Best Beer list: The Barley Mow Craft Beer House
Why should you visit The Barley Mow Craft Beer House in West Reading? Simply put: “We have an educational environment for craft beer,” says co-owner Claire Edwards. Disillusioned with their careers and filled with an enthusiasm for beer, Claire and co-owner Peter Starr envisioned and opened a craft beer mecca featuring the area’s largest selection around – 750 varieties from 100 American craft breweries. The beer names alone entice buyers to try them. Who could resist discovering the taste of “Free Will Blood Guts” or “Boulder Beer Sweaty Betty?” The Barley Mow is a full-service experience. Products are served from the tap, or by the bottle or can. Visitors can also purchase and fill growlers or crowlers to take on-tap beers home. The Barley Mow offers delivery services within a 5-mile radius of the business, too. But make sure to stop in; the relaxing and warm coffeehouse-like atmosphere has been a huge part of their success.
719 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 484.926.2094, barleymowbeer.com –Austin Kunz
Best Burger: Frank & Diannah’s Arbor Inn
Looking for a burger like no other? Head to Best of Berks winner Frank & Diannah’s Arbor Inn in St. Lawrence, where Thursdays are dedicated specifically to the beef patties with Burger Night. The Inn is known for its delicious, made-to-order burgers and certainly for its unique variety of burger creations, regarded as the best by many in Berks and beyond. One of the eatery’s most requested burgers is the peanut butter and jelly with bacon burger. Seasonal creations come in forms like the Oktoberfest Burger, topped with Munster cheese, braised red cabbage and mustard. Talk about a mouthwatering and unusual experience! Says owner Frank, “I would like to thank everyone for voting my restaurant as the best burger place in town, and thank you for your continuous support. It is truly appreciated.”
47 S. Bingaman St., St. Lawrence, 610.406.0126, facebook.com/fdarborinn – Alex S. Harris
Best Diner: Exeter Family Restaurant
Looking for a delicious meal at any time of the day or night? Look no further than Exeter Family Restaurant. It's easy to see why the 250-plus-seat restaurant has won in the Best Diner category for six consecutive years. With plenty of options to choose from, including 3-egg omelets, a Build-Your-Own Burger, home-cooked meals and soups, hand-cut steaks and a variety of seafood dishes, Exeter Family Restaurant hits the spot. For those 21 years and older, Exeter Family Restaurant offers a selection of 32 bottled beers, domestic and craft beers on tap, wines and mixed drinks. Even better? You can catch the game on one of the many large screen TVs, too. Frequent Exeter Family Restaurant visitor Sam Hart says, “When you come in here to eat, you never know what you're going to order. The variety of food and drink options rivals no other.”
4800 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, 610.370.5131, exeterfamilyrestaurant.com – Kevin MacFarland
Best Coffee Shop: Crave Cafe
Just celebrating one year in business on October 1, Crave Café owner Sonia Marchio was surprised and excited to hear the shop won its first Best of Berks award. If she had to pinpoint what garnered Crave the nod, Marchio points to the large selection of coffee, tea and baked goods offered, along with the service of friendly staff. Aside from the delicious, made-to-order cappuccinos, lattes, mochas and the like, the unique eats on Crave’s menu are made fresh daily. Crave Café offers breakfast, lunch, dinners to go, and catering services; it also serves as a spot to host small parties on Sundays. And Crave recently started offering delivery to local businesses. In the spring, Crave will add homemade ice cream and gelato to its menu. Crave Café offers a warm and cozy neighborhood-like feel upon entering. One of their daily loyal customers, David Dautrich, explains, “It’s like I’m in my own kitchen.”
