2025 BEST of AUGUSTA

best of 2025

by Dan Pearson

Sushi

Dining

From crack-of-dawn breakfast joints to latenight sips and snacks, we’ve got what your neighbors say are the best places for the good stuff. Here’s to the menu!

BEST BREAKFAST

When eggs are so expensive that they’re delivered in a Brinks truck, you want to spend your breakfast dollars wisely. Your taste buds — you know, the other readers who are looking out for you in this category — recommend Sunrise Grill. The name checks out. Frog & the Hen and First Watch are two more great ways to savor the best meal of the day.

BEST APPETIZERS

Speaking of starters, Craft & Vine can’t launch your mornings, but they can get your meals started with the best appetizers in town. We have the ballots to prove it. Central Avenue’s Midtown Tavern also excels at the small plate/big flavor concept. Readers give Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar the bronze.

BEST BARBECUE

You can (and should) pig out at Sconyers Bar-B-Que, say readers. Or you can pig in: their dining room has that comfortable down-home vibe. Of course, some people prefer to chow down at SmokeShow Southern Style BBQ, while still others go to town at Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q. Are they all delicious? Duh.

BEST RIBS

Most readers say the best ribs come from SmokeShow Southern Style BBQ. However, there is a strong contingent representing Sconyers Bar-B-Que. Finally, an upstart third-party category advocates Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q. Wherever you happen to end up, the most important question is not, “How do you spell barbecue?” It is, “Can we have extra napkins?”

BEST WINGS

In the grand pecking order of this savory category, readers suggest TBonz Steakhouse. They may not take you under their wing, but they will certainly serve you wings (plural!). That’s the better option anyway. Midtown Tavern and Wingstop also rule the roost in 2nd and 3rd.

BEST SEAFOOD

According to the Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar website, quote, “You don’t have to wear a tie or pantyhose to eat oysters.” We suspect this fact catapulted them to victory. Well, that, and their delicious, flaky fried platters of food. The food may be just as delicious at Beck’s and Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar (in 2nd and 3rd), but the difference is simple: ties and pantyhose might go better there.

BEST SUSHI

If “sushi kitchen” is part of your brand name, you’d better do well in this category, and indeed, the carefully curated menu and attention to quality spell gold for 990 Broad Sushi Kitchen. The silver medal goes to TakoSushi, and Koi Japanese Hibachi & Sushi wins the bronze.

BEST STEAK

Readers definitely have no beef with TBonz Steakhouse. Their position atop the leader board is anything but rare; they’ve been winning this category for decades. Well done! Brinkley’s Chop House and Frog Hollow Tavern take prime positions in second and third, respectively.

BEST CATFISH

The ugly truth that no one wants to talk about: when catfish go away to camp and never return. But they’re so tasty! Really! Just ask diners at Old McDonald Fish Camp. They’ll back us up on this one. Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar also serves the catfish crowd with distinction, and readers award 3rd place to WifeSaver.

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

Speaking of WifeSaver, they take the cake (not literally) for best fried chicken. The elegant setting of Frog Hollow Tavern wins second place, proving once again that chickens are bringing people together from all walks of life. Midtown Tavern completes the Top Three.

BEST SOUP

The vote totals for California Dreaming were so souped up that the result was a bowl of victory. The only thing missing were the crackers (but we asked our server and fixed that problem). Frog & the Hen offers only Roasted Chicken & Rice soup, but it’s enough for second place. Olive Garden scores third.

BEST PIZZA

Voters say Mellow Mushroom is a slice above the rest. Who are we to disagree? And anyway, who could disagree with pizza? We’ll say it again: pizza! Southern Fired Foods wins the silver. If you haven’t tried them, you’ll have to do a bit of stalking to make it happen. Check out today’s location of their mobile unit using the calendar on their website, but be prepared for a detour: when you type in “southern fired foods” your computer will automatically change it to “southern fried foods.” No respect! Pizza Joint wins 3rd.

