Thank you everyone for the amazing response to my last post listing some of my favorite businesses on upper Pier Ave here in sunny Hermosa Beach!
And since it was so popular, here are more of my favorites in Hermosa—check them out, and hopefully they’ll become your favorites too…
Paciugo Gelato–hands down the best ice cream in the south bay, with the friendliest staff. You can’t get more family business than the mother/daughter Team of Brittny and Monien behind the counter. And, caramel sea salt, incredible.
Molly’s Skin Care–love the facials, love the Epicuren products, love the customer service, thank you Molly’s!
Bo Bridges Photography–So talented, who doesn’t want to see incredible pics of hot extreme sports guys in action? Did I say that? Gorgeous photos of local landmarks too…
Pilates Place–The most beautiful space in which to excersize ever. Instructors are amazing. When I can get off my lazy bum this is the place I go for Ange’s dynamic jumpboard reformer class.
The Mermaid–can’t beat this place for dive bar atmosphere, especially good on a sunday afternoon.
Grekos–have you been searching for an 80’s movie poster for your bedroom wall? Then this is the place for you! Some pretty blown glass objects as well…
La Playita–the best view in town and a fantastic place to take the kids.
Spyder Surf–did you know they carry an amazing selection of women’s jeans?
Mama D’s–thank you for letting us wreak havoc each time we come in, and thanks for still giving us the free warm chocolate chip cookies at the end of every meal!
Kathleen Lowry Acupuncture–Kathleen heals me every 3 weeks. She has been in the same space on Hermosa Ave for 23 years and she knows her stuff. 1 hour appointment includes acupuncture and a 15 minute hot stone massage, amazing.
Beach Hut–In high school we used to ditch school to head here for the teriyaki chicken bowl. Had it this morning and it’s still worth it!
Karen’s Cleaners–customer service here cannot be beat. Great tailoring, oh and excellent dry cleaning too.
Mediteraneo–tapas tuesdays cannot be beat! love the staff, the wine and the food here.
Barnacles–Will’s favorite hands down.
Public Library–Lily’s favorite after school activity, well actually second only to Paciugo!

Hey Everyone,

Today I’m writing to you all with a very important message…. Think Globally, Shop and Eat Locally!

As you may know, we are living with quite a large construction project happening now on Pier Ave here in downtown Hermosa.

Our view todayJ

It’s an amazing project, one with a fantastic green aspect (new rain water run off filtration, on the cutting edge of green technology) and a full scale renovation of upper Pier Ave (new sidewalks, benches, trees, medians, crosswalks, etc). Upper Pier is going to be an amazing place to walk, shop, and dine, hopefully by this summer!

Our view after it’s doneJ

But we want you to know—it is already a great place to walk, shop and dine! All of the businesses here on Pier Ave are open. And, tons of parking is available!!!

You’re already visiting our blog, THANK YOU! So you know what we do here at Gum Tree. But here are some other incredible businesses on upper Pier for you to check out…

Curious—Bryce runs a darling gift shop full of amazing eclectic finds.

Sol Baby—such a cute kids clothing shop, Gina has the best vintage concert T’s for your little one.

Java Man—Everyone knows Rick and his super friendly staff, and free wi-fi.

Union Cattle—ride that bull! And excellent steak.

Mani Pedi Cutie—Ally offers the best and most fun mani pedi in town. Yesterday Lily and I had the mommy and me manicure (her first time) and she is proudly showing off her purple nails with yellow polka dots, adorable!

Stars Antiques—you can’t beat this place for the atmosphere and some serious treasure hunting.

Zanes—a grown up night out with great food, wine and people watching.

Wash and Surf Coin Laundry—big huge washing machines and dryers for that comforter that doesn’t fit in yours!

The Bike Shop—I got my bike here from Mohammed, he is the best!

Maximus Salon—need a new hairdresser? Ed has been on Pier for over 20 years.

Fritto Misto—super kid friendly, create your own pasta dish, yum!

Come down and take a look…

Think about 3 local businesses that you’d miss most if they were gone. Stop in and say hello. Pick up a little something that will make someone smile. Your contribution, however large or small, is what keeps those businesses around.

Thanks so much for indulging me today, I sure hope to see you all soon!

If you’re so inclined, please pass this message along. I’m sure all of the small business owners of Hermosa would really appreciate it!

Lori Ford