Best Brunch Spot

THE TOMCAT CAFÉ

“Doing things you know differently,”  is how Scott Smith, owner of the Tomcat Café, describes his food. Scott and wife Paula created the café by expanding on an idea to make brunch fun. One glance at the menu of 250-plus items (and seeing the line to be seated snake out the door and around the corner) shows it’s a success. The book-like menu includes such creations as crème brulee and white chocolate chip stuffed French toast encrusted with vanilla cookies, topped with blueberries and strawberries. They call it The Jolene. Looking for something not-so-sweet? The Go Ask Alice, two fried eggs on top of toast with asparagus, artichokes, spinach and tomatoes with balsamic drizzled on top may be more for you. Each item on the menu is named after a song or a movie quote, and there are games on the table to enjoy while you wait, making for a fun atmosphere for all ages. 3998A Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.678.1098, tomcatcafe.com — Alec Carr

Best Beer List

LIBERTY TAP ROOM

“Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Beer.” Beer lovers rejoice at the Liberty Tap Room in Exeter Township. This winner of the Best Beer List category offers up 32 beers on tap and 500 bottled varieties. That’s right. 500! Want to pick up a few to try at home? No problem. You can mix and match any bottled beer for a six pack to go. Hot right now are the pumpkin varieties, and there are 30 of them to choose from at Liberty Tap Room. The bestseller is Southern Tier Pumpkin. Another customer favorite is the Maple Mistress, a hard to find treat since it comes from a small brewery. But that’s what makes Liberty Tap Room special: its ability to find some of the rarest craft beers. The beer list is not only enormous, it is also unique. Why should you visit Liberty Tap Room? Simply put: “Great beer, great food, and great staff,” says owner Tony Reber. 237 Prospect St., Exeter Township, 610.743.3228, thelibertytaproom.com  — Zulynette Santiago

 

Best Wings

JIMMIE KRAMER’S PEANUT BAR RESTAURANT

If you’re craving meaty and flavorful wings, stop by Jimmie Kramer’s Peanut Bar Restaurant, a Reading institution on Penn Street. The wings – offered in hot and garlic herb varieties – are generous in size, tender with a crispy skin, and bursting with flavor. It’s a secret recipe that was crafted by owner Michael Leifer’s grandfather and has stood the test of time. “We have a consistent, quality product with a one-of-a-kind sauce,” asserts Leifer. Visit during the all-you-can-eat wing night on Mondays for a feature flavor. Past features have included spicy Hawaiian pineapple, chipotle strawberry, hot blueberry, Vidalia onion, coffee and ghost pepper, to name a few. One thing is for sure: one taste of these scrumptious wings will have you coming back for more. 332 Penn St., Reading, 610.376.8500, peanutbar.com — Zulynette Santiago

 

Best Happy Hour Spot

THIRD AND SPRUCE CAFÉ

Drinks anyone? Since 1947 the Third and Spruce Café has been entertaining the West Reading public and beyond at the same location. This year’s winner for Best Happy Hour, The Spruce (as it’s affectionately known) is a great hangout for all ages. Happy Hour runs from 5 to 7pm seven days a week, during which all drinks are discounted. While you’re there, try some of the delicious food The Spruce has to offer, including an oyster bar every Tuesday night featuring oysters for “a buck a shuck.” When asked why he thinks The Spruce won Best Happy Hour again, owner John Woodward mentions his clientele. “We see lawyers, doctors, judges...a nice mix of society.” So the next time you want to enjoy a night out, make Third and Spruce your destination. 238 S. 3rd Avenue, West Reading, 610.376.5254, thirdandspruce.com — Ryan Weber

Best Cheesesteak

THE STEAK SHACK

Think you have to drive all the way to Philadelphia to get an authentic cheesesteak? Think again. Eryk Cerankowski, owner of The Steak Shack in Sinking Spring, is originally from Philadelphia and grew up enjoying the city’s famous cheesesteaks. He opened The Steak Shack in 2010 and says, “The Steak Shack is 100 percent true to the authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak, guaranteed. I put love into every single order and make every customer feel the love.” Cerankowski starts each day by buying fresh rolls, fresh vegetables, fresh cheese and fresh meats. Any rolls left over at day’s end he gives away, starting fresh the next day. So stop by and get a famous Whiz Wit – a cheesesteak with cheese whiz and fried onions – and pair it with some homemade fries or chips, and indulge a bit. 4722 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.816.7247 — Meagan Harnish 