BEST HOTDOG

Put it this way: what other food do people enter contests to eat? And broadcast the scene on national TV? The current competitive record is 70 hot dogs eaten in 10 minutes. Readers voted Sno-Cap Drive-In as their favorite. We’re going out on a limb and predict that nobody at Sno-Cap wants to see any person stuff that many hot dogs into their pie hole in a week, let alone 10 minutes. No offense, Sno-Cap, but Farmhaus Burger, the second-place finisher, probably serves frankfurters. The venerable Village Deli takes home third place.

BEST BURRITO

Quick! What is a burrito’s favorite style of music? Wrap! At least that’s what the people at Nacho Mama’s told us. Honestly, we didn’t think it was funny either. But the burritos were … ¡muy bien! Diablo’s Southwest Grill and Taquería El Rey competed in a bawdy burrito beatdown and finished second and third.

BEST SANDWICH

Hildebrandt’s has been around since 1879. I said 1879! That’s before most of us were even born! And they’re still going strong — strong enough to win one of our imaginary gold Best of Augusta medallions, encrusted with diamonds and engraved with the words “Best Sandwich.” That is amazing. Of slightly more recent parentage but no less delicious is Knuckle Sandwiches, placing 2nd. Your semi-local Jersey Mike’s Subs scores 3rd.

BEST HAMBURGER

Readers installed Farmhaus in the top spot, and for good reasons. First, the word “farm” is in their name, a subtle assurance

Best French Fries Midtown Tavern

BEST SALAD

Finally, we’re talking healthy! A little shredded lettuce and a few sliced radishes and celery and tomatoes, mixed in with a bunch of croutons and lots of big crispy chicken chunks and ham and feta cheese and bacon bits, and the whole thing slathered in dressing … mmm. Okay, maybe not all that healthy, but still better than batter-fried chitlins, right? Readers say the best place to avoid (or fully enjoy) a salad sabotage is California Dreaming. Midtown Tavern and Raes Coastal Cafe (2nd and 3rd) are the two other top reader choices.

BEST DESSERT

that their beef is not from tough, streetsmart urban cows. They came from a good home (or “haus”) on a farm. Little-known fact: the actual name of this restaurant is Farmhaus Burger. No wonder they won! Midtown Tavern and Broad Street’s nonESPN Sports Center take second and third.

BEST FRENCH FRIES

Midtown Tavern, your #1 choice for French fries, isn’t open for lunch, so you can fantasize and salivate over delayed French fry gratification all day long. They taste better in the evening. Our friends and yours from Farmhaus Burger are the fi rst runner-up in this category, followed by McDonald’s.

After that semi-sinless salad, you deserve a little indulgence, so you saved room for The Boll Weevil Cafe & Sweetery, the best place in town for dessert, according to the ballots. Speaking of sinless, your second choice is Sinless Sweets, and voters were also whipped about Whipped Creamery.

BEST BAKERY

When all the votes were counted, Bottom Line Bakery was on the top line. They won, and that’s the bottom line. In second is Lil’ Dutch Bakery (possibly owned by the rapper Lil’ Dutch, whom we just made up), and in third is Publix bakery. Bottom line, if they’re in this paragraph, they’re good.

BEST DONUTS

Let’s go from the generic bakery category to something with a degree of specificity

to it: donuts. Readers give the gold to Sheila’s Baking Co., and even though they’re located in North Augusta, we’re certifying the results herewith, confident that Sheila herself will express her gratitude by bringing us a box of the vox populi. Krispy Kreme wins the silver donut medal and Belair Donuts scores the bronze.

BEST ICE CREAM

As long as we’re in North Augusta, let’s drop in at Pink Dipper to let them know they’re the River Region’s most #1 top favoritest practitioner of the art of ice cream scoopage. In ancient times, they had a location on Peach Orchard Road, so they’re almost quasi-Georgia-based. Bruster’s Ice Cream takes Cone #2 and stone-cold-slab Cold Stone Creamery scores Cone #3.

