Say Cheese!
Best Place to Meet for Lunch
If you're a cheese lover with cheese-loving friends and you're looking for a great lunch spot, head to Say Cheese! in West Reading. There’s no better place to enjoy lunch than on the bustling avenue, be it outside on a warm day or in one of the beautiful interior bay windows during cooler temperatures. Weekly specials are offered throughout the year, featuring seasonal produce. One of the most popular items on the lunch menu is “the combo.” Featuring your choice of a small soup or sandwich paired with a salad topped with fresh-shaved parmesan cheese, it really hits the spot. Owner Theresa Cocuzza says “good food and a comfortable atmosphere” is what the Say Cheese! team works to provide each and every guest. And here’s a tip: if you’re having a hard time choosing your lunch, starting off with a cheese plate is always a good idea. 600 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.406.5390, saycheese-restaurant.com — Dania Cabello
Chatty Monks Brewing Company
Best Local Brewery
Bored with the same old beer? Want to try something new? Chatty Monks Brewing Company is the spot to chew, chant and chill. Eight original brews are always on tap, featuring a rotation of 180 recipes that respect Belgian brewing techniques and use home-grown hops and in-house yeasts. Every month, new creations are added to the ever-growing list. One such new brew is Nothing Gose As Planned, a peach sour ale. Rob Metzger, visionary and assistant brewer, says, “That is part of the ingenuity in the craft beer market; you have to keep coming up with new stuff to change it.” While enjoying a brew or two, try one of the eats on the menu too, like candied bacon, fried pickles or the chipotle BBQ “Flying Monkey” wings. For those in a rush, Chatty Monks offers two different sized growlers and 32-ounce crowlers for you to take on the go. 610 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 484.818.0176, chattymonks.com — Connor Gajewski
Bldg. 7 Yoga
Best Yoga or Pilates Studio
Perhaps it’s their philosophy that visitors at Bldg. 7 Yoga love. “Yoga is not about ‘touching’ your toes – that’s what happens along the way, while uncovering yourself from the shield or persona we have all learned to hide behind. [At Bldg. 7 Yoga] your body will transform; you will change destructive patterns; your mind will be infused with life; your relationships will be truer, deeper, and more fulfilling,” explains owner Linda Zogas. Sign us up! Voters may tell you diversity and a holistic approach set Bldg. 7 apart. Clients can choose different yoga modalities on different days, depending on their mood. They can purchase monthly memberships and beyond or pay by the class. And Bldg. 7 goes beyond yoga too, offering massage therapy, energy healing, reflexology, meditation and other fitness class options, including rowing and trx. It’s no wonder they’ve won in their category for three years running. 220 North Park Rd., BLDG. 7, Wyomissing, 484.797.3617, bldg7yoga.com — Jillian Baker
Folino Estate
Best Local Winery
Imagine enjoying a refreshing glass of wine paired with a delectable pasta dish overlooking a breathtaking vineyard. Naples? Piedmont? Tuscany? It’s closer than that – in Kutztown! It all starts as soon as you arrive at Folino Estate and admire the architecture. The immaculate villa-style building gels with the Folino family’s Italian roots. Folino Estate offers approximately 20 wine varieties, specializing in dry wine that pairs well with Italian dishes. “We offer such an experience beyond wine tasting. By offering a restaurant with our winery, it allows people to fully experience the wine with a traditional Italian dish,” says owner Andrea Folino. So the next time you are looking for a new favorite wine or a location for an event, Folino Estate has the perfect selection and setting. There is always something to do on site, even if you don’t drink wine, so be sure to visit their website to see the lineup of weekly events! 340 Old Route 22, Kutztown, 484.452.3633, folinoestate.com — Alyssa Keifer
Sweet Ride Ice Cream Parlor & Soda Fountain
Best Place for Ice Cream or Fro-Yo