4600 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 484.509.5955, cravecafe.net – Alexa Vath
Best Neighborhood Bar: Third & Spruce Café
Third & Spruce Café, home to the Buck & Shuck and a local landmark for more than 60 years, is no stranger to awards. Regarded for its beer list and friendly staff in past years, The Spruce, which it is affectionately titled by frequenters, serves up one of the best restaurant/sports bar experiences in West Reading seven days a week. With affordable prices and a diverse menu, The Spruce sells freshly shucked oysters for just a dollar every Tuesday from 4 to 8pm. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a brew and some nachos, or dinner with friends. The diverse menu offers everything from steak sandwiches to a Greek Salad or even Sesame Ahi Tuna Steak. The loft is the perfect place for parties. And in warm weather months, visitors enjoy the open-air atmosphere.
238 S. 3rd Avenue, West Reading, 610.376.5254, thirdandspruce.com – La’Key Brathwaite
Best Wings: Dino’s Wings & Things
It is sheer pandemonium in the ring, folks! Dino’s Wings & Things is the heavyweight champion of Berks County for its irresistible wings! Made from 100 percent organic chicken, Dino’s wings are a knockout, making your mouth water with every bite. Dino’s offers up to 30 succulent flavors to choose from, including Flaming Garlic, Honey Hot and the new Thai Suicide. “For the quality of what we give, the quantity of what we give, and for the price that we offer, we are the best wing place around,” says owner Dino Iaccarino. Dino’s is a trifecta with great food (which includes more than wings: think cheesesteaks and more), service and prices. Stop by Wednesday night for all-you-can-eat wing night and free refills of any drink from 4-8pm. There is no better place to kick back and wing out than at Dino’s Wings & Things!
5306 Allentown Pike #1, Temple, 610.921.9898, facebook.com/dinoswings – Rachel DeBias
Best Casual Date spot: The Knight’s Pub at Stokesay Castle
Are you and your significant other looking for a unique night out? Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head up the mountain to The Knight’s Pub at Stokesay Castle for an experience you won’t soon forget. The modern yet traditional British pub’s design allows visitors to enjoy an outdoor experience regardless of where they sit: be it by a fire pit outside or inside next to an expansive paned glass window. Each season is celebrated at The Knight’s Pub. In the summertime, the windows will be open. Come fall and winter, the menu offers up warm drinks, including classics with a twist. Be on the lookout for Happy Hour specials, the fan-favorite Lobster Mac and Cheese and half-priced bottles of wine! Visit Reading’s The Knight’s Pub for the royal treatment.
141 Stokesay Castle Lane, Reading, 610.375.6100, theknightspub.com — Mia Capizola
Best Caterer: ViVÁ Catering
Planning an event is often fun but stressful. If you want to focus on the fun and mingle with your guests, let ViVÁ Catering handle it. With the ability to serve parties of 25 to 400, ViVÁ can handle any occasion – from wedding reception, to anniversary party, to 40th birthday bash and more. Breakfast, lunch or dinner functions are possible as simple buffets or complete with white glove service. And regardless of your desired cuisine, ViVÁ will cook up something fantastic. From paninis and children’s entrees to passed hors d’ oeuvres, carving stations and delicious dessert stations, ViVÁ has you covered. Marketing Director Rachael Romig says, “We’re honored to receive this award for the second year in a row. It shows the community has noticed our growth and efforts we’ve made to give our clients the best service, food and beverage and overall experience.”
200 N. Park Rd., Wyomissing, 610.685.3900, ext. 400, vivacatering.com – Kari Keller
Best BBQ Spot: Muddy’s Smokehouse BBQ
Muddy’s Smokehouse BBQ is the place to be if you’re hungry for some finger-licking good barbeque. The small mom and pop operation has a personal touch. Everything is made from scratch, paying particular attention to detail and quality, with only the best ingredients purchased. The menu items at Muddy’s are so well loved, it’s hard to say which are favorites, but they might be the Texas-style beef brisket, the smoked chicken, or the chef-inspired daily specials. One thing is for sure: Muddy’s ribs set them apart from the rest. If you like spicy, try their habanero barbeque sauce; it is owner and head chef Dave Reynolds’ favorite. Have an event coming up? Muddy’s caters, too! Says Reynolds, “Muddy's is dedicated to serving the finest southern style food in Berks County!”