BEST COFFEE

That unassuming little building on Monte Sano Avenue — that’s home to Relic Coffee Company — holds enough superb treats to qualify as the reader favorite, the best! Check it out! Rooted Coffeehouse in Evans and its Evans neighbor Goat Kick Coffee Co. make up the remaining two members of the Caffeine Club elite.

BEST ICED TEA

Of course, caffeine has other delivery mechanisms besides coffee. Just ask WifeSaver, which serves up entire vats of sweet tea each and every day. (Or unsweetened tea if that’s how you want to play it.) Folks say McDonald’s serves pretty good iced tea, and they also give a Top Three showing to Frog & the Hen.

BEST WINE MERCHANT

The store with the most and best bottles …. may we have the envelope, please? The winner is The White Horse Wine & Spirits. Cool name, cool store. Toast Wine and Beverage, another catchy name for a beverage store, gets second. In third, Cork & Fla… ‘Hey! Stop! I thought this category was for wine merchants!’ Calm down, calm down. Yes, Cork & Flame is a restaurant. But they also have an extensive wine market, which, in fact, won 3rd place.

BEST WINE MENU

If you had just waited, you would realize that Cork & Flame’s wine list qualifies both as a fine dining establishment and a wine merchant. Chill! Maybe you need a glass of wine. Frog Hollow Tavern takes first runner-up, followed by Craft & Vine.

BEST BEER SELECTION

Another gold medal for The White Horse Wine & Spirits. Still a cool name, too. Toast reprises its second-place finish, and Beverage Outlet wins third.

BEST BEER MENU

In the sit-down beer category, Arsenal Tap Room + Kitchen gets the win. And yes, they even have chairs (unlike White Horse, Toast, etc.). The aptly named World of Beer muscles up to the bar in second, and Tip Top Taps is tip top enough for third place.

BEST CRAFT COCKTAIL

Part art/part chemistry, Craft & Vine’s mixologists raise the glass (and the trophy) in this category. So, we do, too! Midtown Tavern adds another trophy to their case,

as does Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar.

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Best Beer Menu Arsenal Tap Room + Kitchen

course, they’re your winner. Cafe 209 gets the silver medal because they’re so good at catering to their hungry customers. WifeSaver, in third, needs no introduction.

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

Let’s go ahead and say it: collectively, we don’t eat outdoors nearly as often as we should. It adds another dimension of enjoyableness to dining, and perhaps nowhere is that more true than at Midtown Tavern, your fave. Manuel’s Bread Café offers a sterling next-best choice and Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar fills the final spot on the medals stand.

BEST BRUNCH

Here, Midtown Tavern scores top honors, literally pouring joy by the glass. It’s a calling and undeniably provides a muchneeded service. Rest assured, there is no crying at Finch & Fifth, your second-place choice. Ditto for Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar. Now go ye forth and hydrate responsibly, people!

BEST DOWN-HOME COOKING

The fine folks at Goolsby’s know all the tricks. They know how to treat an iron skillet, how to fry up green tomatoes and why bacon grease is liquid gold. So, of

Ah, so you enjoyed more than an hour of Midtown’s happy hour last night? Not to worry. Frog & the Hen serves happy hour mimosas and Bloody Marys from 8–10 a.m., Tuesday through Friday. That’s a.m. with an “a”. Plus, they have a great breakfast menu Tuesday to Saturday and a Best of Augusta #1 Sunday brunch starting at 10 a.m. Go already! Bodega Ultima may not be the ultima, but they’re oh-so-close! First Watch takes third.

BEST LUNCH

The SolFood Kitchen wins again this year. Unfortunately, after long consideration and angst, the restaurant announced their closing at the end of September. Boo, times two. Two other worthy midday options emerged from the ballots: Farmhaus Burger

Best Italian Restaurant

Oliviana Ristorante

and Village Deli Sub & Pub. Let’s see … with seven lunch opportunities each week, you get to visit the #2 and #3 winners more than once!

