From two decades’ worth of Best Of winners comes our absolute, essential Best of the Best list. We reviewed the 6,000+ winners (gasp!) from our 20 annual Best Of issues, spanning 2001 through 2020, and narrowed it down to these 129 repeat winners and perennial standouts.
By Paul Adler, Nick Brandi, Noa Covell, Andrew Dominick, Joel Eliach, Michelle Gillan Larkin,
Rebecca Miller, Amy R. Partridge, Stacey Pfeffer, John Bruno Turiano, and Gina Valentino
– Cover Gallery –
– Food & Drink –
Baked by Susan
Croton-on-Hudson
www.bakedbysusan.com
There’s a reason Baked by Susan was selected as a Best of Westchester winner every year since 2013: Everything is made from scratch daily, using all-natural, local ingredients and fruit in season with no preservatives. In its newly expanded Croton location, the bakery offers plenty of outdoor seating, where you can enjoy its wide product line — everything from cakes, cupcakes, muffins, and scones to brownies, pies, tarts, and savory favorites, including Susan’s famous empanadas.
Benjamin Steakhouse
White Plains
www.benjaminsteakhouse.com/Westchester
The Westchester location of the Manhattan mainstay brings everything you love about an upscale NYC steakhouse right to the 914. With indulgent fare from lamb and lobster to glistening seafood towers, and (of course) upper-tier USDA Prime steaks aged in-house for at least 28 days, just a look at the menu will have your mouth watering. Moreover, the quality of the food is matched by Benjamin’s wine list, attentive servers, and a welcoming atmosphere, which balances clubby masculine with a touch of airy contemporary.
Blue Hill at Stone Barns
Pocantico Hills
www.bluehillfarm.com/dine/stone-barns
Westchester’s first-and-only-to-date Michelin restaurant (with two stars at that!), Blue Hill takes a commitment to farm-to-table dining to the next level. Co-owner, chef, and ethical-eating guru Dan Barber crafts 30-plus-course seasonal tasting menus highlighting redesigned food (e.g., working with seed breeders at the genetic level to develop more nutritious produce with deeper flavor), as well as animals raised and butchered on-site. Barber plans to step away from kitchen duties this year and instead bring in chefs each season to run the restaurant, but the mission of exhibiting paramount flavor potential from every animal and botanical, and producing food with a low environmental impact, remains.
Blue Pig
Croton-on-Hudson
www.thebluepigicecream.com
The “Pig” puts processed ice creams full of antibiotics and high-fructose corn syrup to shame by emphasizing the “hand” in handcrafted, whether it’s grating cups of lemon zest, hulling fruit, or using herbs grown on-site. Even toppings such as hot fudge, salted caramel sauce, and whipped cream are made in-house. The freshest ingredients from local sources, including dairy from nonprofit Hudson Valley Fresh cooperative, further separate this spot from your typical ice cream parlor. Look out for unique rotating flavors, such as roasted banana caramel swirl or brown-sugar cinnamon, and (believe it or not) really tasty vegan options.
Burrata
Eastchester
www.burratapizza.com
They’re sticklers for the way a pie is done at this dapper trattoria. Ingredients such as Caputo 00 flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and Buffalo mozzarella are used, following the template of pizza’s birthplace, Naples. We say Burrata has reached the master level of Neapolitan pie-making, pumping out beautiful, puffy rounds with distinctive charring from a fiery, 800-plus-degree Stefano Ferrara Forni wood oven. There are top-level house-made pastas, too, like rigatoni in a duck ragù with porcini, but with all the delicious pies to sample, you may find it difficult to get to that section of the menu.
Captain Lawrence Brewing Co.
Elmsford, Mount Kisco
www.captainlawrencebrewing.com
Owner and head brewer Scott Vaccaro was a microbrew pioneer when he opened Captain Lawrence in 2006, one of the first such operations in the New York Metro area and still Westchester’s largest craft brewery. Hopheads in the 914 hail the myriad offerings, from award-winning sour beers and lagers to specialty beers, like milkshake IPAs and smoothie ales. In addition to nearly 20 beers on tap, there’s dynamite food — including warm pretzels, pulled-pork nachos, wood-fired pizza, and tacos — and a beer garden with cornhole and bocce.
Chutney Masala
Irvington
www.chutneymasala.com
Chef/co-owner Navjot Arora’s bistro presents the culinary diversity of Indian cuisine with some modern twists that place it well beyond the standard South Asian eatery. Free-range meats without antibiotics and hormones, wild-caught seafood, and local produce are prevalent in silky, chunky curries, tandoori dishes, and crisped-yet-juicy kebabs, while an assortment of freshly baked naan, slow-simmered chutneys, and Western-tinged cocktails round out your superior meal.
Coffee Labs Roasters
Tarrytown
www.coffeelabs.com
This 19-seat spot opened in 2003 as the first third-wave coffee roaster in the county. It is committed to sustainability, limiting its carbon footprint (awarded three-star certification by the Green Restaurant Association), and to serving the freshest coffee: Two roasters operate daily. Owner Mike Love spends several months annually traveling, buying coffee, and supporting farmers from Honduras to Mexico to Nicaragua. Try the cold-roast brew with a Balthazar Bakery bread.
Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant & Inn
Chappaqua
www.crabtreeskittlehouse.com
Crabtree’s is one of those ageless restaurants: No matter the season, occasion, or decade (it has lasted four of them), the exquisite dining experience of progressive farm-to-table cuisine never grows stale. The consistency of the American fare combines with beautiful optics, in and out, and a Wine Spectator Grand Award wine program (45,000+ bottles and 500 varieties), to cement Crabtree’s as a premier destination on Westchester County’s culinary map.
City Limits Diner
White Plains
www.citylimitsdiner.com
The menu at what is among the most popular county restaurants offers exemplary diner fare but done in an elevated manner: yellowfin tuna in the tuna fish sandwich; salmon smoked in-house; burgers hand-formed with 100% Black Angus; a fresh-roasted turkey-club sandwich on house-made focaccia with horseradish mayo. No surprise there’s been nary a year in 20 that City Limits hasn’t been awarded a Best Of.
Coriander
Larchmont
www.corianderny.com
Putting a modern twist on Indian food, Coriander merges Eastern techniques with Western influences and relies less heavily on oils and ghee than the typical Indian restaurant yet proffers rich and intricate dishes (e.g., pumpkin kofta curry, shredded curry chicken tacos, tandoori Alaskan salmon) smartly paired with craft beers or fun cocktails. Considerate and classy owner Shawn Nagpal is typically present to make sure your experience is first-rate.
DeCicco & Sons
Various county locations
www.deciccoandsons.com
Why patronize a soulless mega-chain grocery store when you can shop this homegrown, family-owned, gourmet mini-chain? Westchesterites are proud supporters of DeCicco & Sons’ nine stores, which offer a robust selection of grocery staples, as well as high-end specialty items, like fresh-baked goods, sushi, and brick-oven pizza. Also beloved is the award-winning craft-beer selection — complete with in-store bars fitted with up to 28 beer taps flowing faves from local breweries and elsewhere.
Eastchester Fish Gourmet
Eastchester
www.eastchesterfish.com
The place for seafood in Lower Westchester for 40 years strong, E.F.G., as it’s locally known, comprises a market, an inviting nautically themed restaurant, and a takeout spot, aptly called Go Fish. Top-catch selections arrive daily from the New Fulton Fish Market, yielding entrées of maple-glazed salmon, pan-seared skate wing with savoy cabbage and pancetta, crisp fish ’n’ chips, and quick bites, like fish tacos and po’ boys.
