BEST BURGER | FRANK & DIANNAH’S ARBOR INN
Located in St. Lawrence, Frank & Diannah’s Arbor Inn has emerged as a local favorite and for the first time was voted Best of Berks for its burger. What makes this feat even more amazing is the fact that Frank & Diannah’s only offers its burgers on Thursdays. The burgers, including the famous filet burger, are cooked with only the finest meat and leave you satisfied every time. Adding toppings like an egg sunny-side up or peanut butter and jelly with bacon, Frank & Diannah’s likes to mix it up. They offer a unique featured burger each week.
While the establishment is known for its burgers, Frank & Diannah’s offers a wide selection of food that is sure to please any visitor. Says Frank Paradiso, co-owner of Frank & Diannah’s, “I am very honored to receive the recognition from Berks County Living and their readers, especially for a meal that brings so much fun to the restaurant and our patrons. Thank you!” 47 S. Bingaman Street, St. Lawrence, facebook.com/fdarborinn, 610.406.0126. – Billy Tharp
BEST FINE DINING | JUDY'S ON CHERRY
This historic farmer’s market turned fine dining restaurant is the place to go for a fresh new experience. The welcoming atmosphere, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and innovative events–such as a theme night graced with live opera singers–bring people back to Judy’s On Cherry time and time again. The restaurant’s gracious staff and unique setting make this restaurant like no other.
Judy Henry, the owner of Judy’s On Cherry, says she is extremely proud of her restaurant’s 10 years of business and their many years of winning Best of Berks awards. “I am very fortunate that my staff and I are passionate and playful about our work. I hope that attitude shines through to the customers,” Judy says. Judy commends her hard-working staff for their success in keeping the restaurant original and distinctive. 332 Cherry St., Reading, 610.374.8511, judysoncherry.com. — Sydney B. Glasmyre
BEST ETHNIC RESTAURANT | HONG THANH RESTAURANT
Located in the heart of Reading, Hong Thanh Restaurant has been serving customers for more than 25 years with authentic Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine. Customers find themselves indulging in a “New York style ambiance at Reading prices,” says head chef Thanh Huynh. New items are always making their way to the menu, but customers seem to gravitate to the items they love most. Filet mignon with garlic over watercress is a very popular menu item, as well as the variety of dumplings, which include pork, vegetable, seafood and chicken. Patrons of Hong Thanh also rave about their love for the hot and sour soup. Keep an eye out for Hong Thanh to open another location this month in Berks. With business growing, customers will have the chance to experience Hong Thanh’s uniqueness and traditions for many years to come. 22 N. 6th St., Reading, 610.374.0434, hongthanhrestaurant.com. – Chelsea Prosser
BEST BUSINESS LUNCH | JIMMIE KRAMER'S PEANUT BAR & RESTAURANT
Have you been looking for a tasty place to grab a bite on your lunch break? Well, look no more. Jimmie Kramer’s Peanut Bar is a historic restaurant located in center city Reading that will keep you coming back for more. With its multiple Best of Berks wins in various other categories–including Best Crab Cake, Best Bar/Restaurant and Best Wings (not to mention once winning a separate Most Decadent Dessert award)–it’s no wonder this establishment has been around for more than 88 years. Third-generation owner Michael Leifer attributes their outstanding success to their hardworking and talented staff. “We have added the best chef, Chef Andrea Heinly of Hell’s Kitchen fame, to our already outstanding staff,” says Leifer.
