Posts with tag 'Small Businesses'

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, but planning the perfect date night might be tricky this year given indoor dining restrictions and health and safety concerns. However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the holiday with your sweetie in the comfort of your own home. With so many fantastic Ohio restaurants offering Valentine's Day takeout, you can have a date night at your own dining room table or while watching your favorite movie.

Whether you're planning to celebrate with your special someone or just getting together with a group of friends, a delicious meal is at the center of every great Valentine's Day. Below are some of our recommendations for Valentine's Day takeout around Ohio.

Northeast Ohio

Michelangelo's Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar 

2198 Murray Hill Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

Nothing says romance quite like a classic Italian dinner, so we recommend trying Michelangelo's Italian Restaurant in Cleveland. With exquisite Italian cuisine prepared by award-winning chef Michael Annandono, this restaurant is absolutely fantastic. The menu features a variety of pasta, meats, and fish, and for dessert, you can enjoy some of the best Tiramisu in Cleveland. Takeout is available for both pickup and delivery, and you can place your order online.

Don's Pomeroy House

13664 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136

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If you're just south of Cleveland, you might want to consider Don's Pomeroy House for takeout this year. This historic restaurant is on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a popular Valentine's Day destination.  They serve a variety of winter comfort foods like Kobe Meatloaf and Chicken Parmesan as well as seafood sources from all over the world. If you'd prefer not to dine-in this year, you can order your food to-go, or for a truly romantic option, reserve one of their outdoor winter igloos.

L'Albatros

11401 Bellflower Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

Located in an old carriage house near Case Western Reserve University, L'Albatros is a classic Valentine's Day destination near Cleveland. This year, their entire menu is available for takeout so you can complement your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with some contemporary French cuisine. The French Onion Soup is a must-try and the braised pork shank with whole grain mustard sauce is a popular dish!

Columbus

Trattoria Roma

1447 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

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For some delicious Italian dishes near Columbus, order a romantic dinner from Trattoria Roma. This restaurant has been open for over 30 years and offers all of your favorite pasta dishes with a personal touch. All ingredients are locally sourced, and they offer special takeout menus and specials that change monthly, so be sure to check out what they have in store for Valentine's Day. Carryout and delivery can both be ordered on their website.

The Pearl

641 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Online ordering is available this Valentine's Day at The Pearl restaurant. This trendy, romantic establishment has two locations: one in downtown Columbus and one in Dublin, Ohio. The dinner menu has an excellent mix of seafood and modern dishes, and they also have a separate menu for their oyster room. Best of all, you can top off your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with one of their unique cocktail kits for two.

The Refectory

1092 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220

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Housed in a former church building, The Refectory has become a Valentine's Day tradition for many couples in Central Ohio. While they're open for limited dine-in seating, they also offer a wonderful three-course home dinner menu with French favorites like Boeuf Bourguignon and Roasted Cornish Hen. For dessert, try the Epiphany Cake — an almond frangipane baked in layers of puff pastry. They even offer a wide variety of cocktails to-go! Orders can be placed online, but they do request that you order home dinners at least one day ahead of time.

Cincinnati

Primavista

810 Matson Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45204

While this romantic Cincinnati destination is known for its view, they do have a delicious menu that is available for takeout this Valentine's Day. Primavista offers a fine contemporary menu with dishes from all areas of Italy. They really specialize in veal and fresh fish, and all sauces are made from scratch. If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with friends, Primavista is also offering a family-style menu with dishes that serve 4 to 6 people.

Sotto

118 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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For an excellent Valentine's Day dinner, try a takeout order from Sotto in downtown Cincinnati. Their takeout menu features delicious pasta classics such as Tortellini Con Zucca and Rigatoni Con Pomodoro as well as some classic Italian pork and seafood dishes. Not only do they have cocktail specials to go, they also have two bottle wine baskets available for purchase. For dessert, you have to try the famous ricotta donuts with sauce! Carryout can be ordered by phone.