Flames Steakhouse
Elmsford
www.flamessteakhouse.com
Nikolla Vulaj understands a steakhouse is meant for indulging. Thus, the 30-plus-year industry veteran doesn’t take shortcuts or skimp on anything, butchering his Prime dry-aged cuts in-house, offering from-scratch desserts and pastas, and buying quality products (e.g., the $33-$35/lb crabmeat as opposed to the $20/lb option). “I’ve seen many restaurants go in and go out,” says Vulaj. “At the start, they do things the right way, but over time, they tend to relax on product quality and service.” Things you’ll never have to worry about at Flames.
Fortina
Various locations
www.fortinapizza.com
Christian Petroni has come a long way since he opened up the original Fortina in Armonk, a wood-fired twist on a Bronx red-sauce joint. Now with five locations and his newfound Food Network fame, Petroni is busier than ever (He in fact left Fortina last November to pursue other opportunities). But that hasn’t hindered Fortina’s momentum. There’s a thinner, crispier, pizza-dough recipe that only makes its popular black-truffle-laden Luigi Bianco better. And diners shouldn’t skimp on mozzarella sticks, cheesy garlic bread, wood-roasted veggies, or any of the improved pasta classics that put Fortina on the map.
Half Time
Mamaroneck
www.halftimebeverage.com
If a craft-beer heaven existed, it would look exactly like Half Time. Whether it’s local suds or rarer beer releases you seek, Half Time seemingly has it all. Additionally, you can get fresh growler fills from one of its 22 draft lines. And with Decadent Ales occupying the other side, you can enjoy a pint of its wildly creative dessert IPAs before or after you stock up.
Johnny’s Pizzeria
Mount Vernon
www.johnnys1942.com
Paper-thin, cash-only, Yankees-memorabilia decor, and the same sensational pie every single time, this casual, always-bustling hotspot is a standout among anybody who enjoys a perfecto pizza. In business since 1942, Johnny’s is a Lower Westchester institution that hosts foodies, ’za devotees, and big eaters from all over.
June & Ho
Like a little slice of Manhattan in Rye, June & Ho is a classic gourmet French deli where locals gather to meet, pick up groceries or freshly prepared foods, grab a coffee and chat with longtime husband-wife owners the Parks. Open since 1982, favorites include fresh meats and produce, classic French prepared foods, handcrafted sandwiches, homemade soups, daily-baked artisan breads, and award-winning house-smoked salmon. Gorgeous fresh flowers and plants add to the shop’s appeal.
Kathleen’s Tea Room
Peekskill
www.kathleenstroom.com
Boasting more than 70 varieties of loose tea for two decades plus, this English-style tearoom is like stepping into a different era. Expect finger sandwiches, homemade soups, overflowing salads, and the best scones this side of the pond, along with peach Melba, turnovers, fresh-baked shortcake, and traditional high tea.
La Panetiére
Putting the “special” in special occasion is owner Jacques Loupiac’s transporting haute French operation, which has been beguiling diners since 1986. Step inside to a welcoming, Provençal home, where you are to be pampered and cajoled as if Parisian royalty. Quiet sophistication reigns on all fronts — service, meal presentation, atmosphere — and there’s not a restaurant within the county that can match La Panetiére’s chef/pastry chef/sommelier trifecta of aptitude.
La Petite Occasion
Get a taste of candy’s true potential with these ultimate confections. Made with local butter (Kriemhild), cream (Hudson Valley Fresh), and seasonal ingredients by an ex-Eleven Madison Park chef are caramels and toffees that are equally exquisite and delicious (salted dark chocolate is our fave). Whether as a gift for your sweetheart or a reminder to yourself how sweet life can be, these are worth searching for in local shops and farmers’ markets.
La Tulipe Desserts
Mount Kisco
www.latulipedesserts.com
The display case at this European patisserie is a dazzling display of color, design, and culinary craftsmanship. Co-owner and Dutch-born second-generation pastry chef Maarten Steenman is a master of sweet style and substance, creating French classics like macarons, custardy canelés, buttery kouign-amann, chocolate truffles, and individual pastries. The concoctions are from the finest ingredients and so pretty, you’ll almost not want to eat them… almost.
Lefteris Gyro
Multiple county locations
www.lefterisgyro.com
Lefteris is the Greek word for “freedom,” and with locations in Tarrytown, Mount Kisco, Yonkers, and Pleasantville, this local showstopper serves up authentic Greek fare, like spanakopita, moussaka, and souvlaki, along with fresh fish, gyros, and homemade soups. Try the lobster bisque (available only on weekends) and lamb souvlaki.
Little Kabab Station
Mount Kisco
The authentic flavors, spices, and colors of India transport diners to distant lands where curries, kababs, and masalas are transcendent, and the grilled-and-stuffed flatbread Bombay Frankie rolls are addictive. Masala chai tea for two and a selection of dessert kababs (go for the s’mores) add a sweet finish to an experience also quite affordable (there are few items north of $14).
Longford’s Own-Made Ice Cream
Larchmont and Rye
www.longfordsicecream.com
For a house-made cold and creamy treat, Longford’s is a top choice — a veritable 914 mainstay that’s been churning small-batch, all-natural ice cream since 1992. More than 60 flavors of ice cream, sorbet, and gelato are offered consistently, including seasonal and vegan options. Vanilla, s’mores, and Cookie Monster on sugar cones are favorites.
Mason Sandwich Co.
Eastchester
www.masonsandwiches.com
When brothers Lou and George Brindley opened Mason Sandwich Co. in 2016, the idea wasn’t only to make “sandwiches they like to eat” but to create better ones than what they experienced in the area. That goal was achieved quickly, with glamorous versions of fast-food sandwiches, like a Big Mac-like burger, a Fishwich that’s basically a fancy Filet-o-Fish, and a triumvirate of fried-chicken sandwiches — one with maple syrup and pickles, one doused in homemade buffalo sauce, and another laden with white yogurt sauce.
Melt Sandwich Shop
White Plains
www.meltsandwich.com
This is much more than just a sandwich shop; it’s what every deli and between-the-bread eatery should aspire to. Meats are cured, brined, roasted, smoked, or grilled daily (Hello, rosemary Dijon pork loin!), flatbreads made in-house, and a host of creative topping combos, like The Spicy (green chili, red onions, white cheddar) and The Golden Pineapple (golden pineapple salsa, jalapeños, cilantro, red onions), finish off your sandwich with delicious polish.
Mint Premium Foods
Tarrytown
A gourmet food store up front selling the very best of global delights (jams, olives, breads, olive oils, chocolates) transitions to a full-service dining area offering an eclectic menu, including Moroccan chicken, tuna niçoise, and Jamaican jerk swordfish. Don’t leave without a purchase from the superlative cheese counter, manned by gracious proprietor Hassan Jarane.
Moderne Barn
Armonk
www.modernebarn.com
In upscale, welcoming surrounds, global spices shine in New American cuisine showcasing the best in organic, regional farm fare. Elevated crowd-pleasers, like black-truffle pizza and lobster grilled cheese, are fun offerings, while grilled Australian lamb chops and a thick-cut pork chop with sage butter and apple chutney are for the serious-minded eater. It’s all complemented by a lengthy, terroir-driven wine list.
Mt. Kisco Seafood
Mount Kisco
www.mtkiscoseafood.com
Fresh fish and so much more since 1977, the prepared-foods menu here is endless and includes everything from every manner of marine delight, including sushi, caviar, and chowders, plus salads, organic meats, local produce, cheese, sauces, artisan breads, and locally made desserts.