BEST FINE DINING

JUDY’S ON CHERRY

What is fine dining? The answer can be found at Best of Berks repeat winner Judy’s on Cherry. The moment you walk through the doors of the former Farmer’s Market in Reading, the past and present come alive. “Older spaces make people comfortable,” says Judy Henry, chef-owner. The high-vaulted wooden ceilings; warm, welcoming atmosphere; friendly, professional staff; and fresh, made-from-scratch courses keep guests in awe. “We have the opportunity to develop relationships and build rapport with our guests,” says Henry. There’s no better way to bond than through quality food made with local ingredients. Every item is made in-house, from the breads to the entrées down to the desserts. Popular items include butternut squash soup with crab and focaccia bread, which bakes once you are seated — not before! Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free items are also available. If you need a perfect date night or new go-to spot, visit Judy’s on Cherry; their hospitality caters to everyone. 30 South 4th St., Reading, 610.374.8511, judysoncherry.com — Samantha Dix

BEST FROZEN YOGURT/ ICE CREAM SPOT

YOGO CRAZY

Trying to avoid giving in to your sweet tooth? Why bother when YoGo Crazy, the first-time winner of the Best Frozen Yogurt category, is the perfect place for a sweet yet healthy treat? “Frozen yogurt is absolutely a healthier choice. For four ounces, ice cream is 16 grams of fat, while frozen yogurt is zero,” says Shelley DiCarlo, general manager. YoGo Crazy’s mouth-watering, flavorful, and creamy frozen yogurt will satisfy with every spoonful you savor. This delicious stop in Wyomissing carries 16 delectable flavors – some regulars like chocolate classic, some seasonal like pumpkin pie. Sorbets and water ice are also offered. No treat is complete without topping it off. YoGo Crazy has you covered with 50 options ranging from the freshest fruit to the most delicious candy you can imagine. 2733 Papermill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.985.0761, yogocrazyfrozenyogurt.com — Meg Francescangeli​

BEST DINER

EXETER FAMILY RESTAURANT

Looking for a great spot to eat any time of the day or night?  Head to the Exeter Family Restaurant, celebrating its fifth consecutive Best of Berks win for Best Diner. Why? According to VP of Operations Michael Nanouh, “We pride ourselves on serving good, hearty and healthy food with a smile.” Be it breakfast, lunch, dinner or even late night, the Exeter Family Restaurant crew does its best to satisfy customers literally 24 hours a day. The diner’s staff is also focused on making constant improvements to the menu. Signature dishes include fresh fruits on pancakes, French toast and waffles. New breakfast items include homemade fresh fruit Greek yogurt and made-to-order steel-cut oatmeal. For its adult customers, the restaurant offers a variety of cocktails, wines and 32 bottles and 6 drafts of domestic and craft beers. Josh Griffith, a frequent customer, says, “Great food and a reasonable price are the reasons Exeter Family Restaurant is my place to eat.” 4800 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, 610.370.5131, exeterfamilyrestaurant.com — Juan Palacios

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Best Outdoor Dining Spot

BEVERLY HILLS TAVERN

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to enjoy the weather and a great dining experience, head to the Beverly Hills Tavern. The one-of-a-kind beach bar is fun for all ages, with sand dunes for the kids and beer and cocktail choices galore for adults at the large cabana bar. Think you have to watch your favorite football game inside? Think again. Outdoor heaters keep the beach bar open year-round. If you’re a Steelers fan in particular, Beverly Hills Tavern is the spot for you, as it was recently anointed a Pittsburgh bar. Any Steelers fan can visit and watch the game while also enjoying some authentic Pittsburgh food. Owners Jimmy G. and April say, “We are proud and excited to bring our brand and excitement to a centuries-old tavern. We are proud to be part of Beverly Hills and Berks County history and to take it to the next level. 710 Old Fritztown Rd., Sinking Spring, 610.777.4516, beverlyhillstavern.biz — Meagan Harnish​

