2016 Most Loved Publication

Congratulations Downtown Santa Monica Most Loved Businesses!

Basecamp “Beach Day” - MURAL Bezian Bakery Centinela Feed

Fairmont Miramar Harvelle’s Loews O’Neill

Orange Theory Pure Barre Salon Tru Swim With Heart Whole Foods

The heart and soul of Downtown Santa Monica are the people who work and play here. Thanks for sharing the love.

The feeling is mutual!

DowntownSantaMonica

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2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

@DTSantaMonica

DTSantaMonica

DTSantaMonica Channel

TABLE OF CONTENTS ABOUT THIS PUBLICATION: The Most Loved 2016 publication is the third edition of the publication that commemorates Santa Monica’s Most Loved campaign. This publication was produced by the Santa Monica Daily Press, Darren Ouellette, designer and Matt Hall, editor and principal photographer, Jenny Maas and Josh Heisler also contributed photography and Jenny Medina led advertising sales for the publication.The results were derived from voting that took place via a Survey Monkey questionnaire in February 2016. Voters were asked to fill in an answer naming their Most Loved business in the categories listed to the right in our table of contents. The top vote getter was named the winner of the category and the runners-up were the businesses with the second and third highest vote totals in the categories. Ties were not broken and so some categories had more than three recognized businesses. Businesses could win no more than two categories. In the case that a business won more than two categories, their highest two vote totals were determined to be the categories they won and the next highest vote getters from the other categories were recognized. Categories were determined by the Buy Local Santa Monica executive committee in consultation with the Buy Local steering committee and partnering business improvement districts. Results were tabulated by representatives from partnering Most Loved campaign organizations and verified by the Buy Local executive committee. Participation in this year’s campaign topped 3,400 votes, our best turnout yet as Most Loved Santa Monica continues to grow in popularity. We hope you enjoy reading about these businesses that you, your friends and neighbors love so much!

DOWNTOWN SANTA MONICA BUSINESS ................................4 BUSINESS ON MAIN STREET ................................6

ART GALLERY OR GIFT SHOP ..............................15 HOTEL OR MOTEL FOR A STAYCATION ..............................16

BUSINESS ON PICO BOULEVARD ................................8

CLOTHING BOUTIQUE FEATURING SUSTAINABLE OR REUSED PRODUCTS ..............................18

BUSINESS ON THE SANTA MONICA PIER ..............................10

LOCALLY OWNED, INDEPENDENT BUSINESS ..............................20

BUSINESS ON MONTANA AVENUE ..............................12 COFFEE SHOP OR BAKERY ..............................14 SPECIAL THANKS TO: Buy Local Santa Monica, Santa Monica Travel and Tourism, Downtown Santa Monica Inc., Main Street Business Improvement Association, Montana Avenue Merchants Association, Pico Improvement Organization, The City of Santa Monica, Santa Monica Pier

FITNESS, YOGA, PILATES OR DANCE BUSINESS ..............................22 FARMERS MARKET FARMER

..............................24 Corporation, Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, Santa Monica Mayor Tony Vasquez, Santa Monica Mayor Pro Tempore Ted Winterer, Santa Monica City Council, and everyone who voted for a Most Loved business.

Some printed materials for Most Loved were provided by Positive Existence Printing.

SANTA MONICA VIBE ..............................26

AUTO-RELATED BUSINESS

NATURAL, ORGANIC HEALTH FOOD STORE ..............................28

BIKE-CENTRIC BUSINESS

SALON/SPA ..............................30

..............................36 ..............................38

HAPPY HOUR ..............................40 PET-CENTRIC BUSINESS

..............................42 LIVE MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT OR COMEDY VENUE ..............................32 MURAL ..............................33 RESTAURANT OR CAFE FEATURING LOCALLYSOURCED INGREDIENTS ..............................34 Also a big thank you to the following businesses who generously donated raffle prizes for the 2016 contest.

The raffle prize winners will be notified in May:

KID-CENTRIC BUSINESS

..............................44 FARMERS MARKET PREPARED FOOD VENDOR

..............................46 SURF/SKATE SHOP ..............................48 TECH STARTUP ..............................50 Bezian Bakery, Del Frisco's Grille, m0851 Santa Monica, Orange Theory Fitness, PT Solutions, Pure Barre Santa Monica, Salon Tru, Santa Monica Seafood, Tasti D Lite/ Planet Smoothie, The Craftsman, and Zaniac Santa Monica.

Swim with Heart is proud to be one of your Most Loved!

Thank you for your support over the last 6 years!

TM

SAVE THE DATE! for our

Ripple Effect Gala Saturday, October 1, 2016 SWIM WITH HEART

For more information, please visit www.swimwithheart.org

310-625-2974

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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DOWNTOWN SANTA MONICA BUSINESS

ORANGE THEORY 1431 2nd St (310) 730-1399 orangetheoryfitness.com When Jim Cahlin came to Santa Monica as part of his annual Thanksgiving week visits, he knew it was the perfect location for his business.

“I loved the healthy fit vibe the city exudes,” he said. “Now that we've had our studio open for approximately one year, I can tell you that we so made the right choice as this city loves their fitness and Orangetheory is such a good

fit to meet the demand.”

An Orangetheory Fitness workout is a 60-minute interval training session that uses treadmills, indoor rowing machines, TRX suspension training and free weights to keep your heart rate in a target zone - it is designed to include 12 to 20 minutes of training at 84% or higher of your maximum heart rate in order to achieve the after burn or EPOC effect therefore it is for all fitness levels. Everyone wears a heart rate monitor to track your heartrate realtime. In addition to running and rowing, the workouts also involve strength,

power and endurance exercises.

Cahlin said Orangetheory Fitness is much more than a 60-minute class. He said it is a community dedicated to achieving results for our members. The workouts are different every day and since they are using heart rate training, the workout is applicable to all fitness levels.

Members can use their membership at any studio around the country (more than 400 open and more coming) onsite showers are available and so many additional activities, educational presentations and events are offered each month to contribute to the success of

their members.

“This is our first year in Santa Monica and this would be a great indicator of the acceptance of our workout experience by the local community,” he said.

“We strongly believe in Santa Monica and our team works diligently to assure our membership of having the best possible workout experience every time they step into our doors. We were also handpicked by the city of Santa Monica to be a tenant in their building (parking structure #6) so this would also confirm that they made the right choice in selecting Orangetheory Fitness.”

RUNNERS-UP

SALON TRU

614 Santa Monica Blvd (310) 394-0878 www.salontru.com “As we celebrate our 2nd year anniversary, we are so happy that residents and employees of Santa Monica have embraced our salon with open arms. We feel that

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anyone that comes through our door is part of our Tru family. To be honored by our extended Santa Monica family means the world to us. We love living and working in Santa Monica and becoming an integral part of this great community.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

PURE BARRE

201 Wilshire Blvd (310) 395-3927 www.purebarre.com “Pure Barre is the largest and most recognizable barre workout nationally and is expanding internationally as well with over 300 studios! It is the hardest barre workout out there, which means it's also the most

effective! It is set to motivating music that is always changing, which makes it fun! Our clients love to come and lose themselves in the workout and the music for an hour, but it really goes beyond being just a workout.

We love being an innovator as a barre workout but also pride ourselves in being a leader of women supporting women.”

Bloomingdale’s Nordstrom Barneys New York DVF Louis Vuitton Michael Kors Hugo Boss Tiffany & Co. Tory Burch Karen Millen ArcLight Cinemas The Cheesecake Factory True Food Kitchen

®

TEXT CONCIERGE 310.499.2928 SantaMonicaPlace.com

Thanks to our loyal customers for voting us Santa Monica’s Most Loved Farmer’s Market Vendor since the beginning of the contest.

Blue Fier 2001

WE ARE AGAINST WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR. WHITE FLOUR WITH 100% SOURDOUGH DEVOURS GLUTEN WITHOUT HARSH REMNANTS, THAT IS WHY MOST PEOPLE CAN EAT OUR PRODUCTS. 100% SOURDOUGH BREAD, ROLLS, BAGELS, PASTA AND SOON PIZZA CRUSTS & GLUTEN FREE PRODUCTS.

BEZIAN BAKERY

www.bezianbakery.com

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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BUSINESS ON MAIN STREET

PEDEGO SANTA MONICA 214 Pier Avenue (310) 917-1111 www.pedalornot.net Main Street has grown into a hub for the Electric bicycle community and Santa Monica has earned a reputation as one of the most bike friendly cities in the country. That alone would be reason enough to open an electric bicycle store here but for Pedego owner Barb Wittels, it was also about catering to the friends she has made over the last 25 years living here.

“We are a small family business and to be recognized as a viable member of the electric bike community on Main Street and in Santa Monica just makes us feel happy and proud,” she said. “At the same time we appreciate every customer and the best thing people can say is 'this bike changed my life' and we are lucky enough to hear those words often.”

She said Pedego bikes are routinely ranked as the best in class. They offer both throttle and pedal assist modes with at least seven regular

gears giving riders more possibilities.

The store showcases their wares with electric bike tours.

“Everyday we take small intimate groups on tour and show off our beautiful beaches, the sun the sand the sea and share tons of hidden gems you'll walk right past without a fun guide,” she said. “These are also great for locals looking to buy an electric bike and especially a great event to do with out of town guests.”

Wittels said Santa Monica has become a leader in the bicycle community thanks to citizens who are

dedicated to healthy living and a city administration committed to sustainability.

“Young people love electric bikes because they can go farther faster.

People who used to love to ride bikes but may have one nasty hill to deal with are perfect candidates for electric bikes,” she said. “If your commute is 5 to 10 miles, an electric bike provides a way to get to work without getting sweaty and you can use pedal power on the way home to get in your cardio workout by the time you get there.”

