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Best of Bergen 2009
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Barbecue
Backwoods BBQ, Westwood
If you have a hankering for some pulled pork, pop in to Backwoods BBQ. John Krachtus, who lives right in town, certainly does. “It's the only place I've found real authentic barbecue up north, and the atmosphere makes you feel like you’re in the Old West,” he enthuses of the eatery, which serves up ribs wet and dry with equal finesse. “Fantastic!”
Best of Bergen 2009
Bergen's Best-Kept Secret
Glen Rock Digital Photo, Glen Rock
Always the toughest pick in the poll for readers, the Bergen’s Best-Kept Secret category had a near runaway with Glen Rock Digital Photo. Guess you could call it a picture-perfect win for this local business, which has wowed customers like Glen Rock’s Christine Parlamis McAllister. “When my second daughter, Melina, was born, I wanted to do a special, nontraditional invitation for her baptism,” McAllister explains. “Keith Verkem [the owner, pictured] at Glen Rock Digital Photo worked with me diligently to do a beautiful, intricate photo card that had just the artistic touch I was looking for. I received multiple compliments on the card, and was very appreciative to Keith for his special attention to my project.”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Alfresco Dining
Kevin’s Thyme, Ho-Ho-Kus
Alfresco dining is becoming more and more popular in Bergen. Readers voted for Kevin’s Thyme, an intimate eatery with an outdoor patio, as an ideal location for a leisurely eating experience. Can’t stay to dine? Kevin’s Thyme also offers an extensive catering and take-out menu. Denise Caramico of Wyckoff calls Kevin’s “the total package,” with a “warm, inviting atmosphere,” staff that’s “friendly and approachable – you feel as if you’ve known them for years,” and food that’s “consistently delicious.” Among the gourmet standouts, Caramico favors the calamari appetizer.
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Art Gallery
Westwood Gallery, Westwood
It is often said that art, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. Besides operating a successful framing business, Westwood Gallery represents a diverse group of fine artists who exhibit there regularly. One grateful client who chose the winner in this category, Katherine Bates of Ridgewood, frames her reasoning as such: “A selection of outstanding art. I’m a painter, so I enjoy the paintings. The art is well-managed, they represent different artists and I appreciate the work."
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Auto Body/Collision Repair Shop
Ridgewood Vehicle Co. Inc., Ridgewood
(201) Staff Pick, selected by Deirdre Flanagan Ward, Social Editor
Ridgewood Vehicle, on South Broad Street in Ridgewood, is my one-stop motor shop when it comes to service and repairs. As a repeat customer, with a family of five drivers with four cars and a few fender-benders under our belt, I can confidently count on Kem Montick and his team of professionals to do a bang-up job (repairs, painting, body work, alignment) at a competitive price, and in minimum turnaround time. They’re so good that I recommend them to everyone.
Ridgewood Vehicle, on South Broad Street in Ridgewood, is my one-stop motor shop when it comes to service and repairs. As a repeat customer, with a family of five drivers with four cars and a few fender-benders under our belt, I can confidently count on Kem Montick and his team of professionals to do a bang-up job (repairs, painting, body work, alignment) at a competitive price, and in minimum turnaround time. They’re so good that I recommend them to everyone.
