West Loop Wrecker Svc
I have been taking my car to Tilden for five years. The owner is a wholy decent human being who takes the time to explain the mechanincal issues involving my car. He also takes care to tell me when I have options that might save me a litle bit of money (every dime counts these days). He also tells me when something doesn't have to be done immediately--when a noise is just annoying for example. Work is always done according to schedule and quoted price. You can't do better than this!
Gospel To The Unreached Mllns
While stated aim of this organization is admirable--preaching the word of Christ to neglected people in the 3rd world--that is only indirectly what you fund if you give them money. The president of the group flies around the world in a PRIVATELY OWNED 747 with a handful of support staff aboard! So your money goeas to maintainhis ego trip of a plane, not the people he claims to rescue.
Houston Wine Merchant
The staff at Houston Wine Merchant knows what they are talking about. They are willing to recomment things that I might not otherwise try. They have good sales a few times a year, too. Friday tastings. And a really informative newsletter.
PROS: Great selection, Knowledgable staff
CONS: A little higher priced than average...but you get what you pay for
Bissonnet Kirby Animal Hospital
I started using BKAH because I needed to travel and couldn't leave my cats alone. When one of my cats developed diabetes the staff worked very hard to stabilize his blood sugar and develop an insulin regimen that he could maintain. Since then they have cared for all of my pets and they call me by name. Personal and involved. I like that.
Davids Salon
The salon is nothing to look at from the outside, but the inside is a wonderful retreat. On the ground floor of a remodeled duplex the single cutting station looks out onto a tranquil patio. Really good color consultation, flawless cuts, individualized experience--if you want to hear loud classical or quiet hip-hop, just ask, 'cause it's all up to you.
PROS: Quiet, appointments available at odd hours (Mondays for example!)
CONS: Primetime hours are sometimes tough to book, No credit cards
Sarah Balinskas Fine Framing
Balinskas has framed several pieces for me (and for several friends at my recommendation) Always on time and as quoted. The framers have really good eyes and make everything look wonderful.
PROS: Always perfect
CONS: Not cheap
The Raven Grill
The Raven grill does casual American food really well. The pot raost is to die for. Good steaks, fantastic burgers, excellent salads, and a pretty decent wine list. Weekend evenings can get a bit loud. This is a great place for a late lunch or early dinner. Or for a relaxed date. The tables feature butcher paper over tabelcloths and little pots of crayons for your doodling or notetaking pleasure. Kids welcome.
Doodles
I got so many wonderful things for my little girl from Doodles. The staff is always helpful. The registry service is personal. Delivery is punctual. While certainly not cheap, you do get what you pay for. Doodles has great sales too.
Julia Bailey Photography
Julia shot my wedding and did an amazing job! The quantitiy of pictures for our event was perfect and the quality was top notch. You should see the pictures she took of the kids at the reception. I see my friends getting prints of some for Christmas presents. Boy does she have an eye!
Lisette Lux Haute Couture
I had no idea I would be able to afford a custom made wedding gown. My maid of honor made me go see Lisette and it was the best decision I made about my wedding. I got to design my own dress. Everything I wanted I got (and when I had bad ideas Lisette and her assistant talked me out of them). My dress was made out of beautiful silk satin instead of the icky stuff I found at the big name places. Best of all, no one else looked like me. As if that weren't enough, I enjoyed my fittings and I spent about half the money I would have if I had gone to one of the department store bridal salons. Go take a look on a Saturday, you'll be glad you did.
PROS: Unique dress; wholesale level prices on couture quality
CONS: I had to know, more or less, what I wanted
