ll have to pay that homeless guy in advance if you want him to pose as your uncle and buy you the next must-have game. Multiple locations.
Runners Up: Gamers, Best Buy

Best Liquor Store
Ingersoll Wine & Spirits

For the past 17 years, Ingersoll Wine & Spirits has been elevating alcohol consumption into an elegant art form. Whether you’re looking for a beer from Kenya or the finest French champagne, the experts at Ingersoll will help you make a beverage selection that will impress the hell out of your significant other, or make you the instant life of the party. 3500 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, 255-3191.
Runners-up: Hy-Vee, Central City

Best Drug Store
Walgreens

Here’s a challenge for all the readers out there. Walk out the front door of your home, throw a rock and try not to hit a Walgreens. It’s harder than it sounds. They’re everywhere. And with the flu running rampant this season, that’s probably a good thing. People doped up on Nyquil don’t need to be traveling very far for their fix. That’s just dangerous. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Hy-Vee, Bauders Pharmacy

Best Car Wash
Mister Car Wash

The salty film that envelops your car every winter won’t go away quietly. It’s going to take some major work. We’re talking about giving up a Saturday and throwing your elbow out trying to scrub the scars of winter away. There has to be a better way. Well, how about sitting back and watching someone else do it for you, and what better place than Mister Car Wash, who year after year has been voted best in town by Cityview readers? Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Executive Wash, Soaks Express

Best Book Store
Barnes & Noble

With its massive selection, Barnes and Noble has been a favorite of Cityview readers for many years. There are few better ways to kill an afternoon than by strolling the rows upon rows of books, magazines, DVDs and CDs, then grabbing a comfortable chair and finishing a good book before leaving without actually buying anything. 101 Jordan Creek Pkwy., West Des Moines, 453-2980; 4550 University Ave., West Des Moines, 221-9171.
Runners-up: East Village Books, Borders

Best Used Bookstore
Half Price Books

What if you’re looking for a copy of Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road,” a hard-to-find Emerson, Lake and Palmer record (not a CD, but a vinyl record) and a copy of “Kindergarten Cop” on VHS and you only have $5 to spend? Fear not, because Half Price Books is here. Half Price Books is also good for planet Earth, recycling more than 16 million books and saving more than 650,000 trees since the Texas-based chain opened. 8801 University Ave., Clive, 224-4429.
Runner-up: Well Read Books

Best Health Food Store
Campbell’s Nutrition

If your New Year’s resolution was to start living a healthier lifestyle, then you’ve probably already made yourself familiar with the store Cityview readers continually choose as the best place to buy health food in Des Moines. This is a locally owned health-food market that offers people not just good products, but a Web site that provides tips on how to live a healthier lifestyle. Campbell’s isn’t just organic foods — they sell a host of supplements as well. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: New City Market, Gateway Market

Best Jewelry Store
Josephs Jewelers

Diamonds are forever, and apparently so is Josephs stronghold on this category. Cityview readers have consistently chosen it as the best jewelry store. Whether you’re looking for that perfect rock to give to your soul mate or a quality stone for an anniversary or birthday, you can find it all at Josephs. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Anglo, Iowa Diamond

Best Antique Store
Brass Armadillo

With more than 450 dealers under one sprawling roof, the Brass Armadillo is the kind of place that requires some serious stamina, a destination that inspires marathon shopping sprees and extended excursions searching for one-of-a-kind treasures. From vintage quilts to Star Wars memorabilia, you can dig up priceless gems for every interest group. 701 N.E. 50th Ave., Des Moines, 282-0082.
Runners-up: A-OK Antiques, Majestic Lion

Best Furniture Store
Homemakers

It’s already dominated this category for years, and now Homemakers has expanded, and spent $25 million on its Urbandale location. So there’s no reason to believe that its domination will end any time soon. 10215 Douglas Ave., Des Moines, 276-2772; 5035 Hubbell Ave., Des Moines, 265-3481.
Runners-up: Slumberland, American

Best Men’s Clothing Store (Dressy)
Von Maur

It started as a 20-by-50-foot rented storefront in Davenport, but now Von Maur is a 22-store chain with locations in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska and Ohio. As it has grown, it has also acquired a loyal following, especially with gentlemen looking to look good, smell good and actually accessorize without visiting multiple stores. 1551 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines, 223-1311.
Runners-up: Mr. B Clothing, Express

Best Women’s Clothing Store (Dressy)
Von Maur

Von Maur has been in business for more than 130 years, and it is the only remaining family owned department store in the country. Why the longevity in such a big-box, cutthroat, send-our-profits-out-of-town business? Ah, the personal touch. Von Maur offers unique perks, such as free gift-wrapping, free shipping within the United States, and an interest-free store credit card. 1551 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines, 223-1311.
Runners-up: Express, (tie) Younkers and Aimee

