It may look like an old bank building from the outside, but when you step into La Strada, it’s like stepping into an old-fashioned Italian market – or, in the case of longtime Ramsey resident Mark Scala, “my grandmother’s house. The incredible smell and great selection of meats and cheeses,” Scala explains, “takes you back. In terms of an Italian deli in the area, they rise head and shoulders above the rest.” And Michele Geoffrion of Mahwah gets hungry just imagining “the great aromas permeating out the door, hitting your nose before you even step inside. Their sausage, roasted red pepper and cheese,” Geoffrion adds. “The stromboli is a must!” Get the bruschetta, and mangia.

Buona fortuna to Arturo’s for being a repeat winner in one of the most competitive categories in the poll. Bergen is rich with quality Italian restaurants that please the palates of a variety of tastes, but family-owned and -operated Arturo’s ranks the highest among (201) readers. Susan Malandra of Mahwah celebrates Christmas Eve there because, she explains, “it’s the closest to my mother-in-law’s cooking we have found now that she’s gone.” Malandra raves about the atmosphere and piano player in the bar, as well as, of course, the food – “moothwatering” meats and fish, Mamma’s Meatballs and the cannoli cake. Buon appetito.

Runner-Up: Andiamo Restaurant, Haworth

With three locations that have menus as distinct as their individualized décor, Baumgart’s is just plain fun for kids of all ages. Jonathan Glanz of Ho-Ho-Kus frequented the Englewood eatery as a child, and finds that his sons now love the house dumplings in Ridgewood – they can each eat their own order, and finish it every time.” Glanz also praises the ice cream, the starter chopsticks for children and the décor: “You will find the kids’ drawings on the wall; my kids [who call it ‘Baumy’s’] come back and see their drawings included in that, and it’s very nice.” And Englewood resident Bruce Skop brings his 6-year-old daughter, Carly, to watch the staff make the sushi and ice cream. “I have been going there for 15 years,” he says, “and won’t stop."

As it did in 2008, Noah’s Ark has captured the hearts and stomachs of many (201) readers by once again topping the list of kosher delis. Debra Prince of Englewood would brave floods to grab a table for their “fantastic menu and great variety of different foods.” A customer for nearly two decades, she’s thrilled with recent additions to the burger bar, where she and her kids love “the variety of options given to build your own burger, and of course, the high-end quality meat.”

Andiamo has been a runner-up on more than one occasion for Best Italian Restaurant, but seems to have the maitre d’ category all sewn up. Don Dickstein, his wife, Linda, and their son, Alan, who also sponsor a charity motorcycle run each year, are good-hearted and popular restaurateurs.

Whether you enjoy yours shaken, not stirred, or with vodka, not gin, bartenders at Chakra seem to have the magic touch for pouring the best martinis. “Special moments with special people, in a place that promotes intimate conversations” are what draws Cindy Tysvaer across the county line from Nyack to this Route 4 standout. “My first time there was a special date.” Tysvaer comes back to Chakra for birthday celebrations – and of course, she smiles, those “unique” martinis.

Local movie houses have their charm, but nothing seems to beat the aura of the massive new AMC Theatres multiplex at the Garden State Plaza. For a film worth seeing, and seeing well, Regina Domeraski has no problem heading up Route 17 from her Lyndhurst home for the 16-screen venue: “The seats are very comfortable, with foldaway arms if you don't need the cup holder, and there is also plenty of legroom, and the sightlines are excellent.”

Five generations of Rohslers must be doing something right to have been selected once again as the best nursery in Bergen. Karen Myers of Ridgewood cites the fact that the Allendale establishment is “very neat, and family-run, with very helpful, knowledgeable staff.” Rohsler’s, Myers adds, “has many things for the garden, bird baths, plenty of herbs which I love to buy. They cover all the bases. She also touts the reward system for frequent customers – clearly, a large bunch. “I like that they are open on Sunday, and there is always plenty of parking. The location is perfect, in the heart of Allendale, gorgeous setting.”

A fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference to any space, but the owners of Norton Paint recently completed a dramatic makeover of their Route 17 business. Perhaps readers took note of expertise in action, once again causing Norton to roll over its competition. Among the broad-brush compliments: “great products and friendly professional service,” says Gretchen Viggiano of Glen Rock, who particularly appreciates Norton’s contribution to Rebuilding Together Bergen County, which assists low-income homeowners.” For Carol Grutta of River Edge, it’s the fact that “they always had a smile – and being a family business makes us all feel so welcome.” One of those staff members will remain a trade secret, acknowledges Westwood couple Gloria and Jim Tenewitz. “We do have a favorite we go to for his color expertise, but I hesitate to name him since his popularity may soar too high, and he may never have time for us again,” laughs Gloria Tenewitz. “I will say that he is a hunter!”

While not quite as much fun as the parade itself, it’s always amusing to see just how early Ridgewood residents and other spectators will line up – and in some cases, tie down – their chairs to get prime viewing spots along the parade route. Beginning at Citizens Park and continuing under the railroad trestle, down Ridgewood Avenue and around to Village Hall, the parade pleases thousands of patriotic participants and cheering crowds. Over in Glen Rock, Greg Viggiano looks forward each year to this huge event; the parade, he says, “has always been outstanding for its size, variety and the quality of the many marching bands and other groups.” Viggiano’s grandparents had a home on Godwin Avenue along the parade route, until they moved away in 1973. “Watching the parade go past [their house] was fabulous for an 8-year-old,” he recalls, “because the edge of the front yard was about 3 feet higher than the sidewalk, so I always had a place to sit, and no one could interrupt the view. Viggiano actually took part two years, but one of those times, the truck that was supposed to carry him in the parade failed. “We marched on foot with our banner, chanting ‘Our truck broke down, but our spirit didn't!’”

The perfect place for a pint of Guinness, Brady’s, an Irish pub, is a grand place for dads to get together and enjoy a bit of the talk along with a bit of the drink. So says Patricia Whited, Mahwah, whose husband may have been readying for a night with the guys when she placed his vote by proxy. “I choose Brady’s for my husband and his friends, because the location is great, and the food is fantastic,” she explains. “It is a fun spot right on the tracks that is easy to get to from most towns in our area. Good service, absolutely a great drink and bar menu.” Gentlemen, bottom’s up!

Runner-Up: Hooters, Paramus

Chakra has long been considered one of the most romantic restaurants in Bergen, but (201) readers – the women at least – have picked it this year as a terrific place for a girl’s night out. According to Kathryn Gallagher of Wyckoff, “The atmosphere is like no other in the area – elegant, yet comfortable. The drinks,” Gallagher adds, “are yummy too.” And Norwood’s Laura Verbeeck calls Chakra “fabulous for the ambiance and the diverse group of people that go there.” Ladies, start your engines and head on over for an evening of fun.

Runner-Up: The Melting Pot, Westwood

This category was a real nail-biter, but victory belongs to Salon Elizabeth, which offered Kristi Guttuso “a personalized, detailed and relaxing manicure” the Franklin Lakes resident “truly appreciated.” Guttuso also found the staff professional and, well, polished, and particularly liked the privacy afforded by the pedicure room.

Plush gardens, luminescent fountains, winding brick pathways and picturesque stone gazebos have made The Estate at Florentine Gardens the place most readers are wedded to for after tying the knot. Diane Herrlett of Glen Rock vows to advise any couple that asks her for a recommendation hold their reception at this River Vale venue. “The food is outstanding,” Herrlett raves. “A beautiful setting both inside and out, and great service.”

Bring a hearty appetite for oversized pancakes and yummy cornbread, and you might actually be able to finish your breakfast at the Country Pancake House. Notorious for its generous portions, the restaurant is a perpetual crowd pleaser on Sunday mornings and throughout the week. Among the stack of (201) reader kudos the eatery has garnered is this from Collette Mather, Teaneck: “The Country Pancake House is a large part of our July 4th tradition. We meet friends there every year for breakfast to kick off our celebration. The food is outstanding, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the company is always outstanding!”

“A kids party paradise” is the way fans of Unbelieva-Bill’s describe this children’s entertainment center. This three-time winner seems to have the secret formula for pleasing kids of all ages, with laser tag, a jungle gym, dance, science, magic and even cooking parties. “It’s a lot of fun, and the kids are always entertained,” says Paige Egan of Saddle River. “It is very clean and well organized, and the space is large enough for them to enjoy.”