Complete with peanut shells scattered about the floor, Jimmie Kramer’s Peanut Bar welcomes its customers with open arms. “The Peanut Bar Restaurant feels it is critical to make every guest happier upon leaving than entering,” says Leifer. So stop by the Peanut Bar and enjoy a delicious lunch with some friends! 332 Penn St., Reading, 610.376.8500, peanutbar.com.– Jessica Ciesla
BEST BAR/RESTAURANT FOR COCKTAILS |VIVA BISTRO & TAPAS LOUNGE
This year’s Best Bar/Restaurant for Cocktails, ViVÁ Bistro & Tapas Lounge features the freshest fruits, natural juices and herbs expertly handcrafted by skilled bartenders into ViVÁ’s signature BarFresh mojitos, martinis, margaritas, crushers and sours (made with a homemade sour mix). ViVÁ’s bar team also recently developed great-tasting BarFresh Energy Refreshers made from real fruits and juices fortified with green coffee extract; ginseng; vitamins B-6, B-12 & C; blended with vodka and Sprite. It’s no wonder this is their second consecutive win in this category!
Twenty-one tapas (small plates meant to be shared) are featured in ViVÁ’s Tapas Lounge with the latest additions being ViVÁ Crab Fries with Lobster Sherry Cheese Dipping Sauce, Chicken Firecrackers with Hot Pepper Aioli, and Colossal Fried Drumsticks with a choice of hot sauce or balsamic bbq sauce. 901 Hill Avenue & N. Park Road, Wyomissing, 610.685.5299, vivagoodlife.com. – Matt Bruno
BEST DINER | EXETER FAMILY RESTAURANT
For the third time in three years, the title of Best Diner in Berks County goes to Exeter Family Restaurant. When you visit Exeter Family Restaurant, you are greeted by warm and caring employees and people who are there to make sure you enjoy your meal. As opposed to other diners, where you may find food that is lacking in flavor and overall appeal, Exeter Family Restaurant strives to serve only the best food and to keep its customers satisfied. For Mike Nanouh, VP of Operations, diners are great because a family can get whatever they want and everyone leaves happy. When asked about winning their third Best of Berks title, Nanouh said, “It warms all our [employees'] hearts. We all work together as management, staff and cooks. We were picked for a reason and it feels great to be recognized.” 4800 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, 610.370.5131, exeterfamilyrestaurant.com. – Billy Tharp
BEST PIZZA | GNA RISTORANTE PIZZERIA
Located in West Reading, GNA Ristorante Pizzeria has reclaimed the title of the Best Pizza in Berks. Owned by native Italians, the Grande family, GNA offers a variety of specialty, gourmet and gluten-free pizzas with endless toppings from which to choose. “We love what we do. Our food is made with love,” says Tina Grande, daughter of owners Albina and Lina Grande. As you walk into the pizzeria, you’re enveloped by the warm atmosphere and deep history. Once your taste buds meet a slice of homemade pizza, you will immediately know that the ingredients are fresh. Many locals say GNA’s food is distinguishable from their competitors. Want to order something truly GNA? Try the GNA Special pizza with pepperoni, sausage, mushroom, onions, olives and sweet peppers. Join the GNA family tonight and have the best pizza around town. Buon appetito! 421 Penn Ave., West Reading, 610.376.1155, gnaristorante.com. – Chelsea Prosser
BEST COUNTRY HOTEL\RESTAURANT |YELLOW HOUSE HOTEL
Being voted Best Country Hotel/Restaurant for the 11th straight year, the Yellow House Hotel needs no introduction. This historic building served as a stagecoach shop and country store back in 1801. Now, the Yellow House Hotel has become one of the most desired go-to places in Berks County, with a full bar and endless items on the menu to choose from. Customers are always looking to try new things. “We are very fortunate to have a staff whose attention to detail begins in the kitchen and continues throughout the dining experience,” says co-owner Patricia DeGrazia. “Thank you to our customers for their continued support.”
In addition to enjoying an out-of-this-world dinner, guests can stay the night and experience the wonderful bed and breakfast, which includes five rooms on the second floor. So come take pleasure in a night at the Yellow House Hotel. 6743 Boyertown Pike, Douglassville, 610.689.9410, yellowhousehotel.com. – Matt Bruno
BEST CRAB CAKES | SEAFOOD SHANTY
Are you looking for some scrumptious crab cakes? Look no further than the Shanty. Its history makes it a great destination for fresh and delicious seafood, and the broiled crab cakes are the best in Berks County, according to our readers. The Maryland crabmeat, broiled in a mustard beurre blanc, makes your mouth water, begging for more.