574 Oley Rd., Oley, 484.491.1252 or for catering 610.463.5261, muddysbbq.com – Mikaileigh S. Baker
Best Sushi Spot: Go Fish! Seafood & Sushi Bar
Go SEE your food prepared fresh at Go Fish! Seafood & Sushi Bar on Penn Avenue in West Reading. Part seafood market, part sushi bar, part cafe, Go Fish provides customers with quality seafood and peace of mind in knowing that the fish the market sources live naturally and free of harmful chemicals. “Our fish are sustainable,” says owner Heather Clark. With a variety of sushi menu items made to order including the classic California roll; their specialty Monkey roll; the Real Crab, Avocado & Cucumber BBQ Bombshell; and their new not-to-be-missed item Dragon Balls, it’s no wonder they’ve been chosen for the third year in a row as Best Sushi Spot. Go Fish also offers favorites like sashimi and nigiri in addition to soups, salads, sandwiches and entrees for lunch and dinner.
619 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.376.6446, gofishseafood.com – Thinh Cao
Best Lunch Spot: Café Sweet Street
When you pull into the parking lot at Café Sweet Street, you are immediately greeted by the scent of the delectable desserts the business has become synonymous with; but if that is all you are going for, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Perched atop a former section of the Reading Railroad, Café Sweet Street offers a cozy indoor dining atmosphere, as well as a modern outdoor patio, a special spot in warmer weather months. A fast casual lunch destination, the first time Best of Berks winner offers a wide variety of made-to-order lunch items, including their world-famous French fries, locally sourced burgers, and grandmother-approved chicken noodle soup. “It all comes down to the food,” says Chef Brendan Jones. The café was originally founded as a lunch stop for employees, but Jones says customers are now coming from all over for a delicious meal. He asserts, “We were the best-kept secret for a long time, but we aren’t a secret anymore.”
722 Hiesters Lane, Reading, 610.929.0616, cafesweetstreet.com – Marisa M. Lombardo
Best Upscale Dining Experience: Dans at Green Hills
Take a vacation from the traditional Berks County scene without ever having to leave the county limits. At Dans at Green Hills, make your evening memorable by enjoying contemporary American cuisine with a French influence, offering a superior menu and excellent service. Fine dining comes easy to the staff of the now renovated, 200-year-old Green Hills Inn. "Our goal at Dans is to be totally focused on the entire customer experience," says owner Bill Woolworth. The staff’s ability to “wow” customers with upgraded products and refined service has not gone unnoticed. In four private dining rooms and a new upscale bar, guests can enjoy a perfect evening of sophistication and charm. Make sure to stop by the newly constructed patio to see beautiful holiday decorations before you celebrate on New Year’s Eve.
2444 Morgantown Rd., Reading, 610.777.9611, dansatgreenhills.com – Shannon Homa
Best Pizza: Bruno's Pizza Ristorante Italiano
Who doesn’t love a piping hot, ooey, gooey, saucy slice of pizza? If you want the best of the best, head to Bruno’s Pizza Ristorante Italiano in Exeter, your 2015 Best of Berks winner for Best Pizza. Known for delicious traditional and Sicilian pies, Bruno’s cooks up unique pizzas like their Tomato Pie, Chicago Deep Dish (upside down), and even stuffed varieties in flavors like Baked Ziti and Italian Hoagie. The eatery isn’t new to awards. In fact, Bruno’s earned Best of Berks honors in 2004 and 2008, and the slices cooked up at Bruno’s continue to keep customers – and their stomachs – happy. Employee David Brooks says, “We’ve been doing it since 1971, and we haven’t changed anything. We use the best products available.” Take advantage of their daily deal of two large round cheese pizzas for $18.99!