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH

You’re busy, right? We get that. You’ve got a lot on your plate. But not too much. You’re not stuffed. Sounds like you’re at Augusta’s favorite place for business lunches, Frog & the Hen. Well played. The votes suggest that people also get down to business over lunches at Tacocat. Sounds like the perfect business plan. Augustino’s Italian Eatery and Prime Steaks is a third great option for power lunches.

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT

Even if you don’t know how to use chopsticks, the friendly staff at your #1 choice, Koi Japanese Hibachi & Sushi, will take care of you. And it’s all going to be delicious! In second place, another name we’ve seen before on these pages: 990 Broad

Sushi Kitchen. Toki Japanese Steakhouse wins third.

BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

It’s a mouthwatering experience to merely type the words Laziza Mediterranean Grill. So, imagine the additional treat of facing down a plate of their splendid fare in person! It’s almost too much to contemplate. Well done, voters! If you can’t go to Turkey and the Mediterranean, go to Shishkebab, suggest the ballots. Ephesus Greek and Turkish Restaurant completes a very savory Top Three.

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

The king here is Taquería El Rey. Allow us to translate. In English, their name means “Taqueria the Rey.” You see, “el” is Spanish for “the”. That’s about all the Spanish we know. But we do speak the international language of food, so we understand Taquería El Rey perfectly. Monterrey Mexican

Restaurant (the one near you) wins second, and Poblanos Mexican Grill follows.

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

If Indian cuisine is good enough for 1.4 billion people in India alone, it’s probably good for the couple hundred thousand people who live around here. Voters have appointed Curry Hut as the local Indian embassy, at least in culinary matters. Taj of India finishes in second, while Namaste Indian Steet Food takes third. Don’t leave!

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

We also know a little Italian, and we’re happy to provide additional translation services here. Your winner, Oliviana Ristorante & Bar Italiano, might be difficult to understand. In English, that’s “Oliviana Italian Restaurant & Bar.” You are welcome! (There is no charge for this service.) In second is Luigi’s, Augusta’s OG Italian restaurant. Trattoria Polipo, on

Oliviana Ristorante/Facebook

Best Hidden Restaurant

FarmChristine’s to Fork

the other hand, is still being discovered anew by diners every week. Readers say it’s medal-worthy. Look for it on Walton Way Extension across from McAlister’s Deli.

BEST DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT

What might be called the crown jewel of the Frog Hollow Hospitality Group is, you guessed it, Frog Hollow Tavern, the reader favorite in this category. Augusta is fortunate to have this eclectic collection of exceptional eateries. That same sentiment goes for Luigi’s, serving Augusta since 1949. Whiskey Bar Kitchen, whose website says it’s “one of the Top 50 whiskey bars in America” (per Yelp) is “one of the Top 3 whiskey bars in Augusta” (per You).

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT

Step 1: Walk into Sheehan’s Irish Pub. Step 2: If you don’t happen to see anyone you know, announce your name for all to hear. Step 3: Leave. Step 4: Turn around and go back into the place where everybody knows your name. It’s really that simple. Midtown Tavern takes second place, and like Sheehan’s Irish Pub and Beck’s (in third),

being in a neighborhood kinda helps win this category.

BEST HIDDEN RESTAURANT

Plenty of places these days tell everyone they’re “farm to table.” Hello? That’s one step short, a fact rectified at Christine’s Farm to Fork in Edgefield. See what they did there? And readers took note. Rumor has it that Raes Coastal Cafe helped fund the development of GPS. Whether that’s true or not, we don’t know, but it’s got to have helped their business. The venerable Cadwalladers Café wins third.