The stylish décor, a raw bar for oyster fans, and great specials help make the Seafood Shanty a satisfying dining experience. The interior has a warm feel, and the creative menu captures your attention with steaming pots of mussels, lobster, and, of course, the jumbo lump crab cakes. One loyal customer explains, “I’m never disappointed in my meal choice when I come here. And crab cakes are often my selection.” Stop at Seafood Shanty and experience the best crab cake that Berks County has to offer. 2713 N. Meridian Boulevard, Wyomissing, 610.372.3255, seafoodshanty.com.–Kellie Lorence
BEST WINGS | STONERSVILLE HOTEL
Looking for a new spot to relax and enjoy some good wings with friends and family? Make your way to the Stonersville Hotel in Birdsboro. Originally built in 1733, this family-owned restaurant offers a charming dining room as well as live music every Thursday evening.
New to the winner’s circle of the Best of Berks competition, the Stonersville Hotel serves all their meals like they could be your last. “If you go away hungry, it is your own fault,” says owner Karin Heinly. With every jumbo-sized wing cooked to order, we recommend you try their most favored flavor: Butter Garlic Old Bay. Other flavors include: Old Bay, Butter Garlic, Hot, Mild, BBQ, Atomic BBQ, Ranch, Honey Mustard and Parmesan Peppercorn. But that’s not all; don’t forget to dip your wings in their famous house blue cheese dressing. So bring some friends and eat some wings! 5701 Boyertown Pike, Birdsboro, 610.689.8699. – Matt Bruno
BEST (LOCAL) FAMILY DESTINATION |READING PHILLIES
This returning winner of the Best Local Family Destination in the Best of Berks Competition is all about fun and making your baseball-watching experience enjoyable. The Reading Phillies take great pride in being the number one spot for family fun in the Berks County area. Every game is full of laughter as they continue to offer many exciting games and activities for all ages from grandparents to grandchildren.
With the new renovations to the ballpark, the Reading Phillies have been able to stay at their usual affordable cost. “Even because of the renovations we have not raised our prices,” explains Assistant General Manager Ashley Peterson. This opens the door to new ideas and onsite events, including pre- and post-game live music, partnership opportunities, and fun activities for youngsters. Be sure to check out their website for upcoming events and the 2013 schedule. 1900 Centre Avenue, Reading, 610.375.8469, readingphillies.com – Matt Bruno *
At press time, management at the Reading Phillies announced they’d elected to rename the team, but no word was available on what the name was to be.
BEST JEWELER | GIPPRICH JEWELERS
Gipprich Jewelers, which was founded in 1945, is the oldest family owned jewelry store in Berks County. How did a small, independent, family-owned jewelry store stay afloat since the 1940s? The answer: excellent customer service. Sibling owners Richard and Amy Gipprich are continuing the legacy of founder Walter J. Gipprich by keeping customer service and satisfaction their number one goal. Gipprich Jewelers is known as a "legend in customer satisfaction," which says it all. They focus on keeping fair prices and making customers comfortable and content. According to Richard Gipprich, his family has 12 siblings and they have lots of friends, which is great for business. “The days for the small independent stores like ours are long gone and I think the fact that we were able to survive and still remain here is an achievement,” says Gipprich. Richard and Amy are excited and grateful to have won this award for the first time. 103 W. Lancaster Avenue, Shillington, 610.777.7034, gipprich.com. — Sydney B. Glasmyre
BEST FESTIVAL\FAIR | KUTZTOWN FOLK FESTIVAL
Returning to Best of Berks after many years, the Best Fair/Festival category has a proven legend in the Kutztown Folk Festival. As the oldest folk festival in the country (coming up on its 65th year), the Kutztown Folk Festival brings a rich history to Berks County that leaves its visitors coming back for more. This 9-day event consists of a new quilt sale, more than 210 craftsmen, 80 different entertainers (including the Lester Miller Family, a group of 6th generation cloggers and jiggers), classic Pennsylvania Dutch food, and seminar stages where speakers teach visitors about folk life. Says Dave Fooks, executive director of the festival, “I am very proud that the festival has won this award. It really goes to the 1,000 local folks who make it a very special event.” Mark your calendars! The 64th Annual Kutztown Folk Festival is planned for June 29 to July 7, 2013. Kutztown Fairgrounds, Kutztown, 888.674.6136. kutztownfestival.com. – Billy Tharp