Calling all ice cream lovers! If you enjoy the frozen stuff, get to Sweet Ride Ice Cream Parlor & Soda Fountain in West Reading for an award-winning treat. This old-fashioned themed parlor makes you feel right at home with its delightful staff and homey environment. Sweet Ride features a 1946 soda fountain and offers more than 40 assorted flavors of super premium ice cream, including: Graham Slam, Dusty Road Sundae, Raspberry Cheesecake, Egg Nog and much more. Can’t decide which to choose? Try an ice cream flight! They even sell dairy-free and sugar-free options, gluten-free cones, and can sprinkle on an endless amount of different toppings. They also have an ice cream cart that can be rented out for special events. Owner Angie Farrell says, “The important thing I want customers to experience is being together, being happy and enjoying the ice cream when at Sweet Ride.” So, sit back and relax while your taste buds enjoy a sweet ride! 542 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 484.987.7338, sweetrideicecream.com — Victoria Kocher
Manor Golf Club
Best Public Golf Course
The sun is shining; the birds are chirping…it’s the perfect day to head out for a round of golf! Where to? Check out two-year-running Best of Berks winner, Manor Golf Club. With finely manicured greens and a uniquely challenging 18-hole course, Manor is great for all ages and skill levels. In fact, the club partners with the First Tee Program, getting children out on the course to learn the game of golf in a hands-on way. Manor Golf Club is unusual in that it is built on a mountain, with six holes having blind approaches. For those looking to improve their game or just get started, Manor offers clinics and lessons. Perhaps owner and director Cheryl Heckman sums it up best: “You don’t need to be really good in order to enjoy the game of golf.” Get out there, tee it up high and watch it fly at Manor Golf Club. 153 Bran Rd., Sinking Spring, 610.678.9597, themanorgolfclub.com — Patrick J. Herbert
Wyomissing Hair Studio
Best Hair Salon
Switching up your hairstyle? Located on Penn Avenue, first-time Best of Berks winner Wyomissing Hair Studio goes beyond just cutting and coloring: the staff performs hair architecture. Guests of the salon are immediately welcomed upon entering and are offered a drink to enjoy as part of the experience. After all, the overall experience is important to owner Cari Nelson and the staff of architects. It’s in the “art of making people comfortable” and building relationships, explains Cari. Salon services include cuts, dimensional coloring, hair extensions and more. Staff members receive ongoing training with coaching and mentoring, ensuring they are up on the newest styles and techniques. The product line at Wyomissing Hair Studio is also selected with care and includes organic options. Says one client, “Wyomissing Hair Studio has it right. The stylists that have helped me are top-notch, and I leave happy with the way I look every time.” 948 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.375.8882, wyomissinghairstudio.com — Dania Cabello
Murphy Jewelers
Best Jewelry Store
Looking for the finest of fine jewelry? An amazing accessory? An incredible store setting? You’ll find it at Murphy Jewelers in Hamburg with engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and more that will WOW both men and women. Founded in 1913, family-owned Murphy Jewelers is currently operated by its president, Patrick Murphy, the grandson of the business founder. Explains Patrick of the Murphy’s experience, “We don’t just sell jewelry; we stand behind it. We’re proud to have three full-time jewelers on our team who specialize in repairs and custom design on the premises. We are starting to become known as a bridal destination in Berks County. Some of our most popular products are engagement rings.” Murphy Jewelers carries top, world-renowned designer brands, including Gabriel & Co., Tacori, Rolex, John Hardy and Hearts on Fire. Want to purchase him or her a jaw-dropping gift? Head to Murphy Jewelers. You won’t be disappointed. 16 Jetson Drive, Hamburg, 610.562.2528, murphyjewelers.com — Timothy Toney
Twin Valley Coffee
Best Cup of Coffee
