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Best of Bergen 2010
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST ALFRESCO DINING
Varka, Ramsey
Varka's substantial patio is nearly as large as its dining room, and weather permitting, an equally ideal spot for great Greek food and great people watching.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST BAGELS
Goldberg's Bagels, Wyckoff
The battle of the bagels continues with Goldberg's in Wyckoff floating to the top of the list against last year's favorite, Ronnie's Hillsdale Hot Bagels. Other bagel contenders: Take a number.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST BAKERY
B&W Bakery, Hackensack
Chosen as best bakery in (201)'s first readers poll in 2007, B&W Bakery has reclaimed the top spot, raising the most dough among voters. The aroma inside this classic bakery is enough to send the olfactory senses reeling
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST BARBER SHOP
Larry and Phil's Barber Shop, Midland Park
Old-fashioned barbers to their core, Larry and Phil have a loyal customer base who enjoy a shave and a haircut from these two masters. The shop's "small-town appeal" makes it a cut above in modern-day Bergen. Plus, you can walk in without an appointment, and a half-hour later, you come out with a great haircut. All the barbers are experts.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST BBQ
(tie) Bourbon BBQ, Wyckoff; Backwoods BBQ, Westwood
These rib-joints prove that finger-lickin' BBQ can indeed be found this far north of the Mason-Dixon line.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST BIKE SHOP
Cyclesport, Park Ridge
Road bikes, mountain bikes, touring bikes -- any bikes you like. Cycling fans, particularly those who bike in the Northern Valley and up through Rockleigh and on to Piermont, N.Y., find everything they need at Cyclesport. Family owned and operated by Michael and Tracy Grotz, Cyclesport prides itself on individualized customer service that matches the biker with the best equipment and accessories. As Mike Grotz wrote on his blog last summer during a ride across Europe, "the hills are alive with the sound of heavy breathing." Cycling enthusiasts who appreciate the humor in those words -- put the pedal to the metal for a true adventure.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST PLACE FOR BREAKFAST
Country Pancake House, Ridgewood
On weekend mornings, legions of fans line up for the mammoth flapjacks -- available in every imaginable flavor Ð along with omelets fit for Paul Bunyan and other super-sized breakfast treats.
Best of Bergen 2010
FAVORITE BRIDAL STORE
Couture de Bride, Teaneck
Here comes the bride -- well, the gown at least. This full-service bridal salon specializes in modestly priced, fashion-forward wedding dresses. Brides-to-be can choose something off the rack, or have a gown custom-designed to their taste. Don't want to buy the dress? You can rent it!
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST BRUNCH
Shelly's Cafe, Teaneck
When it comes to brunch, the people of Bergen know where their croissants are buttered, and once again selected Shelly's as the best place for brunch.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST BURGER
Bobby Flay's Burger Palace, Paramus
Newcomer to the Bergen burger scene but well known to food lovers is celebrity chef Bobby Flay, who opened Bobby Flay's Burger Palace at the Bergen Town Center in 2009. Flay's burger joint beat popular favorites Noah's Ark in Teaneck and the Iron Horse in Westwood to win the top spot.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST OUTDOOR/CAMPING STORE
Campmor, Paramus
Whether you're a serious camper or outdoor enthusiast, or whether you just need sleeping bags, mess kits, rainwear and other gear for your kids' sleep away camp, Campmor has got it all. Born from a garage business in Bogota in 1978, Campmor has grown to be one of the largest retailers of recreational equipment in the county. Tents, stoves, tools Ð you name it, Campmor has it.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST CANDY STORE
Chocolate, Etc., Wyckoff
This hidden gem is the sweetest choice for chocolate treats, molds, party favors, custom creations, and more.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST CAR WASH
Ridgewood Auto Wash Company, Glen Rock
The future's so bright, you'll surely wear shades after the team at Ridgewood Auto Wash Company finishes washing and polishing your car. As you drive along South Broad Street to the intersection of Ackerman Avenue, you'll see the team busy at work making a line of automobiles sparkle Ð inside and out. Fast, quality service is the hallmark of this veritable clean machine.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST CATERER
Market Basket, Franklin Lakes
Four the fourth year in a row, a hands-down favorite among (201) readers as the best caterer is Market Basket. You've seen those yellow trucks all over Bergen -- carrying the makings of a sensational party or special celebration -- delicious food, generous portions and creative dishes that have become the signature of this Franklin Lakes icon.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST CHEESE SHOP
Fairway Market, Paramus
Fairway took Paramus, and Bergen, by storm when it opened in March 2009. The cheese department includes an enormous, well-organized selection of pre-wrapped and cut-to-order cheeses and the staff is knowledgeable and eager-to-please.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST CHINESE FOOD
Golden Dynasty, Hillsdale
Devoted fans rave about the first-rate Chinese cuisine, attractive decor and gracious, old-world service
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST COFFEE SHOP
Moon Doggie Coffee Roasters, Maywood
Owners Donna and Bob Funk are rightly proud of the artisan coffees they roast and grind right on the premises. They are as passionate about quality coffee as they are about creating a fun atmosphere in which to enjoy it.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST CONCERT VENUE
bergenPAC, Englewood
Whether it's the Celtic Tenors you adore, the soulful stylings of Brian McKnight, or the guitar-pounding rock-n-roll of 80's heart throb Rick Springfield, bergenPAC is an excellent place to enjoy a concert. The acoustics in the theater are superb and seating is comfortable, making for a totally entertaining experience. In addition to the main theater, bergenPAC has a cabaret for more intimate performances. As if the quality of the venue isn't enough, the performing arts center is surrounded by a variety of restaurants for a pre-concert dinner or drinks after the show.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP
Savvy Chic Consignment Boutique, Ridgewood
(201) Staff Pick, selected by Deirdre Flanagan Ward, Social Editor
C'est magnifique! As a social editor who attends numerous events, being cognizant of the economy and keeping up with fashionable trends can be taxing on both my creativity and my checkbook. Fortunately, I discovered Savvy Chic Consignment Boutique located at 38 Oak St. in Ridgewood which houses a treasure trove of designer gowns, dresses, handbags, jewelry and so much more. Proprietor Randi Morein, who has a discerning eye for quality and a passion for fashion, offers her customers top of the line merchandise at a reasonable cost. Savvy Chic is the stylish solution to my couture needs when stepping out in Bergen, looking to make a fashionable statement and not break the bank.