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Bagels
Ronnie’s Hillsdale Hot Bagels, Hillsdale
If there’s one thing the people of Bergen can’t get enough of, it’s bagels. Ronnie’s beat some stiff competition to regain the top spot in 2009. The dough faves, says Jody Milazzo of Westwood, “are always piping hot when you buy them, always chewy and crisp. Never a bad experience – even though the store is crowded, they get you in and out – never a problem,” adds Milazzo. Says Jill Lustigman, “It’s the closest thing to Zabar’s that you can get in New Jersey” – high praise from this erstwhile Manhattanite, who returned two years ago to her native Bergen and now drives from Woodcliff Lake for a schmeer
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Bakery
Butterflake Bake Shop, Teaneck; Sweet Avenue Bake Shop, Rutherford
Whether you prefer layer or cup cakes, make it a point to try both venues that tied for the Bergen’s best bakery. Jennie Schwartz, a Teaneck resident of 40 years, has long relied on Butterflake. “One of my first childhood memories was of walking towards the bakery and getting hit with the sweetest smell in the world! To this day, I can’t resist smiling every time I drive by and catch a whiff. Wherever I go,” Schwartz adds, “I am always greeted with ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ when I show up with a Butterflake box.” A relatively new (opened in August 2007) counterpoint to Butterflake, Sweet Avenue is a vegan bakery created by former bankers Danielle and Jake Vance, who, says Ken Johnson of Oakland, “have a passion for combining the best ingredients in making these creative, delicious, sad-to-be-eaten cupcakes.”
Best of Bergen 2009
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. Among the devotees is Robert Confrancisco of Wyckoff, who considers the shop’s “small-town appeal” a cut above in modern-day Bergen. “All the kids get a lollipop (or two). The barbers handle the small kids’ cuts with expertise. My haircuts have never been better,” says Confrancisco. “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 2009
Best Bergen Restaurants
Campania, Fair Lawn; Lotus Café, Hackensack; Mr. Wok, Tenafly; Bangkok Garden, Hackensack; Backwoods BBQ, Westwood
(201) Expert Picks, selected by Tracy Nieporent, partner and director of marketing for Myriad Restaurant Group
For a friendly, home-style Italian meal, I enjoy Campania in Fair Lawn. Having survived the wrath of Gordon Ramsey [on the reality TV series Kitchen Nightmares] chef-owner Joe Cerniglia has pride in what he puts on the plate, as does pastry chef Jessica Marotta. They feed you well, and make you feel at home.
I also love Asian food, and an authentic Chinatown-style meal can be enjoyed at the Lotus Café in Hackensack. Their shrimp toast is superior to any I’ve had in New York City, and their shrimp soong and mei fun are Chinese comfort food. Their prices are also remarkably low. In cold-weather months, I crave hot and sour soup, and the best bowl anywhere is at Mr. Wok in Tenafly. And a restaurant that continues to be remarkably consistent, and a personal favorite, is Bangkok Garden in Hackensack. The food is savory, and the service is warm and efficient.
Finally, there’s finger-licking good barbecue at Backwoods BBQ in Westwood. Jay Lippin cooks with heart, and I especially enjoy his “not your mom’s” macaroni & cheese with porcini mushrooms, fontina cheese and truffle oil.
For a friendly, home-style Italian meal, I enjoy Campania in Fair Lawn. Having survived the wrath of Gordon Ramsey [on the reality TV series Kitchen Nightmares] chef-owner Joe Cerniglia has pride in what he puts on the plate, as does pastry chef Jessica Marotta. They feed you well, and make you feel at home.
I also love Asian food, and an authentic Chinatown-style meal can be enjoyed at the Lotus Café in Hackensack. Their shrimp toast is superior to any I’ve had in New York City, and their shrimp soong and mei fun are Chinese comfort food. Their prices are also remarkably low. In cold-weather months, I crave hot and sour soup, and the best bowl anywhere is at Mr. Wok in Tenafly. And a restaurant that continues to be remarkably consistent, and a personal favorite, is Bangkok Garden in Hackensack. The food is savory, and the service is warm and efficient.
Finally, there’s finger-licking good barbecue at Backwoods BBQ in Westwood. Jay Lippin cooks with heart, and I especially enjoy his “not your mom’s” macaroni & cheese with porcini mushrooms, fontina cheese and truffle oil.
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Brunch
Shelly’s Café, 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. Norman Sohn of Englewood favors the “delicious food, efficient service, charming décor, familiar customers and friendly atmosphere.” What’s not to love?