As you approach Twin Valley Coffee’s charming little gazebo in Elverson, you are immediately awestruck by the picturesque location and layout. The strong aroma of freshly brewed international coffee lures you to enter, though. The smell alone is enough to make your mouth water before you can even decide what to order. At Twin Valley Coffee, LLC, a family-owned business, you are guaranteed a great cup of coffee every time. Lynn Burkholder, co-owner, says to customers as they try their cold brew for the first time, “your life is about to change.” And she’s right. Average coffee is no longer acceptable because Twin Valley’s cup of coffee is so much smoother and cleaner thanks to the air roasting process they use to make every cup. You are sure to leave asking yourself, “Why didn’t I try this sooner?” Good news! You can even enjoy Twin Valley Coffee in the comfort of your own home by ordering it from their online store. 4043 Main St., Elverson, 610.286.6500, twinvalleycoffee.com — Alyssa Keifer
Wyomissing Restaurant and Bakery
Best Diner
Wyomissing Restaurant and Bakery, a first-time Best of Berks winner, combines simple, wholesome food with excellent service and an overall welcoming atmosphere. Upon entering the diner, the first thing you notice is the enormity of the place. It’s no wonder that they make more than 6,000 meals a week! “We don’t want to keep up with the Joneses. We are who we are. We take pride in Berks County,” says owner Hamid Chaudry. With a wide array of breakfast foods, delicious lunch options, delectable dinner choices (like house specialty Hamid’s Pot Roast or fried chicken fans rave about), and a myriad of desserts from their bakery, Wyomissing Restaurant and Bakery is sure to please every visiting palate. Visit and enjoy the buffet or order off the menu. The new ownership takes such pride in its baked goods that “Bakery” was added to the establishment’s name. That alone should tell you something. 1245 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.373.3353, wyomissingrestaurantandbakery.com — Spencer Matthews
Customers Bank
Best Financial Institution
Looking for a bank that’s all about you? After all, our Best of Berks winner is called Customers Bank for a reason. Dedicated to providing exceptional service and convenience as part of an overall effortless banking experience, Customers Bank puts the customer first. Focused on a “high-tech and high touch” approach, Customers offers a superior selection of products and services, including remote check deposit, picture pay, text banking and more. Explains Executive Vice President Timothy Romig, “We believe in a single point of contact. It allows customers, retail and commercial, to call their personal banker, and that personal banker is responsible for navigating the Bank’s channels and responding to the customer.” Serving small- and medium-sized businesses from all over the Northeast region — be it through mobile or online banking or a local branch open 12 hours a day, 7 days a week — Customers Bank is there for you. Various locations in Berks, customersbank.com — Timothy Toney
Café Sweet Street
Best Burger
When you’re craving a burger, schedule some time to head to Best of Berks winner Café Sweet Street. All items are crafted with fresh ingredients daily, and Café Sweet Street’s staff takes pride in providing made-to-order burgers and excellent customer service. “We go the extra mile to provide our customers with only the best every day,” Chef Brendan Jones says. One of the most popular menu items is the Double Onion Barbecue Burger. Starting with a fresh burger on a brioche bun, it is topped with Vermont cheddar cheese, special house-made barbecue sauce, sautéed onions and an onion ring that will make your mouth water. If you prefer to build your own burger, they have you covered there too with a limitless list of toppings. Chef Jones has worked hard for years to craft fresh and inventive burgers for customers to enjoy, so stop in and get yours today! 722 Hiesters Lane, Reading, 610.929.0616, cafesweetstreet.com — Justin Herforth
Oasis Dog Spa & Shoppe
Best Place to Pamper Your Pet
Doesn’t your dog deserve a relaxing day at a spa? A special birthday treat? You can make it happen at Oasis Dog Spa & Shoppe, where man’s best friend receives the royal treatment. Owner Carlytta Camper takes pride in delivering the ultimate spa experience, involving more than just a bath and haircut. Facials, mud baths and skin treatments are the most popular services, which leave your “fur baby” soothed, relaxed and feeling beautiful (or handsome as the case may be). All products used are all-natural and made in America. The experience is topped off with a freshly-baked treat from the shop, too. Doggie birthday cakes, ice cream and popcorn are just a few of the locally-made treats your pooch might enjoy when wrapping up its perfect day. “I truly love what I get to do every day,” says Camper. “It means a lot to see all the support from my customers.” 2911 Centre Avenue, Unit #2, Reading, 610.816.5492, oasisdogspa.com — Justin Herforth