BEST (LOCAL) GIFT SHOP | JUST CURIOUS? GIFTS & ANTIQUES
Once you walk into Just Curious? you will instantly be changed. The first-time Best of Berks recipient is a gift shop that almost makes you feel as if you’ve escaped to a faraway land. “When people walk in, they say it feels like they are in another world,” says co-owner Bruce Dingeldein. The gift shop consists of anything you can think of, really: from jewelry to old technology such as phones and cameras. The biggest item Just Curious? is known for is its signs. They display inspirational and even comical phrases. The breathtaking garden out back consists of bright plants and distinctive fountains. “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the positive support of the community,” Dingeldein says. They strive to make all of their customers feel welcome and to make shopping a personal experience. Some of the customers even visit just to chat or have lunch in the garden. 605 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.685.3996, justcurious.us. – Colin P. Donovan
BEST (LOCAL) CLOTHING BOUTIQUE | BELLA JULES FASHION BOUTIQUE, LLC
Penn Avenue’s fashion boutique, Bella Jules, has been named the Best of Berks Clothing Boutique for the 7th time since its opening in March of 2005. The small shop, owned by fashion guru Juli Cleaver, provides Berks Countians with looks from high-end designers without the sky high prices. “I want to be known for having stylish, yet affordable, clothes at my store. It’s always been a goal of mine,” says Cleaver. Bella Jules is every fashionista’s go-to spot because of its wide range of items: from jeans, tops and accessories to prom dresses and swimwear. The shop carries brands such as Paige, Joe’s, It Jeans, Splendid, Nally and Millie and many more.
“People come to Bella Jules when they are looking for a piece that no one else has. This is especially prominent during prom season,” says Cleaver. Bella Jules attracts customers of all ages from teens and young adults to mothers. 700 Penn Ave., West Reading, 610.208.0600, bellajulesboutique.com. – Jessica Ciesla
BEST FLORIST | STEIN’S FLOWERS
For the first-time Best of Berks winner Stein’s Flowers, owner Amy Muckey says, “When I received the phone call I was shocked and ecstatic and couldn’t believe we won!” It is not surprising when you get a glimpse at the shop’s fresh flowers, stuffed animals, gifts and beautiful floral arrangements. When you are looking for a bouquet of roses or the perfect gift, look no further than Stein’s Flowers, celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2012. “We go above and beyond what people expect and we give people good value,” says Amy. Stein’s flowers are imported from Canada, Holland and South America, making it possible to create such beautiful floral arrangements for the community. If you are strolling through Shillington, don’t forget to stop in Stein’s Flowers to smell the roses! 32 State St., Shillington, 610.775.0430, steinsflowers.com. – Kellie Lorence
BEST MANI/PEDI PLACE | CHARMING NAILS
Charming Nails is the perfect name for this cute and cozy mani/pedi salon. Walk in this delightful little shop on Penn Avenue and be greeted by friendly smiles from the staff and owners. Feel the comfortable, welcoming atmosphere while customers talk amongst themselves and relax. Owner Peter Chu says he likes to keep it simple so customers can get what they want in a reasonable amount of time. “We have a lot of loyal customers and the simplicity of our nail salon is what keeps them coming back again and again,” he explains. Charming Nails offers nail services as well as deluxe services that include massages and mud masks. Private events with champagne and hors d’oeuvres are also available for your special day. Mr. Chu says he is thrilled that his nail salon won this award in a completely new category and is very pleased that his customers voted for Charming Nails. 528 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.8189, charmingnails.net. — Sydney B. Glasmyre
BEST KID'S BIRTHDAY PARTY PLACE | THE WORKS
With lights flashing and tickets flowing, it is no mystery why The Works was named Best Kid’s Birthday Place. Since its opening in April 2003, this family fun destination has lived up to its motto: “Geared for Fun.” The game room consists of countless video and arcade games. These combine with the huge Ballocity fortress to create a child’s birthday paradise.