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Burger
Noah’s Ark Restaurant & Deli, Teaneck
This year, Noah’s Ark in Teaneck edged out its closest competitor, The Iron Horse for the top spot. Englewood resident Debra Prince enthuses of Noah’s, “What makes them stand apart is the variety of options given to build your own burger, and of course, the high-end quality meat. My kids love it just as much as I do.” After you’ve savored the burgers of these two annual rivals, why not try readers’ third choice: The Dutch House in Fair Lawn.
Runners-Up: The Iron Horse, Westwood; The Dutch House, Fair Lawn
Runners-Up: The Iron Horse, Westwood; The Dutch House, Fair Lawn
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Camera Store
Bergen County Camera, Westwood
(201) Staff Pick, selected by Ted Axelrod, Photo Editor
Bergen County Camera is designed to cater to the amateur photographer and the working pro alike. This understated-looking business, a fixture in downtown Westwood since 1980, offers an extensive selection of cameras, lenses and accessories, as well as a consistently high level of personal service by the incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff. Also in Englewood (at 10 N. Dean St.).
Bergen County Camera is designed to cater to the amateur photographer and the working pro alike. This understated-looking business, a fixture in downtown Westwood since 1980, offers an extensive selection of cameras, lenses and accessories, as well as a consistently high level of personal service by the incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff. Also in Englewood (at 10 N. Dean St.).
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Candy Store
Conrad’s Confectionary, Westwood
This year’s poll results are doubly sweet for the owners of Conrad’s Confectionary, as they out-sugared some of the candy mainstays in Bergen. Conrad’s old-fashioned charm and customer service have made it a popular favorite for customers like Nick Thanasides, a borough resident who calls the chocolate “the best I have tasted anywhere – I have traveled all over the country and have yet to find a store that even comes close with Conrad’s kind of quality.” Thanasides also give props to the store’s “down-home quality and traditional look.”
Runner-Up: Bischoff’s, Teaneck
Runner-Up: Bischoff’s, Teaneck
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Car Wash
Ridgewood Auto Wash Company, Glen Rock
Everything old is new again – well, at least after a pass through Ridgewood Auto Wash Company. With an efficient and conscientious team, this South Broad Street business lends showroom sparkle to a new car, and a fresh look to an older model. It’s no wonder that customers like Glen Rock resident Randi Spaeth take a shine to the place. “I trust them in doing a thorough job,” Spaeth says, “both inside and outside of my car, and they have never left a scratch.”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Caterer
The Market Basket, Franklin Lakes
An overwhelming choice for best caterer among (201) readers for the third time is The Market Basket in Franklin Lakes – the signature yellow vans can be seen all over Bergen. Stop into this store just across from the Indian Trail Club, and you’ll see why. The Market Basket staff really know their stuff, and are always delighted to make suggestions for private parties, or just special meals. And that’s a big draw for Alison Bolton of Ramsey, who named them Best Caterer because, she says, “they are always top quality, no matter the product. They catered our wedding 20 years ago, and we still love them. The freshness of their food,” Bolton adds, “and the large portions are worth every penny.”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Cheese Shop
The Cheese Shop of Ridgewood, Ridgewood
At holiday times and throughout the year, this corner store has been a mainstay in Ridgewood for decades. Knowledgeable staff and a diverse selection make a stop at The Cheese Shop a must when entertaining. Nancy Beth Kamhi makes the trip from her Rutherford home to what she deems “a lovely little establishment that has an excellent variety of unique and delicious cheeses you don’t find elsewhere.” And Sandy Musson of Wyckoff has been grateful for the broader culinary perspective The Cheese Shop has afforded her: “Think back to the 1980s, when “gourmet” cheese meant buying cheddar instead of yellow American. That’s when I first started visiting [the store]. I was introduced to the delights of smoked gouda, havarti with caraway, pepper Jack and so much more.”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Chinese Food
Baumgart’s, Edgewater, Englewood and Ridgewood locations
A surprise win this year for Best Chinese Food is Baumgart’s. A three-time winner for Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant, Baumgart’s has, increasingly, captivated the attention of Chinese-food lovers across Bergen. Renee Missbach of Ridgewood waxes eloquent about the homemade noodles (not to mention the homemade ice cream). “Baumgart's has the most fresh and delicious Chinese food around. Whether it be a quick dinner or a special occasion celebration, it’s our family's favorite place to eat!"
