Best of 2003: Best Fun Hardware Store

San Diego — Ace Hillcrest Hardware
1007 University Avenue, Hillcrest
www.hillcrest hardware.com
619-291-5988

The store carries the usual assortment of plumbing, electrical, paint, hardware, and tools, but the front area is devoted to housewares. You'll find a dozen paper-towel dispensers ($3.99 to $26.49), a wide assortment of shower curtains ($8.98 to $42.99), and 15 varieties of automatic coffeemakers, everything from Mr. Coffee ($27.99) to Cuisinart ($93.99). Street parking is tough, but there are two small lots in back, off the alley.