Mulino’s of Westchester
White Plains
www.mulinosny.com
A county institution where 914 powerbrokers dine, Mulino’s is old school in a grand way that seemingly only decades-old Italian restaurants can be. The gratis antipasti — soppressata, Parmigiano-Reggiano chunks, pane di casa — hints at the bravura meal to come. An extensive list of wines and cocktails, top-tier service, and a strappingly handsome decor (extraordinary around the holidays) round out this grown-up dining experience.
Ocean House Oyster Bar & Grill
Croton-on-Hudson
www.oceanhouseoysterbar.com
A refurbished 1920s diner lends quirky charm to chef-owner Brian Galvin’s seafood restaurant, where the common fish-house mistake of over-saucing and tower-high plating is eschewed in favor of straightforward presentations of both traditional favorites and not-so-familiar varieties. The sparkling-fresh oyster selection of East and West Coast bivalves, having garnered multiple Best Of wins, is particularly noteworthy.
Piper’s Kilt
Eastchester
www.piperskilt.com
For decades, Piper’s Kilt has shown burger enthusiasts that you don’t have to be pretentiously creative to be outstanding. Each half-pound — and loosely ground — house-ground beef blend is seared on a flat top under a dome, so the cheese of your choice envelopes the patty perfectly. Get it with just onions and American, with bacon and cheddar, or whatever makes you happy. The truth is, it stands up to any burger anywhere.
Pleasantville Farmers Market
Pleasantville
www.pleasantvillefarmersmarket.org
Farmers’ markets are plentiful throughout Westchester, but the Pleasantville Farmers Market stands out as the county’s largest year-round market (it’s held indoors during winter months). Running continuously since 1998, at its Memorial Plaza location since 2010, regulars flock here each week for the 30-plus local vendors offering everything from fresh fruit and produce to cheeses, baked goods, sauces and jams, olive oils, artisan spirits, and ice cream, plus fun extras, like live music, kids’ events, and chef demos.
Pour
Mount Kisco
www.pourmtkisco.com
Forget schlepping to the city for a dimly lit, date-night nook in which to sip an expertly mixed classic cocktail. You can do just that inside of Pour’s cozy, Victorian-era digs. If your groove isn’t an Old Fashioned, a negroni, or one of many wines, Pour’s unrivaled selection of old bourbons and ryes will entice you. Snack on truffle fries or charcuterie from its small menu to soak up the “one more” you’ll inevitably indulge in.
Purdy’s Farmer & the Fish
North Salem
www.farmerandthefish.com
It doesn’t get more down-home, farm-to-table America than Purdy’s: produce from an on-site farm with four cultivated acres and two greenhouses, fish from an exclusive seafood supplier, a 1775 farmstead with Colonial hearth, dark-wood-beamed ceiling, and a Rockwellesque porch. Clam chowder, Maine steamers, cedar-plank Scottish salmon, and a lobster roll are among a robust list of must-try dishes.
Red Hat on the River
Irvington
www.redhatontheriver.com
Combining Parisian chic with an industrial flair, this perennial hotspot overlooking the Hudson River is an excellent spot for everything from date night to let’s-meet-for-a-casual-bite-at-the-bar to special events, like weddings and large celebrations. The expansive waterfront patio and slick roof bar are also favorite spots in favorable weather, and the menu of French-inspired American bistro fare is highly regarded.
RiverMarket Bar & Kitchen
Tarrytown
www.rivermarketbarkitchen.com
One of Westchester’s earlier proponents of the farm-to-table ethos, RiverMarket combines a stellar menu packed with locally sourced, sustainable ingredients with a hard-to-beat bar offering — headed up by Best of Westchester honoree Emilio Ugarte — that includes an extensive wine list, award-winning cocktail creations, and a robust craft-beer selection. Add to that its stylish decor and the in-house fresh market, and it’s easy to see why RiverMarket remains a top dining destination in the county.
Rory Dolan’s Restaurant & Bar
Yonkers
www.rorydolans.com
For the city of Yonkers and beyond, Rory Dolan’s is the quintessential Irish pub, boasting an incredible 45 draft lines with plenty of Guinness to go around, too. All the suds are a perfect accompaniment to traditional Irish fare, like bangers and mash, fish ’n’ chips, shepherd’s pie, hearty stews, and even seared calves’ liver. Most notably, Rory Dolan’s is the place to party when McLean Avenue has its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Sal’s Pizzeria
Mamaroneck
www.salsmamaroneck.com
If you’re looking for the textbook Sicilian slice, you’ve found the mecca in the 914. The golden-brown bottom crust, herbed sweet sauce, plus mozzarella cheese that smoothly blankets the top before oozing down the sides to form crunchy brown crisps puts this memorable slice into ’za nirvana. The pizzeria also gets bonus points for on-point regular and salad slices, plus its sibling gelato and Italian ice shop next door.
Sonora Restaurant
Port Chester
www.sonorarestaurant.net
The flavors of Mexico and South America tango with the tastes and seasonings of Spain and Cuba, yielding near-perfect paella, small plates of fish tacos, eggplant meatballs, fresh guac, and roasted Brussels sprouts, as well as entrées like pan-seared branzino and braised short ribs with goat cheese mashed potatoes and a rioja reduction. To go with, try stellar sangria, margs, mojitos, and authentic, Latin-inspired cocktails.
Stew Leonard’s
Yonkers
www.stewleonards.com
From its animatronic singing farm animals and costumed characters walking the aisles to the free ice cream and intense focus on “happy customers,” it’s clear Stew Leonard’s is no average grocery store. The local, family-owned mini-chain inspires almost cultish devotion among Westchesterites, who come from far and wide for the aforementioned family fun and the store’s vast array of both supermarket- and Stew Leonard’s-brand items.
Sushi Mike’s
Dobbs Ferry
www.sushimikes.com
Stunningly beautiful sushi rolls in divey digs and a mural depicting sea life playing musical instruments can only mean you’re at Sushi Mike’s. Even as it readies for its 20th anniversary, expect to stand in line for Sushi Mike’s izakaya-style apps, fried rice, composed fish dishes, and slurp-worthy bowls of ramen though locals knock back the sushi rolls by the dozens. Specialty sushi, like the Fantastic Roll (white seaweed, tuna, yellowtail, cucumber, avocado, Japanese mayo, flying fish roe), get lots of hype from raw-fish fanatics, but novices shouldn’t fret. There’s plenty of introductory rolls to help expand your gustatory horizons.
Sweet Grass Grill
Tarrytown
www.sweetgrassgrill.com
The menu depends heavily on the harvest from the dozen or so local farms that service this casual, carnivore- and vegan-pleasing eatery, where blooming salads and stuffed sandwiches (like the quinoa sweet-potato burger) are the lunchtime faves. But, when the sun sinks behind the nearby Palisades, the eye-catching bar, carved from a single fallen oak tree from nearby Rockefeller Preserve, hosts handcrafted cocktails and frothy microbrews.
The Black Cow Coffee Company
Pleasantville, Croton-on-Hudson, Café at Phelps Memorial Hospital
www.blackcow.com
With beans roasted on-site at the Croton location, you know the coffee is always fresh — and probably waking up the whole hood with eye-opening aromas. Whether a latte, decaf, or just a regular cuppa is your daily jam, this is the quintessential, local coffeehouse. However, don’t hesitate to venture off ranch for the signature Black Cow, made with espresso, steamed chocolate milk, and thick whip.