4340 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, 610.779.4443 or look them up on Facebook! – Tara Gouldey
Best Happy Hour Spot: ViVÁ Bistro & Lounge
Boasting a daily two-hour happy hour complete with $5 bar-fresh drinks in an intimate setting with live music Wednesday through Saturday, it’s no wonder ViVÁ is the place to be for the happiest of hours! ViVÁ Bistro & Lounge makes sure to pull out all the stops when it comes to Happy Hour, offering everything from an amazing atmosphere to drink deals including $2 select-draft beers and $4.50 house wines. Marketing Director of ViVÁ Rachael Romig says the company only wants one thing for their customers and that is “to ensure each guest becomes a 'raving fan' through their experience with us.” ViVÁ lovers, can’t get enough? ViVÁ is now expanding its business by opening a new restaurant at the Reading Country Club, the ViVÁ Castle Pub, to spread the “raving fan” experience! ViVÁ will have you counting down the minutes to happy hour every day!
901 Hill Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.685.5299, vivagoodlife.com — Monica Echeverri
Best Outdoor Dining Spot: Jimmy G’s Beverly Hills Tavern
Berks County has found its “lost shaker of salt” with Jimmy G’s Beverly Hills Tavern, a two-time winner in the Best Outdoor Dining Spot category. Offering up sand dunes, pails and shovel for the kids, and an abundance of beer and cocktail selections for the adults at the cabana bar, Beverly Hills Tavern is surely the perfect spot to enjoy the weather and an even better dining experience, serving sandwiches, burgers, salads, and entrees. Fridays are especially festive, with the 50/50/50 Happy Hour featuring 50 cent wings, shrimp and clams, as well as $1.50 drafts from 4-7pm. Don’t let the winter weather drive you away from experiencing this Margaritaville; the beach bar is heated so you can enjoy it year-around. And if you haven’t visited recently, get out to try your hand at Monster Pong, a life-size version of beer pong. How fun!
Located at 710 Old Fritztown Rd., Sinking Spring, 610.777.4516, beverlyhillstavern.biz — Ryan Shannon
Best Salon & Spa: Lords & Ladies Salon and Medical Spa
Tired of the same old hairstyle? Lords & Ladies Salon and Medical Spa is the place for you. The Salon stands apart from others because of the educational opportunities afforded to the stylists working there, not to mention an elegant and comfortable environment for customers to enjoy. Lords & Ladies prides itself on the education provided to its stylists. The company sends 14 educators around the world each year to locations like Madrid, Milan and Berlin, enabling them to learn new techniques and styles to incorporate into their repertoire and pass along to fellow stylists at home. Lords & Ladies is also the #1 L’Oréal salon in the United States. CEO and Founder Terry Derr says, “It is a well-oiled machine, and it is just a matter of keeping it tuned. It is all about the client.” With seven locations, there is sure to be a salon nearby with stylists eager to give you a complete spa experience.
Douglassville, Exeter, Fleetwood, Gilbertsville, Perkiomenville, Pottstown & Sinking Spring locations. llsalons.com – Alysse Caparoni
Best Place for a Facial: Bell Tower Salon, Spa & Store
Beautiful skin starts with a facial at the Bell Tower Salon in Wyomissing. The quality of the facility’s products as well as the techniques used set the salon apart from any other. The spa menu is constantly changing, allowing for fresh, new experiences. Brand Manager Samara Stork explains that each luxury facial “will always be customized to your skin type.” Two fan favorites are the BT Custom Facial, a relaxing and reviving treatment that cleanses and exfoliates, and The Superfacial, your basic facial service with an added microdermabrasion treatment, peel and cooling masque. For more detailed information about each facial and to book your future appointment, visit Bell Tower’s website or call for a complimentary consultation with an aesthetician to see which service would be best suited for your skin type.