Best Caterer

VIVÁ CATERING

Hosting a bridal shower or maybe a party just for fun? ViVÁ Catering is the place to fulfill your catering needs; they're about exceeding customers’ expectations from the minute you book. You will find exemplary service with attention to detail and a creative menu when signing on with ViVÁ Catering. “You will be able to pick from choices of an All-American menu with cheesesteaks, Asian cuisine, Latin-inspired stations, your standard favorites like salmon and Mediterranean platters, or simple fruit and cheese platters. Something we are very proud of is our dessert menu, which includes gelatos, cookies, shakes and more,” says Theresa Fera, VP of Sales and Marketing. Packages at ViVÁ Catering are all-inclusive. You don’t just get the food; they provide all the equipment, servers, a culinary team, and linens as well. 200 N. Park Rd., Wyomissing, 610.685.3900, vivacatering.com  — Richie Ricciardi​

Best Pizza

NONNO ALBY’S HANDCRAFTED WOOD OVEN PIZZA

If you want more than just your average pizza, say hello to Nonno Alby’s Handcrafted Wood Oven Pizza. This West Reading eatery is not just your run-of-the -mill pizza place; it’s an amazing dining experience. The pizza at Nonno Alby’s is expertly prepared in their wood oven, baking at an extremely high temperature. Sticking to a small menu and using fresh products, Nonno Alby’s strives to make the best pizza possible. Perfectly delicious pies come in a range of varieties, including the Napoletana, Quattro Stagioni, Primavera, and more. When you’re at Nonno Alby’s, you get the whole experience. As you sit back and relax at the counter, you can watch your pizza from doughy start to bubbly-cheese finish. It’s a dining experience you must be a part of. “It’s really rewarding to know that people appreciate the products we put out,” says Massimo Grande. Don’t miss out; come to Nonno Alby’s for your taste of Calabria, Italy. 701 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.376.1011 — Alma Anguiano 

Best Coffee Shop

DOSIE DOUGH

Escape the chaos of the world or enjoy your downtime at Dosie Dough in Wyomissing. Its community atmosphere is welcoming, and friendly service is a focus at this intimate spot. “Realtors tell me that their potential homeowners want to live near the store so they can walk here, which they claim is an added selling point,” says owner Marsha Baron. The family-owned café features 12 different brews of their own signature line, which is organic and fair trade. Green Mountain coffee blends, specialty drinks and smoothies are also popular. Pair your coffee with a variety of freshly prepared pastries, cakes, artisan breads or bagels. Breakfast sandwiches, lunch offerings and additional to-go items are available as well. Another enticing feature of the café is its Coffee Club, where customers can “buy 10, get one free.” Stop by Dosie Dough and see what gets people moving. 1405 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.376.2233, dosiedough.com — Samantha Dix

Best Sandwich Shop

SCREPESI’S SANDWICH SHOP

Craving a classic sandwich done right? Look no further than Screpesi’s Sandwich Shop on Lancaster Avenue for an Italian, Ham & Cheese or other sandwich of your choice. Screpesi’s booming success can be attributed to its consistent service and the quality offered to its dedicated customers. Upon establishment in 1949, the shop featured just three cold sandwiches and one hot offering on homemade rolls. Sixty-five years later, the menu is simple and straightforward still, listing five cold sandwiches and three hot varieties. Screpesi’s meatballs are popular amongst regulars, and pizza is offered, too. “We don’t reinvent the wheel,” says owner Eddie Ostrowski, whose grandfather founded the shop. With the same rolls and renowned customer service prevailing for 65 years strong, Screpesi’s is the sandwich shop of choice in Berks. 500 Lancaster Avenue, Reading, 610.373.9913, screpesisandwichshop.com — A. Galanti

Best Lunch Spot

SAY CHEESE! RESTAURANT & CHEESE

Say Cheese! Restaurant & Cheese in West Reading is the place to go if you are looking for a great lunch spot serving up good old American comfort food like Tomato Bisque soup. It also hits the spot if you’re looking for a twist on the traditional, like the Ricotta Grilled Cheese (with strawberry, served on brioche). The repeat winner from a year ago is family owned and prides itself on giving the customers what they want. Especially popular is the lunch combo: pick two from a half-sandwich, cup of soup or half-salad. Bonus? It comes with their famous hand-cut fries! “We really listen well to the customers,” says owner Adam Cocuzza. “We have our own concept here and we drive hard; we are really honored and humbled for winning this award.” Stop by and try their most famous dish, the Smoked Salmon Mac & Cheese. It even won its own award at a mac & cheese competition! 600 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.406.5390, saycheese-restaurant.com — Richie Ricciardi