RUNNERS-UP

URTH CAFE

2327 Main Street (310) 314-7040 urthcaffe.com “Urth Caffe was founded in 1989 by Jilla and Shallom Berkman as a small mail order company selling non-toxic and natural products for the home. After spending several years learning how to roast and brew great

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coffee – they launched the nation’s first exclusively organic, heirloom coffee company. The name chosen was ‘Urth Caffe’, ‘Urth’ is an old Welsh root spelling of Earth and ‘Caffe’ is Italian for coffee. To us, ‘Urth Caffe’ means ancient, earthly, natural coffee beans, or organic, heirloom coffee.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

HALE ARTS SPACE

2443 Main Street (310) 314-8038 www.halearts.com “haleARTS SPACE is inspired by the local creative community that has made its home in Santa Monica and the surrounding areas. Our gallery provides a platform for local emerging artists to share their unique

perspectives and artwork with a wide range of people. It is a huge honor to be one of Santa Monica's Most Loved Businesses and it is shows that our mission to empower both artists and collectors to develop unpretentious connections to art is working to strengthen Santa Monica's creative economy and community.”

“Top 10 Burgers in LA” — LA EATER, 2015 “...obscenely juicy half-chuck, half-short rib burger; and a range of well-chosen beers (including an ultra-tasty peanut butter stout).”

—THRILLIST, JAN 2016

2807 Main Street Santa Monica between Ashland & Hill Instagram @ashlandhillsm

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Press

Case against O’Connor forwarded to County District Attorney

increases

BY MATTHEW HALL Daily Press Editor

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BUSINESS ON PICO BOULEVARD

CROSSFIT REFLEX 3328 Pico Blvd (310) 399-1546 crossfitreflex.com CrossFit Reflex is founded from a family of dedicated coaches brought together by the belief in the foundations of CrossFit. Owned and operated by husband and wife Luke and Monica Jacobsma, CrossFit Reflex goes beyond being solely a place to workout. It is a place where strangers enter, community is developed, friendships manifest, and the end result is a CrossFit family.

At CrossFit, they believe better movement and increased range of motion are the pivotal cornerstones of fitness. Quality coaching and attention to detail play a crucial part of your experience in a CrossFit gym. The stimulus provided is constantly varied and the results are dramatic. The atmosphere at CrossFit Reflex is one of support and camaraderie open to anyone willing to put in the work.

“The CrossFit Reflex family is diverse. They have high school and college athletes, teachers, engineers, nurses and doctors. They have moms,

dads, firefighters, police officers, and EMT's. The family has members who are young, old, and everywhere in between. Can you relate? The things they share are motivation, integrity, and hard work. Those are the characteristics upon which they have built their business and family.”

“For us, being a most loved finalist means we are truly living life in the present and enjoying and appreciating each moment along the way,” said Monica Jacobsma. “We are doing exactly what we want, and were meant to do. The people who enter through

our front door are doing so because they enjoy their time here. They have a sense of pride belonging to something special. They enter knowing everyone who surrounds them shares their sense of community, hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Being a most loved finalist for us really solidifies knowing the foundation we have built this business upon is rock solid.

We love each and every individual who has helped make this business so special and could not continue living out our dream without their constant love and support.“

RUNNERS-UP

SEWING ARTS CENTER

3330 Pico Blvd (310) 450-4300 www.sewingarts.com “You'll find ample means to express your sewing genius with sewing, quilting and overlock machines, embroidery machines and software, cabinetry, ironing systems, sewing notions, fabrics, and well- equipped classrooms

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through which more than 1000 students pass each year.

From top to bottom you'll find amazing quality, wonderful customer service, and folks who are passionate about sewing and have a real commitment to bring to you the best in sewing. If you were here (and now you are!), you'd be sewing!”

SWEET ROSE CREMARY

826 Pico Blvd (310) 260-2663 sweetrosecreamery.com “Santa Monica has played a major role in shaping our business. Our commissary kitchen is based here and that's where we make all of our ice cream from scratch daily. Chef Shiho Yoshikawa sources the

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

majority of our produce from the Santa Monica Farmers' Market so our relationship with local farmers is really important to us. The availability of certain types of produce also plays a major role in determining our menu! We try to stay as seasonal as possible.”

TRADER JOE’S

Host Your Next Event at Santa Monica’s Most Loved, Upper West!

Available for private parties, celebrations and

LUNCH: Mon ~ Fri (11:30am to 3pm)

business meetings. Upper West is the perfect

DINNER: Mon ~ Thu (5pm to 10pm), Fri & Sat (5pm to 11pm), Sun (5pm to 9pm)

venue to host corporate events, birthdays, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners and more. *Pre-fix, custom, buffet and cocktail style options available for parties large or small.

HAPPY HOUR: Mon (5pm to 10pm), Tue ~ Sun (5pm to 7pm) SPECIALS: Tuesday nights 1/2 price all wine bottles.

www.TheUpperWest.com | 310.586.1111 3321 Pico Boulevard | Santa Monica, CA 90405

ALL OF OUR MEMBERS ARE OUR MOST LOVED!

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA Thank you to all of our members who voted and showed their love for Santa Monica’s favorite businesses!

To learn more about member benefits and incentives contact Membership Director, Nelly Hocke

www.smchamber.com l membership@smchamber.com l (310) 393-9825 x 115 2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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BUSINESS ON THE SANTA MONICA PIER

RUSTY’S SURF RANCH 256 Santa Monica Pier (310) 393 7437 www.rustyssurfranch.com The Santa Monica Pier is one of the regions most visited attractions with thousands of visitors flocking to the structure every day to catch a glimpse of the California sun. However, locals know the Pier as one of the best postsunset locations for a good time thanks in large part to Rusty's Surf Ranch.

Rusty's is a casual California beach-

front bar and restaurant with weekend live entertainment and dancing. With sand to the north and south and the Pacific Ocean to the west, Rusty's is fully immersed in the fun, active lifestyle of Southern California beach living. For added flavor Rusty's enjoys the presence of a constantly changing cast of international visitors drawn to our historic pier. With a wide-ranging affordable menu built around sea food and barbecue (SURF + RANCH) Rusty's has become popular with both large

numbers of seasonal visitors and a loyal following of locals.

“Nothing feels better than knowing your friends and neighbors like what you are doing, and that they like us enough to take time out of their busy schedules to vote for us is really amazing,” said Cindy Pfeifer, Director of Sales & Marketing “It is a great endorsement of our efforts to make everyone feel at home at Rusty's.”

Pfeifer said Rusty's was specifically conceived and developed as a restau-

rant and nightclub on the Santa Monica Pier. The beach sport displays and memorabilia were specifically selected for their connection to Santa Monica Bay and paint a picture of what the pier and surrounding beaches were like 50-100 years ago.

With live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays (and many Thursdays as well) Rusty's is more than just a restaurant or bar, it's truly a spot to grab a quick meal or to hang out with a cool drink and listen to the best of area bands.

RUNNERS-UP

BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO.

301 Santa Monica Pier Bldg 9 (310) 393-0458 www.bubbagump.com “Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. captures the charm and American spirit that made Paramount Pictures' Forrest Gump a huge hit. We're famous for our shrimp, but we also feature fish and shellfish specialties like Bourbon Street Mahi Mahi as

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well as non-seafood items like our award winning Dixie Style Baby Back Ribs and burgers.

We're a heap full of fun. From our exciting Forrest Gump movie trivia games to quirky signs and movie memorabilia, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is place where guests can enjoy delicious, down-home cooking while sharing a lot of laughs along the way.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

THE ALBRIGHT

258 Santa Monica Pier (310) 394-9683 thealbright.com The Albright was born from a local family's love and dedication to the Santa Monica Pier and its dynamic beachside community. The longest running restaurant on the Pier, Santa Monica residents and SAMO grads, Greg Morena, and his wife,

Yunnie Kim Morena, took the helm of the family-run, Pier mainstay from her mother.

The Morena's are passionate about their hometown and creating an environment that brings their family, friends and a local following back to the Santa Monica Pier, while continuing to appeal to the millions of visitors who converge upon the iconic California destination every year.

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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BUSINESS ON MONTANA AVENUE

M0851 1426 Montana Ave (310) 656-0851 www.m0851.com If you're in the market for a timeless, modern, high quality, well-made leather item with an eye towards keeping your style unique, then Montana Ave's m0851 might be the place for you.

The Canadian Company has only three locations in the United States and Santa Monica is home to the only West Coast store. The company shot to fame with exemplary outer wear but Santa Monica owner Carole Yu said the

brand's diverse offerings has appealed to local consumers more concerned with sunburn than snow.

“We have key chains, wallets, purses, bags, there's a waxed cotton jacket that we can't keep in stock,” she said.

Yu operates the Montana store with her husband and said the store is their livelihood and passion.

“We provide an easy atmosphere with personalized service and an experience that you can't find anywhere else in the city. We run a robust social media presence that reflects the Santa Monica lifestyle,” she said. “We offer something for everyone, all genders

and age groups; we've had college students all the way to retirees buy our products.”

She said her goal was to open a store in a neighborhood that was reflective of her own family.

“Santa Monica is a truly close knit community with great spirit,” she said.

“This spirit has brought us many diverse customers, both locals and tourists who are visiting Santa Monica.

This warmth of feeling that Santa Monica embodies has inspired us to develop a real personal connection with our customers - we celebrate milestones with them like birthdays,

kids going off to college, anniversaries, new house, etc.” m0851, named after the brand founder's birthday of August 1951, has a global reputation but Yu said a Most Loved award shows the strength of their local connections.

“It means that we have fostered meaningful relationships with our clients and they appreciate the difference we have made in the Santa Monica community, whether through our annual 'thanksgiving wall' or monthly events,” she said. “We are proud that we have left a good impression on everyone that walks into our store.”

RUNNERS-UP

TEN WOMEN GALLERY

1128 Montana Ave (310) 393-6254 2651 Main Street (310) 314-9152 www.tenwomengallery.com “We are not like other businesses. We are owned and managed by the artists who

12

show their work in our gallery. Every time you come in, chances are you will meet a different artist. Everything you buy, you are buying directly from the artist. The role of our gallery is to promote quality work, support artists, and share what it means to be a working artist today.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

PEEK KIDS

1015 Montana Ave (310) 434-9700 peekkids.com “Home to the first Peek Kids store, Montana Avenue, in Santa Monica's inspires and informs everything we do at Peek Kids.