18 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing 610.372.6379, belltowersalonspa.com — Mia Capizola
Best Mani/Pedi Place: Hair On The Avenue
Hair On The Avenue “nails” it when it comes to the mani/pedi business. Providing a unique experience at the hands of its reputable staff of artists, and consistent work ethic, it’s no surprise Hair On The Avenue is a fan-favorite in Berks County. Owners Dave and Debbie Meas believe that working as “a team of qualified professionals focused and committed to your complete image and total satisfaction” is the reason for the Sinking Spring salon’s continued success in the community. They also share their committed mindset by giving back to the community that has supported them on their journey. Along with their highly recommended seasonal manicures and pedicures, gel nail polish treatments, unique nail art and more, Hair On The Avenue also offers free consultations for those looking for sleek nails for a special occasion.
3459 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.927.3772, hotasalon.com — Monica Echeverri
Best Car Dealership: Tom Masano Auto Group
Tom Masano Auto Group is a family owned company that will make sure you get from point A to point B in a beautiful luxury car, be it a Mercedes, BMW, Lincoln, or even a budget-friendly, reliable brand like Mazda, Ford or Mitsubishi. John and Bruce Masano are cousins with one goal in mind: keeping their clients and co-workers happy. Their recent purchase of the old Baldwin Hardware Facility in southwest Reading is a large project the business owners are looking forward to working on within the coming five years. It will bring in many more business opportunities, say the Masanos. This state-of-the-art auto park will be THE place to go to purchase your next car, they assert. “It is a great time to be involved with an auto group and a great time to be expanding our business,” John says.
Various locations in Berks, 877.866.6272, tommasano.com – Elizabeth Phillips
Best Florist: Stein’s Flowers Inc.
Fresh flower arrangements personally designed to your liking is what Stein’s Flowers Inc. is all about. It was owned by Harry Stein for 45 years, but Amy Muckey continued the tradition after taking over in 1992. After two previous Best of Berks wins, Stein’s continues to shine with brilliant customer service and a family atmosphere. It’s no wonder it’s considered “Berks County’s Friendliest Flower Shop!” Personalized to your needs, floral arrangements are designed according to your preferences, and no two arrangements are the same. In addition to flowers, Stein’s offers a variety of snack and fruit baskets as well as wedding and funeral arrangements. Be assured that when you work with Stein’s, the business goes above and beyond. “Each customer is treated like family,” says Amy. “It’s an honor to serve this community and give back.”
32 State St., Shillington, 610.775.0430, steinsflowersinc.com – Xena Sperrazza
Best Clothing Boutique: Bella Jules Fashion Boutique, LLC.
On Penn Avenue in beautifully quaint West Reading, fashionistas can discover unique yet affordable high-end clothing at Bella Jules Fashion Boutique, a now 10-time Best of Berks winner for Best Clothing Boutique. Owner Juli Cleaver says she’s incredibly thankful for how far her small business has come, all thanks to her faithful customers. “My customers want to find things that are different than what is in their closet, and it’s satisfying knowing that I can help with that,” she explains. This year, fringe is a major staple piece, as are vests – both of which can be found at Bella Jules, of course! Since 2005, Bella Jules Fashion Boutique has been THE hot spot for professionals, young adults and teens heading to prom to do their shopping. Stop by for style that won’t break the bank.
700 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.208.0600, bellajulesboutique.com – Sarah Hamory
Best Jewelry Store: Gipprich Jewelers Inc.
Customers visiting Gipprich Jewelers Inc. in Shillington can expect personalized service before, during and long after the sale. Celebrating their 70th anniversary this year, the business, a “legend in customer satisfaction since 1945,” is regarded for its excellent customer service. The business is now in its third generation of family ownership, with brother and sister duo Richard and Amy Gipprich at the helm. They, along with the Gipprich team, strive to get to know each customer, and the customers get to know them as well. “Our goal is to make all of our customers happy,” says Richard. “We’re the same family, and we have been here for 70 years, and we are still trying to do the best job we possibly can.” Visit Gipprich Jewelers for wedding and engagement jewelry, fine watches, unique fingerprint jewelry and more.