Best Sushi Spot

GO FISH! SEAFOOD & SUSHI BAR

Where’s the best place for fresh sushi in Berks? Go Fish! Seafood & Sushi Bar in West Reading! Offering specialty rolls you won’t find anywhere else, Go Fish has earned this award two years in a row. With 13 Commoner rolls, 11 Specialty rolls and eight Sashimi Nigiri items on the menu, it may be tough to decide what to order. We recommend you start with the house specialty Pagoda roll, featuring tempura shrimp and cucumber topped with eel, avocado, eel sauce and tobiko. If you’re a sushi beginner, try traditional favorites like the California roll. And be sure to look for the delicious weekly special rolls, too. “We are pretty excited about it,” says owner Heather Clark of their nod from fans. 619 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.376.6446, gofishseafood.com — Brian O’Shaughnessy

Best Place to Buy a Gift

IT’S A GIFT! WOMAN’S EXCHANGE OF READING

Want to know West Reading’s best kept secret? Then check out It’s a Gift! Woman’s Exchange of Reading, a local gift shop that sells high-quality, unique, handmade gifts from local and national artisans. From beautiful Christening gowns to delectable desserts, original pottery, glassware and more, you can find nearly anything made for gift-giving at the boutique. As first-time Best of Berks winners, volunteers at the shop were “absolutely thrilled” with the news, says Sallie Weaver. The idea of a woman’s exchange was first established in the mid-1800s, and It’s a Gift! follows the original ideal’s purpose by donating profits to nonprofit groups supporting women in need. This year’s profits benefit Berks Women in Crisis. Donating the shop’s profits is “the gift that gives twice,” says Sallie. 720 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.0960. — Courtney L. Wilson 

Best Jeweler

VAN SCOY JEWELERS

Van Scoy is not your average jewelry store. It’s not a store where the commission is the only thing that matters. It’s a place that helps create memories and that treats its customers like members of its own family. With more than 220 combined years of experience from the staff members at Van Scoy, you’re sure to engage with an educated employee when visiting the area’s “premier diamond store.” The newest member of the Van Scoy team, a designer named Csaba, explains, “I have never worked with a more knowledgeable team.” Csaba’s addition has added new services to the Van Scoy repertoire, too, including additional repairs and engraving services. Why choose Van Scoy? For a special piece, crafted by experienced and educated people who care, for your special someone at a price you can afford. 2733 Papermill Rd., Ste. 3, Wyomissing, 610.374.9330, vanscoy. com — Alec Carr

Best Florist

STEIN'S FLOWERS INC.

Looking for a picture-perfect flower arrangement for that special someone or occasion? Stein’s Flowers is the place. This quaint flower shop in Shillington, known as “Berks County’s Friendliest Flower Shop” has a unique way of making your arrangement just right for you. Stein’s Flowers gives your bouquet a more personal touch by adding not just sweet-smelling flowers from Colombia, South America, Canada and California to your arrangement, but also items that represent your personality or occasion. Stein’s Flowers thrives on customer service and giving people more than they expect. “What people want is good value. We go above and beyond for people, especially if they have a budget; we’ll make things happen for them,” says Amy Muckey, owner of Stein’s Flowers. If you are looking for something more than flowers, Stein’s can do it! They also offer fruit, snacks, dish gardens and seasonal plants to accompany your arrangement. 32 State St., Shillington, 610.775.0430, steinsflowersinc.com — Meg Francescangeli

Best Car Dealership

FREEDOM AUTO GROUP

Freedom Auto Group in Hamburg is not your typical car dealership, and Eric Savage is not your typical car dealership owner. When you walk into his office you’re greeted by a bunch of words and sentences written on his walls. The biggest one to stand out? “We’re in the life improvement business.” In the year since their last Best of Berks win, Freedom has continued to impart the life improvement motto to its employees, who enjoy partnerships with area nonprofit groups like the Animal Rescue League of Berks County and more. Freedom also prides itself on service beyond the sale, offering the Freedom Four Package to its customers. The package includes free lifetime state inspections, car washes, loaner cars and drop-off and pick-up service (up to 30 miles). This unique mindset and service is what sets Freedom Auto Group apart from the competition. Savage sums it up best, saying, “At Freedom, we are different.” 41 Industrial Drive, Hamburg, 484.665.0130, freedomautogroup.com — Joshua Smith 

Best Clothing Boutique

BELLA JULES FASHION BOUTIQUE, LLC.

