Find out who won Best Tattoo Shop, Best Erotic Gifts, Best Holistic Practicioner, Best Bookstore, and more!
By PORTLAND PHOENIX STAFF | May 15, 2014
Best Arts & Crafts Supplies: Artist & Craftsman
The walls and halls of Artist and Craftsman are stocked with everything you could possibly need for a project — paint to fabric, rulers to rag paper. They’ve been one of the most critical junctions for Portland’s consistently vibrant, youthful arts circuit since their inception in 1985, and one of the behind-the-scenes reasons everything in town looks so damn good.
540 Deering Ave, Portland | 207.772.7272 | artistcraftsman.com
Best Bank/Credit Union: Bangor Savings Bank
We still haven’t gotten over the satisfaction we feel when we press “Accept Fee” during transactions at non-Bangor Savings Bank ATMs. “Whatever,” we say to ourselves, “that three-dollar ATM fee will be refunded to my account within three business days. No worries.” And then we go about our business, pleased with ourselves for doing at least one thing in our adult lives correctly: we chose the right financial institution. The variety of checking and saving account options, the smooth online banking experience, the bank’s support for local non-profits — all that’s just icing on the Free-ATMs-Worldwide cake.
bangor.com
Best Bikes:Gorham Bike & Ski
The knowledgeable folks at Gorham Bike and Ski work to find the bike that will fit your riding needs and body best. From sleek racing cycles to ferocious mountain bikes to utilitarian commuters, Gorham has a huge range of two-wheelers, from high-end to affordable. They offer a free tune-up for every new bike, as well as a buy-back program for kids’ bikes. Their staff of mechanics are fonts of knowledge, about the workings of your bike, as well as cycling races and various area rides. And the shop offers a suite of maintenance options whether you’re bringing in your beat-up Fuji single-speed, or your shiny new Giant.
693 Congress Street, Portland | 207.773.1700 | gorhambike.com
Best Bookstore - New and Used: Longfellow Books
Longfellow might have rolled in his grave when the bookstore in the square that bears his name was replaced with a bar, but the efforts of this fine outlet down the street has been keeping his spirit intact for far longer than that. Their selection of new and used books, poetry volumes, calendars, and periodicals is the most informed and germane in town, and the efforts they put into supporting the local writing scene is unmatched. Bookselling has become a brutal sport, and Longfellow Books is still an all-star.
1 Monument Way, Portland | 207.772.4045 | longfellowbooks.com
 Best Car Dealership 2014: Patriot Subaru! |
Best Car Dealership: Patriot Subaru
In case you weren’t aware, buying a car is a big deal. Fortunately, there’s Patriot Subaru — 100 percent locally owned and operated and offering the largest selection of Subarus (which may as well be Maine’s Official Vehicle) in the state — to help take the pressure off. They do a Vehicle Exchange Program and also boast a wide range of pre-owned cars; plus they have a publicly stated goal of being the greenest car dealership in the country. When it’s time to make this important purchase, turn to this dependable dealership. They know what they’re doing, and they’ll take care of you.
769 Portland Rd, Saco | 207.284.7900 | patriotsubaru.com