Best Men’s Clothing (Casual)
Von Maur

While it has dominated the other “Best Clothing” categories for years, Von Maur has finally completed the sweep by being voted as the place for the fellas to shop for casual attire, which raises new and troubling questions about whether the guys really need any other stores. 1551 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines, 223-1311.
Runners-up: Kohl’s, Abercrombie and Fitch

Best Women’s Clothing Store (Casual)
Von Maur

Ladies of the world, we understand the pressure to look your best, even when you’re just relaxing at home or out for a quiet evening with friends. You want to look good, but you want to be comfortable to boot. Well, if you trust Cityview readers, then once again you’ll be heading to Von Maur, who seem to not only be a favorite when dressing up is called for, but also for a lazy afternoon. 1551 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines, 223-1311.
Runners-up: Younkers, Back Country Outfitters

Best Hair Salon
Salon Utopia

In Central Iowa’s highly competitive salon market, winning this category two years in a row is a pretty tall order. But Salon Utopia has done it by making each visit an experience rather than a service. Clients are greeted and offered a cup of complimentary tea from Gong Fu Tea, and when you leave you get a dark chocolate from Suzette Candies. New clients can also expect a call from their stylist in two to three days to make sure they are satisfied with their hair. 1208 42nd St., Des Moines, 274-1888.
Runners-up: Salon Tech, Salon W

Best Spa
Sahar’s Salon and Spa

When Des Moinesites and Des Moinesettes are looking for a little pampering, they turn to the staff of Sahar’s. And why not? It’s a haven of indulgences with spa packages ranging from body scrubs to couples massages, and every manner of pampering for your hair, skin and nails. And best of all, since your body will be left begging for more, the reasonable prices make it possible to visit on a regular basis. 4100 Westown Pkwy., West Des Moines, 225-7952.
Runners-up: Spa at West Glen, Estilo Salon & Day Spa

Best Shoes
Von Maur

Maybe it’s the discount room, where a gal on a budget can still feed the shoe addiction without breaking the bank. Maybe it’s the huge variety, carrying everything from Anne Klein pumps to Uggs to Frye boots. Maybe it’s the fact that they don’t forget that guys like to take care of their tootsies, too. Whatever the reason, Von Maur has absolutely dominated this category. And there seems to be no end in sight. 1551 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines, 223-1311.
Runners-up: DSW, Steve Madden

Best Electronics Store
Best Buy

Why must you tempt us, Best Buy, with your rows and rows of gadgets? It’s not like I need a new TV, or for that matter, a 75-inch flat-panel LCD TV. But there they are, taunting me, making my TV at home look like ancient technology. And I’m pretty sure your salespeople are using some sort of hypnotic powers, because while I don’t remember pulling out my credit card, there it is in my hand. You win this round, Best Buy. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: American, Radio Shack

Best Bike Shop
Bike World Iowa

Always a bridesmaid, never a bride. Bike World has consistently finished in second place in this category. But it finally made it to the top. The employees at Bike World don’t just sell bikes, they sell the biking lifestyle, with sections on their Web site dedicated to commuting to work by bike and offering classes in bike repair. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Rasmussen Bike Shop, Irwin’s Bike and Sports

Best Outdoor Store
Scheels All Sports

If your idea of heaven is standing in the wilderness with a warm gun in your hand, then you already know about everything Scheels All Sports has to offer. But the store doesn’t just cater to the dedicated outdoor enthusiast. Weekend warriors and those new to the joys of the outdoors will also find happiness in Scheels’ huge selection. 101 Jordan Creek Pkwy., West Des Moines, 727-4065.
Runners-up: Back Country Outfitters, Active Endeavors

Best Thrift Shop
Goodwill Industries of Central Iowa

Goodwill was founded in 1902 in Boston by the Rev. Edgar J. Helms. Helms collected used household goods and clothing in wealthier areas of the city, then trained and hired those who were poor to mend and repair the used goods. The goods were then re-sold or were given to the people who repaired them. The system worked, and the Goodwill philosophy of “a hand up, not a hand out” was born. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: The Salvation Army, Plato’s Closet

Best Bridal Shop
Schaffer’s Bridal & Formal

Once it was confined to the East Village, but now Schaffer’s Bridal & Formal has branched out to help bridezillas-to-be in the ‘burbs as well, with a new location in West Glen. Besides wedding-wear, Schaffer’s offers prom gowns and accessories, as well as tuxedos. With more than 55 years of experience, Schaffer’s staff members know formal wear, and over the years they’ve also gotten to know Central Iowans. 5445 Mills Civic Pkwy., West Des Moines, 288-0356; 505 E. Locust St., Des Moines, 868-0015.
Runners-up: Weddings By Design, David’s Bridal

