BEST GIFT SHOP > FAVOR THE KIND Kathy Tran Best Gift Shop Favor the Kind This cozy store’s corner location, just a smidge north of Uptown, hides a deceptively large interior where you’ll find multiple rooms brimming with gifts full of that “it” factor. On recent trips, we took home some Big Tex glassware, a dish-scrubber in the shape of a sloth, a divine candle and a cheerful Frida Kahlo puzzle. We kept most of those for ourselves, but this really is a go-to for presents: teacher appreciation week calls for the shop’s cute initial pendants; friends getting promotions land gorgeous floral pens and quirky (but functional) planners; and we always stock up on hair clips for birthday party offerings. In short, there’s something amazing for every occasion on Favor the Kind’s shelves, and plenty of goodies that’ll make their way home with you. 2928 N. Henderson Ave. 214-370-8010, favorthekind.com Best Glam Lust In Beauté Studio Makeup artist Denice Robles opened Lust In Beauté Studio during the onset of the pandemic, but that didn’t stop Dallas from booking her solid. Robles’ kind demeanor, professionalism and exquisite artistry keep her on everyone’s glam squad. Once you sit in her chair and let her work her magic, your confidence will skyrocket, and you’ll see your natural beauty enhanced. She is unparalleled when it comes to a natural glam or a sultry smoky eye. Since the studio’s opening, Robles has expanded her team to include three additional make-up artists and a hairstylist. You’ll be guaranteed a long-lasting makeup application with a pristine complexion and sultry allure. Private one-on-one and advanced makeup courses are available for those who want to elevate their own application skillset. 847 Singleton Blvd., No. 100 972-943-8563, lustinbeautè.com 20 Best Homelessness Service Provider OurCalling Whether it’s too hot or too cold outside, OurCalling opens its doors for people living on the street, even if it comes with some legal ramifications. A city ordinance allowed faith-based organizations like OurCalling to open doors to the homeless in bad weather, but only if the shelters weren’t within a half mile of downtown. Founded by local pastor Wayne Walker, OurCalling’s facility was well within that limit, meaning they could face fines for sheltering the homeless when it wasn’t safe for them to stay outside. OurCalling did it anyway. 1702 S. Cesar Chavez Blvd. 214-444-8796, ourcalling.org Best Hotel The Kimpton Pittman Hotel This recently restored and renovated modern boutique hotel offers the best of several different worlds: It’s situated on the cusp of Deep Ellum and downtown, making both neighborhoods an easy walk or ride. Enjoy dinner and drinks at any number of places, then hop over for a show in Deep Ellum. Or ax throwing. Plus the hotel is a historical gem; the building was designed in 1916 as a temple for the Knights of Pythias by architect William Sidney Pittman, Texas’ first African-American architect, a civil rights advocate and son-in-law of Booker T. Washington. We also love the swank restaurant and bar, Elm and Good, which hosts small jazz bands and local singers. Plus the pool offers $50 day passes. 2551 Elm St. 469-498-2500, Pittmanhoteldallas.com Best Vape Store VaporScape VaporScape has been family-owned and operated since 2012 and is celebrating its SEPTEMBER 22-28, 2022 DALLAS OBSERVER CONTENTS | SHOPPING & SERVICES | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | FOOD & DRINK | SPORTS & RECREATION dallasobserver.com
