Shopping Day: The Must-Visit Shops Of Downtown Concord

(Photo credit: Thinkstock)

Historic downtown Concord takes pride in both its notable significance and welcoming ambiance to locals and visitors alike. Todos Santos Plaza, the hub of Concord's City Center, is especially festive with music concerts, farmers' markets, parks and seasonal events throughout the year. The one-of-a-kind shops, businesses and restaurants of historic downtown, largely independently owned and operated, take pride in creating a unique shopping experience for visitors with outstanding items and services, creating goodwill that strengthens the city's prized "quality of life" reputation.

E.J. Phair Brewing Company
2151 Salvio St., Suite L
Concord, CA 94520
(925) 691-4253
www.ejphair.com

Premium beers and ales come together with pub food to provide an overall pretty cool spot to grab a beer and a bite. Directly across from Todos Santos Plaza, E.J. Phair is a definite draw for its prime location, and a good spot for lunch after exploring the Tuesday farmers' market or for a drink and dinner after an evening at the Thursday farmers' market. A second location in the newly redeveloped downtown Pittsburg, California, is the E.J. Phair Brewery Taproom, where aside from its notable beer, the Taproom features live music, stand up comics, open mic nights, pint nights, themed parties, games and more. In addition, the Taproom welcomes private parties, wedding receptions, corporate events and all types of special occasion celebrations.

The Face Bar
2063 Pacheco St.
Concord, CA 94520
(925) 270-1010
www.thefacebar-ca.com

The Face Bar gets high marks for being an inviting yet calming place. Esthetician Janine provides a range of skin care services, taking her time to treat your skin gently and effectively with personalized facials, using top-quality products. She and her staff are very knowledgeable about the professional services the Face Bar provides, and clients praise the range of services offered and fair prices. Services include facials, anti-aging treatments, eyelash extensions, chemical exfoliations and peels, waxing and additional services. Visit the website for complete details on services, rates, benefits of skin care therapies and more.

aRt Cottage
2238 Mt. Diablo St.
Concord, CA 94520
(925) 956-3342
www.artcottage.info

A top art gallery and artist studio, the aRt Cottage has become a destination exhibition place for art by local Bay Area artists. Located just off Todos Santos Plaza, aRt Cottage is an intimate, comfortable environment for artists and art aficionados to meet. Monthly rotating exhibits entice artists and the public to attend free art receptions to share in the refreshments and enjoy the latest gallery shows. The gallery serves as an artists' meeting place as well, and is where artists can gather for art critiques along with professional and social connections. Additionally, the aRt Cottage is also an educational center that offers a range of art classes for children and adults, both individually and in groups. Classes include acrylics, ceramics, drawing, figure drawing, oils and more.

Parlor Barbershop
2230 Salvio St.
Concord, CA 94524
(925) 246-9805
www.facebook.com/TheParlorBarbershop

Friendly, welcoming and with licensed barbers, Parlor Barbershop has built a loyal fan following who counts on great customer service and getting the haircuts they came in for. The clean and uncluttered shop delivers old-fashioned service with a modern feel. The place has four TVs with PS3 to keep you entertained while waiting for your cut. While it is always better to make an appointment, walk-ins are welcome but you might have to wait as the Parlor Barbershop is a popular and busy place.

Gesinee's Bridal
2368 Concord Blvd.
Concord, CA 94520
(925) 686-6444
www.gesineesbridal.com

Gesinee's Bridal is a true one-stop shopping venue for wedding dresses and gowns for every woman and girl in the bridal party. Also here are veils and bridal accessories for a complete wedding look. This is a premier, full-service salon offering exceptional service along with an amazing selection of formalwear and dressy occasion fashions, including prom and party dresses. In addition to friendly and knowledgeable customer service, Gesinee's proudly offers its exceptional alteration experts on staff to tailor your dress to ensure a perfect fit.