Best Auto Shop
Drake Garage

We don’t ask much out of our mechanics. We just want to get our car fixed without worrying about whether we’re getting ripped off. It would also help if they were nice to those of us who couldn’t tell the difference between a carburetor and an alternator. Lucky for Des Moines, the Drake Garage does all that and much, much more. Anyone who has gone to them in a time of need knows how helpful the staff can be. This is easily the best garage in town. 918 42nd St., Des Moines, 255-6159.
Runners-up: Terry’s Auto Repair, Betts Auto Campus

Best Flower Shop
Boesen The Florist

Few businesses have planted local roots as deep as Boesen The Florist. Established in a greenhouse on Beaver Avenue back in 1923, the family operation has bloomed under the care of three generations and become the unquestioned leader in local flower sales. Whether it’s a wedding, a last minute Valentine’s Day gift, or a get-out-of-the-doghouse bouquet, they’ve got you covered. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Hy-Vee, Sarah’s Garden House

Best Sporting Goods
Scheels All Sports

When it comes to sporting goods, Scheels is quite simply the Great Indoors. A force of nature all its own, this cavernous warehouse boasts a virtual forest of apparel and footwear for every sport imaginable, not to mention a mountain of camping gear, a river of fishing essentials and an avalanche of skis and skates. If you dig Mother Nature, this is the mother lode of merchandise. 101 Jordan Creek Pkwy., West Des Moines, 727-4065.
Runners-up: Sports Authority, Sportsman’s Warehouse

Best Grocery Store
Hy-Vee

Central Iowans have spoken, and the store with a “helpful smile in every aisle” has bested Dahl’s Foods to take the top spot to grab your grub in Des Moines. Besides all those helpful smiles, there is also a huge selection of quality goods, which at the end of the day, is probably just as important. But the smiles are a nice touch. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Dahl’s Foods, Gateway Market

Best Tanning Salon
Tan World

Here we are, stuck in the middle of winter. But let us not forget that pool season is just around the corner. So do your community a favor. Lay down that base coat of tanned skin now and avoid burning the retinas of anyone who dares to look upon your white as the driven snow back. For Cityview readers, Tan World is the place to go. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Soleil, Visual Impact Hair & Tanning

Best Wine Store
WineStyles of West Glen

From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the Old World wine cellar of your dreams. And there’s no reason to feel overwhelmed at WineStyles, as not only are the taste “styles” clearly marked, but there is always a smiling and knowledgeable wine lover at your service to help answer any questions you may have or to suggest great gift ideas. 5515 Mills Civic Pkwy. Suite 120, West Des Moines, 224-WINE.
Runners-up: Ingersoll Wine and Spirits, Gateway Market

Best Pet Store
Petco

Whether your prize winning show dog needs his busy bee, your 25 cats are once again our of catnip, or you simply need another little castle for your goldfish to play in, Petco has you covered. That’s probably why Cityview readers have consistently picked the pet superstore as the best in Des Moines. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: PetSmart, Iowa Pet Food

Best Hardware Store
Ace Hardware

When you’ve got to have the right tool for every job and, for better or worse, Ace has your back. With an unparalleled reserve of everything you need to get those home repairs squared away, this is the hardware store for the hard working. So while you might be able to find the right tools at another location, there’s a reason they call this place Ace. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: True Value Hardware, Lowe’s

Best Greenhouse/ Nursery
Earl May Seed & Nursery

Established by the Nebraska native back in 1919, the seed and garden supplier has evolved from a small Shenandoah company to one of the top 10 nursery chains in the country. Now operated by Earl’s granddaughter, the May family has cultivated a wide array of garden products that range from garden seeds to lawn care items to home dècor accessories. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Goode Greenhouses Inc., (tie) Piney Ridge Greenhouse and Herndon’s Des Moines Seed and Nursery Co.

Best Adult Store
Romantix Adult Emporium

Need a little spark in the sack? Been looking for that hard to find copy of “Saving Ryan’s Privates” to no avail? Maybe it’s time to forget about adult shops and turn to an adult superstore. With lubes, lotions, videos and erotic toys to satisfy your most closeted desires, the sex-perts at Romantix Adult Emporium will satisfy your fetishes and fulfill your fantasies, whatever they may be. Multiple locations.
Runners-up: Doctor John’s Lingerie Boutique, Christal’s

Best Hotel/Motel
Suites Of 800 Locust

Experience luxury, elegance and romance at the Suites of 800 Locust. Located in the heart of downtown, this exquisite hotel is close to shopping, nightlife and restaurants. The Suites is a landmark destination, offering a European sense of grace and grandeur. It’s in perfect harmony with old world charm and modern conveniences, resulting in a sophisticated infusing classical architecture with eclecticism and a touch of the unexpected. 800 Locust St., Des Moines, 288-5800.
Runners-up: Hotel Fort Des Moines, Marriott

