Despite looming signs of an economic downturn, North Texas continues to thrive economically. Low vacancy rates and stable commercial rents, coupled with significant mixed-use developments in progress, underscore Fort Worth’s vibrant retail market. The “Getting & Spending” section highlights not only wise financial investments but also enjoyable ways to spend your hard-earned money, featuring everything from antique treasures to the best local barbershops, spas, and farmers’ markets.
Antique & Vintage Finds
Readers’ Choice: Montgomery Street Antique Mall (2601 Montgomery St, Fort Worth, 817-735-9685)
Critic’s Choice: Ain’t that Something (341 W Main St, Azle, 817-913-1515)
Ain’t that Something is a must-visit for antique enthusiasts. This store features numerous vendor booths filled with unique treasures, all at affordable prices. Shop owner Marie is known for hosting regular events and participating in local gatherings like the Main Street Azle Wine Crawl and Sting Fling, making every visit a delightful experience.
Barbershop
Readers’ Choice: Duff’s Barber Shop (434 S Cherry Ln, White Settlement, 682-730-1388)
Critic’s Choice (Top 3): The Barber (3015 Hemphill St, Fort Worth, 817-336-7333), Fort Worth Barber Shop (211 S Jennings Av, Fort Worth, 817-731-5252), and Polished and Sleeked Barbershop (4610 Western Center Blvd, Fort Worth, 206-734-9001)
At The Barber, owner Rudy Avita provides a laid-back atmosphere for haircuts, fades, and beard grooming. Fort Worth Barber Shop, a consistent favorite, is known for its stylish ambiance and professional service, while Polished and Sleeked Barbershop in Haltom City offers a nostalgic experience with complimentary beverages for its patrons.
Beauty Services
Readers’ Choice: Tina Torres Cosmetics (209 S Jennings Av, Fort Worth, 817-646-6446)
Critic’s Choice: Sloan Beauty Bar (6104 Camp Bowie Blvd, Ste 31, Fort Worth, 817-266-1993)
Sloan Beauty Bar is the place to go for a range of beauty services in a calm and inviting environment. The attentive staff ensures that every client leaves feeling pampered and refreshed.
Bookstore
Readers’ Choice (tie): The Dock Bookshop (6637 Meadowbrook Dr, Fort Worth, 817-457-5700) and Recycled Books (200 N Locust St, Denton, 940-566-5688)
Critic’s Choice: Recluse Books (465 S Main St, Ste 110, Fort Worth, 682-453-0395)
Recluse Books not only stocks popular titles but also supports independent and local authors. The store hosts community events like coffee pop-ups and open-mics, fostering a vibrant literary community.
Boutique
Readers’ Choice: The Betwixt Boutique (2899 W Pioneer Pkwy, Ste B, Pantego, 682-382-2333)
Critic’s Choice: WRARE (5266 Marathon Av, Fort Worth, 817-885-8881)
WRARE offers a diverse selection of locally made products, including candles, decor, grooming supplies, and a variety of unique apparel and accessories.
Car Wash
Readers’ Choice: University Car Wash (3124 Collinsworth St, Fort Worth, 817-714-5290)
Critic’s Choice: Links Car Wash (four area locations)
Links Car Wash provides comprehensive services, starting at $11, alongside complimentary self-service options to ensure your vehicle looks pristine.
Place to Buy CBD or THC
Readers’ Choice: Thrive Apothecary (126 S Main St, Ste 100, Fort Worth, 817-480-7098)
Critic’s Choice: Emerald City Dispensary + Lounge (937 Woodward St, Fort Worth, 817-238-3025)
Emerald City stands out not just for its THC products but also as a social hub, offering trivia nights, DJ events, and karaoke sessions.
Best Place to Buy Cigars
Readers’ Choice & Critic’s Choice: Underground Cigar Shop (6409 E Lancaster Av, Fort Worth, 817-507-3640)
Underground Cigar Shop specializes in small-batch cigars and unique tobacco blends, providing a personalized experience in a relaxed setting.
Place to Buy Coffee
Readers’ Choice: Cherry Coffee Shop (1121 W Magnolia Av, Fort Worth, 817-632-3400)
Critic’s Choice: Avoca Coffee Roasters (three area locations)
Avoca Coffee Roasters is renowned for its exceptional single-origin beans and curated blends, making it a go-to for coffee aficionados.
Comic Book Store
Readers’ Choice: Odyssey Comics (3950 W Vickery Blvd, Fort Worth, 817-203-4856)
Critic’s Choice: Pastime Comics & Cards (6120 Watauga Rd Ste B, Watauga, 817-849-2295)
Pastime Comics & Cards is a treasure trove of vintage and current comic titles, with a knowledgeable staff eager to assist customers of all levels.
Customer Service
Readers’ Choice: Renaissance Tattoo Collective (2836 Bledsoe St, Ste 200, Fort Worth, 682-499-5734)
Critic’s Choice: Cowtown Rover (3958 W Vickery Blvd, Fort Worth, 817-731-3223)
Cowtown Rover is praised for its exceptional service and expertise in foreign car repairs, often providing same-day service to clients.
Day Spa
Readers’ Choice (Top 3): Milk+Honey (5160 Marathon Av, Fort Worth, 682-235-2325), Perfect Touch (2525 Weisenberger St, Fort Worth, 817-870-3610), and Woodhouse Spa (1621 River Run, Ste 161, Fort Worth, 817-338-1772)
Critic’s Choice: Perfect Touch Day Spa (2525 Weisenberger St, Fort Worth, 817-870-3610)
Perfect Touch Day Spa offers a wide array of services in a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for relaxation and pampering.
Farmers Market
Readers’ Choice: Fort Worth Community Market at South Main MicroPark (105 S Main St, Fort Worth, @FortWorthCommunityMarket)
Critic’s Choice: The Clearfork Farmers Market (4801 Edwards Ranch Rd, Fort Worth, 817-731-7396)
The Clearfork Farmers Market is the perfect Saturday morning destination, featuring a variety of local goods and even a free yoga class to start your day right.
Place to Buy Gifts
Readers’ Choice (tie): Morgan Mercantile (121 S Main St, Ste 1, Fort Worth, 817-720-6160) and The Roadrunner Stop (1455 W Magnolia Av, Fort Worth, 361-816-7622)
Critic’s Choice: Doc’s Records & Vintage (2628 Weisenberger St, Fort Worth, 817-732-5455)
Doc’s Records & Vintage is a treasure trove for music lovers, offering an eclectic mix of records and unique gift items to delight any visitor.
Grocery Store
Readers’ Choice: H-E-B (three area locations)
Critic’s Choice: Town Talk Foods (three area locations)
Town Talk Foods presents an adventurous grocery shopping experience where you can discover gourmet items alongside everyday essentials.
Hair Salon
Readers’ Choice (Top 3): Acute Salon (2914 Stanley Av, Ste 108, Fort Worth, 817-405-4062), Rock N’ Roll Hair (4340 Western Center Blvd, Fort Worth, 817-581-7625),