103 W. Lancaster Avenue, Shillington, 610.777.7034, gipprich.com – Marisa M. Lombardo
Best Place to Buy a Gift: It’s a Gift! Woman’s Exchange of Reading
It’s a Gift! Woman’s Exchange of Reading is a winner two years running for its unique gift selection. Sallie Weaver describes the It’s a Gift customer as a “shopper with a different purpose and experience.” The nonprofit divergent store nurtures a unique environment. Upon arrival, enthusiastic volunteers assist visitors in finding the precise gift for that special someone in their life. Customers can choose from a variety of local, artisan-crafted products, as well as fabulous handbags, gorgeous scarves, soothing bath and body products and more. And while shopping they’re helping people at the same time. The store’s profits benefit women-centered nonprofit organizations. This year, a donation will be made to Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks. Visit the cozy store and leave with both your purchase and your investment in improving lives.
720 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.0960, ITSAGIFT.ORG. – Heilyn Perez-Guererro
Best Yoga or Pilates Studio: Linda’s Power/Bldg. 7 Yoga
Where are abs made? IN THE KITCHEN! Intrigued? Come to Linda’s Power Yoga to find out more. Linda’s Power Yoga, which has expanded to what's now known as Bldg. 7 Yoga, teaches those practicing it that yoga is not about losing weight and looking good, but is about feeling better about yourself. This community atmosphere strives to build close relationships. “Who your teachers are makes all the difference,” says Linda. “We are real people. We don’t pretend to be someone we’re not. All walks of life are here teaching.” With easily relatable teachers at hand, the Linda’s Power Yoga experience is based on comfort and creating a sense of inner piece within yourself. With three distinct rooms – the hot room, the earth room, and the indo row room – your yoga experience will never be the same.
220 North Park Rd., BLDG. 7, Wyomissing, 484.755.5705, lindaspoweryoga.com – Meg Francescangeli
Best Gym For a Work Out: Colonial Fitness
For more than 30 years, Colonial Fitness has been providing health and fitness services to Berks County for all ages and abilities. With varied fitness services open year-round, and seven days a week, a supportive approach, and an emphasis on excellent customer service, it makes sense that they were chosen as the Best Gym for a Work Out. General Manager Rebecca Olson says, “Colonial Fitness makes sure that members’ health and fitness needs are met and they get results.” And that’s exactly what members want. In addition to group fitness classes, fitness strength training and personal training, yoga, massage therapy and steam rooms at its Sinking Spring location, racquetball, wallyball and handball take center stage. And its Flying Hills location boasts massage therapy to soothe tired, achy muscles, too. Parents looking to get in a work out will enjoy taking advantage of the child activity centers. Colonial Fitness is remodeling and updating its look and operations which will bring even more to its members.
172 Shillington Rd., Sinking Spring, 610.777.7801, chbsports.com – Danny Flanagan
Best Local Spot Celebrating the Arts: GoggleWorks Center for the Arts
You could say the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is the driving force behind the revitalization of Reading. Seeing more than 200,000 visitors annually, the GoggleWorks offers a variety of programs fostering creativity, promoting education, and enriching the community. It is one of the largest multi-use community arts facilities in the country and includes galleries, dance and music studios, a 131-seat film theatre, and 34 artist studios. Additionally, a free after school program is offered, serving 300 Reading students annually. In mid-October, 135 art teachers were invited to the 2015 Berks County Art Teachers In-Service Day Retreat, the largest in its history. “GoggleWorks continues to value this type of recognition of our relevance and unique vitality within the arts and culture of Berks County. In celebration of our 10th anniversary," says Phil Walz, executive director, "we thank all of our art partners in-house, and within our local community, for their collaboration and shared vision of bringing the City of Reading to life with the arts."