Why travel to New York City for that unique clothing find or perfect fashion accessory when you can find it at Bella Jules Fashion Boutique, LLC, on Penn Avenue in West Reading? This boutique is the go-to spot for high school girls in search of that stand-out prom dress from quality lines like Jovani, Sherri Hill, La Femme, Alyce, Terani, Faviana and Dave & Johnny. But Bella Jules isn’t just about prom season, or just for teens. The boutique carries items the stylish woman just won’t find anywhere else, including fringe capes and cardigans, vegan leather jackets, the famous Lisette pant, and high-quality boots. The clothing is not only unique but budget friendly. Clueless about trends or current styles? No worries. Owner Juli Cleaver will help you look your best. After all, says Cleaver, “My favorite thing is to see customers feeling good and happy in what they find.” 700 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.208.0600, bellajulesboutique.com — Zulynette Santiago

Best Salon

HAIR ON THE AVENUE

Personalization and exceeding expectations makes Hair On The Avenue an 11-time Best of Berks winner. “It is beyond the realm of comprehension and an honor to be voted ‘best’ 11 years in a row,” says salon co-owner Dave Meas. The team at Hair On The Avenue specializes in listening to guests’ needs. They provide customized consultations so you can achieve a flawless end result. “Every one of our employees cares about you. We want you to feel your very best,” assures Debbie Meas, co-owner and hair design artist. The 25-member team of qualified professionals is focused on and committed to your complete image and total satisfaction when it comes to hair, nail and skin care services. Hair On The Avenue also provides customized hair and wig options in an intimate setting so you can retain your confidence during your difficult health diagnoses. Visit for yourself and see why they are Berks’ Best. 3459 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.927.3772, hotasalon.com — Samantha Dix

Best Mani/Pedi Place

HAIR ON THE AVENUE

It’s time to give your nails, hands and feet the TLC they deserve! Attention to detail and exceptional customer service is what makes first-time winners of Best Mani/Pedi Place, Hair On The Avenue, the Best of Berks. “Our dedication to customer service puts us on top,” says Sondi Rodgers, Nail Department Manager and Master Nail Designer. Sondi and her nail team provide top-of-the-line products, such as OPI’s GelColor polish, so you can put your best foot or hand forward. Nail services at Hair On The Avenue include basic and special seasonal manicures, full sets and Brisa gels, to name a few. Pamper yourself with an exclusive Enzyme Hand Treatment, designed to rejuvenate skin and give a youthful appearance to aging hands. When you need a little pampering — be it a full set, a pedicure, or simply a polish change — you’re in good hands at Hair On The Avenue. 3459 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.927.3772, hotasalon.com — Samantha Dix   

Best Cosmetic Enhancement Facility

ADVANCED SKIN CARE & LASER CENTER 

While you may see many ads for cosmetic services, you should know that Advanced Skin Care & LASER Center is unique. When visiting Dr. Harriet Comite, you get more than just a doctor; you get an expert in her field. As the region’s only Board-Certified Cosmetic Dermatologist., Dr. Comite hasn’t won Best of Berks 11 times running for no reason. Dr. Comite understands you are an individual and your skin is also unique. When you walk into her office, you’ll receive her full attention. She engages her clients in an open dialogue, and she wants to learn as much from you as you do from her. When you’re walking out she wants to know she’s exceeded the expectations of your visit. Advanced Skin Care offers Botox®, State-of the-Art Lasers, Private-Labeled Physician-Strength products and Dermal Fillers such as the new VOLUMA™ XC, which adds volume to your cheeks for lift that’s instant and long-lasting. “We never stop learning and never stop striving to improve,” promises Dr. Comite. 1260 Broadcasting Rd., Wyomissing, 610.374.1400, comiteskin.com  — Alma Anguiano

Best Spot for a Massage

BELL TOWER SALON, MEDI-SPA & STORE

Need a break from your hectic everyday life? A quiet retreat to focus on relaxation? Let the Bell Tower Salon be your serene escape. As the winner of the Best Spot for a Massage award, Bell Tower goes above and beyond to ensure an incredible experience. The talented staff receives high-end training, constantly improving and perfecting their already elite skills. A massage at the Bell Tower allows for “a mini-escape,” says Samara Stork, Brand Manager. Calling ahead allows a spa consultant to match the most appropriate massage with your needs, choosing from eight different types of massage. Be it the rejuvenating massage, the Mu-Xing therapy, or a hot rocks massage, Bell Tower Salon provides an ideal, relaxing environment. Want to give the experience to a friend or loved one? A gift card to Bell Tower is your “can’t go wrong” gift. 18 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.6379, belltowersalonspa.com — A. Galanti