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Looking for a new gastronomic experience? Aren’t we all! Readers suggest we head to 551 Broad Street, the location of Fifth & Fire. They say we will be glad we did. Let’s take them at their word, shall we? 990 Broad Sushi Kitchen, which we have already met on these pages, makes another appearance in this lofty category. The newbies at Towne Center Tavern also make a showing. Their name alone tells you where they’re located. Give ‘em a try.

BEST CATERER

Can’t travel to the mountain? Let the mountain come to you. Voters say Tastefully Yours is the best among movable feasts, followed by Roux’s Gourmet Catering and last year’s gold medal winner, Fat Man’s Cafe & Catering.

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Back in the day, a food truck pulled up around back to a loading dock. These days, food trucks are parked around front, serving the goodies, as in Southern Fired Foods, the reader favorite. SmokeShow Southern Style BBQ wins second, and T’s Mobile and Catering (no, not T-Mobile) wins third.

BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT

Perhaps the loftiest of all categories, winning this one is quite the feather. And the feather goes to Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar. Congratulations to all involved. High acclaim also goes to Brinkley’s Chop House just across the river, and to Frog Hollow Tavern, a triple crown of sterling eateries awarded by readers for overall excellence. Keep up the good work, y’all.

VOTED #1 RIBS IN AUGUSTA

Bold, smoky, and unapologetically Southern. This year, Smokeshow Southern BBQ is proud to be named Best Ribs in Augusta, a flavorful milestone as we celebrate a decade of serving slow-smoked meats and true Southern hospitality to our hometown.

What began 10 years ago with one food truck and three local friends — Jermel Bennett, Jake Wood, and Will Dunaway — has grown into a local favorite built on family recipes, community, and a passion for real BBQ.

2026 will be a year to remember:

• 10-Year Anniversary Celebration – A special event honoring ten years of unforgettable flavors and memories.

• First Smokeshow Restaurant – Our brick-andmortar home is coming, serving all your favorites with dine-in, takeout, and expanded catering.

From the smoker to your plate, we’re grateful for every customer who has shared this journey with us. Here’s to the next ten years and the best ribs you’ll ever eat.

Shopping & Leisure

In this era of online retail giants, supporting local businesses has never been more important. Here are some of the best picks.

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

The Boardroom Clothing Company has you covered, say readers, and we believe they mean that literally, whether that means a three-piece suit or a super-breathable golf shirt. Low Country Clothier wins second place, and the venerable Surrey Center classic, Gentry Men’s Shop, takes third.

BEST WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE

Voters say the most boutiquey boutique is The Swank Company. It is, in a word, swank. Next up: Soho. They’ve been around since 1994, so they’ve obviously mastered the formula for success. The Ivy Boutique & Gifts — or do you call it simply The Ivy? — completes the three top tier boutiques from the ballots.

BEST WOMEN’S SHOE STORE

As the friendly staff at Shoes at Surrey

always says, “Walk-ins welcome.” Walkers are their kind of people, which narrows down their customer base to roughly 99.9% of the populace. But, somehow, they manage. Designer Shoe Warehouse, a.k.a. DSW, scores the silver, and Dillard’s gets the bronze.

BEST PLACE TO BUY HANDBAGS

As long as you’re already at Shoes at Surrey, pretend their sign says Handbags at Surrey and go ahead and complete the matching ensemble. You’ll feel better. Dillard’s is another purse purveyor of distinction, according to readers, and Macy’s takes the final spot.

BEST OUTDOOR/FITNESS STORE

The top pick is Escape Outdoors, which must be pretty exhilarating for them, considering that they topped regional chain Half-Moon Outfitters (in 2nd place) and the big daddy of all outdoor stores, Bass Pro Shops (3rd place). Congratulations!

Escape Outdoors

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP (FURNITURE)

More readers consigned more votes to Consign Design than anyone else. As the consignees, they should know, right? Second place proves the truth of the old saying that a Savvy Shopper is a savvy voter. If only we had a dollar for every time we’ve heard that one. West End Collective wins third.

BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP (CLOTHING)

In the consignment clothing division, Second Time Around wins first, although some of their items could be on their third or fourth time around. That doesn’t mean they’re worn out — it means they’ve passed additional tests of durability. Looking for cheap thrills? Try the next suggestion: Uptown Cheapskate. Or Encore Boutique & Consignments.

BEST PRODUCE

The produce available at Good Earth

Best Nursery/ Garden Shop Bedford Greenhouses

Produce & Garden Center, the #1 reader choice, proves that the earth is indeed good. It’s our favorite planet by far. Sprouts sprouts up in second, and the produce aisle at Publix wins third.

BEST ORGANIC FOOD PRODUCTS

Some might say organic is the cream of the crop, and the votes say Sprouts is the crème de la crème of the cream of the crop. Good Earth Produce & Garden Center is another great option for produce from our Good Earth. Fresh Market is appropriately named, say the ballots.

BEST NURSERY/GARDEN SHOP

Remember, just because it’s crunchy and natural doesn’t mean we have to eat it. Some people just plant stuff, and then watch it grow. Really. Apparently, it’s a thing. The

fine folks at Bedford Greenhouses can verify this. Good Earth Produce & Garden Center and Sanderlin Greenhouses also offer takeout. Just make sure you have a shovel at the house.

BEST GIFT SHOP

At the present time, the winner is Cudos2u. (See what we did there?) The Swank Company is another place to buy very cool stuff that you have no intention of keeping (unless you want to gift yourself, which is perfectly legal). Mish Mash Interiors wraps up the gift category.

BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR HUSBAND/ BOYFRIEND

There are plenty of wives and girlfriends whose favorite store is Escape Outdoors. Otherwise, how do they know it’s such a great place to shop for their husbands

and boyfriends? The same can be said for Boardroom Clothing Company and Bass Pro Shops, the other two medalists.

BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR WIFE/GIRLFRIEND

There are plenty of husbands and boyfriends whose favorite store is Windsor Fine Jewelers. Otherwise, how do they know it’s such a great place to shop for their wives and girlfriends? The same can be said for The Swank Company and that singular shop called One.

BEST ANTIQUES

For the best in vintage furnishings, remember three words: West End Collective. That’s the advice offered by your fellow antique lovers. Trends & Traditions and Riverside Antiques & Treasures also like to show their customers new old things.

boardroomaugusta.com

Best Costume Jewelry

TheCompanySwank

BEST FINE JEWELRY

Who is James Jones? No one has ever heard of the guy. Ah, but James Earl Jones? That’s a different story. In a similar fashion, Windsor Fine Jewelers just isn’t quite the same without its middle name. Readers also say Windsor’s first cousin, Friedman’s Jewelers, belongs on the medals stand. And they add that we shouldn’t overlook Tidwell Jewelers in Johnston, S.C.

BEST COSTUME JEWELRY

Can every day be a diamond day? Realistically, no. That’s why The Swank Company offers what readers applaud as the best in costume jewelry that doesn’t look like costume jewelry. And some that absolutely looks the part — in the best possible way. Never heard of Georgia Clay Co.? Get with the times and check them out on IG. Readers also speak highly of Soho.

BEST FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE

Indeed, the times they are a-changin’ — which is why this category exists. DoorDash delivers, say the ballots. What do you need? Food? Well, of course. But what about groceries, drug store stuff, pet needs, fresh flowers …? It’s all on the way, probably in under an hour. Uber Eats also gets high marks, and ditto for Grubhub.

BEST TAKEOUT MENU

When you go to Frog & the Hen dot. com, readers say look for the big tab at the top that says, “Order Pickup.” Click there, click your choices and head on over. It’s not just quick and easy; it’s delicious. F&H’s neighbor, Farmhaus Burger (or its downtown location), is next-best in the Takeout World. Raes Coastal Cafe is yet another hot reader tip.