From the images on our graphic tees, to our educational quotes to our bright, optimistic prints and colors, enjoyed by kids

ages, 0-14, are a nod to our first seaside hometown. We are also inspired by our customers - an eclectic mixture of local families, surfers, professionals, students and visitors from around the world. Peek Kids is delighted to be one of Santa Monica's Most Loved Businesses. It is a terrific honor that means the world to us and to our customers. What more could we ask for?”

Start your day off right.

Enjoy the most important meal of the day at O&S.

Now open for business and pleasure 7 days at 9am.

Bรกnh Mรฌ Breakfast Bowl

Montana Ave & 16th, Santa Monica OXANDSON.COM

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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COFFEE SHOP OR BAKERY

GROUNDWORK COFFEE CO. 2908 Main Street 1601 Montana Ave 395 Santa Monica Pl www.groundworkcoffee.com For nearly 25 years, Groundwork has been a homegrown coffee and tea destination, handcrafting locals’ favorite drinks from the finest ingredients. Their borderline-obsessive commitment to each cup and every customer - in warm, inviting cafés that capture the flavor of their neighborhoods - is a fundamental part of their story.

Groundwork rose from the sands of Venice Beach, as a single coffee and tea shop (complete with a custombuilt, small-batch roaster) that also sold rare and used books. Local demand soon became so great, they began roasting 24/7 and wisely got out of the book business.

Flash-forward a few years: their single-roaster operation morphed into one of the first certified organic coffee roasters in California, not to mention the largest in L.A. Their sustainable, relationship-based, organic coffee sourcing set an industry standard, as

did their solar-powered, low-emissions roasting technology. Today, they have Santa Monica locations at Santa Monica Place (395 Santa Monica Place), Main St. (2908 Main St.), the Main St. farmers market (2640 Main St.), and Montana Ave. (1601 Montana Ave.) and distribute coffees and teas throughout the U.S. Organic certification sees to it that their coffee and its community of growers are not exposed to harmful pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides. In fact, all of Groundwork's coffees and teas are not only certified organic, but

they're also fairly traded.

This means that, from the ground up, loyal customers can feel good knowing that their purchase didn't come at the expense of the physical health or economic well-being of the farmers and growers who brought it to market, nor was the environment in which it was grown compromised.

All Groundwork roasts are finetuned by their licensed Q Grader and renowned roastmaster Jeff Chean, who coaxes the true potential out of each and every bean.

RUNNERS-UP

THYME CAFE

1630 Ocean Park Blvd (310) 399-8800 thymecafeandmarket.com “We are very appreciative of both our Santa Monica and Ocean Park Community for their patronage. They are loyal, honest, and generous. We love being in Santa Monica with the great weather and the

14

beach style vibe. Both Local and Thyme are seasonal, fresh and delicious. We are very much about the guest experience.

Customer service and hospitality are extremely important to us. We pride ourselves on being a neighborhood spot with creative delicious food. We are grateful and excited to be on the most loved list!!”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

LO/CAL

2214 Pico Blvd (424) 322-2710 www.local-coffee.com “Our specialty, ‘Cold Brew’ is brewed without heat over a long duration by steeping freshly roasted coffee in room tempera-

ture water for over 12 hours, and using a double filtration process to procure the end result: a complex, smooth and sweet, fullbodied brew with bright juiciness, low acidity and a long chocolate finish.”

ART GALLERY OR GIFT SHOP

TEN WOMEN GALLERY 1128 Montana Ave (310) 393-6254 2651 Main Street (310) 314-9152 www.tenwomengallery.com The name on the storefront might read “Ten Women” but the number of women that contribute to the success of Santa Monica's only truly cooperative art business is closer to 20.

Ten Women was established in 1994 and now has two locations (Montana Ave and Main St.). The stores are owned and operated by the

local women featured inside.

Works include paintings, photography, decorative gourds, sculpture, ceramic arts, fabric arts, mosaic and beaded functional art, jewelry, wearable art and glassware. In addition to providing a venue for showing and selling art, Ten Women Gallery is its own community. The involvement and commitment of the members creates a unique and nurturing environment of support and growth. New members are chosen by jury process. Applications for membership are available at the Gallery and can be downloaded from their website.

“We are not like other businesses,” said co-owner Kara Taub. “We are owned and managed by the artists who show their work in our gallery.

Every time you come in, chances are you will meet a different artist.

Everything you buy, you are buying directly from the artist. The role of our gallery is to promote quality work, support artists, and share what it means to be a working artist today.”

With more than 20 years in business, the store provides a unique opportunity for customers and contributors alike.

The connection between artist and con-

sumer provides residents with access to some special items but just as importantly, it provides artists with a steady supply of local inspiration.

The Most Loved award provides an opportunity to bring that cooperative spirit into the limelight.

“This is our third year participating in the Most Loved Campaign. It means so much to us to be recognized by our community,” said Taub. “Most of us work alone in our studios, so the opportunity to reach out and engage with our neighbors and supporters is very meaningful.”

RUNNERS-UP

HALE ARTS SPACE

2443 Main Sreet (310) 314-8038 www.halearts.com “haleARTS SPACE is inspired by the local creative community that has made its home in Santa Monica and the surrounding areas. Our gallery provides a platform for local emerging artists to share their unique

perspectives and artwork with a wide range of people. It is a huge honor to be one of Santa Monica's Most Loved Businesses and it is shows that our mission to empower both artists and collectors to develop unpretentious connections to art is working to strengthen Santa Monica's creative economy and community.”

MINDFULNEST

2711 Main Street (310) 452-5409 www.mindfulnestonmain.com Mindfulnest is truly a haven and shopper's heaven of locally made art, sculpture, jewelry, gifts and accessories. Step inside

and you are immediately surrounded by the inspired work of almost 100 North American artists and artisans. The store, with its earthy colors, open beam ceilings and frosted skylights, will make you feel calm and welcome and the staff will, too.

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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HOTEL OR MOTEL FOR A STAYCATION

LOEWS SANTA MONICA BEACH HOTEL 1700 Ocean Ave (310) 458-6700 www.loewshotels.com “Southern California is all about being laidback and the spacious accommodations at the Loews Hotel are the perfect place to rest, relax and, yes, chill out. All of their 347 stunning guestrooms and suites are decorated in restful tones of azure and sand, chosen to bring the beach right to you. But if you prefer to wake up to the sight of the Pacific itself, you'll be

happy to know that many of their guest spaces offer remarkable ocean views. Tech-lovers will appreciate our 42-inch flat-panel TVs and free Wi-Fi. While those who crave creature comforts will relish our 100% cotton sheets, embroidered robes, Davines shampoo and conditioner, and Comfort Zone skin and body products.

The hotel has 347 luxurious guestrooms including 21 suites, 17,000 square feet of indoor function space, with ocean views, eco-friendly fullservice spa offering organic treat-

ments, Ocean & Vine restaurant serves locally caught seafood and fresh farmers' market produce, heated pool, recognized by Los Angeles magazine's Readers' Choice Travel Awards as "Best Hotel Pool" and complimentary Wi-Fi in every guest room-and in public spaces Several packages are available through the end of the year including an upgraded suite package that includes a $50 Food & Beverage credit per day as well as free Premium Plus Wi-Fi, Bed & Breakfast including a

breakfast credit per person per day, AAA Rate providing room or suite discounts, a food credit package including $25 per day for meals, snacks or drinks and the Book Smart package for families preparing for college that includes: complimentary valet parking, premium Wi-Fi, 20% discount on spa services, daily access to fitness center, including access to Group Movement classes and Loews Santa Monica tote bag to carry books.”

RUNNERS-UP

SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH

1 Pico Blvd (310) 458-0030 www.shuttersonthebeach.com “A room at Shutters is like no other hotel room in the country. It’s the comfort-

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able bedroom you won’t want to leave. All interiors are designed by Michael Smith to feel like the home you wish you had – on the Pacific Ocean. It’s yours now.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

FAIRMONT MIRAMAR HOTEL & BUNGALOWS

101 Wilshire Blvd (310) 576-7777 www.fairmont.com “It's the spirit of community that drives staff at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows. It's evident in their strong support of local non-profits, the frequent fundraisers held on site and the seasonal

celebrations held under their signature Moreton Bay Fig Tree. The hotel strives to develop a shared energy with the community by providing guests with a sense of what it means to be a Santa Monican and to that end, they have brought what they see as the best of Santa Monica onto their campus.”

Congratulations to all the “Most Loved” Businesses in Santa Monica!

101 Wilshire Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 576-7777 www.fairmont.com/santamonica | @Fairmont Miramar

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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CLOTHING BOUTIQUE FEATURING SUSTAINABLE OR REUSED PRODUCTS

AMERICAN CANCER DISCOVERY SHOP 920 Wilshire Blvd (310) 458-4490 www.facebook.com/ discoveryshopsantamonica Santa Monica is awash with retail options but for locals who want to do good while they spend, there are few choices with more impact and meaning than the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop.

For more than 50 years, Discovery Shops nationwide have raised money to fund the American Cancer Society's mission and provide a positive volunteer experience for the community.

These specialty resale stores, featuring

items such as clothing, accessories, jewelry, furniture, artwork, antiques, collectibles, and other household items with proceeds supporting the American Cancer Society.

The Santa Monica location has been supporting the community for 10 years.

“The Santa Monica community has been very supportive to our organization,” said Tonya Wagner, Manager of the Santa Monica store. “Having the local community who makes donations, volunteers and shops at our Santa Monica Discovery Shop, helps us at the American Cancer Society get one step closer to creating more birthdays for cancer survivors.”

The Discovery Shop's mission state-

ment is to provide a multi-functional community presence to raise funds for The American Cancer Society through the sale of donated merchandise, to bring community awareness to the fight against cancer through mission activities, to recruit and engage volunteers, and to promote American Cancer Society fundraising activities.

Discovery Shops employ the platinum rule in all interactions with consumers, customers, and constituents and embrace the following values: pursue growth, embrace & drive change, create a welcoming environment, build a positive team & family spirit, act with integrity, passion, and

determination and encompass an attitude of gratitude in all interactions.

“Our Discovery Shop loves that our customers come in and get the 'Boutique' style feeling with affordable prices along with knowing their purchases are helping cancer survivors and their families through research, programs and services,” said Wagner.