The Works offers a variety of packages and provides everything you may need to accommodate a party. This includes paper products, food and drinks as well as personalized cakes made on site. “We want everything to be taken care of so it is stress-free for the parents,” says owner and event coordinator Joann White. The smiles are endless; the memories are priceless, and the party options make The Works the best place in Berks County for your child’s birthday party. 1109 Bern Rd., Wyomissing, 610.375.2700, gearedforfun.com. – Jessica Ciesla
BEST SALON/SPA | HAIR ON THE AVENUE
After starting out almost 20 years ago as small business owners, Dave and Debbie Meas, of Hair on the Avenue, never imagined their salon would turn into what it has become. Year after year, they watch their business evolve and grow. Even though the location has changed, they have stayed true to the original name, Hair On The Avenue. “We try to reinvent ourselves each year but still keep our core values the same,” says Debbie. In explaining what their salon offers, these owners describe it as a great escape. “We sell experiences, not just haircuts,” says Dave. “We focus on you, not ourselves, from the time you walk in here to the time you walk out.” This husband and wife duo realizes that their customers have a choice, and they value the fact that Hair on the Avenue has consistently been the number one preference of Best of Berks voters for nine years in a row. 3459 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.927.3772, hotasalon.com. — Sydney B. Glasmyre
BEST COSMETIC ENHANCEMENT FACILITY | ADVANCED SKIN CARE & LASER CENTER
Wyomissing’s Advanced Skin Care & Laser Center continues to beautify Berks County with its 9th consecutive Best of Berks win for Best Cosmetic Enhancement Facility. Located at the Corporate Campus at Spring Ridge, the practice prides itself on its “high tech–high touch” approach to cosmetic, medical and surgical dermatology.
Owner and President Dr. Harriet Comite, the region’s only cosmetic board certified dermatologist, offers Botox®, Juvèderm®, Latisse®, lasers for wrinkles and rosacea, anti-aging procedures and hair and tattoo removal. Dr. Comite also introduces Berks County’s first Exilis™ for skin tightening and body contouring, using soothing thermal energy.
This holistic, full-service dermatology practice focuses on prevention and providing thorough, clear information to every patient. “Our goal is achieving awesome results that not only meet, but exceed, patient expectations. Our professional, relaxing, and confidential atmosphere enhances every patient’s experience,” says Dr. Comite. 1260 Broadcasting Rd., Wyomissing, 610. 374.1400, ComiteSkin.com. –Jessica Ciesla
FITNESS CENTER | BODY ZONE SPORTS AND WELLNESS COMPLEX
Home to the best sports and wellness program in the area, 9-time winner Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex must be doing something right. “Winning our 9th straight Best of Berks is an enormous honor. It tells all of us here at Body Zone, both employees and members, what a great place this is,” says general manager Ted Kolva. From ice rinks and indoor fields to a state-of-the-art wellness and aquatics center, Body Zone has something that appeals to all age groups.