Prime Cincinnati

580 Walnut St. #100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

This classic Cincinnati steakhouse is offering curbside carryout and delivery this Valentine's Day. Prime Cincinnati offers some of the best steaks in the area, with the highlight of the menu being the Ohio Reserve Waygu steak. They have a wide variety of seafood options that can be added to your steak to create the perfect surf-and-turf combination. The takeout menu features a create-your-own, three-course meal starting at $50 per person. If a romantic steak dinner sounds like a good Valentine's Day, be sure to try Prime Cincinnati.

Love is in the Air!

Where will you order your takeout this Valentine's Day?

There's never a wrong day to enjoy a great slice of pizza! Just in case you needed an excuse though, you'll be glad to know that National Pizza Day is right around the corner. 

We are lucky to have so many dining incredible options in Cincinnati. From high-end restaurants with gourmet pies to mom-and-pop pizza joints with some of the best slices of town — there's something for every taste. Not sure where to start? Here are a few of our favorites. 

Goodfellas Pizzeria

1211 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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If you love authentic, NY-style pizza, you're going to love Goodfella's Pizzeria. Their menu features all of the classics, build-your-own pizzas and calzones, and some great specialty pizzas. Feeling adventurous? Try the "Fuhgetaboutit" — a pizza topped with every available topping!

While you're there, make sure you plan to visit their Wiseguy Lounge, a 1920s prohibition-style bar where you'll find craft cocktails, high-end bourbons, rich leather sofas, and knowledgable, well-dress bartenders who are ready and willing to create the perfect craft cocktail to satisfy your cravings. 

Adriatico's

113 W. McMillan Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45219

Another excellent option for NY-style pizza, Adriatico's offers hand-tossed, extra-think, and deep-dish Sicilian pizzas. The restaurant has been voted "best pizza" according to several publications, including Cincinnati Magazine and City Beat. Build your own pizza or try some of their specialty pies like the Hawaiian, Chicken Bacon Ranch, or the "Inflation Fighter" with mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, sausage, ham, beef, and pepperoni. 

If you enjoy desserts, you're in luck. They also have 12 rotating flavors of gelato, with pints available for carryout and delivery. 

TAGLIO Columbia Tusculum

3531 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226

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If you haven't tried the incredible Detroit deep-dish gourmet pizzas at TAGLIO yet, you're missing out! With flavors like Prosciutto Artichoke, Greek Veggie, and Pepperoni + Hot Honey, there's so much to love. They also carry all the traditional pizza flavors including Spicy Italian, Bianco, and the "Old Schooler." Don't forget to add some crust dips. With flavors like Garlic + EVOO, Spicy Garlic, and Creamy Gorgonzola, they're well worth the extra dollar. 

Ramundo's Pizzeria

3166 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208

Ramundo's Pizzeria has been pleasing local customers for over 20 years. They've also been voted "Best Pizza Sauce in the City" by Cincinnati Magazine. 

Choose a slice of traditional NY-style pizza or one of their specialty pies. One of their most popular pizzas is the Prosciutto, Lettuce, and Tomato (PLT) pizza. It's made with garlic-infused olive oil, prosciutto, mozzarella, and provolone. After it's baked, it's topped with romaine lettuce, tomato, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of mayo. Don't be scared; it's one of the best pizzas you'll ever eat!

Looking for something more traditional? You can't go wrong with "Uncle Frank's Special," made with homemade Italian sausage, homemade meatballs, and fresh sliced garlic. 

Trio Bistro

7565 Kenwood Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45236

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For a more upscale pizza experience, you'll want to visit Trio Bistro. It's been one of the area's premier dining destinations for over 20 years. Guests love the restaurant's excellent food, attentive staff, and casual charm. 

They offer traditional and Margherita flatbreads and pizzas. However, we recommend some of their more exciting options. Other pizza flavors on the menu include Mexican, BBQ, Mediterranean, Thai, and Smoked Salmon! 

