The Commons On Oak Tree
They don't take very good care of these apartments and generally charge too much. The complex is relatively new but it's becoming run down pretty quickly. There is a lot of space for parking, but the location isn't terribly close to campus. They like to talk up all of their services, but the internet access here is sketchy, and how much use do you really have for a tennis court? Word is there are great parties around the pool in the summer, but I've never been to one.
The Mane Man
I'm a guy with pretty basic haircutting needs, but they are good people who do a good job for a good price. They get you in and out and on your way pretty quick. The parking here is pretty good, and you could ride your bike from campus. I wouldn't walk it, but a bike would be fine. All of the employees are very friendly.
Baesler's Market
Excellent grocery store. It is a little more expensive than Kroger, but the customer service and selection is outstanding. They also have a great beer selection. There is pletny of parking and they have a good Eastside location. The store is very clean. sometimes the employees can be kind of punks, because they're all high school kids, but overall pretty good.
Mike's Market
The prices here are a little higher than at Kroger, but all in all it's a great store. They really know their cuts of meat here, and the customer service is stellar. The location is pretty good on 3rd street, but not so far that you have to deal with the mall traffic. There is plenty of parking. Sometimes they close pretty early, so you might call ahead and check their hours before you go.
Apple House Home & Garden
The people here hav excellent quality service, and they have a huge selection of plants, flowers, and trees. They are very knowledgeable about their products. They have plenty of parking and they have tons of different types of plants. They also have a lot of the same kind, so if you need to buy for a business or something, they're great.
Conans Academy
The boxing classes they have here will get you right into shape. The people are great. I believe they have a deal where you can try one work out for free. You should do it. They have a lot of kickboxing too, and the people are very knowledgeable, especially the owner. The parking isn't great on Gray St., but it's not too bad. Also, if you're a huge germ freak there are kind of a lot of sweaty people in not that much space, but it's not that big of deal.
Downtown Fitness Of Norman
This place isn't too bad. I liked it better before the change in ownership but they still have a good selection of machines and free weights in a good location. The employees aren't as helpful since the ownership change, and parking is always hectic on Main St., and their free weights are a bit limited, but it's a good place to work out, especially if you like machines.
Tis College Bookstore
Excellent collection of textbooks, great location right on 3rd street, this is an excellent bookstore and the customer service here is absolutely outstanding. The prices are what you would expect from a collegiate bookstore, nothing spectacular, and the parking can be problematic since it's right on 3rd and Jordan. Still though, it's an easy walk from any of the dorms, and it's better than the campus bookstore.
Boomer Book Co
The books here are generally cheaper than at the OU bookstore. They aren't a lot cheaper, and have a little less used selection, but still pretty good. The location isn't great, it could be walkable from campus if you like walking, but I wouldn't recommend it. There's plenty of parking if you drive though. The service people here are generally very helpful.
Omalia Foods
The prices here are higher than at big chains like Marsh and Kroger, but the customer service is very good. They also have great quality meats and cheeses. There is plenty of parking, and if necessary it is within walking distance from campus. Their floral department is outstanding with very friendly employees.