In my native Pennsylvania, “spirited discussions” rage constantly among family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers about who makes the best cheesesteaks and hoagies (aka the original sub/hero/wedge; if you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting either, do yourself a favor and try the real deal the next time you find yourself in the Philadelphia area). When I was growing up, my father, who was born and raised in Philly, had very definite opinions on the subject—ones that ran counter to those of my mother, who was born and raised in the burbs. To think how useful it would have been to have a resource like our annual Best of Westchester issue handy to settle the debate (or perhaps guide us to an even better option than any of us had previously experienced).
In fact, after moving to Westchester, and long before I worked for the magazine, I found its Best of Westchester issue to be an invaluable tool in helping me get acquainted with my new backyard and all the top offerings in it. It is in that spirit that our editorial team works to craft a list of sincere and informed selections each year—after many “spirited discussions” of our own.
For me, the “best” part of completing our Best of Westchester feature is walking away with a new list of places and things to visit and try that I’ve learned from my colleagues—and from you, via our Readers’ Picks. Topping my list this year: Indian buffet alternative (page 67), Caipirinhas (page 69), Trivia Night (page 78), New Film Series (page 79), and Brain Boost (page 79).
Two things that will, sadly, never make our BOW list: a cheesesteak or a hoagie. (Sorry, but you still have to travel 126 miles southwest for the best of those.) But, that begs the question—what did we (and your fellow readers) miss this time around? We’d love to hear your take on what and whom we should consider for next year. Email us your thoughts at edit@westchestermagazine.com
In the meantime, we hope you come out and join us as we celebrate this year’s winners at our annual Best of Westchester party. It will be held July 22 at the Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle. I will be there, as will the entire Westchester Magazine team, so please look for us and say hello. For more info or to purchase tickets, visit westchestermagazine.com/bow.