201 Washington St., Reading, 610.374.4600, goggleworks.org – Xena Sperrazza
Best Local Place to Take the Kids: The Works
Are your kids bored? At a loss for where to take them? It’s easy; head to The Works in Wyomissing! Considered the best indoor family entertainment facility in the county, the entertainment complex boasts three major attractions the kids will enjoy for hours: Ballocity, Slick Willy’s, and the game room. The more than $1 million game room was the original attraction. Ballocity, which came next, is a gigantic indoor playground (think extremely cool ball pit). Slick Willy’s, the latest addition to the complex, combines a unique indoor track with extremely high-performance go-karts. Birthday parties are a huge hit thanks to the facility’s party coordinator and servers striving to make each event special. General Manager Mike Keener says, “We are extremely appreciative of this award and our entire staff who work hard to bring you 125,000 square feet of fun.” With its many activities and top-notch service, it is no wonder The Works received the Best of Berks nod.
1109 Bern Rd., Wyomissing, 610.375.2700, workswyomissing.com – Mikaileigh S. Baker
Best Summer Camp: South Mountain YMCA
There’s no time for boredom during summer vacation at South Mountain YMCA Camps. Offering recreational and educational programs for more than 60 years, this YMCA Camp and Conference Center encourages visitors to focus on service, stewardship and self-discovery. From riding horses to rock climbing, campers ranging in age from elementary to high school will get a fun and challenging camping experience unlike anything else in Berks. What better place for kids to spend their three months out of school! With an emphasis on personal leadership, respect and responsibility, this camp invites individuals to find their voices and engage their communities. Want to help fund a South Mountain YMCA summer camp experience for a child who might not normally be able to afford it? Check out their Reach Out for Youth Campaign by visiting online and clicking the “donate” tab. “We would like to say ‘thank you’ to our camper families who are all a part of our South Mountain YMCA family,” says Nathan Brant, CEO.
201 Cushion Peak Rd., Wernersville, 610.670.2267, smymca.org – Shannon Homa
Best Public Golf Course: Reading Country Club
The Reading Country Club, the golf course with a castle on the hill, may be just the place you are looking for if you want an enjoyable yet challenging experience with 18 holes that may make you work for your score. The spacious 125-acre club has come a long way from the private facility it started out as in 1923, with just 9 holes laid out by architect Alexander Findlay. Today, the Reading Country Club staff takes great pride in the course, displayed in the beautifully maintained grounds, and has exciting plans in the works for current and future players. This year, the club is proud to announce the opening of the ViVÁ Castle Pub. Tom Morgan, head golf professional, says he is “looking forward to working with ViVÁ Catering to make the golf experience more pleasurable for everybody.”
5311 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, 610.779.1626, readingcountryclub.com – Kari Keller
Best Pet Groomer: Tails A’ Waggin’
If your dog’s tail just can’t stop wagging when you pull up to the groomer’s parking lot, it may be because they are at Tails A’ Waggin, celebrating more than 15 years in business for a reason. With six groomers and two bathers on staff, the crew takes great responsibility in caring for furry family members. The goal is to make visits a pleasant experience for both the pet(s) and the owner. The staff strives for a, “Happy place with happy people,” says owner Cindy Smith. The groomers work to build a bond with the pets they serve, cat or dog. Tails A’ Waggin’ will never turn any customer away; the staff is willing to handle any situation. The staff enjoys working each day and embraces a team atmosphere, helping each other when needed. By taking grooming seriously, the Tails A’ Waggin’ staff hopes to earn clients’ trust when leaving beloved pets in their hands.
2321 Penn Avenue, West Lawn, 610.678.9446, tailsawagginpa.net – Alexa Vath
Best Landscaping Company: Spayd’s
Think landscaping is just installing trees and shrubs? Spayd’s, enhancing outdoor living for more than 35 years, will make you think again. Offering services like 3D realistic landscape design, outdoor kitchen installation, fireplace installation, lighting, masonry, irrigation and pool patio construction, Spayd’s makes it easy to enhance your outdoor living space. “We have an extremely talented group of employees that take a lot of pride in building a quality and unique project and work very hard to satisfy our clients,” says Mike Spayd. Through quality design and top-notch customer service, your yard will be transformed into a haven of relaxation. And if you’re looking to keep your outdoor space in tip-top shape, Spayd's has you covered with landscape maintenance plans. Who needs to leave Berks when you can call on Spayd's to install paradise right outside your door?