C'est magnifique! As a social editor who attends numerous events, being cognizant of the economy and keeping up with fashionable trends can be taxing on both my creativity and my checkbook. Fortunately, I discovered Savvy Chic Consignment Boutique located at 38 Oak St. in Ridgewood which houses a treasure trove of designer gowns, dresses, handbags, jewelry and so much more. Proprietor Randi Morein, who has a discerning eye for quality and a passion for fashion, offers her customers top of the line merchandise at a reasonable cost. Savvy Chic is the stylish solution to my couture needs when stepping out in Bergen, looking to make a fashionable statement and not break the bank.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST DESSERT MENU
Ivy Inn, Hasbrouck Heights
Once a stagecoach inn for travelers, then a speakeasy during Prohibition, the Ivy Inn has been on the Bergen scene for more than a century. Readers came out in droves to praise the desserts at this historic Bergen restaurant.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST SHOPPING DESTINATION FOR CHILDREN'S CLOTHING
Downtown Englewood
(201) Staff Pick, selected by Heather Zwain, Fashion Editor
Englewood is a one-stop shopping destination for children's clothing, accessories and shoes. There are many boutiques and national retailers in this great downtown including Pumpkin & Bean, Classy Kids, Denny's Childrenswear, Gymboree, Little Steps, Marcia's Attic for Kids and The Children's Place. These stores are offering the latest in children's fashions; there is bound to be something for everyone.
Englewood is a one-stop shopping destination for children's clothing, accessories and shoes. There are many boutiques and national retailers in this great downtown including Pumpkin & Bean, Classy Kids, Denny's Childrenswear, Gymboree, Little Steps, Marcia's Attic for Kids and The Children's Place. These stores are offering the latest in children's fashions; there is bound to be something for everyone.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST DINER
Matthew's Colonial Diner, Waldwick
Regulars from the neighborhood and surrounding towns flock to the much-heralded Matthews for classic diner food and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST FARMSTAND
Abma's Farm Market, Wyckoff
When you drive up Lawlins Road and the entrance to Abma's Farm in Wyckoff, you feel like you're stealing away to the country. Plush fields of produce, a market and bakery, pumpkin patches and even a petting zoo complete the delightful farm experience.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST FIREWORKS
Ridgewood Fourth of July
(Celebrating 100 years in 2010)
As if the fireworks in Ridgewood haven't been terrific for years, 2010 marks the centennial of the colorful display in the village. Grab a beach chair and a blanket and head to Vet's Field for a stars and stripes spectacular.
As if the fireworks in Ridgewood haven't been terrific for years, 2010 marks the centennial of the colorful display in the village. Grab a beach chair and a blanket and head to Vet's Field for a stars and stripes spectacular.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST FISH MARKET
Peter's Fish Market, Midland Park
A Bergen institution since 1974, Peter's supplies home cooks and restaurant chefs with the freshest catch. Following the death of namesake Peter Sclafani, in October 2009, his brother Steve and a hardworking staff carry on the family business.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST FLORIST
Perry's Florist, Glen Rock
Say it with flowers. It's not just their loyal fans in Glen Rock who have made Perry's a four-time winner in the best florist category. Seems the reputation has spread throughout Bergen for friendly service and beautiful arrangements. A family business that makes customers feel like family too, Perry's continues its tradition of quality and excellence.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST GIFT SHOP
Mango Jam, Ridgewood
Owners Tony and Gina Damiano have created an entertainer's paradise with their quaint home accessories store, Mango Jam, located on Broad Street across from the Ridgewood train station. The perfect dishes, table linens, candles, serving pieces, holiday decorations and hostess gifts are all charmingly displayed throughout the three rooms of the store. In addition, the Damianos host special fund-raising shopping days throughout the year where a portion of the proceeds benefit local charities.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST PLACE FOR A GIRLS' NIGHT OUT
Blend, Ridgewood
Sophisticated and sassy, with an extensive tapas menu and martini list, the "new" Blend is the place to be for girls who just wanna have fun.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST GOURMET MARKET
Market Basket, Franklin Lakes
Market Basket's win in this new category shows that despite the larger markets that have more recently opened in Bergen, residents remain loyal to the business that set the local standard for specialty foods.
Best of Bergen 2010
BEST GYM (BEST HEALTH AND FITNESS CENTER)
Westwood Health and Fitness, Westwood
Fans of Westwood Health and Fitness did some heavy lifting to out-muscle three-time winner The Gym and capture the most votes in this category. Endorsed by former NY Giants team captain Harry Carson, Westwood Health and Fitness Center has been keeping people in shape and healthy for the past 30 years