The Cookery
Dobbs Ferry
www.thecookeryrestaurant.com
Nose-to-tail carnage meets soulful Italian flavors. That description can only be for The Cookery. David DiBari’s Dobbs Ferry flagship isn’t only a nod to his culture; it’s a playground for his fearless creativity. Day-one dishes, like rigatoni in madeira sauce with a marrow bone for extra richness, and fat, tender, red-sauce meatballs, are Cookery classics, but one should expect to run into more inventive dishes, such as duck liver mousse cannoli and a sugared yeast donut stuffed with chopped pig’s cheek, barbecue onions, basil, and chili-infused honey. DiBari recently said that he wants to “retrain diners to have open minds.” He’s been doing just that since The Cookery opened in 2009.
The Kneaded Bread
Port Chester
www.kneadedbread.com
Drop by this legendary Port Chester bakery on most mornings, and you’ll find a line of sleepy Westchesterites snaking outside the door, united by their love of exceptional baked goods. The bakery’s sourdoughs, provolone bread, muffins, and sticky buns remain some of the county’s best, with singular standouts, such as pretzel croissants and black-and-white cookies, ensuring that Kneaded Bread will remain among the county’s leading bakeries for generations.
Walter’s Hot Dogs
Mamaroneck and White Plains
www.waltershotdogs.com
A Westchester legend since 1919, Walter’s special-recipe beef, veal, and pork-blend hot dogs get a butter-drenched hard sear on a flat top and placed into a butter-
toasted bun with a slathering of house-made tangy mustard. The Walter’s-hot-dog empire has expanded from their iconic pagoda in Mamaroneck to include two wandering food trucks and a White Plains location, so you should have no trouble getting your fix of a single or a double.
X2O Xaviars on the Hudson
Yonkers
www.xaviars.com
Any short list of Westchester celebrity chefs surely includes Peter Kelly and his too-many-to-list-here accolades. His lauded X20, though, is unrivaled when it comes to where you should go for a special night out. The restaurant’s Hudson River views and front-row seats to spectacular sunsets combined with Kelly’s fine dining mashup of French, Asian, Spanish, and Italian flavors will make you swoon.
Zachys
Scarsdale
www.zachys.com
Founded in 1944, there are many reasons why 914 wine mecca Zachys has been a virtual constant among our Best Of winners over the years. A couple of the most significant include an international presence, which allows it to offer thousands of selections from the farthest reaches of the globe, in addition to a consummate staff, whose knowledge is second to none in this area, offering consultations, collector services, auctions, and delivery.
– Health & Beauty –
Club Fit
Briarcliff Manor and Jefferson Valley
www.clubfit.com
The county’s premier non-chain fitness center has proved its staying power by keeping its programming fresh and new. Its two locations offer a plethora of fitness options: In addition to top-of-the-line cardio and weight-training equipment, and the expected roster of group-fitness classes (spinning, yoga, bootcamp, Zumba, etc.), members have access to an aquatics center, tennis and racquetball courts, basketball leagues, nutrition and wellness classes, massage, and summer camps and childcare options, so parents can work out stress-free.
CrossFit Mount Kisco
Mount Kisco
www.crossfitmountkisco.com
Fitness trends come and go, but the exceptional instruction by the accomplished coaches at CrossFit Mount Kisco ensures this gym consistently stands out among the best in the state. Overseen by owner and head coach Phil Itwaru, CrossFit Mount Kisco stays at the top of the pack with its focus on both safety and intensity, programming that ranges from Olympic lifting to open gym, a recently updated 7,000 sq. ft. facility, and plenty of fun events for its many happy members.
Eiluj
Katonah
www.eilujbeauty.com
Expect services like facials, eyebrow shaping, and professional makeup at this cosmetics haven, long cherished by beauty buffs countywide. After 17 years in business, owner Julie Cuomo continues to evolve the charming boutique. While she still stocks desired cosmetics lines, like Mario Badescu and Natura Bisse, she debuted her own incredible line of cosmetics, Eiluj Beauty (the blushes are our favorite), created an e-commerce website, and moved to a new Katonah Ave location.
Euro Laser Spa Services
There’s a reason this sleek and safety-
conscious spa has consistently won a Best of Westchester award in multiple categories for more than a decade. If you are craving fresh-faced skin, its expertly trained aestheticians offer tailored solutions from Fraxel to the latest natural-looking fillers. And if unwanted hair is a top-tier beauty woe, consider the spa’s comfortable laser hair-removal technology an essential part of your beauty arsenal.
Fiore Pilates
Mamaroneck
www.fiorepilatesonline.com
Pilates devotees old and new flock to this Mamaroneck-based studio to get long and lean all while working on their core strength from expert instructors trained in classic Pilates. The instructors create customized programs whether you are working through an injury or just easing back into an exercise regimen, all in an unintimidating setting. Small group classes (online or in studio) offer close guidance to ensure proper safety and form for this exercise method beloved by athletes and dancers.
Green Life
Mamaroneck
www.greenlifeny.com
Before pressed juices stormed America’s trendiest neighborhoods, this stylish Mamaroneck eatery was doling out natural, organic, and plant-based foods and drinks. Run by three Westchester brothers, this family business continues to draw devotees not only with its delectable salads, protein bowls, and smoothies but has also adapted to the current climate, with a new meal-prep delivery service and juice-cleanse program.
Oasis Day Spa
Dobbs Ferry
www.oasisdayspanyc.com
For more than a decade, owner Bruce Schoenberg has drawn customers countywide for a standout spa experience in Westchester (having owned his NYC location for more than 20 years). A luxurious place to unwind, Oasis is spacious, with 15 treatment rooms, and offers a robust menu of massages, facials, body scrubs, wraps, and hair-removal treatments. Fan-favorite Eminence Organics is the spa’s product of choice. For a really unique experience, services can be booked, weather permitting, for the rooftop garden.
Phatburn
White Plains
www.phatburn.com
There might not be a more effective way to set and reach fitness goals than Phatburn’s program, which combines HIIT group classes, nutrition counseling, and healthy (and good-tasting — yes believe it) food. The coaches are persistent but use a gentle hand to guide clients through intense workouts (oh those dang spiderclimbs!) while an in-house chef creates the meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two daily snacks), which make staying on track more likely.
Pink
The ideal spot to shop for thoughtful presents, this home-lifestyle-and-gift boutique in Rye sells artisan home decor and personalized pieces. The boutique’s motto is “gifts for giving and living,” and includes products from brands like Lafco, Archipelago, and Kate Spade. It also spotlights local talent, by stocking the community’s artwork, books, and other items.
Saw Mill Club
Mount Kisco
www.sawmillclub.com
If you want a gym with the most extensive offerings for the family, look no further than the Saw Mill Club. Two locations in Mount Kisco offer everything from tennis and aquatics to spin. In the age of COVID, they are offering small-pod classes for you and your closest quarantine buddies. Plus, they’ve taken extraordinary steps with their Member Shield program, to keep the club safe and clean at all times.
Tovami Yoga
Mamaroneck
www.tovamiyoga.com
The slogan for this Sound Shore studio is “Bring your life, gain your peace.” With offerings like power flow, Kripalu, yin yoga, meditation, and yoga nidra, there are plenty of opportunities to tap into your inner Zen. Connect with yourself and with others through workshops centered around mindfulness, wellness, and meditation, like a yin and niyamas workshop and a community-oriented virtual book club.
Tranquility Spa
Scarsdale
www.tranquilityspa.com
Three decades in business with a vast array of indulgent, beneficial offerings, a soothing setting, up-to-the-minute technology, and a knowledgeable, sincere staff, and it’s no wonder this full-service spa has been voted Best of Westchester nine years running. From facials and massages to hair removal, skin rejuvenation, and vein treatment, Tranquility is truly a head-to-toe one-stop shop.
