After thousands upon thousands of votes spanning July 1 through mid-August, we’ve tallied the results and present the winners of this year’s Best of Berks awards on the pages that follow. Some faces and names are familiar while others are celebrating their first-ever wins, all thanks to those who took the time to vote for them. Read on, learn more and be sure to stop in and offer your congratulations!
BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANT
G.N.A. Ristorante
G.N.A. Ristorante has grown and evolved as a business over the last 40 years. What started as a corner pizza shop in West Reading is now a full-service Italian restaurant. “We have customers who have known me as a kid who are now watching my kids grow,” says owner Tina Grande. Family comes first at G.N.A. Ristorante, which is why they offer four-course take-home meals that feed a family of five. These are great for busy after-school schedules and sporting events. You may even catch the Wyomissing Football Team stopping by for Friday night pasta dinners and post-game pizza. “Our customers have become friends who have turned into family. Without them we wouldn’t be where we are today,” says Grande. — Kylie Frain
421 Penn Avenue, West Reading | 610.376.1155 | gnaristorante.com
BEST FLORIST
Acacia Flower & Gift Shop
Mother-daughter duo Adaila Rios and Tiana James are the creative minds behind Acacia Flower & Gift Shop, providing thoughtful arrangements for any occasion — from birthdays to weddings. “We put our creativity and our heart into what we do,” says James. The business sources flowers locally and internationally, stocking a vast inventory of the highest quality blooms. “That’s my biggest thing — quality and how long flowers last,” says Rios. “Nothing is more of an honor than when someone says to me, ‘I got flowers, and they lasted for two weeks or a month.’” After 38 years in business, Rios has become the first-choice florist for many happy customers. Committed to accommodating their community, Acacia Flower & Gift Shop provides same-day delivery throughout Sinking Spring and the surrounding areas. Place orders online, over the phone or visit in-person for a warm welcome from two tail-wagging mascots, Iris and Lucas. — Kara Armstrong
2834 Shillington Rd., Sinking Spring | 610.376.8767 | acaciaflowershop.com
BEST PLACE FOR COCKTAIL CREATIONS
Jimmy G's Beverly Hills Tavern
Escape everyday life and meet your friends to enjoy one of the award-winning cocktails at Jimmy G’s Beverly Hills Tavern. With eight awards under their belt, the tavern has now won the Best Place for Cocktail Creations category for the first time! Stop by and try fan favorites like Jimmy G's Hurricane or the Blue Lagoon Bacardi Pitcher. General Manager Denise Woodworth says, “It’s using well-known and good products in funny and creative ways that our customers enjoy,” when asked about the secret to creating award-winning cocktails. Enjoy food and drinks inside at the sports bar or outside at the beach bar during the summertime, or have a private party at the 200-year-old tavern! Check out Jimmy G’s Beverly Hill Tavern’s website to decide which daily special suits you best. — Jannis Oehler
710 Old Fritztown Rd., Sinking Spring | 610.777.4516 | beverlyhillstavern.biz
BEST WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE
DeLune
This women’s boutique located on Penn Avenue in West Reading offers a unique, endearing shopping experience that blends sustainability and style. From trendy lip balms and jewelry to timeless fashion pieces for everyone, DeLune handpicks its items for a wide range of customers. “We believe in curating pieces that last,” says owner Kathryn Laughlin. “Our goal is to offer high-quality, sustainable fashion without compromising style.” DeLune was founded with a vision for a future where consumers and suppliers share a more ethical and transparent relationship, which Berks shoppers experience through partnerships with local and international environmentally conscious designers. With new arrivals almost daily, customers always find something fresh. Whether seeking an eco-friendly wardrobe update or a special gift, DeLune and its everevolving selection keep shopping exciting! — Katelynn Humbles
544 Penn Avenue, West Reading | 724.815.6621 | shopdelune.com
BEST HOME-RELATED BUSINESS
Empire Home Center
With more than 65 years of service, Empire Home Center (EHC) earns its place as the best home center by providing personal service that the big box competition can’t match. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or seeking new flooring, EHC has everything you need under one roof. The family-owned business provides the best quality for a fair price, working with local suppliers and USA-made products to assemble beautiful rooms in your home. The company is known for its 3D software service where they can mock desired countertops, hardware, cabinets and more digitally in your home to be made to order. Working with EHC is a personable experience, too. “We want the homeowner to love their house and keep coming back for more,” says owner Melinda O’Neill. — Bethany McDonald
