Hollywood Express
Searching for an obscure miniseries by Brit playwright Dennis Potter? Or is Japanimation more your taste? You've come to the right place if you're looking for those unrated, non-blockbuster, hard-to-find videos. And if the store doesn't have that special something in stock, it will order it for you—or give you an informed recommendation for a similar flick. 1740 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA .
Bob Smith Sporting Goods
Just because it's not the biggest doesn't mean it's not the best. Anyone who shells out $1,000 for skis, boots, poles, and the attendant paraphernalia might want to come back for adjustments or advice—and at Bob Smith you can. The helpful salespeople won't give you the hard sell, but will listen attentively when you describe your skiing needs and what type of skier you are. 9 Spring Lane, Boston, MA .
Marathon Sports
Thinking about next year's marathon? Here's the place to start your podiatric strategy. One fan writes: "The service I received from the hyper-knowledgeable staff verified everything I had heard about the store—the selection was truly vast, and they were able to explain to me which shoes were best suited to my needs." They're also great with, er, irregular shapes and sizes. 1654 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA .
Mystery Train Records
Mystery Train in Gloucester houses perhaps the most eclectic assemblage of music and tchotchkes in eastern Massachusetts. A Gustav Mahler postcard here, a Charlie's Angelslunch box there—now that's culture. Looking for Arthur Miller reading from The Crucible and Death of a Salesman? How about Patsy Cline on Decca vinyl? You've come to the right place. 306 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
The Garment District
The best selection of the good old classics (read: second-hand clothes) can be found on the second floor of the Garment District. Leave the dollar-fifty-a-pound first-floor stuff to the true scavengers, and head upstairs to neatly racked selections of retro-to-contempo clothes of all styles. There you can also take your pick from the store's rich jean pool, including Lee, Levi's, Guess, Jordache, and so on. 200 Broadway St., Cambridge, MA .
New England Silks
Every imaginable variety of flower, as well as towering ficuses, bonsai, and bushes. This is the place to come if you don't have a green thumb or a southern exposure. Many fancy retail establishments shop here for their store display sand silk-flower arrangements. They'll do custom arrangements in your container, or you can choose among their own extensive selection of pots. 322 Reservoir Street, Needham, MA .
E.P. Levine
A no-frills used-camera store on the fringes of Boston's photo district, Levine's is a collector's Toyland. Wend your way through the mounds of merchandise scattered on the floor, or climb the 15-foot shelves randomly piled with used goodies. Amidst the chaos you're likely to find the best used photo-equipment in Boston. If you're looking for something specific, it might be a good idea to call in advance. Boston Marine Industrial Park, 23 Dry Dock Avenue, South Boston, MA .
Treasured Legacy
Rosalyn Elder opened this gallery/bookshop almost four years ago to make African American culture both approachable and affordable, and to foster a sense of artistic heritage that had been lacking in the community. Elder offers reproductions by such celebrated African American artists as Romare Nearden and Jacob Lawrence, as well as handmade wares form Africa and original art by local artist. There's also a great selection of African American books, toys, games, and note cards; the store is both an inspiration and an education. Coplely Place/The Dartmouth Street Shops, Boston, MA .
Bloomingdale's
Whether your career calls for Armani suits or just well-cut khakis, Bloomie's can outfit you in style. Special kudos to James Palazza, in Place Elegante, many well-dressed women's secret weapon: he can find you the best suit, at the best price in the place, and make you feel like Claudia Schiffer in the process. The Mall at Chestnut Hill, MA .
Just For Pets Superstore
Two huge aisles of rawhide chews, a doggie "salad" bar, fish food, cat food, dog food, rabbit food, plus all the gear you need to keep your beast in luxury, from rhinestone collars to skunk-odor shampoo, are at this supermarket for pets. A large selection of beds, travel cages, and toys, plus on-site grooming services and low-priced vaccinations on weekends. Route 114, Peabody, MA .
The Garden in the Woods
Don't dig up that lady's slipper! Come to the annual June plant sale at Garden in the Woods for wildflowers you can take home without fear of eradicating an endangered species. While the June sale is the largest, wildflowers are always available for purchase at the Garden, as well as books and other items in the charming gift store. But don't leave without a tour of the Garden itself, one of New England's unique treasures. Hemenway Road, North Framingham, MA .
Robert Aron, Cardealerphobia
Wanna buy a car? Whether you are looking for something new or used, to lease or purchase, Robert Aron will guide you through the car-buying maze. Aron's three-part service will help you decide what you really want, allow you to test drive your choices without having to endure the hard-sell of fast-talking car dealers, and then help you buy at a cost close to dealer's invoice.
Cambridge Soundworks
It doesn't look like much from the outside, but this factory-direct retail store sells Henry Kloss's great speakers (made on the premises), matches them to quality components, and presents them in an informed, low-pressure manner. No fancy showrooms. Just good value and a very liberal return policy (30-day total Satisfaction Guarantee), just in case you change your mind. 154 California St., West Newton, MA .
Divine Sales
Divine Sales, 415 Mass. Ave., in Central Square, Cambridge, is operated by the followers of Guru Mararaj ji, the short, fat spoiled brat of a perfect master. But religious convictions should never interfere with a financial transaction. Divine Sales does have a nice selection of second-hand goods, and you can buy them without selling your soul. 415 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA .
Jerry's Custom Tailoring & Alterations
To find Jerry's, look for the door between Uno Chicago Grill's two patios. Push it open. Walk down the hall to the slide-gate elevator. Take it up to the fourth floor. There, you'll reach Jerry, who will hem, shrink, or overhaul your prized suits, dresses, and jeans until they fit like second skins. In exchange, he'll expect cash or a personal check, and a minimum of talk. 729 Boylston St., Boston, MA .