– Shopping –
Charles Department Store
Katonah
www.charlesdeptstore.com
A multigenerational family business whose origins date back to 1924, Charles Department Store is everything an independent, community-oriented retailer should be. Proprietors David and Jim Raneri have continued the family tradition of superior personal service and a unique selection of meticulously handpicked merchandise, including men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, footwear, housewares, and more, from many of the most respected brands in the industry.
Danny’s Cycles
Various locations
www.dannyscycles.com
Sporting only top-name bikes, gear, and cycling apparel, Danny’s rocks things that roll by offering expert assistance, servicing, and satisfaction-guarantees to get you, your kids, even your parents out on the roads and trails in no time. With five Westchester locations and two in Connecticut, there’s probably a Danny’s nearby (in case you need to take advantage of its exclusive 30-minute flat fix).
Desires by Mikolay
Chappaqua
www.desiresbymikolay.com
Husband-wife team Scott and Tara Mikolay know that a little sparkle can make any occasion feel luxurious. The two carry a curated assortment of exquisite designer jewels, Scott’s own couture collection, and Tara’s own line of raw-diamond jewelry at the Chappaqua boutique. Unique finds, like leather-bound classic books and whimsical cufflinks, complement the diamond and gemstone rings, earrings, and bracelet collections — all of which make striking and memorable gifts.
Elephant’s Trunk
Mount Kisco
www.elephantstrunk.com
Fifty years ago, Elephant’s Trunk was originally a “hippie shop” in Mount Kisco, selling tie-dyed T-shirts and lava lamps, according to co-owner Robert Brache. After a few years, it morphed into a boutique for special-occasion evening dresses, couture creations, and tuxedo wear, drawing a loyal Tristate clientele. Now, the newly situated store on North Bedford Road offers personalized attention in the age of COVID, with appointments suggested. Brache’s wife and co-owner, Monica, sports some serious fashion cred, with stints at Bruno Magli and Armani, so you’ll be in good hands whether walking down the red carpet or attending a swanky wedding.
Eye Designs
Armonk and Scarsdale
www.eyedesignsofwestchester.com
It’s not hard to see why Eye Designs has long been a resource for Westchesterites looking for 20/20 vision and spectacular specs. The team, which consists of two optometrists and three opticians, scours the globe for fashion-forward, funky frames, to create their unique and trendy collection of glasses, sunnies, and blue-light blockers — all equal parts functional and stylish.
Family Britches
Chappaqua and New Canaan
www.familybritches.com
Harking back to the days of the classic haberdashery, Family Britches has been a favorite of best-dressed men throughout the 914 and beyond. From custom-cut suits and sportswear to casual clothing for boys and men (plus a women’s department!). the 8,500 square feet of selling space features merchandise selected by the tastefully dressed sales associates, some of whom have enjoyed decades-long customer relationships. Free alterations ensure a perfect fit. “Customers crave the personal attention and professionalism of our team, as well as the quality of our merchandise,” notes co-owner Barry Mishkin.
Havana Jeans
Rye and Stamford
www.shophavanajeans.com
Staffers at this store pride themselves on their extensive knowledge of all things denim. The store’s denim wall features on-trend selections at different price points. “Buying jeans is like buying a bathing suit,” notes owner Sheryl Blit, who opened her first Havana Jeans in 1995 with her husband, Eli, who hails from Cuba. Blit knows that the right pair of jeans can make you feel like a denim-clad diva. Cute joggers and cozy sweaters round out the offerings.
Hickory & Tweed
Armonk
www.hickoryandtweed.com
Ski season is year-round here at what SKI magazine once dubbed the No. 1 ski shop in America. The passionate staff members ensure that everyone who enters the doors has a hands-on shopping experience. Everyone from beginners to pros can lease or rent skis and have ski and snowboard tune-ups from the boutique. Get ready to shred after a trip to this Armonk mainstay.
LOLA New York
Tuckahoe and White Plains
www.lolany.com
Stylish shoppers in the know flock to LOLA New York for its collection of fashion-
forward and moderately priced apparel, jewelry, and accessories. Founders Denise Elias McCarthy and Dawn Pasacreta have a knack for stocking pieces that are simultaneously on-trend and highly wearable, with the intention of providing unique finds not readily available elsewhere locally. Our fave items to purchase at the charming boutique include winter coats, hair accessories, and jewelry.
Luxe Luxury Labels
Armonk
For fashionistas looking to don apparel, shoes, and acessories from high-end fashion houses (but reluctant to pay designer price tags), this luxury and contemporary consignment shop is a go-to. With classic Chanel crossbodies, statement Yves Saint Laurent boots, and rare Hermès totes among the sweet finds. you’re pretty much guaranteed to leave feeling in vogue.
March Boutique
Briarcliff Manor
www.marchboutique.com
In business for more than 14 years, this Briarcliff boutique offers affordable, trendy, and contemporary apparel and accessories. The vision behind the mainstay (which is a great place to shop for gifts) was to create a boutique with the vibe of beloved NYC and LA stores, and provide a highly curated collection, which includes pieces from more than 50 designers.
Pepe Auto Group
Multiple locations
www.pepeautogroup.com
Westchesterites are demanding, so the perennial presence of Pepe Auto Group on the annual Best of Westchester list is an especially outstanding achievement. With more than 450 dedicated employees staffing seven locations in Westchester and Rockland, Pepe Auto Group uses a refreshingly up-front and honest approach — a key reason it sells more than 10,000 new and preowned vehicles annually to the community it has served for more than 50 years.
R&M Woodrow Jewelers
Elegance and opulence abound at this Rye mainstay of 35 years. Owners Robert and Michael Woodrow offer fine jewels, diamond watches, and gifts from brands like Roberto Coin, Mikimoto, Baccarat, and Lalique. The two brothers generously share their decades of knowledge, providing excellent customer service that ensures each visit is a luxe experience.
Rothman’s
Scarsdale
www.rothmansny.com
Brothers Ken and Jim Giddon have reinvented the concept of the legendary discount store created by their grandfather, Harry Rothman, in the form of this modern haberdashery. Chic men countywide visit this boutique for its curated collection of stylish suits, casualwear, sportswear, and hip accessories, in high-quality fabrics and materials, from such designers as Save the Duck, Nice Stuff, and Serge Blanco, in addition to Rothmans exclusives.
Shoe-Inn
Rye Brook and Scarsdale
www.shoeinn.com
Now with nine locations throughout the Tristate area, Shoe-Inn is the go-to for in-the-know fashionistas. The family-owned business sources a lot of European-based brands, with an emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and comfort. A top destination for five decades, featuring fashionable kicks, ankle booties, and even special-
occasion shoes, Shoe-Inn’s sales staff prioritizes customer service and knowing the latest Insta-worthy shoe trends.
Suzette’s Lingerie
Yonkers
www.suzettelingerie.com
Loyal shoppers — some overheard telling newbies that “unless you’ve had a personalized bra fitting at Suzette’s, you haven’t lived” — swear they won’t go anywhere else for form-fitting, attractive lingerie, come-hither boudoir apparel, and discreet, expert customer service that is second to none. Since opening in 1958, only the finest brands drape the hangers, including tricky-to-fit sizes and brassieres with cups from A to P.
The Westchester
White Plans
www.simon.com/mall/the-westchester
For 25 years, The Westchester has continued to impress. Its selection of more than 150 stores — including luxury names like Burberry, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. — provide the local fashion savvy, home-design addicts, beauty and fitness devotees, and high-end techies with the latest and greatest products. As an added bonus, the food court was recently revamped with gourmet options, as well as a children’s play area.
