Writers’ picks: Shopping & Services

Best post-Lady Bird thrift store

The Thrift Store

As Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird pulled at many Sacramentans’ heartstrings last fall with its scenes of familiar landmarks and eateries, and that one crucial mother-daughter moment filmed inside Thrift Town (the El Camino Avenue location), one thing was bound to happen: That particular thrift store became quite busy. So busy that I went in search of new, secondhand treasure-hunting adventures. Luckily, I found a new spot. The appropriately named Thrift Store is a thrifter’s dream. Its aisles are well curated. Its clothing racks are aptly labeled by size. And it’s full of the best kitschy home décor just waiting to add that touch of odd to your humble abode. Just don’t tell anyone. 6606 Fruitridge Road; (916) 383-3651; facebook.com/thrift storesacramento. S.R.

Best high fashion for a broke budget

Freestyle Clothing Exchange

Freestyle Clothing Exchange makes it easy to dress to impress and not break the bank. Freestyle, a gender-neutral shop focused on recycled goods, also makes it easy for you to clean out your closet—sell or trade in your in-season clothes. Freestyle’s racks are packed with stylish offerings. If you’re not quite sure what you want, book a free appointment with a stylist to help you decide. Multiple locations, freestyleclothing.com. AHS

Best place to meditate your way to good abs

Zuda Yoga

A class at Zuda Yoga makes for a fiery, full body workout that’s mixed with an ongoing, mental meditation. Power vinyasa flow classes are challenging but never overboard, centering but never boring. Zuda is about more than just flowing hard and sweating your feelings out. It’s a place to gather and radiate positive energy with one another. Not only will you see physical results from the power you build in classes here, but feel mental change in your approach to day-to-day life. 1515 19th Street; (916) 441-1267; zudayoga.com. MPE

Best simple barber experience

La Riviera Barber Shop

Travis Gassaway has a quiet demeanor, but like many barbers, he enjoys a good conversation while he’s providing a top-notch haircut. The La Riviera name remains from several years ago when the establishment was located in a remote location on its namesake street. Now in East Sacramento for several years, the shop is simple. The waiting area has several directors’ chairs, a floor heater and stacks of magazines. Progressive rock ‘n’ roll is often the music of choice. Tell Travis what you want and a precision, never-rushed haircut is what you’ll get for $16. It’s a few dollars more for extras like beard trimming, shampoos, etc. The good banter is free. 6313 Folsom Boulevard; (916) 362-4823. J.R.

Best sportswear fit for a king

All Good

Last winter, 2024 presidential frontrunner LeBron James netted a game-winning jumper in New York City. In the post-game media scrum, James wore an “All Good Never Better” hat, made by a Sacramento-based apparel brand of the same name. Hours later, founder Jason Maggio said his website had sold out of the black cap James wore. Characterized by blocky patterns, bright colors and an outdoorsy utility, All Good captures the down-to-earth hipness that’s made Sacramento an up-and-coming metropolis. Want some threads fit for the King? Check out their new flagship store in the Ice Blocks. 1715 R Street, Suite 150; (916) 376-7641; allgxxd.com. J.F.

Best place to build strong community

Fitness Rangers

Fitness Rangers classes are led by trainers who encourage, challenge and commit to caring about personal improvement and fitness goals—all while holding safety as a No. 1 priority. The gym is beloved by many for its boot camp class, a full-body workout that’s completed in under an hour. Other classes include indoor cycling and the Barbell Academy, a class that teaches weightlifting methods to develop strength and improve overall health. Check out this spot for its welcoming atmosphere and state-of-the-art equipment, stay for the strong community it builds. 1717 34th Street; (916) 739-1100; fitnessrangers.net. MPE

Best place to geek out

Oblivion Comics & Coffee

Comic books? Coffee? Oblivion Comics & Coffee has both. Named after the bar in the DC Universe where villains and heroes can co-exist and enjoy a beer together, this place has everything your nerdy heart desires. Oblivion opened its portal to downtown Sacramento when the owners Laura Benson and Neil Estaris won the 2016 Calling All Dreamers competition—Sacramento’s version of TV’s Shark Tank. Sip on espresso drinks such as the Latte of Truth (caramel, white chocolate, steamed milk and espresso, topped with a cinnamon Wonder Woman design) and nosh on snacks like the Winter Is Coming toast (country French bread with a cream cheese, Oreos and a chocolate drizzle). Oh, and, of course, there are comics. Lots and lots of comics. 1020 11th Street; (916) 329-8839; oblivioncomics.com. AHS