This is a highly subjective category. Your best LBS (local bike shop) ought to be your closest bike shop. In Pioneer Square, that means Back Alley Bike Repair, located in Nord Alley between South Jackson and Main Streets. As befits the name, this is primarily a place to have work done on your downtown commuter rig, but the shop also rents bikes and sells reconditioned rides, and will even order and custom-build something to your exact pedaling style. More important, it’s a friendly social space, part of the First Thursday Art Walk, when the alley shuts down for music. Tour de France viewing parties are a regular feature. There’s a couch and things to read, and an accommodating vibe that says No, your questions are not too small or silly to answer. 314 First Ave. S., backalleybikerepair.com

Read all of our picks for Shops & Services, and explore the rest of this year’s edition of Best of Seattle.