“Our donors feel good about making their tax-deductible donations to our shop, they know that they are a key part of the success of our shop. With our shop, having over 40 volunteers, they give their heart and time each day. Our volunteers feel connected within their community.”

RUNNERS-UP

BUFFALO EXCHANGE

2449 Main Street (310) 314-7300 www.buffaloexchange.com “Buffalo Exchange is a sustainable business that works to protect the environment by reusing and recycling clothing.

Customers can give clothing a second life and avoid contributing to the demand and

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waste of clothing pollution by shopping our resale stores. When clothing does not sell at our stores, we send it to our outlets (Nogales and San Antonio) where the clothing is then sold for even less. If the clothing does not sell at our outlets it is donated to charities. At no point do we ever throw away clothing.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

BRAT STORE

1938 14th St (310) 452-2480 www.bratstore.com “Brat is often recommended to people who only have just one hour to shop in Santa Monica before they have to grab a flight home, or someone visiting who wants that perfect California gift for someone so special that they need just the right present,

which is such an honor for me. What they find at Brat is a true neighborhood independent store that is a far cry from corporate stores with the same merchandise no matter which one you visit. Brat represents our fun and welcoming city with clothing and gifts that would be hard to find elsewhere. We are the place to go where you choose not to look like everyone else.”

Shop

to create a world with less cancer and more birthdays

Donations of gently used clothing, furniture, bric-a-brac, jewelry, artwork always needed.

Thank You to the Santa Monica Community for voting our shop as “Most Loved”!

920 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, 90401

310.458.4490 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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LOCALLY OWNED, INDEPENDENT BUSINESS

SEWING ARTS CENTER 3330 Pico Blvd (310) 450-4300 www.sewingarts.com Many businesses come to Santa Monica and find themselves influenced by the City's climate, residents and culture but a few local intuitions have been born and bred in the City by the Sea. Sewing Arts Center began life as the Bay Cities Sewing Machine Company in 1955. Barbara and Fred Kasprinski took the reigns in 1972 and moved to 3306 Pico Boulevard. Russell

Conte walked in the door sometime in November of 1996 to purchase a sewing machine, and ended up not only with an awesome sewing machine, but purchasing the business on April 1, 2000. He changed up a few things including the name, and subsequently moved to 3330 Pico Boulevard where Sewing Arts Center now resides.

“Our passion to our craft is evident in everything we do,” said Conte.

“Every member of the staff and the faculty are avid sewists. We offer classes and expertise across all sewing fronts - fashion to home décor, boot

making to leather hand bags, quilting to machine embroidery, there is no other retail sewing establishment like Sewing Arts Center. With more than 200 years of combined sewing experience (and growing yearly!) the staff and faculty share and extraordinary breadth of sewing experience, knowledge and wisdom, and are generous with that knowledge, sharing an avid desire to parlay that knowledge to others.”

Conte said the business has ebbed and flowed with the City, responding to the needs of the local sewing com-

munity.

“It is incredibly gratifying to be named Most Loved,” he said. “It means that our passion for the sewing craft is shared by the community, and that we are recognized as being a vital part of that community. That is both rewarding and humbling, keeping us mindful of our responsibility to the community to provide the best in sewing that can be found anywhere, to be responsive to the needs of the community, and to partner with the community when called upon to do so.

If you were here, you'd be sewing.”

RUNNERS-UP

SALON TRU

614 Santa Monica Blvd (310) 394-0878 www.salontru.com “As we celebrate our 2nd year anniversary, we are so happy that residents and employees of Santa Monica have embraced our salon with open arms. We feel that anyone that comes

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through our door is part of our Tru family. To be honored by our extended Santa Monica family means the world to us. We love living and working in Santa Monica and becoming an integral part of this great community.”

SANTA MONICA SEAFOOD

1000 Wilshire Blvd (310) 393-5244 smseafoodmarket.com “To be considered “Most Loved” in the city of Santa Monica is an honor. We truly care about what we do as a company, and the

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

impact we have in the community. Being nominated shows that people care about our support to local, sustainable fisheries, and how important that involvement will be in years to come.”

THE PRETENDERS STUDIO

1438 9th St. Unit B (310) 394-1438 thepretendersstudio.com “Our staff, students and their families are excited and appreciative of our community's support always and this distinguished honor deepens that sense of gratitude and connection to the city as a result. Watching our local kids gain strength,

stamina, self esteem, skills, and sportsmanship is incredibly rewarding. As they work to bravely take risks, attain new accomplishments, set goals and surpass them, and seek out opportunities to give back to our community is what I have the great privilege of facilitating daily.”

THANK YOU SANTA MONICA & ESPECIALLY THE OCEAN PARK COMMUNITY

THYMECAFEANDMARKET.COM

QUINNIEB.COM

LOCALKITCHENANDWINEBAR.COM

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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FITNESS, YOGA, PILATES OR DANCE BUSINESS

ORANGE THEORY 1431 2nd St (310) 730-1399 orangetheoryfitness.com When Jim Cahlin came to Santa Monica as part of his annual Thanksgiving week visits, he knew it was the perfect location for his business.

“I loved the healthy fit vibe the city exudes,” he said. “Now that we've had our studio open for approximately one year, I can tell you that we so made the right choice as this city loves their fitness and Orangetheory is such a good fit to meet the demand.”

An Orangetheory Fitness workout is a 60-minute interval training session that uses treadmills, indoor rowing machines, TRX suspension training and free weights to keep your heart rate in a target zone - it is designed to include 12 to 20 minutes of training at 84% or higher of your maximum heart rate in order to achieve the after burn or EPOC effect therefore it is for all fitness levels. Everyone wears a heart rate monitor to track your heartrate real-time. In addition to running and rowing, the workouts also involve strength, power and endurance exercises.

Cahlin said Orangetheory Fitness is much more than a 60-minute class. He said it is a community dedicated to achieving results for our members. The workouts are different every day and since they are using heart rate training, the workout is applicable to all fitness levels.

Members can use their membership at any studio around the country (more than 400 open and more coming) onsite showers are available and so many additional activities, educational presentations and events are offered each month to contribute to the success of their members.

“This is our first year in Santa Monica and this would be a great indicator of the acceptance of our workout experience by the local community,” he said. “We strongly believe in Santa Monica and our team works diligently to assure our membership of having the best possible workout experience every time they step into our doors.

We were also handpicked by the city of Santa Monica to be a tenant in their building (parking structure #6) so this would also confirm that they made the right choice in selecting Orangetheory Fitness.”

RUNNERS-UP

BASECAMP FITNESS

1315 Lincoln Blvd (310) 451-2861 www.basecampfitness.com “Home to many different neighborhoods with their own personality, Santa Monica inspires Basecamp to create a fitness experience that is considered a second home for all its residents. We are a supportive family that

22

builds up physical, spiritual, and mental fortitude, while helping achieve personalized fitness goals. We offer quick and effective fitness classes with a commitment towards ensuring you feel welcomed, encouraged, and celebrated at every moment. Grateful and blessed that we continue to have the opportunity to serve the Santa Monica community.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

CROSSFIT REFLEX

3328 Pico Blvd (310) 399-1546 crossfitreflex.com “We are doing exactly what we want, and were meant to do. The people who enter through our front door are doing so because they enjoy their time here. They have a sense of pride belonging to something special. They enter knowing everyone who sur-

rounds them shares their sense of community, hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

Being a Most Loved finalist for us really solidifies knowing the foundation we have built this business upon is rock solid. We love each and every individual who has helped make this business so special and could not continue living out our dream without their constant love and support.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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FARMERS MARKET FARMER

MURRAY FAMILY FARMS murrayfamilyfarms.com The word “family” is literally at the center of Murray Family Farms, but it's more than just semantic placement, it's a real and significant commitment to family values that drives everyone associated with the popular farmers market vendor.

Physically located in Bakersfield, the farm is known far and wide for exemplary quality, a diversity of fruit species and specifically some of the finest cherries available anywhere. That would be reason enough visit their stall at the Wednesday Downtown Market,

but Steven Murray wants you to come back time and again for the company as much as the cherries.

“We try our best to be kind, always smile and go out of the way to help customers with whatever they need,” he said. “We want everyone to have a personal experience with us and we're really friends with the customers.”

Incorporating employees into the extended family helps everyone put forth their best effort in pursuit of the best fruit.

“We're very busy and we have to trust everyone to do their own thing,”

said Jessie Farris. “At the same time, we all have to depend on each other and it makes everything better.”

Michelle McHess also staffs the Santa Monica booth and said she'd turn down more money to stay with the people she loves at the farm.

“I feel like work is an extension of the family, I feel appreciated and I enjoy my job,” she said. “It's by far the best job I've ever had.”

Their enthusiasm for the work spills over into their customer interactions and the trio said part of the joy at the Santa Monica market is working with

the local chefs who transform the raw product into exciting dishes.

“We get to hear about and find out what they're doing with the fruit and know the product is being turned into something great,” said McHess.

Murry said he's grateful to everyone that shops from the farm, whether it's at the local market or their Bakersfiled HQ. “People appreciate being able to support us and people know and are excited about us,” he said. “Having people come back makes us feel we're doing something good.”

RUNNERS-UP

MAGGIE’S FARM

HARRY’S BERRIES

www.harrysberries.com “This year marks our 30th year at the farmers' markets. We would really like to thank the community for supporting us for the past three decades!

Without our loyal customers

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we wouldn't be able to keep doing what we love which is farming and feeding people.

Special thanks to all the kind people who voted they love us. We want them to know we love them back!”

(310) 593-1085 “The City of Santa Monica has created a world class venue for talented farmers to connect with local families and chefs. This

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

connection has spawned a local food renaissance and turned Los Angeles into one of the nations leading food scenes.”

WEISER FAMILY FARMS

(310) 930-0903 “Weiser Family Farms began in 1977 when Sid Weiser, a chemistry teacher and counselor at Garfield High School in East Los Angeles decided to pack up the family and follow his dream of working off the land. Sidney and his wife

Raquel laid down roots in Tehachapi, California. There, they learned to tend to the fruit trees . . . apples, peaches, and pears. In the ensuing years, they acquired farmland in other locations where they branched out into a variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.”