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Coffeehouse
Ridgewood Coffee Company, Ridgewood
While ownership of this popular coffee house has changed over the years, there’s certainly no discontent brewing about the quality and popularity of the offerings. Java junkies still flock to the downtown Ridgewood gathering spot for a consistently good cup of joe and some lively conversation. “What it lacks in room or atmosphere, it makes up for in its great coffee,” says Caryn Starr-Gates of Fair Lawn. “The beans are roasted to perfection,” adds Starr-Gates, who also likes the dessert selections. And village resident Jeanette LaRocco applauds the “wonderful small-town feel of a place where they get to know their customers personally and make you feel like they do – even if you're not a regular.”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Day Camp
Ramapo Country Day Camp, Bergen-Rockland Border
The variety of activities, including art, swimming, theater, rock climbing, zip lines, go-karts, archery, horseback riding, hands-on science and rocketry, are what makes this day camp a popular choice. Both of Ira Cohen’s children went there when they were younger, notes the Alpine resident, who calls the care the youngsters received “far superior to other facilities. I looked at a number of day camps,” recalls Cohen, “and this one stood out above the rest.
Best of Bergen 2009
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. One such fan, Michael Brown of Carlstadt, found the selection particularly sweet: “Frequently, the restaurant changes the menu, so that’s good for someone like me who likes to try different things.”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Diner
Matthew’s Colonial Diner, Waldwick
Diners have always been a phenomenon of sorts – offering seemingly endless menus, available around the clock. Bergen boasts dozens of these iconic eateries, but Matthew’s Colonial Diner still claims the top spot among hungry customers who read (201). “When you are looking for good-quality diner fare, Matthew’s is the place to go,“ says Darren Magarro of Franklin Lakes. “I enjoy their cheese fries with gravy – plus, they are open late. It is local and convenient.”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Downtown Shopping
Ridgewood
Many of Bergen’s 70 communities have bustling downtown shopping districts, but Ridgewood, with its long avenue of boutiques, restaurants and parks, was chosen the favorite. The downtown, notes Tara Diamond-Kule of Glen Rock, “mixes ‘mom-and-pop’ with nationwide-chain shopping in a great balance.” Diamond-Kule also praises the diversity of food offerings to suit every palate. “Every age group can find something to do, eat or buy in downtown Ridgewood, from going to the movies, getting their hunger sated, or buying a new outfit for a night out.”
Runners-Up: Englewood, Westwood
Runners-Up: Englewood, Westwood
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Family Fitness
Volt Fitness, Glen Rock
(201) Staff Pick, selected by Bob Klapisch, Sports Editor
Volt, which opened in 2007, is the perfect fusion between video games and fitness, where kids of all ages can get a workout while having fun at the same time. I enjoy watching my 6-year-old son Casey, climb a moving rock wall.
Volt, which opened in 2007, is the perfect fusion between video games and fitness, where kids of all ages can get a workout while having fun at the same time. I enjoy watching my 6-year-old son Casey, climb a moving rock wall.