MAK Nail Bar & Organic Spa
Best Place for a Mani/Pedi
Looking for a manicure or pedicure experience without the use of potentially harmful chemicals? Head to MAK Nail Bar & Organic Spa in the Shoppes at Wyomissing. MAK uses 100 percent natural and organic products in all of their luxurious and relaxing treatments. When you walk into the spa, there are no harsh smells, just the fragrance of lotions and oils. All the lotions, scrubs and salts are homemade, in fact. Owner Angel Nguyen says, “As a mother, I notice I feel safer bringing my children and myself to a salon like MAK.” Along with various top-of-the-line services including manicures, pedicures and waxing, MAK offers its clients complimentary drinks including water, tea, or a glass of champagne or a mimosa during happy hour. MAK also offers student and military discounts for all of their services. The staff at MAK prides itself on teamwork and customer service, providing clients a clean environment and quality services and products. 704 Woodland Rd., Wyomissing, 610.750.7538, maknailbar.com — Jordan Perry
Allison Clothing Company
Best (Local) Clothing Boutique
From clothing to handbags and handcrafted jewelry, you can’t help but fall in love with the wares at Allison Clothing Company. When you walk into the local boutique, you adopt a sense of calmness with the smell of essential oils and the sounds of Portuguese music. All the items for sale are handmade by locals because owner Allison Shannon wants to help area artists prosper. From dresses to simple yoga outfits, each item is unique because the material is hand-dyed and hand-crafted. The boutique even carries plus-sized items and the option to have clothing customized to the customer’s wants and needs. Allison Clothing Company is more than just clothing, though. The shop also offers bath and body products, ceramics, home furnishings, and even tea! The options are endless and the employees are welcoming. What more could you want from a boutique experience? 522 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 484.709.2563, allisonclothingcompany.com — Sidney C. Maxwell
South Mountain YMCA
Best Summer Camp
Are you looking for a quality place to send your kids to camp during the summer to be cared for and to learn valuable life lessons? Look no further than the summer camp opportunities at South Mountain YMCA. They host a variety of summer camp programs, with both day (Bynden Wood Day Camp, ages 5-14) and overnight (Camp Conrad Weiser, ages 7- 17) experiences, as well as literary theme camps, beginner and advanced riding camps, and teen adventure and leadership camps. They have done so since 1948 at their Wernersville location. One happy camper calls South Mountain “the best camp in the area for so many reasons.” The programs are built around the principles of honesty, responsibility and respect. A camp experience at SMYMCA is a “win-win” for parents and children. When attending one of South Mountain’s renowned summer camps, kids will have the opportunity to step out of their comfort zone, to make new friends, and to gain a sense of independence. 201 Cushion Peak Rd., Wernersville, 610.670.2267, smymca.org — Nick Youngkin
Willoughby’s on Park
Best Fine Dining (non-chain)
Angling for an evening out that you’ll remember for a long time? A fantastic place to take a special date or to celebrate an anniversary? Look no further than Willoughby’s on Park. The fine dining restaurant — known for its excellent steaks (and rare finds like the KOBE Wagyu Tomahawk), fresh seafood, and vast wine selection — holds its standards in food quality and service high. The restaurant’s lush and gorgeous atmosphere, along with its wonderfully attentive staff, make Willoughby’s a perfect choice for that special dining occasion or for when you want to treat yourself to a top-notch meal. Owners George and Eleny Zeppos continuously strive to create a special dining experience. Says George, “We make memories. We want to make sure that from beginning to end, we play a part in that. In the end, Willoughby’s on Park is all about making the evening yours, with an unparalleled dining experience with energetic elegance.” 305 N. Park Rd., Wyomissing, 610.816.7473, willoughbysonpark.com — Blaise Kabbeko
Stein’s Flowers Inc.