Best Fitness Class

INDO-ROW AT FULL THROTTLE FITNESS FACTORY

Full Throttle Fitness Factory, celebrating its third anniversary in Shillington, throws a full-body workout at you with its Indo-Row class, with water-based rowing machines. The small group atmosphere allows for both team and individual attention. The 45-minute class at Berks County’s only licensed Indo-Row facility, includes a warmup and cool down. What you do the rest of the time is at your instructor’s discretion, and can include personal or team “races.” “The best part about it is that it fits any fitness level,” says owner Lisa Houck of the class. Older, younger, a seasoned or a first-timer rower? The class is a fun and unique way to get moving. Full Throttle helps its clients find the balance between working hard and having fun; accompanying it with a uniquely inspiring atmosphere. 31 Catherine St., Shillington, 619.334.3268, fullthrottlefitnessfactory.com — A. Galanti

Best Public Golf Course

READING COUNTRY CLUB

With an 18-hole course and a beautiful landscape, the Reading Country Club has so much to offer. Perhaps that’s why readers named it this year’s Best Public Golf Course. It was a private course from 1923-2006, but Exeter Township completed its purchase of the property in January of 2006 and opened the faciliy to the public. Outings are available for any skill level, as are lessons taught by the best instructors. Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or perfecting your swing, with a Reading Country Club pro on your side, you’ll reach your goal. Tom Morgan, head golf pro, says, “Our course conditions have led to our success. We’ve stepped it up to where we feel we can be consistent, and people know what to expect: good greens.” 5311 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, 610.779.1626, readingcountryclub.com — Ryan Weber

Best Family Fun Spot

THE WORKS

Looking for a trip out with the family that isn’t too far to travel and that provides wholesome family fun? Then you’ll want to head to The Works, a large indoor entertainment facility located in Wyomissing. The entertainment complex includes two restaurants, Slick Willy’s: a high-speed go kart track, a multi-million dollar arcade and Ballocity: a huge indoor play structure for the kiddos. “We are certainly ecstatic about this award as is it voted on by the people that we strive to entertain: the families of Berks County,” says General Manager Michael Keener. “For more than 11 years it has been our goal to provide quality food and a variety of entertainment options at an affordable price to the families in the area and beyond.” 1115 Bern Rd., Wyomissing, 610.375.2700, gearedforfun.com — Brian O’Shaughnessy

Best Fitness Center

BODY ZONE SPORTS AND WELLNESS COMPLEX

Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex has stood the test of time, this year earning its 11th win for Best Fitness Center. Body Zone offers not only a unique wellness experience, but also a wide range of sports opportunities for the entire family. The 160,000-square-foot facility hosts soccer, basketball, field hockey and volleyball leagues, just to name a few. Not interested in team sports? No problem. Body Zone provides ballet and Zumba classes, too. Technology at the complex takes the fitness experience to a whole other level with the addition of flat screen TVs and new fitness equipment. For General Manager Ted Kolva, the keys to Body Zone’s success have been “a personable atmosphere and member mentality.” Body Zone was also recently named “The Place to Learn How to Swim,” recognizing the quality of its coaches and the swimming pool itself. Want to check it out? Ask about the facility’s free 7-Day Pass program. 3103 Paper Mill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.376.2100, bodyzonesports.com — Juan Palacios 

Best Spot Celebrating the Arts

GOGGLEWORKS CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Looking for a place to unleash your creative side? Then GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in Reading is it. With classes in ceramics, drawing, painting, glassblowing, jewelry making and more, it’s perfect for the hands-on individual. What once opened 1871 as the first factory in the world to manufacture reading glasses and sunglasses, GoggleWorks has evolved into “the largest interactive arts center in the country,” says Cindy Boscov, volunteer coordinator & special events liaison. Not only does GoggleWorks play host to art workshops and 34 artist studios, but it also houses such nonprofit arts-related groups as the Berks Arts Council, organizer of the popular Berks Jazz Fest. “It’s a great place because it promotes arts education and allows everyone to express their creativity,” asserts Cindy. 201 Washington St., Reading, 610.374.4600, goggleworks.org  — Courtney L. Wilson

Best Library in Berks

​EXETER COMMUNITY LIBRARY

Residents in the Exeter Township area cherish the Exeter Community Library. From book clubs for children and adults alike to fun events like “movie nights,” it’s more than titles on a shelf. Keep up with what’s happening by visiting berks.lib.pa.us/sxt.