INSTAGRAM:

@Maggies_Farm

At Maggie’s Farm we specialize in growing the most delicious, healthful and beautiful produce we possibly can. Come visit us some time :) You can find us rain or shine

WEDNESDAY: SUNDAY:

Santa Monica CFM

Main St Santa Monica CFM

SATURDAY: SUNDAY:

Downtown Santa Monica CFM

Mar Vista Farmer’s Market

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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SANTA MONICA VIBE

SANTA MONICA SEAFOOD 1000 Wilshire Blvd (310) 393-5244 www.smseafoodmarket.com Santa Monica is an ocean city, fundamentally connected to the sea and all that it means to be a coastal community. For one of the City's oldest businesses, that coastal connection is the foundation of their success.

Santa Monica Seafood has operated in the city since 1939. Their inspiration for providing responsibly sourced, sustainable seafood comes from the support of the community. On a larger scale, they

believe those in the community care about their involvement in the seafood industry, and support their commitment to keeping the oceans safe and sustainable.

The company now sources over 27 million pounds of seafood a year.

“Our commitment is to the industry and its preservation for years to come,” said Stefani Gianni, Assistant Retail Marketing Manager. “We don't just provide seafood, but we support the industry through a number of responsibly sourced vendor programs that give a percentage of our sales to working with fisheries, communities

and environmental groups to insure the availability of fresh seafood for generations to come.”

Locals have access to their products through their award winning storefront.

“When you come to Santa Monica Seafood, you are part of a unique experience,” said Stefani Gianni, Assistant Retail Marketing Manager.

“Our knowledgeable and friendly staff take you on a journey through the largest selection of fresh seafood around. Not sure how to crack crab, cook a lobster? Our seafood clerks are the best in the business and can show

you all you need to know. After that, stop by our oyster bar and have some fresh shucked oysters. Let our service staff recommend some of our finer appetizers, entrees and desserts.”

She said being considered “Most Loved” in the city of Santa Monica is an honor.

“We truly care about what we do as a company, and the impact we have in the community,” she said. “Being nominated shows that people care about our support to local, sustainable fisheries, and how important that involvement will be in years to come.”

RUNNERS-UP

BASECAMP FITNESS

1315 Lincoln Blvd (310) 451-2861 www.basecampfitness.com “Home to many different neighborhoods with their own personality, Santa Monica inspires Basecamp to create a fitness experience that is considered a second home for all its residents. We are a supportive family that builds up physical, spiritual, and mental

26

fortitude, while helping achieve personalized fitness goals. We offer quick and effective fitness classes with a commitment towards ensuring you feel welcomed, encouraged, and celebrated at every moment. Grateful and blessed that we continue to have the opportunity to serve the Santa Monica community.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

BRAT STORE

1938 14th St (310) 452-2480 www.bratstore.com “Brat is often recommended to people who only have just one hour to shop in Santa Monica before they have to grab a flight home, or someone visiting who wants that perfect California gift for someone so special that they need just the right present,

which is such an honor for me. What they find at Brat is a true neighborhood independent store that is a far cry from corporate stores with the same merchandise no matter which one you visit. Brat represents our fun and welcoming city with clothing and gifts that would be hard to find elsewhere. We are the place to go where you choose not to look like everyone else.”

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Chef Style Sliders Social Hour exclusive 2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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NATURAL, ORGANIC HEALTH FOOD STORE

CO-OPPORTUNITY 1525 Broadway (310) 451-8902 www.coopportunity.com Co-Opportunity has been serving the Westside community since 1974, providing natural products, local foods and the area's only 100 percent organic produce department.

As a Co-Op, the business is owned by the local community with the focus on serving residents, not a distant corporate board.

Access to the store's savings and quality products are not limited to its

members. Bruce Palma, General Manager, said the store is always open to the public as part of its commitment to growing the local economy, caring for the environment and increasing health and well-being for everyone.

“We're an inspiring, socially-engaging, exciting shopping experience,” he said. “A great way to taste the flavor of Santa Monica in a retail environment.

Our store is also a perfect way to experience another Santa Monica community hub, other than the Promenade.

We're the best place to find a huge variety of healthy, organic produce, gro-

ceries and prepared foods.”

He said the store wouldn't be the same if it weren't for the Santa Monica community.

“Santa Monica has a strong focus on local businesses, sustainability and health,” he said. “All of these are key qualities of our business. Since we're located in a southern California beach community, our customer and member base reflects this - many of our shoppers are very health conscious, focused on their bodies, exercise and physical fitness - and our community has always been at the forefront of key health and

wellness trends, including raw foods, vegan and vegetarianism, yoga, etc.”

The focus on the local community is also reflected in the way the store sources products and conducts business.

“We put a strong focus on supporting local, independent vendors,” he said. “Our size and business structure allows us to make decisions more quickly, since we don't answer to a centralized corporate office somewhere out-of-state. We care a lot about our staff, and work hard to treat them as fairly as possible, including providing great benefits.”

RUNNERS-UP

ONE LIFE NATURAL FOODS

3001 Main Street (310) 392-4501 www.onelifenaturalfoods.com “For over 30 years, One Life Natural Foods has been providing the people of Santa Monica the best high-quality gro-

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ceries, natural and organic foods, vitamins, supplements and herbs. The friendly atmosphere and warm, welcoming staff combined with the affordable prices make this a definite destination for healthy eaters.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

WHOLE FOODS

500 Wilshire Blvd 2201 Wilshire Blvd 1425 Montana Ave www.wholefoodsmarket.com “We listen to what our customers want, we adapt and we help make their lives easier and more pleasurable by carrying products they are looking for and meet Whole Food Market's strict quality standards. We

carry hundreds of items that fit every diet and lifestyle requirement. We also offer a wide selection of curated hyper local items.

You'll find items in our Montana store that are not in Wilshire or Santa Monica and vice and versa. We love our community and supporting it well is our definition of success. So thank you, Santa Monica, for trusting us with your grocery needs!”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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SALON/ SPA

SALON TRU 614 Santa Monica Blvd (310) 394-0878 www.salontru.com If you Google “Best Hair Salon in Santa Monica”, Salon Tru is at the top of the list so owner Michael Schoenfeld might have had a clue his business was appreciated but that foresight doesn't diminish his gratitude for the success.

“As we celebrate our second year anniversary, we are so happy that residents and employees of Santa Monica have embraced our salon with open arms,” he said. “We feel that anyone

that comes through our door is part of our Tru family. To be honored by our extended Santa Monica family means the world to us. We love living and working in Santa Monica and becoming an integral part of this great community. We are particularly proud of the Salon Tru team- the majority of them have been with us since day one.

We are grateful beyond words.”

Schoenfeld chose Santa Monica for his second location because the city embodies a casually elegant vibe that is exactly the tone he sets at his salons.

“Salon Tru strives to be - your

neighborhood salon that provides quality service by the most talented stylists and aestheticians on the Westside,” said Schoenfeld. “We cater to the many tourists that this great city attracts as well as established strong relationships with the growing number of Santa Monica locals and businesses.

Santa Monica's eco-friendly philosophy has inspired us to provide the utmost sustainable, plant-derived products that our clientele seeks.”

He said part of the Salon Tru experience is interacting with some of the best-trained staff in the business and in

addition to providing rigorous training in the most innovative cutting and coloring techniques, they are constantly brainstorming new ways to enhance the experience for locals and visitors alike.

“We work with most of the local concierges in the neighborhood that want to ensure their guests are being pampered while on vacation. We can typically accommodate a walk-in for updo's, make-up, and blowouts before a night on the town or after a day at the beach,” he said.

RUNNERS-UP

FRAMED SALON

2821 Pico Blvd (310) 998-0021 www.framedsalon.com “Our community voting for us as “Most Loved” is one of the deepest honors we could receive. To be seen and recognized for our efforts to be of service to every per-

30

son we meet, including maintaining the inspiration, growth, harmony and positive energy of our team is a tremendous acknowledgement. This award fuels our desire to give more, serve better and spread even more love through the work we so adore. It has most truly been our pleasure!”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

BURKE WILLIAMS

1358 4th St (310) 587-3366 www.burkewilliamsspa.com “The quality of service that Burke Williams provides is unparalleled. We take great pride on exceptional attention to detail surrounding every guest's experience.

We are humbly grateful that the Santa Monica residents and visitors consider Burke Williams the most loved day spa.

After being a part of the area for so many years, this is a truly wonderful recognition and we thank you.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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LIVE MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT OR COMEDY VENUE

HARVELLE’S 1432 4th St (310) 395-1676 www.harvelles.com For almost three decades, Santa Monica has been home to one of the Westside's premiere but still welcoming, live music venues.

Harvelle's has earned a reputation for serving authentic blues without pretension or posing. Just great music in a great space.

“Harvelle's is more than a room filled with people and live entertainment, it is a place that everyone can

be accepted,” said Brand Manager Chelsea Voge. “We pride ourselves in our ability to make everyone feel like they can be themselves. You can lay back and relax or jump on the dance floor. All in all we embrace the eclectic crowd that makes up our city and our world.”

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Santa Monica, this hidden gem is destined to become any true blues aficionados' regular haunt. The venue has taken on the spirit of the city and reflects the tastes of the evolving Santa Monica.

“Santa Monica has been home to us for almost three decades,” said Voge. “We have seen the changes effortlessly move through the city and decorate our streets. We have taken in these changes and flowed with them.

Our room features old well known talent as well as fresh young spirits who have a song to sing. We embrace the city of Santa Monica and constantly feel inspired by it's people and flourishing energy.”

As a venue, Harvelle's books only high quality performers. They have many well known residencies that have

built perfection on our stage and they offer a diverse calendar to customers.

Voge said there's already a lot of love in the room from both the talent and the locals but they deeply appreciate the public recognition.

“To receive this honor would simply be a cherry on top,” she said.

“Harvelle's loves Santa Monica and we will happily continue to contribute to our city the music and arts that it's people and those passing through deserve.”