Best Florist
For 25 years now, Stein’s Flowers Inc. has been pleasing its customers with beautiful bouquets and more. Stein’s is sure to satisfy with its custom floral arrangements, as well as fruit and snack baskets and more. Owner Amy Muckey is dedicated to giving her customers a positive experience. Her favorite aspect of owning Stein’s is making people happy and putting smiles on their faces! There’s a reason why Stein’s is regarded as “Berks County’s Friendliest Flower Shop.” “As business owners, it is our responsibility to give back to the community and to further enrich people’s lives,” says Muckey. For all occasions from weddings to birthdays and beyond, Stein’s Flowers Inc. will be your favorite place for meeting your floral needs. Need a gift other than flowers? Visit Stein’s for unique items like handcrafted pottery pieces, holiday décor and more. The five-time Best of Berks-winning florist guarantees only the best for your special occasion. 32 State St., Shillington, 610.775.0403, steinsflowersinc.com – Gillian Bodnar
Tom Masano Auto Group
Best Car Dealership
Think buying a car can be an easy, stress-free experience? Or that negotiating for the perfect price doesn’t have to be a hassle? If you answered “no,” you need to head to a Masano dealership for your next purchase to be shown it is, in fact, possible. Tom Masano Auto Group is there to help from the moment you step foot into the dealership. Envision walking into an upbeat environment and immediately being greeted with a warm smile. The wide variety of vehicles to choose from will leave you astounded, from affordable family vehicles to luxurious rides, including Ford, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Sprinter and Lincoln. At Masano dealerships, two things are guaranteed: your deal will be effortless and you’ll find the vehicle of your dreams. The Masano family's primary goal is not only to see you drive off the lot in the car you desire, but also to give you a proper welcome into the Masano buying family. 815 Lancaster Avenue, Reading, 610.777.6587, tommasano.com — JJ Pereira
Eye Consultants of PA
Best Lasik Eye Surgery
Imagine waking up in the morning and not having to reach for your glasses or put in uncomfortable contact lenses. Doctors Primack, Shah and Altman of Eye Consultants of PA have a combined 40 years of experience between them. Results of Lasik eye surgery are phenomenal, considering 90 to 95 percent of the facility’s patients have achieved 20/20 vision or better following their corrective surgery. Dr. Primack says, “Our staff is well trained, highly conscientious, and [comprised of] just lovely people. I am very lucky to work with people of such high caliber.” All three of the physicians at Eye Consultants of PA are cornea fellowship trained Lasik eye surgeons and use the latest and greatest technology in their field of practice. Doctors Altman, Primack and Shah are talented, results-driven, and precise when it comes to their surgery techniques. Call now and ask about a consultation with one of these brilliant doctors to see if Lasik is right for you. 1 Granite Point Drive, Wyomissing, 610.378.1344, eyeconsultantsofpa.com – Alyssa Moyer
Home Artisan Group Inc.
Best Home Contractor
If you are in search of a highly trained and passionate home contractor, look no further than Home Artisan Group Inc. Home Artisan has been serving Berks County and surrounding areas for more than 8 years now, offering a plethora of services ranging from kitchen and bath remodeling to outdoor hardscaping design, custom home building, historic restoration and beyond. The Home Artisan crew has even completed historic restoration work for parts of Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Their professional and friendly staff provide quality workmanship to make every aspect of your home renovation a pleasant and enjoyable experience. Jared Barcz, president and founder of Home Artisan Group Inc., says, “We are so fortunate to have wonderful clients who make the process even more enjoyable.” So stop your search for an average home contractor and contact the best: Home Artisan Group Inc. 3033 Kutztown Rd, 2nd Floor Front, Laureldale, 610.750.6018, homeartisangroup.com — Sage Mutter
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts
Best (Local) Spot Celebrating the Arts
Interested in enjoying local art? The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is the place to go in Berks! Once an old goggle factory, the facility offers many art experiences for all ages, including classes. This institute is the largest on the east coast. The GoggleWorks is home to 33 artist studios, three galleries and several auxiliary display spaces, as well as seven teaching studios focused on ceramics, hot and warm glass, metalsmithing, wood, printmaking and photography, and more. The Center also hosts a Spotlight Night, typically the First Friday of each month, showing off a new artist or gallery at no cost to attend. The art opportunities are endless for not only new artists, but for those wanting to experience art as well. Jess Santucci says, “It is an invaluable asset to the community and is a great place for all students young and old.” So visit GoggleWorks; it’s an art gem! 201 Washington St., Reading, 610.374.4600, goggleworks.org — Sidney C. Maxwell
It’s a Gift!
