Bike Shop
Need a tune-up before your next big race, or even just a new bike light? Cognition Cyclery, a self-proclaimed "neighborly bike shop," offers everything from at-home pick-ups of broken bikes to new bicycling products. They even have a "Triple A" service in case your bike breaks down while you're on the road.
903 Castro St., Mountain View
650-386-1955

Boutique
For the second year in a row, Therapy's wide range of clothing styles creates fans of all ages. The Mountain View outlet of the chain of boutique stores packs the house with a unique blend of men's and women's clothing, accessories and home decor items. Fans praise the friendly, helpful customer service.
250 Castro St., Mountain View
650-691-1186

Florist
Sashay Floral earns top marks for the creativity and design aesthetic of its fresh flower bouquets. A small florist shop, Sashay mostly caters to weddings and corporate events, but they also do day-to-day deliveries. "People don't just pick up a bouquet and go, it's design work," says co-owner Poppie Rodriguez.
www.sashayfloral.com
650-787-3671

Hardware Store
This local branch of the well-established home and garden supply store has friendly and knowledgeable staff willing to help everywhere, from hardware to paints and plants. Orchard Supply Hardware is known for its appliance selection and the variety of plants available in the nursery, and online coupons are often available.
2555 Charleston Road, Mountain View
650-691-2000

Home Furnishings
Readers say Cost Plus World Market is the go-to place for great finds at bargain prices, especially when it comes to vibrant furniture and exotic decor from around the globe. Kitchen, dining, and gardening utensils are also sold.
1910 W. El Camino Real, Mountain View
650-961-6066

Store for Unusual Gifts
For the friend who already has everything, East West Bookshop is the top choice for unusual gifts. East West has far more than books -- there's garden decor, jewelry and a yoga studio out back. Around the store will be spiritual music and chanting CDs, tarot decks, crystals, books by the Dalai Llama and Buddha statues of all materials and sizes. East West hosts talks and workshops nearly every single day on topics from spirituality to health and prosperity.
324 Castro St., Mountain View
650-988-9800

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