Catch-a-Fire Pizza

3301 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209

Catch-a-Fire Pizza prides itself on making creative, delicious wood-fired cuisine using fresh ingredients that are locally sourced whenever possible. It's located inside the taproom Madtree Brewing so you can enjoy this incredible pizza alongside some of the best beer the city has to offer. The menu features Classic Italian and Classic American pizzas with a variety of interesting topping combinations. On weekends, you can also enjoy brunch pizzas in flavors like Green Eggs & Ham, Tequila Sunrise, and Hangover Pie. 

Looking for an adventure? Head over to their Blue Ash location and book one of their heated igloos. This one of the most exciting dining experiences you'll ever have! The igloos seat up to eight guests and even have Bluetooth speakers so you and your friends can enjoy your favorite tunes while you eat. 

Werkhaus Pizza

3637 Werk Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248

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A west side tradition for over 20 years, Werkhaus Pizza serves traditional and stuffed pizzas. The latter is made with two light layers of dough stuffed with fresh ingredients and topped with their house sauce. 

If you like pizza with a pan-fried crust and plenty of cheese, this family-owned Italian restaurant is soon going to become one of your favorites.   

Trotta's Pizza & Drive Thru

3501 Werk Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248

Well-known for the generous toppings and incredible crust, Trotta's Pizza is another Cincinnati favorite. They offer traditional, Sicilian, and extra-thin crusts and a huge variety of toppings. Build your own or try some of their amazing specialty pizzas in flavors like Hot Wing, Chili Dip, Taco, BLT, Hawaiian, Steak, Ricotta Cheese, and Salami Roll-Up. 

They offer a convenient drive-thru and also carry a wide selection of beers. 

Bub's Pizza Bar Mt. Lookout

3200 Linwood Ave. Suite #2, Cincinnati, OH 45226

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When you get a late-night pizza craving, look no further than Bub's Pizza Bar. They're open until 2 am during the week and 3:30 am on Friday and Saturday nights. Not only is the pizza delicious, but the portions are huge, giving you a great value for the money. Flavorful and filling, it's everything you want after a night out on the town. 

Choose a traditional pizza or some of their exciting flavors like Pesto and Goat Cheese, Goetta and Onion, and Extreme Pepperoni. They also offer a Vegan Pizza with a soy-free, dairy-free crust, marinara sauce, vegan cheese, and up to five veggie toppings.

Mac's Pizza Pub

205 W. McMillan St., Cincinnati, OH 45219

Known for their cold beer, hot pizza, and happy customers, Mac's Pizza Pub is the ultimate laid-back pizza joint. Everything here is fresh-made, including the dough that's made in-house daily and the pizza sauce. They also grind their own cheese, slice all of their own vegetables, have their sausage fresh-ground, and use local ingredients whenever they can.  

Stick with a traditional pizza or choose some of their fun specialties like the Pesto Primavera, Flying Pig, French Fry Pie, or Nashville Hot. 

Not to Be Cheesy, But... 

Which of these great pizza restaurants will steal your heart? 

January 29th is Puzzle Day, so head to your local shop and buy some to work out on your own or with family members. Simple puzzles with just a few pieces can help kids get started on this fun pastime while working on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Before you know it, they'll be helping you on more complex 500- or 1,000-plus puzzles that take days to complete. And no matter what your interests, you'll probably be able to find a puzzle that matches them.

Check out the following 9 places around Ohio to puzzle it out:

Northeast Ohio

Sweets & Geeks

342 E. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256

The Sweets & Geeks name says it all – the store is a pop-culture haven that carries sweet candy as well as retro and modern "geeky" games, collectibles, and puzzles. Located near the heart of Historic Medicine Square, the shop has a good selection of puzzles, including ones with Coca-Cola, DC, Marvel, and Harry Potter themes. And while you're at the store, pick up some candy to enjoy while you're working your puzzle at home. From "weird and gross" choices to nostalgic candies you might have grown up with, you'll find something to please everyone who's working on the puzzle. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.