3225 Pricetown Rd., Fleetwood, 610.929.2026, spayds.com – Shannon Homa
Best Veterinary Practice: Douglassville Veterinary Hospital
Douglassville Veterinary Hospital is a family-owned veterinary hospital which strives to provide patients with the highest quality medical and surgical care. In addition to state of the art medical equipment, the entire staff’s dedication to each patient is what sets Douglassville Veterinary Hospital apart. It is this philosophy of care which inspired Dr. JoAnn DeWire to open the hospital 18 years ago and continues to this day. Dr. DeWire, along with her son Dr. Geoff DeWire, lead a team of doctors and staff members who exemplify commitment and compassion to their clients and patients. “Every day, we feel honored that our clients have chosen us to care for their pets. We are proud to serve our community and privileged to be able to help so many patients, “ says Dr. DeWire.
105 Griffith Drive, Douglassville, 610.385.4848, douglassvillepets.com – Elizabeth Phillips
Best Banking Facility: Customers Bank
Looking for a bank with a high-tech, high-touch approach? Customers Bank focuses on providing the tools and resources its customers need to better manage their finances, from the latest technology to access to a local team member 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. Because of its commitment to customer service, Customers has grown one customer at a time from a $350,000-asset bank in 2009 to a $7.6 billion-asset bank today. Customers recently formed a division called BankMobile, the first fee-free, branch-free bank in the country that empowers customers to bank whenever and wherever they want using the BankMobile App. Says CEO Jay Sidhu, “We are honored for this recognition. But even more important, I would like to extend a special thank you to all our customers. The fact is, the growth we have experienced could not have happened unless we earned their trust and support. I would like to say to each one of them – ‘we couldn’t have done this without you.”’
1001 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing, 484.334.4224, customersbank.com – Haley Harrington
Best Residential Senior Living Facility: The Highlands at Wyomissing
Nestled on 113 acres of picturesque land, The Highlands at Wyomissing is a truly remarkable retirement destination offering several living options (think villas and apartments) for its residents and expertly designed to provide convenience and elegance. The vision of The Highlands at Wyomissing is that their community sets the standard of excellence in retirement living. The community’s staff members provide an exceptional quality of life, security and value to residents. Residents have everything they need for a fulfilling life on the resort, including casual and formal dining options, numerous social events, an abundance of health and wellness activities, and proximity to everything great Berks County has to offer. They offer “maintenance-free lifestyle choices that allows residents to do what they want to do,” says Jodi Gibble, Director of Marketing. At The Highlands, life is just beginning!
2000 Cambridge Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.775.2300, thehighlands.org – John T. Robinson
Best Lasik Surgery Facility: Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania, PC
Tired of wearing glasses or contacts? Then you just might want to visit the experts at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania, this year’s Best of Berks winner for Best Lasik Surgery Facility. The staff is devoted to improving patients’ vision by performing Lasik surgery using the latest technology. Dr. Jonathan D. Primack says, “The surgery is very elegant and microscopic, and I love the attention to detail.” The facility is patient-centric, or as Dr. Adam J. Altman simply puts, “The patients know we’re their advocates.” The two are the area’s only Board-Certified and Corneal Fellowship-Trained LASIK specialists and are the most experienced in Berks County with Bladeless Custom Lasik, which they perform in their on-site laser suite. Together they work to ensure patients get the best possible results. So if you’re ready to see the world in a new light, Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania is the place to go.
1 Granite Point Drive, Ste. 100, Wyomissing, 610.378.1344, eyeconsultantsofpa.com – Heilyn Perez-Guerrero
photos by heidi reuter
