Places to Shop

Carmichael's Bookstore - I frequent the one on Bardstown Road and even though it's a pretty small space, there have been several occasions on which I've found books there that were not in stock at Barnes & Noble. And the place just has a great vibe; it always seems to put me in a good mood somehow.

ear X-tacy - A fantastic music store. Whatever you're looking for, it's more likely to be here than anywhere else in Louisville. It might cost a little more than it would at Best Buy, but it's worth it to support such an awesome independent business.

Gemelli Wine & Spirits - I'm really surprised that they do not have a Web site of their own, and if my Web design skills were not so rudimentary, I'd offer to build them one for free. That's how much I love them. Wine can be an intimidating proposition, but the people at Gemelli are SO nice and SO helpful, and their monthly wine tastings are incredibly fun and informative. They are clearly passionate about wine and excited about sharing their knowledge with their customers. Not a bit of snobbiness to be found here.

Keith's Hardware - Although they seem to have no Web site of their own, I have to include them here because they're fantastic. Of course, I'm a bit biased because Keith's has at various times employed Neil, his dad, his uncle, his sister, and perhaps other assorted family members. But we'd frequent Keith's even if we weren't related to half their workforce because they carry a whole lot of stuff and have great customer service. And free popcorn!

Lotsa Pasta - This is a wonderful food shop that carries a variety of international offerings, including a fantastic selection of cheeses. Their deli is amazing as well.

Louisville Antique Mall - This is just a block or so away from our house. It's a great place to go whether you want to while away some time looking at beautiful antiques or you've realized a few hours before a New Year's party that you don't own a coffee table. It occupies a huge space and has something for every taste and budget. It's also home to a fantastic cafe.

Louisville Geek - This business was started by my friend Bobby, who has saved my ass when it comes to computers on more than one occasion. I am thrilled to see Louisville Geek taking off and recommend them highly for all your computer service needs.

Mellwood Arts & Entertainment Center - This used to be the Fischer meat-packing plant, but now it's an assortment of artist studios and retail stores. You'll find a lot of jewelry here, as well as art in a variety of other mediums. There's also a nice cafe and a great art supply store. This is a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Murphy's Camera - I have to mention Murphy's because Neil manages their Clarksville location. But I do think it's a great local business to support, and as long as you don't do something shitty (like go in and tap the employees for all their camera knowledge before buying the camera on Amazon) they will take good care of you. And they're an Apple dealer, which makes them extra cool.

The Nitty Gritty - This vintage clothing and housewares store is so, so much fun. Whether you want to add a bit of retro style to your wardobe or find a costume for a special event, the Nitty Gritty has it all. And the people who work there are extremely nice and helpful. Shopping there is always a great time.

ValuMarket - ValuMarket might not have everything you need. I can't, for example, find the brand of paper towels I prefer there. But that's because they've used up so much room with a great produce section, wonderful deli, wide selection of local products, freezer full of delicious Lotsa Pasta pizzas and pasta, slew of international products, and impressively stocked beer cooler, among other things. So, you know, I can handle making a separate trip to Kroger for paper towels. It's a small price to pay.