Wilson & Son Jewelers
Scarsdale
www.wilsonandsonjewelers.com
Founded more than a century ago (and located in Scarsdale since 1932), Wilson & Son Jewelers is known for its high-quality jewelery and customer service. Co-owners Matthew and Michael Wilson, certified gemologists, share their expertise with the local community to help them purchase jewels for life’s most meaningful events. The store’s collection includes brilliant pieces from brands such as Rolex, Roberto Coin, and Armenta. The Wilsons are also heavily involved with the community, supporting many local organizations and nonprofits.
– Fun & Leisure –
ArtsWestchester
White Plains
www.artswestchester.org
No surprise this hardworking nonprofit is still in action after 55 years, considering the county arts scene is practically impossible to imagine without it. ArtsWestchester works persistently to ensure that both area artists and the cultural institutions in which they display their work have access to vital funding and services. From its towering former bank building in Downtown White Plains, the office spaces, galleries, and studios of ArtsWestchester serve as a nexus for virtually all of Westchester’s cultural institutions and the many people who depend on them for both employment and enjoyment.
Bronx River Parkway Bicycle Sundays
Just imagine having an entire highway to yourself as you blissfully bike alongside your loved ones. On select Sundays in the spring and fall, the county shuts down a portion of the Bronx River Parkway for joggers, cyclists, and walkers, engendering a wholesome community opportunity that is also one of Westchester’s longest-
running recreational programs.
Caramoor
Katonah
www.caramoor.org
Try to imagine a venue that is comparable in beauty to the soaring crescendos of Mozart or Beethoven, and you may conjure up a place like Katonah’s Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts. In addition to the The Rosen House, a Mediterranean-style mansion on the National Register of Historic Places, Caramoor is home to several other scenic spots where patrons can enjoy the artistry of truly accomplished musicians, including the soaring Venetian Theatre, the intimate Spanish Courtyard, and the bucolic Friends Field.
Clearwater Great Hudson River Revival
Croton-on-Hudson
www.clearwaterfestival.org
More than 50 years after this annual event first drew visitors along the scenic shores of the Hudson, music festivals are no longer in short supply. Yet, with its enduring environmental mission, The Clearwater Great Hudson River Revival remains a top draw for thousands of visitors. Held annually by the nonprofit Hudson River Sloop Clearwater Inc., event proceeds support Clearwater’s educational programs and environmental work, as well as maintenance of the sloop itself. Even the coronavirus couldn’t stop the Revival, which was held online this year as a well-attended virtual event.
Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Garden
Purchase
www.pepsico.com/sculpture-gardens
The Former CEO of PepsiCo, Donald M. Kendall, (who passed away at the age of 99 in September) gave Westchester one its most pacific spots to absorb art. Locally known as the Pepsi Sculpture Gardens, this collection of rolling hills and sleek structures features 46 sculptures by a host of major 20th-century artists, peppered amid carefully manicured trees, herbaceous plants, and unusual shrubs.
Emelin Theatre
Mamaroneck
www.emelin.org
Since 1972, this nonprofit organization has hosted world-class performing arts on its stage, with premier-quality plays, musicals, concerts, comedy, dance, family-friendly theater, and independent and contemporary film for all ages, sensibilities, and pocketbooks.
Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Van Cortlandt Manor, Croton-on-Hudson
www.hudsonvalley.org/events/blaze
A beloved Westchester tradition, the annual Blaze draws crowds from all around, who stroll through the grounds of the 18th-century manor while taking in the more than 7,000 illuminated jack o’ lanterns — all designed and hand-carved on-site. Timely designs debut each year (a firetruck making a daring rescue was new for 2020), while annual favorites include the 25-foot-tall jack o’lantern Statue of Liberty, a pumpkin windmill, zodiac signs, and carousel.
Hudson River Museum
Yonkers
www.hrm.org
The Hudson River Museum is far more than some simple gallery. Home to Westchester’s only public planetarium, the Yonkers-based institution boasts an exceptional collection of Hudson River School paintings alongside a permanent installation by famed American artist Red Grooms. The museum also offers an interactive, educational gallery for kids and Glenview Mansion, a 19th-century estate that’s on the National Register of Historic Places. In November, HRM broke ground on a west-wing capital-improvement project, which will bring dedicated special-exhibition galleries, a 100-seat auditorium, sculpture court, and new climate-control system.
Jacob Burns Film Center
Pleasantville
www.burnsfilmcenter.org
This gorgeous, five-screen cinema and education center bills itself as one of the most successful suburban art houses in the country, and it’s easy to see why. A $1.5 million renovation in 2011, followed by another expansive update five years later, left this local icon with a state-of-the-art media lab, in which area students can learn about screenwriting, filmmaking, and animation while bumping the theater up from three screens to five. Undaunted by the pandemic, the Center is set to reopen with a vengeance once it is safe to do so.
Kensico Dam Plaza
Valhalla
www.parks.westchestergov.com/kensico-dam-plaza
Offering a welcoming, sky-topped setting for a variety of activities and events, this county park plays year-round host to walkers, rollerbladers, baby strollers, picnics, concerts, and cultural heritage celebrations in the shadow of the majestic, 307-foot-high, 1,843-foot-long dam built in 1917 and on the National Register of Historic Places. A large playground delights the kids, as The Rising memorial honors Westchesterites lost on 9/11.
Lyndhurst
Tarrytown
www.lyndhurst.org
This 1838 mansion once owned by railroad magnate Jay Gould and set alongside the Hudson River has gradually become a beehive of culture, art, and history for thousands of annual visitors. Home not only to a unique collection of original art, antiques, and period furniture, the mansion also hosts the region’s longest-running crafts festival, Crafts at Lyndhurst, a holiday market, two popular Halloween events, tours of the grounds and mansion, and will this year host the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Playland Park
So few things from days gone by retain their original charm, but somehow, even after more than 90 years in operation, political struggles, and sometimes-controversial management, Playland has managed to do it, with classic kiddie rides, old-fashioned games of chance, and rides that thrill both the adventurous and family-fun crowd alike. The renowned Dragon Coaster has always been the top draw, with a stroll on the boardwalk overlooking the Sound a close second.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Pleasantville
www.parks.ny.gov/parks/rockefeller/details.aspx
The former country estate of the Rockefeller family, this state park comprising nearly 1,800 acres of land donated by the Rockefellers is a favorite of joggers, walkers, and horseback riders for its picturesque trails and breathtaking Hudson River views. Of particular acclaim is the Preserve’s 45 miles of scenic carriage roads, which lead through varied landscapes that include Swan Lake, the Pocantico River, wood and stone bridges, Colonial stone walls, and rock outcroppings.
Tarrytown Music Hall
Tarrytown
www.tarrytownmusichall.org
While plenty of venues can boast decades in business, few can say they were among the county’s first. Tarrytown Music Hall can claim all that and more, having been constructed in 1885, making it Westchester’s oldest theater. Over the years, it has transformed from a meeting house and movie theater to a venue where one can enjoy some of the world’s biggest musical acts and comedians, having hosted such icons as Tony Bennett, Wynton Marsalis, Buddy Guy, BB King, and Art Garfunkel.
The Capitol Theatre
Port Chester
www.thecapitoltheatre.com
While most fans of this long-running venue know it for hosting the flower-power generation’s biggest names, from Janis Joplin to The Grateful Dead, in reality, the legacy of The Cap (as it’s fondly known) stretches all the way back to 1926. It was then that the venue originated as a highbrow playhouse for well-heeled locals, with a later incarnation as a rock palace, before falling into disrepair. In 2011, The Cap was resurrected with a brand-new interior and state-of-the-art-sound system, and remains today among the most popular venues in the entire region.
