Top Rated Shopping in St. Louis

An old neighborhood shopping district on the city's South Side, Cherokee Street found a new calling years ago when it became a congregating place for small antique dealers. It is still doing well today, attracting antiques-seekers of all kinds, whether they are looking for old jewelry, furniture, books, architectural antiques, signs or just plain old junk. Five blocks of stores await visitors, and most are open every day. Homemaker Antiques and Hammond's Books are among the highlights.

Cherokee Street is predominantly known for its Mexican culture and art, but a few subcultural alternative shops have popped up and T-Shirt Headquarters Boutique is one of them. Sure, they carry t-shirts, cool ones that are custom made to boot. However, this small boutique also carries plenty tobacco products and paraphernalia, adult merchandise, and knives... and not of the kitchen cutlery variety. Naturally, the staff is a bit off the beaten path, but they're great fun and enjoy helping clients find their inner rebel. Stop by to get a t-shirt made. Come back to get a dagger sharpened. -Cathryn D. Blue

A voyeuristic joy stroll through Centro Modern Furnishings is indication enough that this is not your grandmother’s furniture store. When it comes to modern furnishing and fixtures, this showroom has the most innovative designs in St. Louis. Brand names are available that cannot be found anywhere else in the area. Items are the brainchildren of designers with an artistic eye: fashion and function are optimized to achieve the efficiency and beauty of the modern model. So if you have the time and the means, turn your home into a Feng Shui, minimalist paradise. If you just have the time, a peek at the showroom floor offers compensatory inspiration. - Cathryn D. Blue

Upon entry, it becomes clear that West End Gallery is not your ordinary antique store. Some items date as far back as the 16th century including secretaries, dining tables, art work, jewelry, silverware and knickknacks. However, more recent precious and hard-to-find items from the 1940s through the 70s are sprinkled throughout the store. The setup mimics that of a museum. Each item is displayed in the context that compliments the overall motif, with each room displaying items of a different period or type of style. Don't forget to check out the American, African, and Asian art on the second level. Whether planning to purchase or just to spend some time, this gallery is worth the stop. - Cathryn D. Blue

From sustainable organic produce, to gluten-free flour, to grass fed meats, Local Harvest Grocery boasts of their quality food. Moreover, local farmers and growers supply the goods. This superior detail offers a gratifying alternative to the organic food franchises that import goods from thousands of miles away. The employees are extremely helpful and even offer a grocery delivery service for the chronically hungry who can't find time to get to the market. The store's philosophy: putting the community first and engaging in acts that are Earth-friendly. No massive carbon footprints from this friendly local grocer!

Since 1987, Clemens Violins, Violas, and Violoncellos has emerged as a leader in crafting and restoring the beauty of stringed instruments. Located near Washington University in the Clayton district, Clemens is a go-to place for musicians and students of music. Julia, the professional and skilled restorer, has been working with instruments for several years. It is usually best to call ahead for a quote and make an appointment if a specific restoration or instrument design project is in mind. However, if just browsing or curious about the crafting of violins, violas, violoncellos, and viols, the staff would be happy to have you. - Cathryn D. Blue