641 Penn Avenue, West Reading | 610.484.3700 2741 Bernville Rd., Leesport | 610.926.0500 | empirehomecenter.com
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
Heidi Elizabeth Reuter Photography
Looking for an experienced, talented and personable freelance photographer? Heidi Reuter has been photographing life-changing occasions for more than 20 years. “I was drawn to photographing people and their moments and continued that passion through undergrad and grad school,” says Reuter, who holds her MA in photojournalism. She has been an artist at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts since its opening and operates two businesses: one geared towards commercial photography and the other focused on portraits and weddings. She’s also a freelance photographer for Berks County Living and has been voted “Favorite Freelance Photographer” by readers many times. Heidi and her team are committed to giving clients the best professional experience with a variety of options to capture your special day so you can remember it for a lifetime to come. — Kate Sherman
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts | 201 Washington St., Ste. 219, Reading | 610.334.4441 | heidireuter.com | reuterstudios.com
BEST JEWELRY STORE (NON-CHAIN)
Wm H. Diller Jewelers
At Wm H. Diller Jewelers, owners John and Cindy Lis continue a long legacy of quality craftsmanship and outstanding service. Established in 1914, Wm H. Diller is the oldest jewelry store in Berks County. Their vast inventory includes engagement rings, estate jewelry, fashion jewelry, fine jewelry and custom orders — with pieces for every budget. A full-service jeweler, the business provides appraisals, repairs and engravings. Due to the one-of-akind nature of their products, Wm H. Diller does all business in-person (no online orders), allowing for an extra personal touch. “They become our friends,” says Cindy about clients. “Every Christmas it’s the same guys that come in, and you know what they’re looking for.” Cindy even helps some propose — you won’t get that level of service elsewhere. — Kara Armstrong
601 Penn Avenue, West Reading | 610.372.0019 | wmhdiller.com
BEST PLACE TO ENJOY THE ARTS
The Reading Symphony Orchestra
Since 1913, The Reading Symphony Orchestra has been providing the Berks County community with access to classical music. Along the way, it’s been joined by illustrious guest soloists, including the likes of soprano Renee Fleming, pianists Yuja Wang and Fabio Bidini, violinists Midori and Pinchas Zukerman and guitarist Jason Vieaux. By giving patrons the chance to participate in a live music experience for as little as $25, the orchestra makes experiencing classical music a feasible option for nearly every budget. Forget about the limitations of Beethoven or Brahms; according to Executive Director David Whitehill, this season is one of their “most exciting and diverse.” For New Year's Eve, the symphony is planning a special tribute to John Williams, the man behind Star Wars, Harry Potter, Superman and Indiana Jones. — J.P. Lee
100 N. 5th St., Reading | 610.373.7557 | readingsymphony.org
BEST PLACE FOR HEALTHY EATS
Fresh Frenchy’s
In just eight months, Fresh Frenchy’s has established itself as a local favorite for healthy meals and earned the title “Best Place for Healthy Eats” in this year’s Best of Berks awards. The familyowned business offers a menu of delicious eats crafted with natural ingredients that are picked by the owners themselves. Andrea and Francesco Amato care. Customers take comfort in knowing they aren’t eating ultra-processed food just for a bit of flavor. Francesco, known as Frenchy in the local community, says, “It’s like an art having your own business, doing something people can benefit from and enjoy.” If you’re a fan of acai bowls, fruit smoothies, grass-fed beef burgers and mouth-watering salads and sandwiches, stop in for a visit. — Sainey Singhateh
2550 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading | 484.709.2171 | freshfrenchys.com
BEST LOCAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
CONCERN
From what began as a small organization in Fleetwood focused on foster care 46 years ago, CONCERN has since grown into a cornerstone for helping children, youth and families in Berks County and beyond navigate life’s challenges. As CEO Gordon May puts it, “Everybody’s still concerned about kids.” The nonprofit brings together comprehensive mental health services with much-needed family support and crisis intervention. In fact, last year CONCERN served 1,800 individuals in Berks County alone through behavioral health and foster care programs. This impact extends to local schools, such as Brandywine and Exeter, where CONCERN provides critical mental health support. The organization takes great pride in tracking success via individualized treatment plans, achieving an impressive 80 percent success rate in behavioral health outcomes. It’s no wonder why CONCERN is Berks County's top-lauded nonprofit organization. — Katelynn Humbles