RUNNERS-UP

RUSTY’S SURF RANCH

256 Santa Monica Pier (310) 393 7437 www.rustyssurfranch.com “Our casual atmosphere and authentic collection of mid-20th century beach sports memorabilia, including a large display of restored long-boards, are unmatched in the

32

area. With live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays (and many Thursdays as well) Rusty's is more than just a restaurant or bar, it's truly a spot to grab a quick meal or to hang out with a cool drink.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

MI’S WESTSIDE COMEDY

1323-A 3rd St (310) 451-0850 westsidecomedy.com “We have found that Santa Monica is made up of positive people who care deeply about their community. Because of that we have been gifted wonderful audiences that are supportive and ready to laugh and performers that have formed a tight bond that is

equally supportive and fun. We're a comedy club run by comedians. We're a fun spot with great comedy every night of the week. You'll see hilarious comics, meet awesome people and find your new favorite beer. We know what makes a fun club to hang out at and we work hard to make sure comics and audience both have an equally great time at our place.”

MURAL

“ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN” 2309 Main Street ruben.rojas@me.com For artist Ruben Rojas, the city is a man made world of opportunity to tell a story and inspire a community to feel alive.

That opportunity comes in the form of blank walls but the artist said if we fail to enliven those blank canvasses, they can transform from community focal points into blighted prisons that make residents feel trapped.

“Whether you are a fan or not of

the specific art on a specific wall it is tough to say that the wall was better off before the art,” he said. “Santa Monica is a tourist mecca a gem of the United States. We at Beautify Earth have a vision to paint the world in color and not stop until all the walls of the world have art on them. Beautify Earth began in Santa Monica and we strive to continue to connect and build Santa Monica's community. Santa Monica gets to be known as one of the great mural and art destinations of the world.”

For his work “Anything Can Happen,” Rojas was inspired by the idea of possibility.

“The concept is about living in possibility and knowing that anything is possible if you choose it,” he said.

“The girl is a representation of our childhood innocence. Of how we once thought that anything was possible and how our curiosity fueled us. The dandelion represents making a wish and most people can relate to a memory as a child of a time they picked up a dandelion and made a wish. It takes

you to a visceral moment in time. The spores travel across the quote morphing into birds another notion of living in possibility and the power of our thoughts. It is extremely powerful to know that we are in charge of our choices and those choices lead to possibility.”

At the end of a project, he said his passion is fueled from the way art is able impact the community.

“I never tire of seeing the murals shared and how they have inspired others,” he said.

RUNNERS-UP

“YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL”

2522 Main Street ruben.rojas@me.com “When I learned of the opportunity of being able to paint this wall the vision for it's design hit me instantly. I knew deep down inside that Santa Monica needed to see these words again. The statement behind this wall is simple and true. We are

all beautiful and perfect just how we have been created and it is nice to see and be reminded of this everyday. We are constantly bombarded by billboards, magazines, social media, tv, etc. about how inadequate we are. The truth is we are not and beauty truly lies within in. It is a conscious choice to know, feel, choose, and be beautiful.”

“BEACH DAY”

631 Wilshire Blvd bumblebeelovesyou@yahoo.com “Public art is important in every community, especially in Santa Monica. I think it often creates a dialogue amongst residents that might not have been there before.

Simply walking past public art can lead to

meeting new people, making friends, taking photos, promoting positive vibes. All of this accumulates into something bigger than the art itself. I believe it gives strength to the community and sends a positive message that your city is ok with individuality and expressing yourself.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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RESTAURANT OR CAFE FEATURING LOCALLYSOURCED INGREDIENTS

SANTA MONICA SEAFOOD 1000 Wilshire Blvd (310) 393-5244 www.smseafoodmarket.com Santa Monica is an ocean city, fundamentally connected to the sea and all that it means to be a coastal community. For one of the City's oldest businesses, that coastal connection is the foundation of their success.

Santa Monica Seafood has operated in the city since 1939. Their inspiration for providing responsibly sourced, sustainable seafood comes from the support of the community. On a larger

scale, they believe those in the community care about their involvement in the seafood industry, and support their commitment to keeping the oceans safe and sustainable.

The company now sources over 27 million pounds of seafood a year.

“Our commitment is to the industry and its preservation for years to come,” said Stefani Gianni, Assistant Retail Marketing Manager. “We don't just provide seafood, but we support the industry through a number of responsibly sourced vendor programs that give a percentage of our sales to working with

fisheries, communities and environmental groups to insure the availability of fresh seafood for generations to come.”

Locals have access to their products through their award winning storefront.

“When you come to Santa Monica Seafood, you are part of a unique experience,” said Stefani Gianni, Assistant Retail Marketing Manager.

“Our knowledgeable and friendly staff take you on a journey through the largest selection of fresh seafood around. Not sure how to crack crab, cook a lobster? Our seafood clerks are the best in the business and can show

you all you need to know. After that, stop by our oyster bar and have some fresh shucked oysters. Let our service staff recommend some of our finer appetizers, entrees and desserts.”

She said being considered “Most Loved” in the city of Santa Monica is an honor.

“We truly care about what we do as a company, and the impact we have in the community,” she said. “Being nominated shows that people care about our support to local, sustainable fisheries, and how important that involvement will be in years to come.”

RUNNERS-UP

THYME CAFÉ AND MARKET

1630 Ocean Park Blvd (310) 399-8800 thymecafeandmarket.com “We are very appreciative of both our Santa Monica and Ocean Park Community for their patronage. They are loyal, honest, and generous. We love being in Santa Monica with the great weather and the

34

beach style vibe. Both Local and Thyme are seasonal, fresh and delicious. We are very much about the guest experience.

Customer service and hospitality are extremely important to us. We pride ourselves on being a neighborhood spot with creative delicious food.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

LOCAL KITCHEN & WINE BAR

1736 Ocean Park Blvd (310) 396-9007 localkitchenandwinebar.com “Both restaurants are owner run and operated (along with an amazing team of employees) and we put our hearts into both. I believe that we are a small business with a big heart. We are very involved in

our local community. We strive to improve every day and set high expectations for ourselves! It means everything to be Most Loved. It means that we are doing something right and it is being noticed. We are grateful and excited to be on the Most Loved list!!”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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AUTO-RELATED BUSINESS

STAYJAX www.stayjax.com People in Santa Monica love their pets. A lot. So it's no surprise that pet products sell well here, but what might be surprising is that a homegrown company has cornered the market on pet transportation.

Stayjax produces seat covers that protect upholstery and pets on long trips. The versatile product protects against hair, dirt and scratches while providing stable footing for pets that prevents them from sliding around.

“My wife and I moved into Santa

Monica six years ago and have enjoyed every moment. Santa Monica, as a community, is all about health, adventure and well-being. When Amy and I rescued Jaxon, our Australian Shepherd mix two-years ago, I was between jobs. It was during this time that I discovered the beautiful hiking trails around us. I made a pact with myself and Jaxon that I would go hiking with him everyday. It was in these mountains that Stayjax was born,” said owner Josh Heisler.

Heisler said the pads can be installed in under 30 seconds, are easi-

ly cleaned and are customizable to fit the needs of individual vehicles.

“Don't have a pet, but have a child?

StayJax works great under carseats to protect from ugly indentations, spills and more! You can buy sets or each one piece by piece to create the car that you want,” he said.

The first 100 mats were made by hand in a Santa Monica apartment and other local businesses were instrumental in bringing the product to market.

As part of the local community, he said he appreciated the recognition of customers.

“Since starting Stayjax, I have gained a new understanding of the true power of our incredible Santa Monica community. The support has been overwhelming and for that we are forever grateful,” he said. “We thank you Santa Monica for not only helping us create our business, but for giving us our home. We look forward to continuing to help protect your seats and your pups. This is a great honor.”

RUNNERS-UP

STOKES TIRE SERVICE

1117 Santa Monica Blvd (310) 393-0767 www.stokes-tireservice.com “We give the maximum effort each day, we get many complements daily and we do feel more than our fair share of appreciation as we go along day by day. It is an honor

36

that customers of ours took their own time to vote us as their top automotive business.

I feel like my store with the help of so many great employees have really built a fabulous business and for that I am very proud and extremely grateful.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

MORE JOY AUTO

1325 Pico Blvd (310) 450-1712 morejoyautomotive.com “Do you remember the days of the good old fashioned mechanic who could fix anything? Well, you should check out More Joy Automotive Repair. Although we specialize in German and Japanese makes, we

service all makes including domestics. Of course, all our technicians are ASE certified and they have a full range of factory diagnostic tools. We even work on Hybrids like the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic Hybrid.

Plus our shop is AAA approved and performs smog checks and smog repairs.”

Thank you Santa Monica for your Most Loved Automotive Business vote!

But most of all, Thank you for your patronage!

Please check our website for our auto repair services, tire brands, promotions and coupons.

tokes Tire Service is in our 40th year of serving the

S

Santa Monica community. We are located at the corner of 11th and Santa Monica Blvd., where our

seasoned sales staff, professional mechanics, and highly trained tire technicians will put your car in top running condition. Our equipment and years of combined knowledge are bar none, the best in the business.

www.Stokes-tireservice.com | 310-393-0767

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

37

BIKE-CENTRIC BUSINESS

HELEN’S CYCLES 2501 Broadway (310) 829-1836 www.helenscycles.com Helen's Cycles has been around since 1936. It was not always called Helen's Cycles. When they began, they were a small repair shop in Venice Beach, California and were owned by Helen Throckmorton and her mechanic husband, Ted, who was also a mechanic for billionaire Howard Hughes. The

Aviator had given Ted an ultimatum about his moonlighting as a bike mechanic. So they decided to call it Helen's Cycles and put the business in her name. Helen's has only passed through three other owners since 1936.

Helen's has a very long history in Los Angeles. Since their inception, they have moved twice and currently have their main location in Santa Monica. They have expanded their

footprint throughout Los Angeles: To Westwood, Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach, Arcadia and, after purchasing I. Martin Bicycles, they are in Beverly Hills.

Helen's Cycles prides itself in having the best service and staff in all of the bike industry. They also take pride in the fact that they always have the coolest product on hand.