Ward Pound Ridge
Cross River
www.parks.westchestergov.com/ward-pound-ridge-reservation
Boasting 4,315 acres, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is Westchester’s largest park. It offers miles of varied landscapes and terrain across miles of wooded trails that keep it hopping all year long. It’s also the home of the Trailside Nature Museum, which hosts seasonal interpretive nature programs on weekends, and the Gallery in the Park, featuring exhibitions of work by accomplished regional artists throughout the year.
Wolf Conservation Center
South Salem
www.nywolf.com
This nonprofit organization that has been protecting and preserving wolves in North America for more than two decades brings you up close and personal with three “ambassador” wolves on exhibit while providing an education on the 40 or so critically endangered wolf species that roam separately on the premises. The highlight of a visit involves overnight camping and howling at the moon with the facility’s nocturnal residents.
– Home & Garden –
Artistic Tile
White Plains
www.artistictile.com
The most exquisitely curated, globally sourced tile and stone can be found at this White Plains showroom, which opened in 1993. The knowledgeable sales associates offer innovative designs and often collaborate with high-end architects and interior designers or homeowners to create swoon-worthy bathrooms, kitchens, etc. If you are looking for design inspiration, check out the newly launched www.artistictile.com/
mondaymorningmoment, where brand ambassador Roy Marcus offers an insider’s look at the company’s breadth and depth of aesthetically pleasing offerings.
Berger Hardware
Hawthorne
www.bergerhardware.com
Berger Hardware proves that a mom-and-pop shop can still hold its own against big-box stores. How? Two words: customer service. The staff at this nationally known and family-owned hardware store strive to connect with the community and are always reliable to to assist customers with any building supplies, seasonal decor or household tool needs.
Best Plumbing Tile and Stone
Multiple locations
www.bestplg.com
After 55 years of exemplary products and customer service in the competitive K&B industry, the Weiner family knows firsthand that if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That same successful business model has seen the multigenerational family business grow to four showrooms, in Westchester and Fairfield counties, offering an expert staff and very competitive prices (often significantly less than retail) every day.
Bilotta
Mamaroneck and Mount Kisco
www.bilotta.com
Family-owned and operated since 1985, Bilotta is known for its excellent craftsmanship, service, and products. With its first showroom located in Mamaroneck, and another in Mount Kisco, the brand services the county by offering custom-made cabinetry for its specialty: bespoke kitchens, while offering designs for bathrooms and living spaces, like libraries, wine cellars, home offices, and family rooms.
California Closets
Hawthorne
www.californiaclosets.com
This top-notch Hawthorne biz specializes in luxury space management, with designs to optimize organization — customized to your budget. Providing the ultimate in storage, California Closets is a go-to for those looking to create a celebrity-style-looking walk-in closet, a home office that accommodates our new work-from-home lifestyle, or a multifunctional room that sports a custom Murphy bed.
Carpet Trends
For more than 60 years, Carpet Trends’ experts have been offering a wide variety of services to homeowners, designers, and businesses all over the county. With no fewer than seven highly experienced salespeople, Carpet Trends can answer all your questions while providing custom installation, fabrication of area rugs, hand-sewn seaming, wide binding, and cleaning services that will keep that brand-new nap healthy well into the future.
Coral Sea Pools
Briarcliff Manor
www.coralseapools.com
Since 1982, this family-owned-andoperated business has been fulfilling backyard dreams limited only by the customer’s imagination. An eight-time Best Of winner, Coral’s aim is to build the best and most unique custom swimming pools and spas with maximum ease for the pool owner. Featuring a wide variety of options, from gunite to fiberglass, free-form to rectangle, spa to infinity edge, and more, Coral Sea Pools offers year-round service, with a full line of accessories and supplies.
Country Willow
Bedford Hills
www.countrywillow.com
Voted Best Furniture Store 13 years in a row, it’s clear that Westchesterites love supporting this homegrown success story. The home-furnishing store and design center flourish in an era of big-box chain stores, thanks to its wide selection — every style from Country Living to Mid-Century Modern to Eclectic Contemporary — talented design staff, and quality products made by skilled artisans.
Current Home
Scarsdale
www.currenthomeny.com
If sophisticated, modern home accessories are your thing, Current Home is your store. The Scarsdale boutique (with another location in Manhattan) offers a curated selection of hip, unique items at every price range. Expect to find everything from serving pieces, vases, candlesticks, and bar accessories to original artwork, blankets, throw pillows, lighting, and even accent furniture, such as chairs, bar carts, rugs, mirrors, and leather benches.
Franzoso Contracting
Croton-on-Hudson
www.franzoso.com
For legions of satisfied customers stretching back some 40 years, Franzoso is one of the big names in Westchester when it comes to marquee-quality home improvement. Backed by a team of expert craftsmen and office staff, Franzoso Contracting specializes in roofing and siding, windows and doors, and leaders and gutters. Franzoso also offers green building and Energy Star alternatives, such as energy audits, air sealing, insulation, and solar installations.
Hi-Light Lighting and Vanities
Yonkers
www.hilight.com
For half a century, this gleaming, glimmering strip-mall showroom has been the source for lighting and decor across Westchester and beyond. From floor lamps to wall sconces to crystal chandeliers, and bathroom vanities, too, Hi-Light sheds light on how easy it is to illuminate your world with the right design expert in your corner and a wealth of stylish and affordable items at your fingertips.
Kelloggs & Lawrence
Katonah
www.kelloggsandlawrence.com/
A hardware store around for 130 years must be doing something right. Actually, it does more than a few things right, first and foremost of which is its knowledgeable and affable customer service, the antithesis of big-box stores. Basic hardware and house needs are covered but also specialty products and other services you may not find at other local hardware stores (e.g., a fireplace shop, outdoor gear by Kelty, Marmot, and Tilley). The charming, big ol’ green-and-red Victorian house adds a fun, old-time vibe.
La Dentelliere
Scarsdale
www.ladentelliere.com
If you want a dining table that rivals Martha Stewart’s, with gorgeous attention to detail on all-things tabletop, then check out La Dentelliere, a Scarsdale staple featuring items for the home from France and Italy. Bedding and bath products containing the finest linens are available, along with elegant gifts for any occasion. It’s no wonder this is a popular choice for bridal registries of Westchester-based couples tying the knot.
Majestic Kitchens and Bath
Mamaroneck
www.majestickitchens.com
Established 60 years ago, the now-largest K&B retailer in the Tristate region features a 9,000 sq. ft. showroom with more than 100 displays of kitchen and bath hardware, tile, stone, countertops, and more. The family-owned business has been a go-to destination recently for many customers tackling “pandemic projects” in their homes, such as offices, closets, laundry rooms, and butler pantries.
Royal Green Appliances
White Plains
www.royalgreenny.com
Walking into the White Plains showroom, it is immediately evident that Royal Green Appliances will give you the white-glove treatment while you peruse their displays of high-end appliances from the kitchen to the laundry room. The store prides itself on customer service, with an in-house delivery department and expert sales staff who are committed to their products even after you purchase them, a rarity in the industry.
Terra Tile and Marble
Briarcliff Manor and Fishkill
www.terratileandmarble.com
One of the Northeast’s largest wholesalers of tile, stone, marble, and custom fabrication work, this family-run showroom is the first (and the last) place you peruse for unique, distinctive, and imported wall and floor coverings. Since 1975, Terra Tile’s discerning and knowledgeable designers take pride in offering enduring and stylish products to satisfy any taste and budget, with little regard for passing fads and fancies.
– Kids –
Greenburgh Nature Center
Scarsdale
www.greenburghnaturecenter.org
A must-do with the kids, Greenburgh Nature Center is highly regarded for its quality environmental-education programs, sustainable practices, and community activities aimed at developing an appreciation for nature. A visit could include petting cuddly animals, watching butterflies in their natural habitat, learning to garden, or even an outdoor meditation session. The Center’s summer-camp programs are also popular.
hip-kid
Chappaqua
www.hip-kid.com
Hip-kid is the type of children’s-clothing-and-toy store you’d expect to find in TriBeCa or Park Slope. Instead, it’s located on the main street of downtown Chappaqua and is chock-full of fashion-forward children and baby clothes, plus unique toys that are either all-organic, animal-free, or fair trade. Owner Trish Kallman researches every product line she sells, and with her design background, she is spot-on at finding clothes with street cred for tweens or the softest onesies for your bundle of joy.
Kelloggs & Lawrence
Katonah
www.kelloggsandlawrence.com/
A hardware store around for 130 years must be doing something right. Actually, it does more than a few things right, first and foremost of which is its knowledgeable and affable customer service, the antithesis of big-box stores. Basic hardware and house needs are covered but also specialty products and other services you may not find at other local hardware stores (e.g., a fireplace shop, outdoor gear by Kelty, Marmot, and Tilley). The charming, big ol’ green-and-red Victorian house adds a fun, old-time vibe.
Lester’s
Rye Brook
www.shop.lesters.com
The ultimate shopping destination for toddlers through teens, Lester’s has family fashion needs covered. Instagram-worthy outfits can be found here with the help of Lester’s customer-driven sales staff, who are more like stylists, explains store manager Andrea Forbes. They’ll even do FaceTime appointments with you to help your kids find the perfect ensemble. Plus, Lester’s offers “soup to nuts” camp appointments, to ensure that your kid’s trunk has all the staples, and then some, for sleepaway camp.
Miller’s
Mamaroneck
www.millerstoys.com
Another multi-time BOW winner, Miller’s epitomizes nostalgic Americana but with a modern twist. This old-school toy emporium, family-owned since 1908, has an endearing FAO Schwarz-meets-Westchester quality, with a lower level devoted to bikes (including repair, with local pick-up and drop-off) — from starters to top-line brands — along with clothing, footwear, game-room products, and sophisticated outdoor playscapes.
Muscoot Farm
Katonah
www.muscootfarm.org
Families flock to this former working dairy farm to get up close and personal with its 50-plus animals — including cows, horses, donkeys, sheep, goats, chickens, turkeys, ducks, and pigs. The grounds include historic farm buildings, such as a milk house, icehouse, brooder house, and carriage house. Rounding out the offerings are more than six miles of hiking trails and a popular weekend farmers’ market.
– Services –
Armonk Limo
Armonk
www.armonklimo.com
With no fewer than 14 wins in its 23-year history, Armonk Limo practically lives on the Best of Westchester list. Why? Well, it begins with a gleaming fleet of clean, well-maintained, late-model luxury conveyances operated by consummately courteous, professional, and punctual (usually early) drivers. Armonk Limo covers the entire Tristate area and offers both call-in and online reservation platforms, along with a brand-new downloadable app for your smartphone.
Leros Point to Point
Hawthorne
www.leroslimo.com
As part of a global network with tendrils in 700 cities around the world, Leros is your one-stop shop for luxury ground transportation. It boasts a copious variety of vehicles, ranging from cushy three-passenger Lincoln Continentals all the way up to 55-passenger buses. Proud of its trained, professional staff and affordable rates, Leros lets you book via phone, online, or mobile app.
Nu-Way Cleaners & Tailors
White Plains
www.nuwaydrycleaner.com
Now comprising more than half a block, Nu-Way was founded 75 years ago as a tailoring business by the grandfather of co-owners Michael and Jeffrey Bayliss. Today, customers entrust Nu-Way to clean their most precious apparel, using environmentally friendly dry-cleaning methods for everything from delicately beaded evening/wedding dresses to silk tuxedos to luxurious leather accessories. Professional tailors are available for alterations and even can accommodate a wedding party with 24-hours’ notice.
Splash Car Wash
Multiple locations
www.splashcarwashes.com
If your car-wash business lasts 40 years and explodes from a single humble unit in Greenwich to the 20th-largest car-care company in the USA, with 22 locations throughout NY and CT, chances are you’re onto something. Keys to Splash’s phenomenal success no doubt include its innovative and popular hand-wash tunnel-
conveyor system along with its community service, which has raised more than $1 million for worthy local charities.
– Weddings –
Always Impressive
Harrison
www.alwaysimpressive.com
It’s a tough time to be in the wedding-invitation business, with large-scale events on the decline, but Always Impressive is at the ready, still busy creating beautiful birth announcements, save the dates, Zoom-mitzvah invites, and event programs. When the time is right, it can also print table numbers, menus, and place cards, plus it offers calligraphy and envelope addressing for harried hosts.
D’Errico Jewelry
Scarsdale and Mount Kisco
store.derricojewelry.com
Step inside this family-owned business and feel the embrace of a truly caring staff who want to see you happy with the gift of such highly personal and treasured effects. Known countywide for more than three decades for creating and offering the most exquisite engagement rings and diamond wedding bands, D’Errico also specializes in rare gemstones, appraisals, and watch-and-jewelry maintenance and repair.
Jimmy Dee Entertainment
Thornwood
www.jimmydee.com
With more than 30 years invested in helping Westchesterites raise the roof like no other, Jimmy Dee Entertainment has emerged as a 914 staple of the wedding-and-event scene. Combining quality, class, and fun with state-of-the-art audio, lighting, and production, it’s no wonder that Jimmy Dee Entertainment is a nine-time Best of Westchester winner.
Lulu Cake Boutique
Scarsdale
www.everythinglulu.com
A cake from Lulu’s is more than a sweet ending to a meal; it’s a luxurious dessert experience. Upmarket ingredients (Valrhona chocolate, farm-fresh butter and cream, ripe fruit from local farms, fragrant spices) go into creatively named cakes, like Holy Cannoli, Graham Central Station, and Pretzilla, boasting spectacular taste and design.
Tappan Hill Mansion
Tarrytown
www.abigailkirsch.com
In many ways, Tappan Hill is a standard-bearer for the Westchester weddings scene. Under the leadership of Abigail Kirsch, Tappan Hill offers expert event planners of the highest order, who will attend to every aspect and detail of your irreplaceable day. The venue boasts the Pavilion Room, with stunning views of the Hudson and space for 260 guests, while its Hudson Room is the perfect setting for more intimate affairs, of 150 or fewer.
– Community & Media –
News 12 Westchester
Yonkers
www.westchester.news.12.com
Since the debut of its 24-hour news service in 1995, News 12 Westchester has been singularly devoted to delivering
“hyper-local news” to its viewership, making it one of the most trusted voices in the county today. In addition to several Best of Westchester awards, News 12 Westchester has amassed 16 New York Emmy Awards, 23 New York Associated Press Awards, 23 New York Festivals Awards, and 16 Edward R. Murrow awards, among others.
107.1 The Peak
White Plains
www.1071thepeak.com
Led by weekday DJs Chris “Coach” Rodriguez (above), Chris Herrmann, and Jimmy Fink, with Bruce Figler and Pam Landry on the weekends, 107.1 The Peak has been surfing Westchester’s airwaves, in one form or another, since Eisenhower was the president. Its current incarnation debuted in 2004, when WXPK reformatted as an adult-rock station, which has since garnered numerous Best of Westchester awards for both its programming and on-air talent.