The ever-changing sports and wellness complex is more than just a fitness center. It is a part of the Berks community that serves its customers right, day in and day out. Kolva explains, “We felt there was a great need for a complex like this that would incorporate many things that were missing in Berks County. Since our opening in 2002, many others have tried to replicate our brand, and I take that as both a challenge and as a compliment!” 3103 Paper Mill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.376.2100, bodyzonesports.com. – Jessica Ciesla
BEST PUBLIC GOLF COURSE | READING COUNTRY CLUB
To many Berks County residents, it may not be a surprise that Reading County Club (RCC) has been named Best Public Golf Course once again. Tom Morgan, Director of Golf at RCC, is most interested in making sure everyone has a positive experience and is surrounded by a fun atmosphere. With more amenities than a round of golf, RCC offers a driving range, a putting green, group outings and private lessons. “Very often, our guests comment on the positive interactions they have with all of our staff, even if they are just checking in at the pro-shop,” Morgan expresses. Another factor that stands out at RCC are the course conditions, especially the greens that golfers say are “comparable to a private course.” Since the switch from a private to a public course in 2006, RCC has proven its ability to maintain beautiful facilities and continually make improvements each and every year. 5311 Perkiomen Ave., Reading, 610.779.1000, readingcountryclub.com. – Chelsea Prosser
BEST LOCAL BAND/MUSICIAN | DAVID CULLEN
You don’t have to travel far to hear the sounds of a Grammy award-winning musician. He resides right here in Berks County. “I am very happy to win best local musician. I am pleased that I can connect with people on a local level,” says this year’s winner, David Cullen. The smooth sound of the first-time Best of Berks winner can be heard all throughout Reading and the surrounding communities of Berks County, whether at a local restaurant or an art show; he does it all. “I enjoy playing a lot of classical jazz,” he says. He also teaches classical guitar at a variety of local universities. Much more can be learned on his amazing website, and he can be spotted at ViVÁ Bistro & Tapas Lounge in Wyomissing on Thursday evenings. cullenguitar.com. – Colin P. Donovan
BEST CULTURAL FACILITY | READING PUBLIC MUSEUM
If you are looking for something the whole family can enjoy, there is no better place than The Reading Public Museum. It has something for everyone, offering many diverse exhibits and a variety of displays. “My favorite thing is seeing the joy that the children and families get out of it,” says Director/CEO John Graydon Smith. The Museum also offers the Neag planetarium, where visitors can escape into the stars and to outer space. Upcoming exhibits include Reading Public Museum Goes Wild, on display until mid-January. It reveals new and intriguing animal facts, as well as a variety of animal art pieces. Later in the year will be the Lego Castle Adventure, featuring everything imaginable constructed from Legos, from medieval cities to modern-day houses. This one-of-a-kind museum is a must-see in Berks County. 500 Museum Rd., West Reading, 610.371.5850, readingpublicmuseum.org. – Colin P. Donovan
CAR DEALERSHIP | FREEDOM AUTO GROUP
Freedom Auto Group of Hamburg has been recognized as winner of the Best of Berks for the best car dealership for the first time since its opening in 2006. Buyers can find new and pre-owned vehicles from brands such as Toyota, Scion and Hyundai at Freedom. When customers purchase from Freedom, they are offered the Freedom Four package, which includes lifetime PA inspections, car washes, repair services and pickup/delivery services at no extra charge. President Eric Savage expresses that Freedom is a “people first” company. “We believe we’re in the life-improvement business. We are most interested in improving people’s lives; we just happen to service and sell cars in the process,” says Savage. Customers like how employees at Freedom never pressure them into anything and are personable. If you are looking for an unforgettable car-buying experience, then head over to Freedom Auto Group today. 41 Industrial Dr., Hamburg, 800.789.4935, freedomautogroup.com. – Chelsea Prosser
BEST CUPCAKE SHOP | HAUTÉ CHOCOLATE CAFÉ