Best Car Dealership (Domestic)
Karl’s Chevrolet

In 1978, Carl Moyer opened the doors to Karl Chevrolet in Ankeny, with only a few cars to sell and one person to sell them — himself. Back then, he had one thing in mind, create lifelong customers. Thirty years later, Moyer has the same approach. It must be working, because in 2007 Karl Chevrolet became a top 10 Chevy dealer nationwide. With an unmatched selection of vehicles, more GM World Class technicians than any dealer around, a body shop that’s second to none, and the nation’s only GM Quick Lube/Quick Wash, it’s clear that Karl Chevrolet still operates with one thing in mind, making lifelong customers. 1101 S.E. Oralabor Road., Ankeny, (800) 622-8264, http://www.karlchevrolet.com.
Runners-up: Betts Auto Campus, Bob Brown Chevrolet

Best Car Dealership (Foreign)
Toyota of Des Moines

This is where the people of Iowa buy their Toyotas. Their vehicles are recognized as the highest quality, most reliable and dependable cars, trucks, minivans and SUVs on earth. A great service department and friendly sales staff make Toyota of Des Moines a head above the rest. 4475 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, (800)779-6576, http://www.toyotadm.com.
Runners-up: Betts Auto Campus, Hummel’s Nissan

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CULTURE & NIGHTLIFE

Best Live Music Venue
People’s Court

Owner Tom Zmolek admits he isn’t the first person to recognize downtown’s need for a medium-sized music venue — one that hosts popular regional and national acts — but with the help of some investors, Zmolek is the first to deliver such a venue, opening People’s Court last June at Court Center. Though the number of shows at People’s has been less than some music fans hoped for, or they have mirrored those booked by Zmolek’s outdoor summer Alive Concert Series, People’s meets the criteria Zmolek dreamed of when he first laid plans for such a grand room, including a large stage, a state-of-the-art sound system, an intelligent lighting system, VIP booths, two bars, green rooms and ticket and merchandise booths — all of which sounds good to our readers. 216 Court Ave., Des Moines, 422-5128.
Runners-up: Vaudeville Mews, Black Cat Café

Best Annual Event
Iowa State Fair

The proof is the numbers. Each year about a million people flock to the fairgrounds of the east side of Des Moines to attend the Iowa State Fair, where they sweat their asses off, swill beer, eat their weight in disgusting fried foods, listen to crappy music, blow their cigarette money at the Midway, people watch and gaze at the giant-sized nuts on the large animals in the cattle barn. Can a million rednecks be wrong?
Runners-up: Des Moines Arts Festival, Drake Relays

Best Place to Take Visitors
Iowa State Fair

A few years ago, some travel writer said the Iowa State Fair is one of the top 100 things to do before you die… and we wonder why the rest of the world thinks we’re hayseeds.
Runners-up: East Village, Des Moines Art Center

Best Place to People Watch
Iowa State Fair

Not only is the Iowa State Fair our state’s most popular tourist attraction, it is also downright therapeutic. Don’t believe us? Spend a few hours observing fair goers at the Midway or the beer tent and tell us you don’t feel better about yourself. If you don’t get a chance to find out for yourself what we’re talking about, then kick back with a copy of our annual Fair Fashion issue in August and let loose your inner shrink.
Runners-up: Jordan Creek Town Center, Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market

Best Museum
Des Moines Art Center

Count ‘em, one, two, three. The order for “Best Museum” continues to hold steady for another year as the Des Moines Art Center tops the list again, followed by the State of Iowa Historical Building and Science Center of Iowa. Boasting free admission to nationally renowned exhibitions, the Des Moines Art Center is a masterpiece in the eyes of our readers. 4700 Grand Ave., Des Moines, 277-4405.
Runners-up: State of Iowa Historical Building, Science Center of Iowa

Best Strip Club
Lumberyard

Once again the Lumberyard takes the top honors. A three-tier stage offers equal opportunity to all visitors to get down and dirty. Grab a seat on “sniffers row,” or at the shower stage and enjoy the ride. Shoving your hard earned money down a beautiful woman’s G-string has never been easier. 1504 N.E. 54th Ave., Des Moines, 265-1019.
Runners-up: Big Earl’s Goldmine, Beach Girls

Best Body Piercing/Tattoo Shop
Sacred Skin

Like the sign says, this is the place where skin is sacred. One of the top tattoo parlors in town, it’s the place to get that sleeve you have been thinking about or that entire back piece you have been dreaming of. They specialize in body piercing and custom work, but if you have an idea of what you want, bring it in. 1800 N.W. 86th St., Clive, 270-6902.
Runners-up: Skin Kitchen, Yankee Doodle Tattoo

Best Place to Catch a Flick
Fleur Cinema & Café