Once Upon a Time

19285 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116

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This family-owned toy store has been open since 1984 and been in its current location since 1988, so it has many satisfied customers throughout the northeast Ohio area. It's a good spot to shop for puzzles, including ones from the popular Ravensburger brand. Their puzzles range from 15-piece ones that appeal to young children to 9,000-piece scenes that will keep the family busy for days. You'll also find uniquely fun 3D puzzles. Visit the shop from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Toyrifix

885 W. Main St., Smithville OH 44677

Toyrifix carries a large selection of toys, games, and puzzles and prides itself on inspiring creative interactions between generations. You'll find plenty of puzzles, including one with a "Wine Time" theme that's perfect for these times of social distancing. Others follow a color theme, such as red, orange, or green, or depict colorful flowers or cute llamas. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Columbus 

The Book Loft

631 S. Third St., Columbus OH 43206

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You'll find much more than books at The Book Loft at German Village – which is one of the country's largest independent bookstores – including a huge collection of jigsaw puzzles. It's located a few blocks south of the state capitol building in a location with a rich pre-Civil War history. Since it takes up an entire city block and encompasses 32 rooms, you're sure to find additional items like board games, posters, and more. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m., 7 days a week.

Gramercy Books  

2424 E. Main St., Bexley OH 43209  

Locally owned Gramercy Books carries a selection of carefully curated puzzles, books (of course), and more. It's located in the heart of Bexley, at the intersection of East Main Street and Cassady Avenue. After you select the puzzles you'd like to buy, take time to visit the store's café, Kittie's, to enjoy Stumptown coffee, snacks, and their famous cupcakes. And don't forget to pet Wally, the store's adorable dog. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 7 days a week.

Beanbag Books

25 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015

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Originally started as Fundamentals Parent-Teacher Store, Beanbag Books has been one of Delaware's favorite shops for over 30 years. Shop for puzzles, games, books, and more educational and fun activities you can share with your child. Hours are 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Cincinnati

Downbound Books

4139 Apple St., Cincinnati, OH 45223

Downbound Books has an extensive selection of puzzles, including those that have 500 or more pieces and ones that are well suited for children or for the entire family. The shop is open for curbside pickup from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. You can also set a shopping appointment for groups of up to 5 people, and neighborhood deliveries are also offered.

King Arthur's Toys

3040 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209

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King Arthur's Toys was started over 40 years ago as a tiny hobby shop, growing over the years to become a popular – and larger – store that carries puzzles, games, and toys. Shop for gorgeous Pomegranate puzzles, which are beautifully artistic. Choose from a depiction of Van Gogh's Irises, Old-World map, Renoir's Luncheon of a Boating Party, and many more. They're so attractive that they're perfect for preserving and framing to hang on the wall. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.

The Bookshelf

7754 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243  

You'll find a variety of puzzles and books at The Bookshelf, so a visit to the shop will have you well-stocked for at-home fun. If you become a frequent customer at The Bookshelf, you may want to purchase a frequent buyer card to receive a 10% discount, and if you're a teacher, you can score 15% off even without the card. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Piecing It Together

What kind of puzzles will you piece together as you spend time bonding with your family?

Shopping for the holidays might feel a little different this year, but we're still as excited as ever. As always, one of the great joys of Christmas is finding the perfect gift for each special someone on your list. If you happen to know a few outdoorsy types, you know they can often be some of the hardest people to shop for. 

Not to worry! Ohio is home to some truly amazing gear stores and outfitters. Head to one of these great shops to find a great gift for the hiker, skier, cyclist, or fisherman on your holiday shopping list. 

NORTHEAST OHIO

Village Ski & Snowboard

25401 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted, OH 44070

Village Ski & Snowboard is your destination for all things winter sports in Northeast Ohio. Founded in 1974, they excel when it comes to offering great winter gear because that's all they do. The store closes in spring after the ski and snowboard season is over, only reopening again in fall. The store is packed with great gear and staffed by genuine ski-and-snowboard experts, so you can rest assured that any purchase you make here will be a good one. They're also running some great holiday sales right now.

Appalachian Outfitters

60 Kendall Park Rd. Suite A, Peninsula, OH 44264

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If you're a hiking, backpacking, and backcountry camping enthusiast, Appalachian Outfitters is the type of place that will make you feel like a kid in a candy store. And if you happen to be shopping for someone who loves outdoor gear, you'll find just about anything they could possibly want here. From backpacks and tents to hiking boots, clothing, and camp cookware, every bit of equipment you need to make you a happy camper is here. 

