Best of Boston

2011 Best Hardware

Charles Street Supply Company

This 63-year-old landmark reminds us of a time before hardware superstores—no orange-aproned “sales associates” hawking vinyl siding while you search for a lockset. Petite and packed with everything from flowerpots, hammers, and nonstick Texas-size muffin tins to patio furniture and hibachis, it’s a bit chaotic, but the genial staffers will help you find whatever you need.

54 Charles St., Boston, 617-367-9046, charlesstsupply.com