Best Place to Buy a Gift (non-chain)
Where can you find one-of-a-kind gifts that give back to charities in Berks? At It’s a Gift!, a unique, repeat Best of Berks award-winning, volunteer-run store housing unique items to purchase. Each year, It’s a Gift! partners with a local charity and donates its profits to that organization. This year’s partner charity is Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County. “Having quality artisan-made products fulfills several of our goals at the same time. We want to support ‘made in the USA,’ and most of our items are made in the U.S. and many are made here locally,” says Sallie Weaver, board president of It’s a Gift! Carrying merchandise crafted by local artists gives It’s a Gift! an advantage in the giving market because “our customers and artisans are constantly creating new items and coming up with new ideas; it is one of the many reasons our customers keep coming back,” says Weaver. Happy shopping! 720 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.0960, itsagift.org — Jillian Baker
The Heritage of Green Hills
Best Residential Senior Living Facility
The Heritage of Green Hills just might be the best-kept secret in all of Berks. You may know it as a retirement community, but residents will tell you it’s where they’ve come to explore new possibilities. Community members enjoy “the freedom to do what they want, when they want to do it.” Living spaces at The Heritage go far beyond residents’ apartments, villas and suites. Residents can be found getting their sweat on at the gym or playing a fierce game of water volleyball in the indoor pool. Their pursuit of the community’s 8 Dimensions of Wellness – including social, physical, intellectual and vocational – keeps them engaged with the local community, too. The Heritage is focused on enriching lives, after all. The healthy life plan community offers a continuum of care – from independent living to personal care, memory care and hospice care. Being surrounded by 78 acres of rolling green hills just adds to the beautiful environment. 200 Tranquility Lane, Reading, 484.772.8463, heritageofgreenhills.com — JJ Pereira
Reading Public Museum
Best Place to Book an Event
Looking for a place to hold your wedding, corporate event, business luncheon, or other special event? Make sure to tour the Reading Public Museum. With multiple venue options on site from which to choose, The Museum will make your special day one you’ll never forget. From The Museum Galleries to the Stone Terrace Tent, Neag Planetarium to the lush 25-acre Arboretum, each location has its own distinct and unique qualities. And each is beautiful. Depending on the location chosen, up to 500 guests can be accommodated, complete with catering and other event needs! You can even plan your child’s activity-filled and themed birthday party at The Museum. And the staff is top notch. “The Museum's event staff is 100 percent committed to making your event the most unique, successful and memorable experience,” says Vice President of Event Rentals Stephanie Hafer Shaak. Who wouldn’t love a wedding under The Planetarium’s stars? 500 Museum Rd., Reading, 610.371.5850, readingpublicmuseum.org — Gillian Bodnar
Nonno Alby’s Handcrafted Wood Oven Pizza
Best Spot for Pizza
With 17 varieties of pizza, including gluten-free options, it’s no wonder Nonno Alby’s Handcrafted Wood Oven Pizza has nabbed it’s third win for Best Spot for Pizza. When asked what makes their pizza the best, owner Massimo Grande answers, “our authentic European wood fire style pizza.” Two popular pizza options include the Nonno Alby’s, a version with imported San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, fresh Italian sausage, rapini, garlic and hot pepper flakes; and the Bianca, a white pizza topped with baby arugula, buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto di Parma, shaved Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. All pizzas are made with fresh ingredients in a brick oven imported direct from Italy. Can you customize a pizza? Absolutely! A large variety of options and toppings are available to suit all taste buds. Any pizza can also be accompanied by a craft beer on tap or a fine wine. Want to enjoy Nonno Alby’s at a business function? Catering is available too! 701 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.376.1011, nonnoalbys.com — Timothy Bailey
Connelly Lawn and Garden
Best Landscaping Company