Geiger's

50 Plaza Dr., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022

Geiger's has been one of Ohio's premier outfitters since 1932, and they have three locations in Northeast Ohio—Cleveland, Lakewood, and Chagrin Falls. You'll find a lot of cool stuff in their stores, but where they really shine is outdoor apparel. This is a great store to find rugged, hard-wearing outdoor-wear that's as stylish as it is functional. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable, and the selection of merchandise always wide-ranging and unique.

COLUMBUS 

Mad River Outfitters

833 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43214

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Named for one of Ohio's great fishing streams, Mad River Outfitters is the go-to destination for fly-fishing gear, tackle, and equipment in the Columbus area. Whether you're shopping for a fly-fishing novice or a seasoned pro, Mad River Outfitters is a perfect place to find them a gift. This store has you covered for all things fishing related, from rods, reels, flies, and line to men's and women's apparel. They even offer fly fishing classes and guided destination trips. If you're unable to make it to the brick-and-mortar store, they offer free shipping on orders over $50 within the U.S. 

Filson

3980 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219

Offering an amazing variety of high-end outdoor gear and apparel, Filson is one of the best places in Columbus to get a gift for the rugged outdoorsman or woman on your holiday shopping list. You won't find anything in this store that isn't of the highest quality. Their Mackinaw Cruiser and Rugged Twill Original Briefcase are classic gifts, but be sure to browse around, as they offer new and unique seasonal offerings every year. At present, the store is open for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping. 

Beechwold Bicycles

4584 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

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Columbus has a reputation as being a great bike-friendly city. As a result, it's also a city with its fair share of excellent bike shops. Even so, Beechwold Bicycles really stands out above the rest. Founded in 2019, they're relative newcomers on the local bike scene, but they've quickly made their reputation by selling only the highest quality bicycles and equipment. Beechwold Bicycles is currently open for in-person shopping—bike shops are considered essential businesses in Ohio—but curbside pickup and delivery are available too. 

CINCINNATI

Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters

9525 Kenwood Rd. #24, Cincinnati, OH 45242

Outdoorsy types in the Cincinnati area know that when they want the best hiking, camping, and climbing gear, Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters is the place to go. Offering all the top brands in the outdoor supply world, this is a store that serious adventurers visit when they need to gear up. If you know somebody who loves to climb mountains, ford rivers, and cut new paths through uncharted territory, Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters is the place to find that person a perfect gift. 

Delamere & Hopkins

2708 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208

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The Cincinnati sporting community has been getting their gear from Delamere & Hopkins Outfitters for more than 25 years, and it's not hard to see why. Offering an amazing selection of fishing tackle, hunting equipment, outdoor clothing, footwear, artwork, gear, and accessories of all kinds, the store has a cozy mom-and-pop feel. It almost feels like walking into a field guide's house, except everything you see is for sale. Delamere & Hopkins is a great place to find a unique gift for the outdoor fanatic who thinks they have everything. 

Roads Rivers and Trails

118 Main St., Milford, OH 45150

Roads Rivers and Trails is one of Cincinnati's premier outdoor outfitters. This family-owned store is managed and staffed by folks who really know what they're talking about. Whether you're in the store to buy a pair of hiking boots, a new tent, backpack, or kayak, there's a good chance the person you buy it from has actually used it. Be sure to call ahead and ask about the store's current COVID-19 policy. 

Adventure Awaits

From hiking the Buckeye Trail or fishing Lake Erie to camping in one of Ohio's 83 state parks, this is a great state to call home if you have a passion for the outdoors. Use the comments section to tell us about your favorite Ohio outdoor adventures!

Whether you're the proverbial city mouse or country mouse, life in Cincinnati offers the best of both worlds. Cincinnati itself has the expansive shopping, entertainment, and cultural options of a sophisticated urban setting, but it's just minutes away from the charm, comfort, and laid-back pace of small towns.