1 W. Main St., Fleetwood | 610.944.0445 | concern4kids.org
BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
Fleetwood Bank
At Fleetwood Bank you are more than a customer. You are a neighbor and friend. When visiting any one of the seven branches in Berks County, you can always expect to be greeted by name with a smile. As the only bank headquartered in the county, Fleetwood Bank takes pride in the hometown hospitality it offers. This includes having a strong emphasis on giving back to the community. Marketing Officer Angela Cremer says, “When you bank local, you are directly investing in the things you care about. Last year, we invested nearly 10 percent of our net income back into our community.” Fleetwood Bank also offers unique products such as its Smart Savers Program and new custom debit card. If you want a true financial partner where fast loan decisions are made quickly, Fleetwood Bank is where you want to go. — Grace Machon
7 branch locations in Berks | 610.944.7666 | fleetwoodbank.com
BEST LOCAL FAMILY FUN SPOT
Steinmetz Family Farm
They’re the GOAT. If you love spending time with animals, Steinmetz Family Farm is a must-do. Home to more than 200 goats as well as other farm animals, Steinmetz Family Farm offers activities including baby goat snuggling, parties on the farm, goat yoga, renting a goat for a day or overnight, goats for adoption and more. When asked who enjoys the activities of the farm best, owner Justin Steinmetz says, "Absolutely everybody, from ages 2 to 99." Open to the public at their own location, Steinmetz also frequently travels to area events. A schedule can be found on the event page of their website. They are also available for visits by appointment. To keep up with the animals and watch their daily lives, visit their Facebook and YouTube pages, "Steinmetz Family Farm." — Kristina Hartz
333 Antietam Rd., Temple | 1.844.SFF.GOAT | steinmetzfamilyfarms.com
BEST PLACE TO GRAB A BEER
Brewer's Bar and Grill
Whether you’re craving an old favorite or looking to broaden your horizons, Brewer’s Bar and Grill, with a selection of more than 350 beers, ciders and seltzers, has something for everyone. Brewer’s keeps 100 favorites in stock and receives new items weekly, creating a curated draft list and a staggering collection of bottled and canned brews. Brewer’s also operates as a beer outlet, offering all beers to both sit-in and to-go customers. Owner Jason Krause expresses excitement about local breweries, who find “new ways to use old styles and create new flavors, so you can try something new every time.” Brewer’s name and décor reflects this enthusiasm, featuring vintage advertisements and memorabilia from the many historical breweries that have called West Reading home over the years. In addition to daily food and drink specials, visit 4-6pm on Thursdays for “Hoppy Hour,” with discounts on fan favorite IPAs and Hazies. —Beau R. deForest
101 S. 3rd Avenue, West Reading | 610.375.8760 | brewersbarandgrill.com
BEST COFFEE SPOT
Firehouse Coffee
For the third year running, Firehouse Coffee combines cutting-edge equipment with passion to deliver a consistently perfect brew, earning it Best of Berks honors. Owner Mike Adams, a flight paramedic, draws inspiration from his career to create a unique, firehouse-themed experience. This is not just about coffee — it’s about community. From weddings to fundraisers, Firehouse Coffee actively supports local causes and businesses. Popular offerings like Pumpkin Roll and Pumpkin-itis flavors keep customers coming back, with 40+ flavors to choose from. Adams’ dedication to quality shines through in every cup, thanks to his personalized roasting and infusion techniques. The future looks bright with the addition of a mobile coffee truck and plans to expand further into Berks County. As Adams proudly states, “We are Berks County's number one coffee resource.” — Katelynn Humbles
15877 Kutztown Rd., Maxatawny | 610.944.1313 | firehousecoffee.com
BEST HAIR SALON
Lords & Ladies Salon & Medical Spa
It’s no surprise that Lords & Ladies is back another year as Best Hair Salon. They’ve previously won this category along with earning nods in other Best of Berks beauty categories. Lords & Ladies has seven different family-owned locations in Berks and Montgomery counties, each with its own distinctive feel. When visiting any of the locations, you not only feel good, you’ll look great, too. Lords & Ladies has one of the most extensive ongoing training programs a salon can offer. Marketing Manager Brittney Bennett explains, “All employees are required to attend a 6-week, hands-on training program before even standing behind a chair.” Not only is the staff top-notch, but they also offer a variety of hair and beauty services. Bennett says, “Clients enjoy visiting our salon because we are a one-stop shop. We offer anything you need, from haircuts to color and highlight services to the med spa and more.”— Kayla Schmalzle