In search of a new look for your yard? Or need some help clearing brush and such? Look no further than Connelly Lawn and Garden. With more than 28 years of experience, owner Tom Connelly knows just about everything there is to know about the landscaping business. Their services range from lawn care and seasonal maintenance to bigger jobs like hardscaping. One thing Tom assures his clients is “the quality of the people we have [working for us] sets us apart from the rest.” Most of Connelly’s employees have many years of experience. Connelly Lawn and Garden also offers free consultations and estimates and can offer advanced services like 3D design visualization and more. So if you are in need of a new decked out patio or some serious curb appeal in your front yard, get in touch with the crew at Connelly Lawn and Garden to fulfill your needs. 3332 Harwood Lane, Sinking Spring, 610.678.8949, connellylawn.com — Rece Harman
Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store
Best Spa Services
If you’re feeling stressed and are looking to get away right here in Berks, schedule some relaxation and pampering time at Bell Tower Salon, Medi-Spa & Store! Let your worries wash away as you enter the peaceful atmosphere and venue that is Bell Tower. Select one of the many options for facials, massages, and body treatments, or purchase a package deal and be pampered head to toe! Not sure where to start? You can’t go wrong with the popular Bell Tower Signature package, which will leave you feeling refreshed after a 60-minute classic massage, sauna treatment, custom facial, essential manicure and pedicure, NARS makeup application and spa lunch. COO Ginger McLean says, “We have a passion for the wellness industry,” so you know whatever service you choose, you are in for a quality experience. Come try the destination spa that everyone is raving about, and you will be asking yourself: “When can I come back?” 18 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.6379, belltowersalonspa.com – Brittany Millard
The Works
Best Place to Take the Kids
Do your kids mope around the house while they watch re-runs of old cartoons on the weekend? Get wrapped up in YouTube videos? Gather them up and head to The Works in Wyomissing for some family fun! The Works is a 125,000-square-foot entertainment complex featuring a multimillion- dollar arcade with a play card system; an indoor trampoline center called Xtreme Air; Ballocity, a foam ball pit and climbing structure; Slick Willy’s, an indoor go-cart track with high-speed electric racing carts capable of reaching speeds of 50 MPH; and a popular restaurant. There’s something for the kid in all of us. Take it from Larry L., a local resident who enjoys taking his kids to The Works, “There is plenty of entertainment for all ages from the go carts, to the arcade area, to the restaurant, to a play area where kids can wear themselves out.” Don't listen to the “I’m boreds”; head to The Works in Wyomissing, where you’ll have fun too! 1109 Bern Rd., Wyomissing, 610.375.2700, workswyomissing.com – Alyssa Moyer
Jimmy G’s Beverly Hills Tavern
Best Outdoor Dining Spot
Tired of the same old outdoor dining atmosphere? Looking for somewhere exciting yet relaxing all rolled into one? Look no further than Jimmy G’s Beverly Hills Tavern! Be transported to the beach as soon as you walk through the entrance and be astounded at the expansive dining area and the wide variety of activities that create an atmosphere that co-owner April Giuffrida says “keeps them coming back.” From monster pong to corn hole, live music, and a sand area for kids, fun guaranteed for all ages! Enjoy a drink from the bar, or choose a meal from the array of tasty food options on the menu — from salads, bakes, burgers and more to a family cookout where kids eat free. So bring your family and friends anytime April through November to take in the outdoor oasis that makes Jimmy G’s Beverly Hills Tavern a hit with all ages. In colder months, the indoor dining room is open too. 710 Old Fritztown Rd., Sinking Spring, 610.777.4516, beverylhillstavern.biz – Brittany Millard
Colonial Fitness
Best Fitness Center
Being healthy and fit and looking your best never goes out of style, which may mean you’re in the market for a quality gym to meet your personal goals. Colonial Fitness is there to exceed all of your fitness needs. Conveniently headquartered in Sinking Spring, the center offers everything needed for beginners through experienced exercise enthusiasts and beyond, including personal training sessions, group exercise classes and much more. There are also a variety of membership packages that won’t put a major dent in your budget, yet give you access to a variety of activities and cool perks. One loyal customer says the staff at Colonial “have made it possible for me to achieve my current level of results.” Colonial Fitness boasts knowledgeable trainers and state-of-the-art equipment. As a member, you can also enjoy cool amenities like massage therapy sessions, a hydration station juice bar, steam rooms, a dry sauna and much more. 172 Shillington Rd., Sinking Spring, 610.777.7801, chbsports.com — Nick Youngkin