The stores are known for having the largest selection of bicycles and acces-

sories in the area so customers should be able to find anything they are looking for. With some of the best trained sales staff and over 100 years of combined trained mechanics to take care of customer needs, we pride ourselves on selling an experience and being able to get the right bike, right fit, at the right price so you can enjoy your bike riding right away.

RUNNERS-UP

PEDEGO SANTA MONICA

214 Pier Ave (310) 917-1111 www.pedegoelectricbikes.com “It is such an honor. We are a small family business and to be recognized as a viable member of the electric bike community on

38

Main Street and in Santa Monica just makes us feel happy and proud. At the same time we appreciate every customer and the best thing people can say is ‘this bike changed my life’ and we are lucky enough to hear those words often.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

BIKE ATTACK

2400 Main Street (310) 581-8014 www.bikeattack.com “Santa Monica is a bike friendly city and we're a Santa Monica friendly business.

We're a world-renowned, must visit bike

shop. We have unique customs and have done personal builds for customers around the world. I'm grateful to our customers and their loyalty and I want to continue that level of service.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

39

HAPPY HOUR

AREAL 2820 Main Street (310) 392-1661 arealrestaurant.com A Main Street institution, AREAL restaurant takes its inspiration from the cadre of locals who frequent the eatery on a regular basis.

As a reflection of the values held by customers, the restaurant has adapted by installing carbon friendly heaters, sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible and offering healthy menu items that appeal to the active, out-

door lifestyle so common here.

“AREAL is the perfect spot whether you are stopping in for a quick snack and a drink or sitting down to enjoy a delightful Dinner under the stars on the best Patio in Santa Monica. AREAL's weekend Brunches are perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze and taking in some people watching. AREAL's menu has something for everyone. If you're in the mood for a hand-tossed wood-fired pizza, an amazing burger, eggs Benedict or one of our freshly tossed organic salads we've got you

covered,” said owner Mark Becker.

“AREAL truly caters to our locals and visitors from around the world. We have worked hard to create an atmosphere where you feel right at home whether it's your first visit or your daily stop. AREAL offers a World Class Bar Program with an extensive Craft Cocktail list. Having one of the largest collections of Rare Bourbon, Rye, Whiskey and Mezcal in Los Angeles.

It's the perfect spot for friends to gather around our communal tables in the lounge or just hang out on the cozy

benches on the patio.”

Becker said it's gratifying to see the focus on catering to customers has paid off with the Most Loved recognition.

“It's so pleasing to know that our neighbors appreciate us as much as we appreciate Santa Monica! All of us have chosen to live and work in Santa Monica because we love this area and want to continue to grow here,” he said. “We are all invested in the future of Santa Monica, with our families and friends. Serving our community is something that we all enjoy!”

RUNNERS-UP

CRAFTSMAN

RUSTY’S SURF RANCH

256 Santa Monica Pier (310) 393 7437 www.rustyssurfranch.com “Our casual atmosphere and authentic collection of mid-20th century beach sports memorabilia, including a large display of restored long-boards, are

40

unmatched in the area. With live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays (and many Thursdays as well) Rusty's is more than just a restaurant or bar, it's truly a spot to grab a quick meal or to hang out with a cool drink.”

119 Broadway (310) 573-8426 thecraftsmanbar.com “With so many amazing restaurants and cocktail lounges in the neighborhood, we feel that we really stand out as the laid-back neighborhood bar. Many of our guests have said that they feel like The Craftsman is their local "Cheers" bar. To us, that is a huge compliment because we

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

pride ourselves on friendly service, the place where "The bartenders actually do know your name". Another area that we are passionate about, is our live music. We offer music nightly hosting a variety of local musicians from the area.

We are one of the only places in Santa Monica that offers live music, and quite possibly the only one the offers it without a cover charge.”

UPPER WEST

3321 Pico Blvd (310) 586-1111 www.theupperwest.com “The Santa Monica residents are amazing supporters of the Upper West Restaurant. They inspire us to be involved within the community. We support our local school and various charities with donations and different fundraising events.

We support local vendors by buying our products

from Santa Monica Farmers Market, Santa Monica Seafood and Santa Monica Brew Works.

We also hold quarterly art openings that highlight local artists and their talents.

We are very grateful to be nominated for Most Loved Happy Hour. We appreciate our customers for taking the time to vote and for believing in us.”

Thank You Santa Monica for Your Vote!

Happy Hour Everyday!

4 Sliders

$

3 Appetizers including

$

Short Rib Tacos

BEER, WINE & COCKTAIL SPECIALS BOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS! SERVED TUESDAY-SUNDAY UNTIL 3PM!

2820 Main Street | Santa Monica, CA 90405

arealrestaurant.com @SantaMonicaAreal #ArealSM

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

41

RUNNER-UP

PET-CENTRIC BUSINESS

STAYJAX

1448 Lincoln Blvd (310) 451-7140 www.centinelafeed.com Centinela Feed began life as a small store on Centinela in 1926 and their small town roots have remained despite growing to a chain of 15 stores throughout Southern California.

“Centinela Feed and Pet Supplies is not a big, corporate owned chain of stores. We are proud to be family owned & operated. Centinela Feed has been a part of the Southern California community for 40 years. It has been with the help of those communities we have served that we have been able to give back and contribute to organizations and foundations that improve our community,” said Maribelle Dizon with the company's Marketing Department.

She said the Santa Monica location is the oldest in the group and through

CENTINELA FEED & PET SUPPLIES www.stayjax.com their experience locally, they've learned the value of being more earth friendly and the importance of offering a wide variety of healthy and holistic solutions.

“We are a company that prides itself on having a culture of helping our customers improve the health and quality of their pets lives,” she said.

“We accomplish this by ensuring that we are continually looking for better quality products for their pet families, and by ensuring that our store staff is trained to assist with the questions our customers might have.”

The business also gives back to humans as well as animals. The company supports the Torrance-South Bay

YMCA, the Midnight Mission, Heal the Bay, and the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Monica- Torch Club. Their flagship sponsorship is of the Meals on Wheels West program that provides pet food for clients who are receiving meals themselves and who sometimes struggle with the ability to feed their pets.

“To be a most loved business validates our company mission, which is to increase our customer's satisfaction by improving the health and qualities of their pet's lives,” said Dizon. “We look forward to many more years of service to our Santa Monica customers, and the opportunity to continue to contribute to the growth and success of our community.”

“We started this business out of our apartment on Montana Ave. The first 100 mats were hand made by me, on my grandmother's sewing machine. When I was stumped on a given step, I took it to other local Santa Monica businesses to assist in making the best possible product, signed up for sewing classes at a local sewing school, pitched the idea to local business for feedback, collaborated with local photographers and artists, reached out to our pet friendly neighbors, trainers and dog walkers.”

RUNNER-UP

BARK WILLIAMS

1110 Wilshire Blvd (310) 458-2004 www.healthyspot.com Healthy Spot carries everything you'd expect from a pet store but with their monthly yappy hours, play dates, hikes, doga and more the company actually operates more like a lifestyle brand that connects customers though unique experiences and events.

The Santa Monica store prides itself on local roots. They recently hired local artist Kim West to paint a mural on the side of the building and they are involved in community events throughout the City like Heal the Bay's beach clean ups.

“We feel that Santa Monica is a city of substance and the lifestyle and culture of the city is what has really inspired us to evolve into a full lifestyle brand ourselves,” said Nick Batcheller, Marketing Manager. “Similar to the

42

HEALTHY SPOT city, we encompass healthy nutrition, exercise and activity, and an appreciation of our environment whether it's through green practices or enjoying the beach or local hikes.”

Batcheller said their healthy focus extends to the products they sell.

“We have the highest quality standards and selection standards for our offering of food, treats, toys and pet

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

products than any other pet retailer. In fact, if it's on our shelves we guarantee it's safe for your pet,” he said. “We only stock the highest quality pet food and products available. All products on our shelves meet our stringent selection criteria. You can be sure that if it's on our shelves it's safe for your pet. We also offer the highest quality grooming services and even have a small dog daycare.”

2901 Ocean Park Blvd #118 (310) 664-7009 www.barkwilliams.com “Our founder and my aunt, Deborah, has lived in Santa Monica for 24 years and was drawn in by its "small town” appeal. Maintaining that neighborly atmosphere - and offering a truly personable experience - has always been really important to us and over the years we have gotten to know our customers well. We give a portion of our proceeds to various schools and community organizations all over Santa Monica. As massive pet lovers, we are proud that Bark Williams is a place where clients, old and new, feel at ease leaving their dog for an hour or two.”

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www.stayjax.com

Full-Service Grooming Spa | Self-Wash | Human-Grade Raw Foods and Supplies

B

ark Williams is Santa Monica’s premier pet spa and boutique.

Family-owned and operated since 2004, Bark has long been a trusted destination for pets, offering full-service and self-wash grooming.

With your pet’s ultimate health and wellbeing in mind, Bark uses only natural products and is home to the original “Yappy� Hour, the $10 daily self-wash special.

Catering to all your pet’s lifestyle needs, Bark sells a unique array of everyday essentials as well as luxury items, from chic accessories to all-natural products, and is one of the foremost purveyors of exclusive human-grade raw food for dogs and cats.

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

43

KID-CENTRIC BUSINESS

THE PRETENDERS STUDIO 1438 9th St. Unit B (310) 394-1438 www.thepretendersstudio.com The Pretenders Studio might teach dance, but at the core of the company is a commitment to improving community through individual action.

The studio is a community service based, dance/enrichment program offering a comprehensive after school dance program for children 2-18 yrs. of age. They offer jazz, tap, ballet, pointe, hip-hop, modern, contemporary, tumbling, musical theatre, and yoga for all levels.

Owner Lisa Gumenick said their mission is to bring together a group of technically superior, passionate, positive, highly skilled, experienced teachers to guide dancers through a meaningful and well-rounded dance education.

“The children and teens who dance with us learn to be well trained, strong and skilled dancers but also, they learn to give back to our community and makes a positive difference in the world through the use of our art,” she said. “At The Pretenders Studio our students understand what it means to create and sustain a meaningful, sup-

portive, responsible, inclusive and committed extended family both within the studio and within Santa Monica.”