(201) Staff Pick, selected by Pamela Weber-Leaf, Managing Editor
For the hardcore schussers with just a short time window or families comprising a range of ages and ski-bilities, there’s really no need to leave the county limits. Nestled in the hills of Mahwah, Campgaw Mountain offers a wealth of choices that more than make up for the modest (less than 300-foot) vertical drop. Choose from five beginner-intermediate trails on 45 skiable acres that also includes six 800-foot tubing runs, a freestyle terrain park, two “magic carpet” conveyor lifts and a Snowsports School with lessons from SkiWee through private and expert. Complete-coverage snowmaking for when the chill’s in the air, but the crystals are a no-show. No equipment? No problem; seasonal and daily rentals are available.

A two-time winner for best county park, Van Saun is still a hands-down favorite for kids and their parents alike. Among the parent set, Georgetta Walsh has fond memories of when the playground was newly renovated a number of years ago. “They had handmade peace plaques created by local children. My son, who was 4 at the time, would want me to read each one,” recalls Walsh, of Fair Lawn. “He loved all the climbing equipment, and we spent many days there where he developed a great sense of balance, and an appreciation for art.”

Known to most in Bergen simply as AB&G, the Allendale Bar and Grill has just the right mix of atmosphere, good eats and friendly staff. While the pub boasts a loyal clientele, locals also turn out for Sunday brunch. “Great food, great atmosphere, convenient location, reasonable prices,” says Nancy Baviello-Doyle of Mahwah. Adds Michael Adams of Ramsey: “When you can go into a pub like the AB&G for 40 years and never have a bad time or a bad meal or a bad drink, then that’s logically where you think of heading for a good time. Seeing the same employees for 30 years indicates that Mike, Bobbi, Craig and Chris are doing something right.” That’s loyalty.

Readers have many reasons why they enjoy living in Bergen, but according to our poll, the most significant by far are the cosmopolitan environment and the cultural diversity of its residents. As a native of Leonia now living back in her hometown, and a former Miss Bergen County to boot, Nikki Rice is well-equipped to weigh in. “Everything you’d want is right here,” Rice enthuses. “The towns are lovely, and there are wonderful programs – a great place to raise kids,” says this mom of a toddler. “When I went to Cherry Hill for the pageant [the state’s Junior Miss competition for New Jersey’s Woman of the Year, in 1993], everyone had a good perception of Bergen. I went to school in Manhattan, and I always loved coming back home over the bridge. There are always new restaurants popping up, and still the old places we can count on to be good.”

Just as they did in 2008, fans of longtime Ramsey mainstay Kinchley’s Tavern voted in full force to ensure that restaurant’s thin-crust pizza continues to grab the biggest piece of the pie. The family of Saddle River’s Judith Cohen have been loyal customers for many years, she says; “it is a great place for friends and/or family to meet for a great meal [in a] very laid-back atmosphere.” Cohen calls it “the thinnest and crispiest to be found.” And Aly Boyd of Glen Rock notes that “three generations of my family has been going there, and whenever their travels bring them back to Ramsey, we always find ourselves back at Kinchley’s.”

Runners-Up: Brooklyn’s Brick Oven Pizza, Edgewater, Hackensack and Ridgewood locations; Lenny’s Pizza, Ridgewood

They may not have discovered the fountain of youth, but owners of The Fountain Spa, with locations in both Ramsey and Hackensack, have certainly discovered the secret to relaxation and rejuvenation. That’s, well, a relief for Kathy Mongon of Hasbrouck Heights, who is drawn to the “wonderful staff and relaxing atmosphere.” Mongon adds that in the new year, she’s been “looking forward to visiting again.”

With its lively bar scene and plenty of wide-screen TVs to catch all the games, The Office combines good eats and plenty of sports enthusiasm. Andrew Gibs of Glen Rock cheers for this Ridgewood institution, “The number of televisions, the quality of food and their beer selection is what makes The Office the best sports bar around.”

Whether they prefer the New York shell variety, a filet mignon or a porterhouse cooked to perfection, (201) readers have “a steak” in The River Palm. Andrew Bullen of Mahwah calls it: “Out of the 60-plus top steak restaurants I have eaten in America and around the world, The River Palm,” he says, “is without a doubt in the top three.” Melissa Newman of Franklin Lakes votes for the “juicy, tasty steak, typically a butterflied filet  mignon, with creamy mashed potatoes and savory shaved onions on every forkful. Each bite melts in your mouth!” And for starters, the chopped salad with crumbled gorgonzola gets additional raves.