With the holidays approaching, why not take a break from the big-city hustle and bustle? Spend a fun yet relaxing day supporting small businesses with a holiday shopping trip to nearby Augusta, KY.

Augusta Ferry

Boude's Landing, OH 

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When your day begins on a river ferry, you know it's bound to be special. Seven days a week, the Jenny Ann transports passengers and vehicles from Boude's Landing to Augusta and back. Pedestrians travel for free, while the one-way fee for vehicles is only $5. Ferry service runs 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., with the last outbound Augusta ferry departing at 7:45 p.m. Call the Transportation Authority at 606.756.3291 to confirm sailing times. 

Glitter Me Pink Boutique

314 Main St., Augusta, KY 41002

Yes, Glitter Me Pink is committed to the popular color mentioned in the name. But you'll find contemporary clothing in a wide range of styles and colors in this delightful boutique located in the owner's actual home. Sign up for the VIP club to receive advance notice of sales, special events, and other exciting news. Large, colorful photos make it easy to shop the online store for shipping directly to your home or your recipient's.

Augusta General Store

109 Main St., Augusta, KY 41002

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Classic Americana is alive and well at the Augusta General Store. This quaint shop is a throwback to the classic country stores filled with antiques, furniture, and home decor accessories. Candles, picture frames, wall hangings, and other giftables have a rustic look that would have a welcome place in nearly any home. Don't leave without picking up one of the iconic homemade pies from the on-site restaurants. The Augusta General Store is open 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily, with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Nina's Shop

208 Main St., Augusta, KY 41002

What's in a name? At Nina's Shop, it refers to the store's owner, who also happens to be the mother of George Clooney, award-winning actor and Augusta's favorite son. It's easy to spend hours browsing the celebrity memorabilia, unique collectibles, and jewelry handmade by Nina herself. Be sure to commemorate your visit by having a picture taken alongside Nina. Hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Amy's Blue Daisy

129 Main St., Augusta, KY 41002

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During the sometimes dreary end-of-year days, flowers and plants provide an instant ray of sunshine. The floral designers at Amy's Blue Daisy will transform your wishes into spectacular arrangements for anyone on your list, including yourself. If you want a feast for the stomach instead of the eyes, Amy's features gift baskets filled with gourmet fruit or junk food to cover both ends of the spectrum. Supplement a bouquet or basket with candles, balloons, stuffed animals or one of the many available gift items. Hours are 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and 9:30 a.m. - noon Wednesday and Saturday. Shop their convenient website 24/7 for local and worldwide shipping.

Bradford's Home Mart

403 Heather Renee French Blvd, Augusta, KY 41002

You'll find a little bit of everything in this hardware store that's so much more, including work clothing and apparel, handtools, and electronics. The store also carries a large selection of cookware, small kitchen appliances, and bakeware for the amateur chef or baker on your list. Make a mental note that Bradford's also sells furniture, both indoors and out, as well as appliances if you have a need for your home in the future. Bradford's is currently open Monday - Saturday 8 .m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday noon - 4 p.m.

Augusta Pub

120 Main St., Augusta, KY 41002

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Power shopping requires sustenance. Take a midday break to refuel at the Augusta Pub, where you can enjoy comfort food favorites such as chicken wings, fish and chips, and Philly cheesesteak. The family-friendly pub also has a kids' menu with free refills on non-alcoholic drinks. Relax in comfort on the heated patio, or choose curbside carryout. Cross off another name on your holiday list when you purchase a gift card. Hours are 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, and noon - 9 p.m. Saturday.

Small Town Gift Shop

321 W. Riverside Dr., Augusta, KY 41002

When choosing a name, the owners of Small Town Gift Shop decided to pass on cutesy puns and just go with truth in advertising. The shop features one-of-a-kind craft items that make great gifts for all ages. Craft supplies are available so you can express your own creativity. Stop in the year-round Christmas room for some new decorations to add to your collection of favorites. Hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Seen It All in a Small Town

Midwest native John Mellencamp famously sang about the joys of a small town in one of his hit songs. What do you find most appealing about small towns around Cincinnati?