Are you looking for a tasty cupcake that is not just appealing to your taste buds, but to your eyes and ears, too? Hauté Chocolate Café on Penn Avenue in West Reading offers a unique atmosphere with more than just delicious cupcakes. “I like the artistic, modern decorations along with the uplifting music and eccentric environment,” customer Amy Rendon says. Offering standard cupcakes and jumbo creations, Hauté Chocolate Café has the right sweet treat for you. Owner John Zuwiala explains, “We provide a consistent, high-quality product that is made fresh multiple times throughout the day. The process we use to make and bake our cakes yields a very moist product. Quality + Consistency +Value +Creativity=Happy Hauté Chocolate Friends!” Stop in and experience the best cupcake that Berks County has to offer, according to voters. 711 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.4455, hautecafe.net. –Kellie Lorence
BEST COFFEE SHOP | CAFÉ HARMONY
Looking for a great coffee shop where you can sit down and relax in a salon-like setting? Look no further than Café Harmony. For the third year, Café Harmony wins Best Coffee Shop, as voted by area residents. Located on Penn Avenue in West Reading, Café Harmony provides a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere that brings the community together. When asked why she thinks the Café was named Best Coffee Shop three years in a row, owner Barbara Bodden says, “It is a combo of things: our house blend coffee bean is a special Jamaican Kona bean that is unique to us, our atmosphere is relaxing and inviting, and we only purchase from family-owned businesses.” Consistency is key to Café Harmony’s success. Bodden says, “We do what we do best and that’s coffee and staying true to our mission statement, which is: ‘true, brew, fuel.’” 616 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.378.9001, and 18 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.1006, cafeharmony.us. –Kellie Lorence
BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR | RAILROAD HOUSE
Next time you travel over the train tracks on Woodrow Avenue in Sinking Spring, stop by Jimmy G’s Railroad House Sports Bar to either catch the game on a high definition television or simply sample the wonderful food and drink menu. Re-opened in 2007 by Jim and April Giuffrida, this sports bar offers customers the sports experience while providing great food and drinks. The Railroad House features two bars and a heated indoor/outdoor dining area open year-round. They schedule live bands and DJs every night and have different specials throughout the week. The locals stay loyal to this bar because they always feel welcome. “The warm atmosphere and loving staff are what draw people in and bring them back time after time,” explains April. For the fourth year running, the owners of Jimmy G’s Railroad House Sports Bar are very pleased that their customers think they deserve the Best of Berks award. 152 Woodrow Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.678.1177, railroadhouse.net. — Sydney B. Glasmyre
BEST SANDWICH SHOP | MAYS SANDWICH SHOP
A year after winning the title of Best Sandwich Shop, Mays Sandwich Shop has repeated as champion. Since winning last year, not much has changed for Mays Sandwich Shop. Instead, the family insists on sticking with what works for them. For Mays Sandwich Shop and Joe Mays, son of owner Bill, the focus is on continuing their tradition as a small family business that has a good relationship with the community and great food to go with it. This is demonstrated by the fact that one of their most popular sandwiches is the simplest one: a small Italian hoagie. According to Bill, “My family and I are pleased to be selected by the people of Berks County. We have developed a close relationship with the community and it feels good to be publicly recognized after winning last year.” 2525 Penn Avenue, West Lawn, 610.678.7971.– Billy Tharp
BANKING INSTITUTION | CUSTOMERS BANK
Are you looking for a fast and easy way to get your banking handled by friendly employees? Look no further than Customers Bank. “I am very happy for the bank and our team members; we have grown a lot over the past three years,” says president of community banking Warren Taylor of the honor of being named Best of Berks. The bank has undergone many improvements; one asset is that customers can use any ATM surcharge-free in the United States. Another large step Customers has taken is in advancing its technology. Customers now have the ability to deposit checks and pay bills online. They can even do it using their smart phones. “The most important thing for us is to make sure all of our customers are happy,” says Taylor, making the bank’s name even more meaningful. 1015 Penn Avenue, Ste. 103, Wyomissing, 484.334.4224, customersbank.com. – Colin P. Donovan
PHOTOS BY HEIDI REUTER
