168 GOODS & SERVICES BEST AQUARIUM STORE KONA REEF 6948 W. CHANDLER BLVD., #5, CHANDLER 602-314-4323 AND OTHER VALLEY LOCATIONS KONAREEFAZ.COM You don’t get a lot of face-to-face fish time in the desert. But few things are as soothing as watching your gilled friends swim around, oblivious to the arid world outside. We’re proud Kona Reef looky-loos; we’re not sure that fish tank ownership is in the cards for us, but we never miss a chance to hit up one of Kona’s three Valley locations for a peek at the stock. Our friends who own fish swear by Kona’s selection of fresh- water and saltwater species, as well as the knowledge and experience of the staff, who are invaluable when you’re setting up a new tank and troubleshooting snags. i i i BEST LEGO SHOP BRIXPERIENCE 1601 E. BELL ROAD, SUITE A-15 623-230-8583 BRIXPERIENCE.COM Lego bricks, famously intended for people ages 4 to 99, are only the start of what makes Brixperience a reliable delight. The north Phoenix store hums with activity: customers buying and selling new and used sets, kids exclaiming over the goods, builders digging through the tubs of loose pieces for just the right brick for their project. This is where hobbyists in the Valley celebrate their ingenuity and their enthusiasm. Follow the store on Instagram to stay up to date on their frequent sales, new arrivals and other Lego news and seasonal events — like a Valentine’s special on Lego roses, to help you and your signifi- cant other click. BEST BAKING SUPPLIES ABC CAKE DECORATING SUPPLIES 2853 E. INDIAN SCHOOL ROAD 602-224-9796 CAKEARTS.COM This is where your decidedly mid baking skills go to level up. Around since 1965, ABC carries everything a home baker needs when the inspiration strikes: pans, flavorings, decorations, molds and about a thousand other doodads that ooze possibility. The staff is encouraging, bordering on enabling, once you’ve psyched yourself up to attempt legit cake pops or a sheet cake for a baby shower. When you’re going for real gusto, it’s impor- tant to stick the landing: ABC also carries those pretty pink boxes that elevate any cake to something special, or tactically conceal that elegant butter cake penis you baked for your most tasteful friends. i i i BEST FARMERS MARKET UPTOWN FARMERS MARKET 5757 N. CENTRAL AVE. 602-859-5648 UPTOWNMARKETAZ.COM Give up trying to visit every vendor at the Uptown Farmers Market in one trip. You’ll just have to come back. This year-round farmers market is hosted at NPHX Church every Saturday, even in the triple-digit hells- cape of Phoenix summers. In the winter, it opens on Wednesdays as well. As you walk through the rows and rows of vendors, canvassing the expansive parking lot, grab an agua fresca or iced coffee for fuel and cool. You’ll find local produce, bread, pasta, jellies, jams and sauces — as well as clothes, jewelry, dog treats, clay pots and soap. Bring empty tote bags to stock up on weekly groceries and gifts. Your reward along the way will be the chance to pet approximately 90 dozen cheerful dogs.