Multiple locations in Berks & Montgomery counties | 844.725.6655 | lordsandladiessalons.com
BEST REALTOR IN BERKS (INDIVIDUAL)
Emily Gordon Keller Williams Platinum Realty
Purchasing a home can be “a big financial and emotional investment,” according to Emily Gordon with Keller Williams Platinum Realty, voted Berks County’s best realtor in this year’s Best of Berks awards. Buying or selling property involves time, paperwork and negotiation. Gordon begins the often daunting process by building a relationship with each of her clients. “I like to treat all my clients like they’re family,” she says, “…to sit down and just talk — what is our goal?” As a realtor, she uses her four years of experience to negotiate a deal that satisfies everyone involved. She says that her favorite part is giving the keys of a new house to a first-time home buyer, explaining, “There’s nothing like it!” — Timothy Noll
60 Commerce Dr., Wyomissing | office: 610.898.1441 cell: 610.858.2068 | egordon.kw.com
BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSE
Manor Golf Club
Cheryl Heckman says it’s “extremely validating” for Manor Golf Club to score its ninth Best of Berks win this year. Her main goal is to make golf accessible to all demographics. Treating golfers like family is of the utmost importance to Cheryl, and Manor boasts the largest instructional program for new golfers in the area. She playfully jokes that instruction is for ages “4 to 100.” Another impressive fact about Manor? It was designed by legendary Scottish architect and “father of American golf,” Alexander Findlay. The beautiful condition of the 97-year-old course can be attributed to Superintendent Eric Krick, who has been with the club for 40 years. Improvements are being made all the time, including to cart passes, tee boxes and adding a new tournament area. Manor Golf Club is eager to snatch its tenth win next year. — Gigi Doklan
153 Bran Rd., Sinking Spring | 610.678.9597 | themanorgolfclub.com
BEST LUNCH SPOT
Coastal Grille
Looking to dine out with the family, or maybe take a noontime break with some friends or coworkers? Then check out the best lunch spot in Berks: Coastal Grille. Known locally as a great gathering place offering quality seafood and non-seafood dishes alike, you can dine while basking in the glow of their large saltwater fish tank. A meal and drink recommended to firsttime patrons would be the Ahi Tuna Bowl and the Such a Pain Killer cocktail, which Coastal Grille’s General Manager, Rachel Thomas, asserts, “is a very good drink.” Other standouts include grilled fish options, including sea bass, a Maine lobster roll and Key West grilled chicken, and save room for dessert and check out the chocolate bag. Online reservations are available using OpenTable. —Grant L. L. Rambo
2713 N. Meridian Blvd., Wyomissing | 610.743.4006 | coastalgrille.com
BEST SPECIALTY STORE
Mt. Penn Sports Cards
“Looking for sports cards or memorabilia? First-time Best of Berks winner, Mt. Penn Sports Cards, has been providing collectibles from all sports to Berks Countians for 20 years. The specialty card store is full of treasures for all levels of collectors – from the newest 2024 cards to vintage gems. For those looking to branch out from sports, there are also movie collectibles and Pokémon cards. Owner Tony Arnold has been collecting for decades, and his is the only local store that offers unique, autographed pieces. On weekends, the store is frequently full of people talking about the latest games, puzzling over problems and hanging out. Arnold says, “I get to see my regular customers, and they’re not just my customers. They’re my friends, and we’re all united by a common interest.” — Lynda Feustel
2940 St. Lawrence Avenue, Reading | 610.779.5282 | Facebook: mtpsportscards
BEST PLACE FOR A MANI/PEDI
Lisa's Salon & Spa
“Professional, talented, kind and valued! Thank you!” shares a customer who received a manicure at this year’s Best Place for a Mani/Pedi. You receive exceptional service when you’re a client at Lisa’s Salon & Spa, starting with great energy when you walk in the front door. Lisa’s provides services to all genders and all clients of all ages. Owner Lisa Kelley’s mission is to provide a comfortable and friendly environment while you relax and indulge in your services. While at the salon, you can enjoy refreshments such as wine, coffee and more. The nail technicians provide phenomenal manicures and pedicures, from natural nails and Brisa Gel manicures to your traditional acrylic set, with great professionalism, top-notch skills and fabulous passion. — Kahlea Adams