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Farmstand
Abma’s Farm Market, Wyckoff; Demarest Farms, Hillsdale; DePieros Farm, Montvale
It’s a three-way tie between Abma’s Farm Market, DePiero’s and Demarest Farms. Each with its own particular charm, the farmstands hark back to an earlier era, drawing visitors from Bergen and beyond to their hay rides, pumpkin and apple picking and summer barbecue activities. For Mary Kay Ludden of Oakland, Abma’s “is like being at a real farm right in the middle of Bergen. I feel very strongly about supporting our local businesses,” Ludden adds, “and you can't get more local than Abma’s. Lynn Scerbo of Glen Rock loves being able to get fresh Jersey produce close to home; her memories go back to childhood trips to Abma’s, and later, bringing her three sons (now in their 20s) there for hayrides – “and of course, to see the animals.” And Mahwah’s Ruthie Harper made it a fall tradition to bring her niece and nephew. “We’d always visit the baby chicks, feed the animals, do photo sessions on the school bus – these are moments I will always treasure!”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Fireworks
Ridgewood Fourth of July
Whether viewed from Vets Field, Van Neste Square Park or the west side of the railroad tracks, Ridgewood’s fireworks continue to delight for this annual Independence Day tradition. “When our children were young,” recalls Barbara Baum of Montvale, “our family's 4th of July celebration included a drive into Ridgewood to watch the town's spectacular fireworks.” Way to light up the faces of young and old!
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Florist
Perry’s, Glen Rock
A family business for more than 50 years, Perry’s Florist prides itself on customer service and creativity in its flower arrangements. For Christine Nunn of Fair Lawn, there’s a lot of history in those blooms. “My family has been using Perry’s Florist my whole life,” she says. “Up in a closet, I still have Easter corsages that my dad bought there in the ’60s and early ’70s. They know their customers by name, and even what flowers we like. They are just terrific.”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Gift Shop
Happy Tuesday, Ridgewood
The owners of this eclectic gift shop will be mighty happy to learn that they have reclaimed the top spot in this competitive category. Andrea Glanz of Ho-Ho-Kus calls Happy Tuesday “the kind of store that you can always find something in – I never leave empty handed. Whether it’s holiday decorations, a hostess gift, new baby, teacher, wedding or birthday, they have the perfect thing for every occasion,” she says. “I love shopping there!”
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Gym
The Gym, Englewood and Montvale locations
Gym rats who enjoy a high-tech, futuristic environment have seen fit to choose The Gym. Debuting as a staff pick, The Gym quickly became a readers’ favorite in 2008. Englewood’s Bruce Skop praises the establishment for its equipment and cleanliness. “The parking is easily accessible, and above all there is a nice clientele and knowledgeable, friendly staff,” he says. And with extra amenities that keep the blood pumping for Skop and other patrons, The Gym is no run-of-the-treadmill workout.
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Homemade Ice Cream
Van Dyk’s Ice Cream, Ridgewood
Tucked away in a residential neighborhood of Ridgewood, Van Dyk’s continues to draw ice cream lovers throughout the seasons. Sensational scoopers pile cones and cups high with favorite flavors of choice. Village resident Randy Carson screams for his Van Dyk’s ice cream, which he calls “an outstanding product.” And, like many in this age of the franchise, Carson says he prefers to support family businesses like this one, whose roots on Ackerman Avenue date back more than a century.
Best of Bergen 2009
Best Internet Cafe
Panera Bread, locations in East Rutherford, Edgewater, Fair Lawn, Northvale, Paramus, Ramsey and Woodcliff Lake
(201) Staff Pick, selected by Laura Adams, 201.net Web Editor
Who doesn’t like getting something for free? Panera Bread, a New Jersey-based chain with is a Wi-Fi hotspot, offering free Internet access to visiting patrons. Customers can order a meal from the café or a snack from the bakery, then sit down, prop open their laptop and browse the ’Net. Use lunchtime to read personal e-mail or check the latest sports scores. Maybe you missed your favorite show the night before – catch up online while enjoying a steaming cup of coffee.
Who doesn’t like getting something for free? Panera Bread, a New Jersey-based chain with is a Wi-Fi hotspot, offering free Internet access to visiting patrons. Customers can order a meal from the café or a snack from the bakery, then sit down, prop open their laptop and browse the ’Net. Use lunchtime to read personal e-mail or check the latest sports scores. Maybe you missed your favorite show the night before – catch up online while enjoying a steaming cup of coffee.