Small businesses are an essential and important part of what makes Downtown Phoenix thrive. From businesses that have been here for three months to 30 years, small businesses provide the backbone of downtown’s restaurant, retail and services industries. So with the holiday shopping season in full swing, we wanted to shine a little light on five places that love #dtphx as much as we do. 1. Perry Monge Salon and Spa
Perry Monge (center) laughs with some of the stylists at the Perry Monge Salon & Spa color bar. (Photo: Taylor Bishop)
For 27 years, Perry Monge has been making Downtown Phoenix patrons look and feel good. This hip Aveda Lifestyle Salon in Collier Center is owned by Monge, who is not only a stylist, but a world-renowned educator. He’s kind of a big deal in the hair styling world. The salon has been recognized by both Elle and Marie Claire magazines, and won a number of international awards, including first place in the Intercoiffure North America Nouveau Hair Competition. Visit the salon to pick up holiday gifts (with plenty in the $20-$50 range) or treat yourself to a new look. 2. Tommy Pastrami New York Delicatessen
Len Combs stands outside of his restaurant, Tommy Pastrami, which opened in 2014. (Photo: Taylor Bishop)
You don’t have to hop on a plane to get authentic New York food right here in Phoenix. Tommy Pastrami New York Delicatessen is celebrating three years of serving stacked pastrami sandwiches and more, right here in Downtown Phoenix. Len Combs, owner of Tommy Pastrami, says his favorite part of being downtown is the diversity of customers visiting for a variety of events and activities. Located in Collier Center near Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix and The Park, Tommy Pastrami also does catering and deli-to-go. 3. Urban Eyecare
Dr. Jason Klepfisz decided to open Urban Eye Care when he found out that there were no optometrists in downtown. (Photo: Lauren Potter)
“As a small business, you come in here, you’re talking to the owner, you’re talking to someone who cares about you,” said Dr. Jason Klepfisz, owner and optometrist at Urban Eyecare. We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. Open for nearly three months, you can find this trendy eyecare destination on Washington Street and Central Avenue, right in the heart of downtown. As a one-stop-shop for eye health, you can clearly see that this small business owner is a visionary. 4. One of a Kind
Belen Santander gets up early to put together arrangements for Downtown Phoenicians. (Photo: Brandi Porter)
Brighten up your desk or a loved one’s day with a succulent or flower arrangement from One of a Kind. Owned by Ecuadorian immigrant Belen Santander, this colorful shop opened up earlier this year next door to Cornish Pasty. Branch out beyond plants and check out paintings and fun homemade decorations from local artists. The shop is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 5. A Touch of Yogurt
Marcia and John Bruno say they enjoy seeing their regulars at A Touch of Yogurt, and meeting new people. (Photo: Lauren Potter)
A true downtown staple, John and Marcia Bruno have owned A Touch of Yogurt for 17 years in our evolving city. They say their favorite thing about being in downtown is getting to know the regulars, some of whom they’ve known for decades. The flavors at this friendly neighborhood yogurt shop change daily, and vary from New York cheesecake and Kahlúa, to more traditional options. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and visit the shop Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for a sweet treat. These small businesses offer a wide range of services but all have one thing in common: A love for their community, and what they do. Be sure to #ShopSmall this holiday season.