220 N. Park Rd. Building 8B, Wyomissing | 610.478.8775 | lisassalonspa.com
BEST PLACE FOR A MASSAGE
New Beginnings Massage Wellness Center
Head to New Beginnings Massage Wellness Center for the best, most personalized massage experience in Berks County. New Beginnings offers a wide range of services, including therapeutic, deep tissue, hot stone, ashiatsu, prenatal and couples’ massages in addition to other wellness services such as reflexology and Reiki. A notable draw is New Beginnings’ “no upcharge” policy, which allows therapists to adjust and add to services mid-session without a corresponding jump in price. “It’s important to us that clients get what they need, not just what they can afford,” says owner Beth Zullinger. New Beginnings employs a staff of licensed massage therapists who are encouraged to attend continuing education in order to remain up to date with current techniques so that they can meet each client’s specific needs with compassion, creativity and attention to detail. —Beau R. deForest
200 Spring Ridge Dr., Ste. 202, Wyomissing | 484.755.5610 | newbeginningsmt.com
BEST LOCAL WINERY
Folino Estate
Local wine lovers won’t be surprised to hear that Folino Estate has brought home its seventh win in the Best Local Winery category, but what makes them the best? Some may say it's their variety of more than 20 handmade wine options paired with delicious food. Others could say it’s the beautiful 54 acres of vineyards planted on rolling hills that create an ideal atmosphere for wine tasting. Christin Kelley, Folino Estate’s Marketing Director, says it's something entirely different. “Our people make Folino Estate the best – a truly passionate team that brings our brand to life day in and day out so our guests can make memories that will last a lifetime.” Kelley believes that hospitality is what sets Folino apart from the rest. Beautiful scenery and quality wine are an amazing combination, but it’s the warm welcome from their attentive staff and knowledgeable sommeliers that makes the experience special. — Kevin Baur
340 Old Route 22, Kutztown | 484.452.3633 | folinoestate.com
BEST SUMMER CAMP
South Mountain YMCA
The South Mountain YMCA has been voted best summer camp 10 years in a row for good reason. The camp offers activities including a climbing wall, a swimming pool, cooking and music. While target sports and rivalry programs have emerged as favorites, “Most folks come back because of the friends they made,” says Bill Hinton, camp CEO. South Mountain offers day camp for 1st to 8th graders and overnight camp for 2nd graders through those in their senior high school years. Campers come to South Mountain YMCA from all over the world. They have a large contingent of campers from Seattle, Texas, Spain, China and beyond. At its heart, South Mountain YMCA’s summer camp is about using activities as vehicles to teach the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. “We are here to create better people,” says Hinton. — Byron Mantoan
201 Cushion Peak Rd., Wernersville | 610.670.2267 | smymca.org
BEST FINE DINING (NON-CHAIN)
Willoughby's on Park
Energetic elegance is the phrase coined by owners George and Eleny Zeppos to describe the atmosphere of Willoughby’s on Park. Upon entering, customers are met with a big city feel from the crystal chandeliers all the way down to the stemware. There is no guessing why this is the premier fine dining establishment’s fifth Best of Berks win. “I think the key to our success is that the staff here is all one team. We do not believe in a front and back of the house; it is just one wellrunning home," says George. Their exceptional service is paired with a world-class menu, featuring 136 bottles of wine and a variety of offerings such as imported Japanese A5 Kobe Wagyu, rotational oysters and caviar and cold-water Maine lobster tail. — Kylie Frain
305 N. Park Rd., Wyomissing | 610.816.7473 | willoughbysonpark.com
BEST FITNESS FACILITY
Wyomissing Fitness
Want to get in shape but have no clue where to start? Check out Wyomissing Fitness. Start with a personal trainer and partner with a nutritionist on a balanced diet plan or simply go in and tackle your preferred workout. There is something for everyone. At Wyomissing Fitness, all fitness levels belong. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never raised a dumbbell or if you are a pro when it comes to bench presses and biceps curls. A variety of memberships are offered, and freezing or cancelling is no problem. Just ask one of the friendly employees; they are more than happy to help. As General Manager Sidney Acker explains, “Our facility caters to everyone, and we are happy to help wherever we can to improve your experience with us.” — Collin Brede