As a community based company, the Studio has developed working and supportive relationships with many organizations including The Westside Food Bank, Spark of Love Toy Drive and the Santa Monica Fire Department, The Upward Bound House, OPCC, Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, Santa MonicaMalibu Education Foundation and various Santa Monica youth sports programs.

“We realize we are in very good company here in Santa Monica and we are truly grateful to be singled out as a Most Loved Business,” said Gumenick.

We have worked very hard to build a strong community of children, parents, extended family, teachers and dance enthusiasts within our studio home and within our greater Santa Monica Family. We have a lot of pride in our city and in our ability to do business here. Every day I am reminded of the wonderfully powerful and uniquely meaningful relationships we have created in this community.”

RUNNERS-UP

SWIM WITH HEART

2225 16th St 310-625-2974 www.swimwithheart.org “To a person observing Swim with Heart, we are a swim lesson/swim team program that helps kiddos with special needs learn how to swim and to be on the swim team. Because of the exponential

44

benefits of the water, our outstanding teachers and our kiddos, we are sooo much more. We help each other learn that we can do anything despite the circumstances we were born with or are having to face.

From the results of our swimmers, their families and our amazing community, we inspire each other!”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

MATHNASIUM OF SANTA MONICA

2632 Wilshire Blvd (310) 829-7283 www.mathnasium.com “We are a learning center where children go year round to improve their math skills. We are highly specialized; we teach only math from grades K-12. Our overall goal is to provide supplemental math instruction that increases our students' math understanding and builds their confi-

dence. Mathnasium also offers assistance with homework and our students receive one-on-one instruction from our Mathnasium certified math instructors.

What differentiates us is that we teach only math and also have unlimited attendance and parents and students can drop in whenever they want without having to schedule an appointment.”

Call Us Today For A FREE 60 Minute Math Session

A HUGE Thank YOU from all of us at nity a commu is io d tu tenders S program The Pre ichment r n /e e c n ance ased, da school d r e ft service b a e ehensiv e. a compr yrs of ag offering ren 2-18 d , il h c r fo t, Pointe program ap, Balle T , z z Ja e , lud umbling lasses inc porary, T m Weekly c te n o C , ll levels! , Modern oga for a Hip-Hop Y d n a , e Theatr Musical

The Pretenders Studio for the love and support in acknowledging us as a

Most Loved Santa Monica Business!

It is our honor to continue expandi ng our d ance fam and build ily ing mea n i n Santa M gful onica re la t ionship so we en courage y ou to joi us for so n me danc ing fun!

We are truly grateful and we LOVE you too!

Come “Dance For A Difference� with us AFTER SCHOOL during the school year and in SUMMER CAMP!

www.thepretendersstudio.com | 1438 9th Street, Unit B | Santa Monica, CA 90401 | (310) 394-1438 2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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FARMERS MARKET PREPARED FOOD VENDOR

BEZIAN BAKERY 4725 Santa Monica Blvd (available at the Downtown Farmers Market) (323) 663-8608 www.bezianbakery.com The humble loaf of bread has a mythic reputation throughout culinary and world history. Bakers have always been at the center of the community and the folks at Bezian Baker understand that responsibility and take it to heart with every batch.

Owner Baker, Jack Bezian, is always personally present and available for his customers to hand deliver his sour-

dough products and answer questions with great care and devotion, trying to make every transaction a fulfilling experience for each customer catering to their special needs.

Bezian's breads are built on 50 years of incessant research into the purest and most healthful foods available. Their 42 varietys of breads, bagels, chips, and pasta are vegan, 100 percent sourdough, low glycemic index with no added sugars, fats, oils or Baker's Yeast.

“Santa Monica has a very health conscious environment and that approach is very much in line with our

products and business philosophy for contributing to the constant betterment of our customers' well being and happiness,” said Bezian. “We find it very stimulating, and that, makes our incessant dedication to our products, environment, and customers, all the more worthwhile and fulfilling. We especially love the general spirit of problem solving with an eye for everyone's inclusion and mindfulness.”

The secret to their products is a from scratch process that includes growing their own sourdough cultures and raising each bread for up to 30 days. The process allows for the full

development of good natural symbiotic balance of the micro biome, taming all five glutens into nutrition with no baker's yeast or Acrylamides of difficult to digest hard crusts, resulting in amazing textures and flavors.

“Because we work extremely hard in a business that we consider our personal contribution to the world and really a labor of love rather than for much profit, it is a very nice boost for our morale to see that our efforts are indeed valued by others and, that alone, is energizing towards more improvements and betterment of business across the board,” said Bezian.

RUNNERS-UP

BERTHA’S TAMALES

46

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

VICTORIAN PANCAKES

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

47

SURF/ SKATE SHOP

ZJ BOARDING HOUSE 2619 Main Street (310) 392-5646 www.zjboardinghouse.com ZJ Boarding House has been a Westside institution since 1988, catering to everyone with a passion to surf or skate thanks in large part to their focus on treating everyone like part of the crew.

“Our company's first mission is to be a great community partner and make your shopping experience with us feel like you’re with friends,” said co-owner Todd Roberts. “We are a

great resource for Surf, Skate and everything beach lifestyle related. If you're looking to rent a surfboard or learn how to surf we have got you covered. Our staff is very friendly and looking forward to sharing their stoke for the lifestyle we live everyday.”

They get a lot of opportunities to interact with customers as Santa Monica's legendary place in the surf/skate world draws global visitors.

Many of those repeat tourists make annual trips to the store to stock up on gear and Roberts said talking with folks that have become regulars has

become one of the great pleasures at the store.

“Santa Monica has influenced our business by being one of the greatest cities in the world to visit,” he said.

“We get so many travelers from around the globe annually that have been coming back into our store for decades. It's great to see families return from last year or a few years ago and share their stories with us.”

He said the store is known for stocking everything anyone could need but it's the attention to detail and the quality of his staff that make the difference.

“What set's ZJ Boarding House apart is our history and nearly 30 years of award winning service. ZJ Boarding House has been honored locally and nationally as best retailer in our category. Being the Most Loved business means the world to us here at the shop. Really, It's always a huge honor to be recognized for our efforts, hard work and energy to serve this great Westside community the best it deserves,” he said.

RUNNERS-UP

O’NEILL

131 Broadway (657) 859-3721 “O'Neill, the original California surf, snow and youth lifestyle brand, was founded in 1952 when a young man named Jack O'Neill took his unstoppable passion for surfing and used it to beat Mother Nature

48

at her own game. Pioneering the first neoprene surfing wetsuit, Jack had successfully found a way to extend his surf sessions in the bone-chilling breaks of Northern California. He opened up the garage doors to his first surf shop in Santa Cruz soon after.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

JACK’S SURFBOARDS

2012 Lincoln Blvd (310) 450-6569 www.jackssurfboards.com “We opened our first shop in Santa Monica over two years ago and love the city and the people of Santa Monica. The city's surf/skate history and culture has given us a fresh perspective on upcoming

trends and made us love the surf/skate culture even more. We look forward to many more years of business in this city. We are honored to be a Most Loved Business in the beautiful city of Santa Monica. This honor is especially meaningful to us because our shop is headed into its third year in business in this city.”

SANTA MONICA’S FAVORITE AMERICAN SURF BRAND

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2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

49

TECH STARTUP

NIMBLE 2043 Colorado Ave (310) 453-7722 www.nimble.com Santa Monica is synonymous with Silicon Beach, the heart of Southern California's technology industry and the city is home to dozens of businesses targeting any number of potential problems. With an embarrassment of riches to choose from, local voters elevated Nimble their favorite local tech company.

Nimble is a Social, Sales & Marketing Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system that helps turn relationships into revenue.

It automatically builds itself by gathering contact details into one place including email and social conversations, calendar activities and social conversations. Nimble works everywhere you work; Email inbox, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn etc.

Community Engagement Manager Michaela Prouzova said Nimble is the first CRM that works for you by building and updating itself saving you hours on data entry, hours that you can spend on engaging with your prospects and customers. Nimble has also been founded by the pioneer of the whole CRM industry, Jon Ferrara.

Jon founded GoldMine, one of

SoCal's #1 Tech companies in Santa Monica in the 1990's. The combination of experience and visionary leadership with the energy of a young team are crucial traits for success that separate Nimble from others in the field.

He said Santa Monica has a long history for innovation dating back to Douglas aircraft.

“Santa Monica inspires each of our Nimble team members every day because of it's amazing beauty, diversity and quality of life. The city is known as Silicon Beach because it's one of the world's top startup ecosystems with everything needed

to help a startup to get off the ground,” he said.

According to Prouzova, Santa Monica has proved a welcoming environment.

“We are super grateful to all of the people who have helped us scale to one of the hottest global SaaS (Software As a Service) Tech companies in the world,” he said. “Santa Monica is our home and we are honored to have been recognized by our neighbors as a most loved Tech Startup business in Santa Monica as the Silicon Beach competition was fierce.”

RUNNER-UP

GOOD RX

233 Wilshire Blvd #990 (888) 799-2553 www.goodrx.com “Every week we collect millions of prices and discounts from pharmacies, drug manufacturers and other sources. Use GoodRx's drug price search to compare prices (just

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like you do for travel or electronics on other sites) for your prescription at pharmacies near you. We don't sell the medications, we tell you where you can get the best deal on them. GoodRx will show you prices, coupons, discounts and savings tips for your prescription at pharmacies near you.”

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

EXPERT DOJO

395 Santa Monica Blvd #308 (310) 745-9580 expertdojo.com "Expert Dojo offers one-on-one coaching from our accredited advisors who have

launched and exited successful businesses.

We help startups accelerate their business through out strategic business growth program and investor introductions."

THANK YOU SANTA MONICA FOR LOVING US SINCE ‘77

LIVE TANKS CLASSIC SEASIDE FARE CRAFT BEER CALIFORNIA WINES SUNSET VIEWS

WINNER OF THE

2016 SUSTAINABLE QUALITY AWARD FOR THE STEWARDSHIP OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

BY THE CITY OF SANTA MONICA.

WWW.THEALBRIGHT.COM 258 SANTA MONICA PIER, SANTA MONICA, CA 90401

310.394.9683

: @THEALBRIGHTSM

2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA

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2016 MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA