From the editor
There is something Bob and I have learned over the years, whether we’re at home along the Jersey Shore or traveling somewhere new: If you want the best experience, ask a local.
It’s often the tucked-away breakfast spot with the best coffee and pancakes. The quiet stretch of beach where the sunset feels a little more magical. The neighborhood restaurant everyone recommends. The small venue where live music feels personal. Time and again, we’ve discovered that locals truly know best.
That simple idea inspired the creation of the Shore Local Locals Choice Awards.
Every week, through the pages of this publication, we have the privilege of sharing stories about the people, businesses and places that make our region special. This time, however, we turned the spotlight over to you — our readers — and asked you to tell us who stands out in our community.
The Locals Choice Awards celebrate the businesses, organizations and professionals who have earned your trust and support. They recognize the places you visit repeatedly, the services you recommend to friends and family, and the people who help make everyday life a little better.
As a locally owned publication, that mission is at the heart of everything we do. Shore Local was built on the belief that our communities deserve to be celebrated — not only the well-known names, but also the hidden gems, family-owned businesses and rising stars that give our region its unique character.
We also understand how meaningful this recognition can be. For many local businesses, a nomination or vote represents more than a contest result. It is a reminder that their hard work, dedication and commitment to customer service are being noticed and appreciated by the people they serve.
The response from our readers was extraordinary.
More than 1,000 public nominations were submitted across 103 categories. The first round of voting generated 22,700 votes. The finals round generated 27,350 votes. Ties were recognized. In all, the community cast over 50,050 votes this spring.
These overwheming results reflect the voices of thousands of residents and visitors who are passionate about the businesses and organizations that help our region thrive.
In the pages that follow, you will find this year’s winners — our Locals Favorites — along with the runners-up recognized as Locals Top Choice selections. These are the restaurants, shops, healthcare providers, entertainment venues, service professionals and community organizations that earned the confidence and support of our readers.
Congratulations to every business, organization and individual who was nominated, recognized or selected as a winner. Your commitment to excellence helps make our shore communities stronger, more vibrant and more welcoming places to live, work and visit.
And thank you to everyone who participated. The locals have spoken.