950 Woodland Rd., Wyomissing | 610.743.4039 | wyofitness.com
BEST SPOT FOR BRUNCH
Crave Cafe
Whether you are in the mood for breakfast, brunch or lunch, Crave Cafe has you covered with a delicious assortment of baked goods and savory dishes from 8:30am to 2pm, Monday through Saturday. Choose baked oatmeal topped with cranberries and almonds with a side of steamed milk, satisfying omelets full of vegetables and protein, crunchy chicken salad sandwiches or a bowl of homemade soup. To go with your meal, you can select one of 30 drink options offered, ranging from a vanilla and spice chai latte to a German Chocolate cold foam iced coffee (flavors may change seasonally). Vegan and gluten-free options are available, too. “We cater to everybody's palate,” says Sonia Marchio. “We have something sweet, something salty, something savory, a little bit of everything.” The friendly staff and customers make this place feel special. — Katie Shank
4600 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring | 484.509.5955 | cravecafe.net
BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP
From The Heart Consignment
From luxury handbags to boutique attire, From The Heart Consignment Shop (FTH) rises above the competition by ensuring you can enjoy highquality items sustainably without breaking the bank. By partnering with local boutiques, FTH resells end-of-season clothing to extend its lifespan. The additional inventory items are consigned, welcoming gently used outlet and designer brands. Owner Katherine Scheese emphasizes the company's core value of authentic customer service. “It is not about the sale, but making someone's day better,” Scheese says. The store originated as a nonprofit to give back to the local church/community, raising more than $130,000. From The Heart is dedicated to its origin of giving back and partners with students to teach them the ins and outs of running a business. This past October marked the 10th anniversary of serving as the sustainable heart of its community. — Bethany McDonald
4600 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring | 484.509.4441 | fromtheheartconsignment.com
BEST VENUE TO HOLD AN EVENT
Reading Public Museum
The Reading Public Museum has been voted the best venue to hold an event in Berks County year after year, and with good reason. Whether you are looking to host your dream wedding under the stars in the Neag Planetarium or to enjoy your next corporate cocktail party surrounded by art from around the world, the Reading Public Museum has something for every taste. “There is nothing cookie-cutter about us,” says Kara J. Seawell, Manager of External Events and Weddings. With the help of local caterers and vendors, each venue will be transformed to take on your vision, whether your event be held morning, day or night and no matter the size of your budget. There’s truly an option for everyone, and the staff is committed to exceeding your expectations. — Katie Shank
500 Museum Rd., Reading | 610.371.5850 | readingpublicmuseum.org
BEST PET-FRIENDLY BUSINESS
Diggity Dawg Daycare Resort & Spa
Searching for the ultimate in care and stimulation for your furry friends? Look no further! Diggity Dawg Daycare, with locations in Wernersville and Wyomissing, is the perfect place for your dogs. This doggy daycare and spa offers a perfect blend of pampering and socialization. With a commitment to personalized care, Diggity Dawg has been recognized as the Best PetFriendly Business in the Best of Berks honors for four years now. Your dog will thrive while playing with furry friends and dedicated staff, guaranteeing that he or she has the best time. According to owner Nicole Ray, pet parents can expect “a tired dog with a new outlook on life.” There’s nothing better than a content, tuckered-out pup to snuggle up with after your own hard day of work. — Georgia Brenner
5100 E. Penn Avenue, Wernersville | 610.678.2200 220 N. Park Rd., Bldg. 4, Wyomissing 484.513.3172 | diggitydawgdaycare.com
BEST OUTDOOR DINING SPOT
Doc & Bubba’s
From the moment you enter Doc & Bubba’s, you’re in for a truly one-of-a-kind outdoor dining experience. They boast a spacious patio decorated with unique plants and waterfalls, overlooking a gorgeous view of the surrounding trees and skyline. Open yearround, customers can enjoy a meal in the beautiful weather of the warm months, and when it’s cold, co-owner Deb “Doc” Radwanski explains, “We heat the whole area all winter, so it's like a tropical getaway.” They serve up a fantastic menu, ranging from upscale entrees such as steak and lobster to casual options like wings and their fan-favorite pizzas. Deb applauds their bartenders, “Our drink offerings complement the food perfectly.” They feature live entertainment Thursday and Friday with musicians of a variety of genres, solidifying them as the best outdoor dining experience in Berks County. — Lauryn Fosbenner