DiLella Veterinary Services
Best Veterinary Practice
How many veterinarians do you know that offer house calls? DiLella Veterinary Services, in business since November 2011, does! It’s that kind of hands-on care that has earned DiLella its first Best of Berks win. The practice began on Dr. Corey DiLella’s personal property before moving to its current location in March of 2015. DiLella Veterinary Services is still a small practice with a small staff offering high quality medical services for pets at affordable prices. “We are a team and we are all crucial parts of our clients’ and patients’ experiences,” Dr. DiLella says. The clinic, which is open six days a week (closed Sundays), provides a full list of services for small animals (cats and dogs), including surgery, spay and neuter services, prescription diets, in-home euthanasia and more, and does it with sincere care and compassion. DiLella also holds community vaccine clinics throughout the year. Visit their website for more info and clinic details. 3130 Pricetown Rd., Ste. M, Fleetwood, 610.944.1538, drcoreydilella.com — Cheyenne Hassler
PJ Whelihan’s
Best Place to Watch the Game
Looking for a place to watch the big game with friends? Two-time Best of Berks winner PJ Whelihan’s is the spot. With 56 TVs, any game wish you’d like granted is the staff’s command. From NFL Sunday Ticket to NBA League Pass, and any other sporting event you can dream of viewing, PJ’s has it. Pair that with beer specials, including local craft options, and a DJ every football Sunday, and you’ve got a fun atmosphere that attracts football, basketball, baseball fans and more from far and wide. There’s room to hold the crowd comfortably, too. Explains manager Hillary Button, PJ’s creates “an electrifying atmosphere where everyone is welcome.” The staff is friendly and the menu has an abundance of choices – from award-winning wing flavors like hot & honey to great burgers, sandwiches, salads and more. Want to host a party at PJ’s? They do that, too! A visit to PJ Whelihan’s is a slam dunk! 1101 Rocky Rd., Reading, 484.525.4400, pjspub.com — Anthony Dadson
Laxmi's Indian Grille
Best International Cuisine
Two years ago, Laxmi's Indian Grille won the hearts of many Berks County residents when it opened in Wyomissing. Laxmi’s crafts its meals from the best foods in the area while capturing flavors from across the world. For lunch, the restaurant boasts a variety of Indian dishes at the buffet for only $9.99. The all-you-can-eat buffet varies daily, and there are dishes you can order off the menu during lunch and dinner hours, when the restaurant turns to fine dining. Popular menu items include Tandoori Chicken, Seafood Curry, and Naan breads, to name a few. There is also a wide variety of vegetarian items available. You can check their Facebook page, Laxmi's Indian Grille Wyomissing, to see a list and photos of the food for the day as well as the regular menu. “If it's Indian food you’re craving; it has to be Laxmi's,” asserts owner Dinesh Purohit. 1806 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 484.926.2626, laxmisindiangrille.com — Anamaria Stord
Fields Kitchen & Bar
Best Place to Meet for Drinks
Want a good martini or mojito? Head to Fields Kitchen & Bar, where you can enjoy quality ingredients, precise portioning and great hospitality, be it at the bar or for a meal. Because of the staff’s passion for satisfying customers, the employees have their bartending skills down to a science. “Visiting a restaurant is so much more than just getting a drink or a meal. It is mostly about creating a memory, building a relationship, experiencing something new. My favorite part about being in Fields is watching people laugh, connect and enjoy. I like being a part of that,” Joe Massaro, Regional Director of Operations, says. Stop by Fields Kitchen & Bar for good drinks and a good time. They’ve got you covered, with 16 craft beers on tap, a fine selection of wines, and hand-crafted cocktails made with the freshest ingredients. They even have a weekday happy hour drink special and weekend musical entertainment. Cheers! 901 Hill Avenue and Park Road, Wyomissing, 610.685.5299, fieldskitchen.com — Anamaria Stord