Best Outdoor Event

GARDEN PARTY

Offering up two days of fun on the Reading Hospital grounds, the annual Garden Party held in June of each year is loved by locals. Great food, fun activities, live entertainment and much more is offered for the Greater Reading community to enjoy. And admission is free!

Best Playground in Berks

​MAGIC IN MOHNTON PLAYGROUND 

There’s something special in Mohnton. Just ask fans of the community playground, aptly named the “Magic in Mohnton Playground,” with features for children as young as preschool-aged. Nearby recreational opportunities at the park portion abound as well. 

Best Veterinary Practice

DOUGLASSVILLE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

As with every member of the family, you want to provide the best medical care for your pets, too. At Douglassville Veterinary Hospital, that’s exactly what you get: the very best. The 17-year family-owned practice continues to grow its clientele and services every day. The practice treats a wide variety of furry and no-so-furry family members from kittens and puppies to senior and exotic animals. Dr. Geoff DeWire, one of six veterinarians, has practiced at Douglassville Veterinary Hospital for 10 years. His compassion and dedication to the animals is what pet families love about him. “I always want to learn and always want to be updated on the most recent medicine and technology,” says DeWire. As soon as you walk into Douglassville Veterinary Hospital, you get the feeling that you’re in the right place and that your pet’s care is in the best hands possible. 105 Griffith Drive, Douglassville, 610.385.4848, douglassvillepets.com — Richie Ricciardi

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Best Residential Senior Living Facility

THE HIGHLANDS AT WYOMISSING

The first thing you notice when driving up to The Highlands at Wyomissing is the beauty of the 113-acre campus in Wyomissing. It’s just one aspect of The Highlands that sets it apart from similar senior living communities. Another unique feature at The Highlands is its life care contract. This contract guarantees that seniors will continue to pay the same monthly service fee they paid for residential living (in an apartment or in a villa) if they have to move to a higher level of care. This lets residents anticipate future costs of living. “Senior adults choose The Highlands because of our 25 years of experience providing outstanding service and care,” says Jodi Gibble, Director of Marketing. Along with its 247 residential apartments, 40 villas and homes, residents of The Highlands enjoy such amenities as a fully-equipped fitness center, 500-book library, woodworking shop and more! 2000 Cambridge Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.775.2300, thehighlands.org  — Joshua Smith

Best Banking Institution

VIST

Looking for personalized banking service? Then look to Tompkins VIST Bank, with multiple locations in Berks County. President Scott Gruber says, “We are thrilled to win this award for the second consecutive year. At Tompkins VIST Bank, it has always been about doing what matters most for the customer. Best of Berks shows that our customers and our community value this commitment, which motivates us to continue delivering on our promise to deliver the best service.” Regardless of your varying banking needs, Tompkins VIST Bank is confident they can meet them – be it buying a new home, expanding a personal business, or simply talking through a tough banking decision. Don’t have time to run to the bank? Tompkins VIST Bank offers online banking, mobile check depositing and more. "Your local, mobile, remarkable community bank." 610.478.9922, vistbank.com — Meagan Harnish

Best Non-Profit Event in Berks

​BERTIE'S INN ANNUAL BELT SANDER RACE

Who doesn’t love plunking his/her buns on a belt sander and riding to the finish line – all in the name of trying for the day’s win, and more importantly supporting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society? The Bertie’s Inn annual Belt Sander Race does just that. When owners Ann and Peter Thomas bought the establishment, they knew giving back would be part of what they do. Next year will celebrate the fundraiser’s 25th year. So far, participants have accumulated a $300,000 donation to the cause. For more info and video footage, visit bertiesinn.com.

Best Downtown District in Berks

​WEST READING

West Reading is wonderful! So say our readers! The town’s Main Street Revitalization has helped the vibrant business community to thrive and flourish. Visitors can enjoy a unique brew at multiple locations, shop for top-notch fashions that include fabulous furs and designer brands, indulge a sweet tooth with tempting chocolates and creative cupcake creations, and more. The downtown also plays host to popular events like Art on the Avenue, the Fall Festival and December’s Holiday Glow Celebration. For more info visit lovewestreading.org.