4312 New Holland Rd., Mohnton | 484.509.0110 | docbubbas.com
BEST FOOD TRUCK
The Perk Up Truck
The Perk Up Truck, a first-time Best of Berks winner, is an espresso, smoothie and specialty beverage food truck with something for everyone. The Perk Up Truck creates unique drinks and flavors for each event it attends. Owner Michelle Lorah says, “We have caffeine and non-caffeine, hot and cold, you name it.” Lorah caters for a lot of school events for teachers as well as private events such as children's parties and business events. The truck also supports local nonprofit causes like the Animal Rescue League of Berks County. During fall, The Perk Up Truck can be found at the West Reading Farmers Market. The Perk Up Truck can be hired for events, too! Visit the Facebook page, call or text for more info. — Byron Mantoan
610.334.2877 | Facebook: theperkuptruck
BEST PLACE TO SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH
Sweet Ride Ice Cream, LLC
“Eat ice cream for daily happiness.” So says a sign inside six-time Best of Berks winner Sweet Ride Ice Cream’s Penn Avenue location. Coowner Angie Farrell loves bringing joy to her customers with delicious ice cream. Angie and her husband, Chris, cofounded Sweet Ride in the very city where they grew up and give back to the locals through charitable events. The parlor features 50+ flavors of made-in-house ice cream as well as sundaes, floats and cookie sandwiches. Sweet Ride provides a flavor for every taste. Dairy-free and vegan options are offered, too, with gluten-free cones to boot. “We pour our heart and soul into this business,” says Angie. Customers can feel the love, too, enjoying their ice cream in a location that appeals to the romanticism of old-school ice cream parlors. No matter their age, any customer will feel like a giddy child at Sweet Ride.— Gigi Doklan
542 Penn Avenue, West Reading | 484.987.7338 | sweetrideicecream.com
BEST RESIDENTIAL SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY
The Heritage of Green Hills
The Heritage of Green Hills has earned its eighth nod as Best Residential Senior Living Community. They attribute the honor to the enthusiasm of their residents. Ali Schratt, Director of Sales and Marketing, shares, “Residents just love living here!” The beautiful community encompassing 78 acres features something to spark everyone's interest, including 20-plus resident-run clubs and committees. These organizations allow residents to become invested in their community and to have control over their own social lives. The Heritage of Green Hills holds various events for residents, engagement including excursions to local museums, art galleries and baseball games. The Heritage will hold its annual Train Room Tour Open House on December 14 and 21 from 2-4pm. All are invited to join in the festive holiday celebration. — Grace Machon
200 Tranquility Lane, Shillington | 484.269.5100 | heritageofgreenhills.com
BEST LANDSCAPING COMPANY
Connelly Lawn & Garden
With this year's Best of Berks win, Connelly Lawn & Garden has been voted the Best Landscaping Company for an incredible eighth time! “Every year that we continue to win, we just get more excited,” says coowner Linda Connelly. “We have a young staff, and a lot of them really throw their heart and soul into doing what they do.” Led by Linda and her husband, Tom Connelly, the company has taken care of Berks County’s lawns and gardens since 1990. Alongside their professionally trained staff, customers are satisfied with the popular Personal Gardening Service. “Especially for our elderly clients, we find a lot of them are really appreciative that they can still have their garden look as nice as it did,” Linda adds. Visit the company’s website to get further information. — Jannis Oehler
703 Henry Circle, Sinking Spring | 610.678.8949 | connellylawn.com
BEST MOCKTAIL MENU
The Bar Cart
The Bar Cart serves up creative, carefully crafted alcohol-free drinks alongside their fantastic cocktails. Owned by Chris and Kacie Griffith, The Bar Cart features an ever-changing menu of mocktails made with seasonal ingredients, homemade mixers and syrups. “We curate them with a lot of heart and soul,” Kacie explains. “We’re intentional with our choices, from glassware to garnishes.” It is important to the owners that the mocktails they create be their own unique experience. Inspired to create a more inclusive spot for drinkers and non-drinkers alike, The Bar Cart is a first-time winner in this category after winning Best Cocktail Creations last year. “More people are trying to limit how much they are drinking, so having mocktails or lowimpact drinks is super important to us,” says Chris. For a fun, sober night out or to indulge in a cocktail or two, The Bar Cart is a place where everyone can sip along. — Lauryn Fosbenner
713 Penn Avenue, West Reading | 610.927.5141 | thebarcartpa.com