Runner-Up: The Park Steak House, Park Ridge

With a city-chic atmosphere and a “flirtatious menu,” Flirt Sushi Lounge was able to regain the top spot among sushi lovers of Bergen. Marlaine Funsch of Upper Saddle River waves her chopsticks for the “fun, hip atmosphere” and Ramsey’s Laura DeGaetano, for the creatively named dishes and upbeat staff. “I always have a great time when I am there with friends,” says DeGaetano, who suggests the banana dessert to top things off – “get one with a couple of spoons, though."

(201) Staff Pick, selected by Heather Zwain, Fashion Editor
In the wonderful world of fashion, if you’re not accustomed to spur-of-the moments and last-minute notices, count yourself out. Whether it’s taking in the sides of that special evening dress or sewing the perfect hem on an everyday pair of pants (which is always a necessity, when you are 5-foot-1), Mary Jann is my savior. As a young woman who lives and breathes everything fashion, I love to have a stand-out outfit – one that is classic, understated and, of course, current without being overly trendy. On many occasions, I have found the almost-perfect dress in a last-minute panic, straight off the rack, but somehow, something wasn’t quite right. Case in point: The bubble dress in the perfect shade of yellow for a warm summer wedding had spaghetti straps – not a personal fave. I picked out fabric, showed Mary Jann a sketch I drew, and she replaced the awful straps with a beautiful pair of sheer bell sleeves. And that was just one instance! On numerous occasions, I have counted on her to help me transform a mass-produced garment into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

If you love pad thai, then check out the menu at Ridge Thai. Howard Felixbrod of Wyckoff says that this “small, intimate” Thai restaurant right across from the Ridgewood train station has food that’s – the best around. Great for two couples and a bottle of wine.” And John Dick is thrilled to be able to get what he calls an authentic Thai experience right in his hometown: “The staff is accommodating, to the point of being sweet without being sugary. The spices are real and delicious. When I wipe the back of my neck and the back of my head and they are wet with perspiration, but my mouth and throat are not burning in the least, I know I'm enjoying the best Thai food.” Faves for Dick include the Chinese sausage salad and, for dessert, the pumpkin custard. “I have never been disappointed,” he proclaims.

Runner-Up: Taste of Thai, Ridgewood

(201) Expert Pick, selected by Cliff Witmyer, owner of Cliffhanger Productions and the Fun Ghoul Costume Co. in Rutherford
The Lyndhurst Winter Festival is truly a “Best of (201)” winter festival, and in my opinion, it’s the best seasonal municipal event in Bergen. It has something for everybody. The festival runs three hours, so it allows people the chance to take time out of their busy holiday schedule to enjoy the festivities at their leisure. Township Commissioner [Bob] Giangeruso and his team do a great job to ensure the event is done right. The 2008 festival included an artificial ice rink, horse and carriage rides, a trackless train, an entire winter wonderland with North Pole scene, and pictures with a real-bearded Santa on his sleigh. The event is staged at the recently renovated Town Hall Park, and includes a concert stage that’s second to none.

(201) Expert Pick, selected by Cliff Witmyer, owner of Cliffhanger Productions and the Fun Ghoul Costume Co. in Rutherford
The best venue in Bergen County, because of its sheer size and excitement, is Velocity 17 in Maywood. This  state-of-the art facility boasts more than 100,000 square feet including a 1,600-foot spaghetti-style performance karting track; 20,000 square feet of event space for up to 1,400 guests; three banquet rooms, a Monte Carlo lounge overlooking the track area with connecting spa-style locker rooms for private use, and a private children’s party room with 2,500 square feet.

Recently, we hosted my daughter Angelique’s sweet-16 party at V-17, with a “Hollywood red carpet with Joan Rivers” for interviewing the arriving guests, a grand entrance with a choreographed dance, and various celebrity appearances. This event will be featured as an episode of MTV’s My Super Sweet Sixteen.No doubt, this is a premier venue for the (201) audience.

You may first choose to eat at Park and Orchard because of its eclectic, healthy menu, but you’ll quickly discover its masterful wine collection, called “very, very extensive” by Laura Verbeeck of Harrington Park, a patron of about a decade. “If you want a cabernet,” says Verbeeck, “and you’re not sure which to choose, then Park and Orchard is right for you.” Recognized nationwide for the breadth of its holdings, the restaurant draws wine connoisseurs and wannabes to its East Rutherford restaurant. Verbeeck also praises “the good price range.”