BEST CURBSIDE SERVICE

When you’re tired, on a tight schedule, the back seat is full of screaming kids, and it’s 140° in the shade — it’s nice to just pull into that reserved pickup lane and have your pre-ordered Farmhaus Burger haul brought out to your car. It’s the reader favorite, although they like California Dreaming, too. And who doesn’t love Chick-fil-A’s curbside courtesy?

BEST LOCAL ONLINE SHOPPING

People love going to The Swank Company. But they also love the convenience of the Swank online shopping experience. Enough to give it the gold in this category. Autumn Breeze Boutique, synonymous with the aforementioned Georgia Clay Company, has a plethora of locally-themed cool stuff online. And Boardroom Clothing Company offers its sartorial splendor on the web.

Here are some great places to support — to keep them great, and to keep them open and serving us all.

BEST CAR WASH

Apparently, the name says it all for Sparkle Express, the top reader pick. First name: clean. Last name: quick. What more could we ask for? Ray Ray’s Car Wash, the place across from Costco, places second, and Moby’s Car Wash wins third.

BEST BARBER

The best thing about Durden’s Barber Shop is not that they’ve been around for well over 50 years; it’s that they don’t cut hair like they’ve been around for well over 50 years. They’re not kickin’ it old school — unless that’s what you want. In second: Big City Cuts in the bustling metropolis that is Grovetown. In third: Old Tyme Tattoo & Barber, harkening back to the days when tyme stood still.

BEST LOCAL CHARITY

SafeHomes of Augusta may not be able

Best Florist FlowersBroadon

to keep a pine tree from falling on your house in a hurricane, but they can make it safe in other ways. Golden Harvest Food Bank has a lot on its plate for all the people who don’t, and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta completes the Top Three.

BEST SPECIAL EVENT FACILITY

If you’ve been to the Columbia County Performing Arts Center, you know this is a well-deserved victory. It is a superb facility. Next up is the Sacred Heart Cultural Center, a place unlike any other. And now for something completely different: The Pine House, an Edgefield County landmark. Put it this way: if it was good enough for George Washington (and it was), it’s good enough for you and me.

BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION

Remember when people would complain that, sure, the Masters Tournament is

great, but what about the other 51 weeks? Well, they can’t say that anymore. With the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, the Drive, Chip & Putt competition, and the Masters Tournament, now it’s more like what about the other 50 weeks? In second (and perhaps #1 in the Overlooked Attraction category) is the Augusta Museum of History. The James Brown Statue, the hardestworking statue around (even though it’s on break right now), wins third.

BEST HISTORIC LANDMARK

Number 1 on your list is Sacred Heart Cultural Center, and that accolade applies whether you mean the inside of the building or the outside. Either way, it’s a spectacular landmark. In second: Riverwalk. “Historic?” you ask. Riverwalk has been around for almost 40 years now. Time flies. Butt Memorial Bridge, the only memorial in all of Georgia dedicated to the sinking of the Titanic, is now 101 years old.

Best Hair Salon Bliss Salon & Spa

BEST PLACE YOU WISH WAS STILL HERE

There is no denying it: Fat Man’s Forest was one-of-a-kind. The void it left has not been filled by anyone else. By contrast, there are plenty of bakeshops around, but none of them is quite like Smoak’s Bakery. Fort Discovery is also considered dearly departed.

BEST FLORIST

The votes flowed for Flowers on Broad. We all need fresh flowers in our lives more often. Write that down and post it on your refrigerator. Charleston Street (not located on Charlestown Street) wins second, and Martina’s Flowers and Gifts springs up next.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

They say a camera teaches people how to see without a camera. That might be the working philosophy of Natalie Thompson Photography, the reader favorite. Bethany Millard (For the Love Photo Co.) and Jane Kortright Photography are two more top reader picks.

BEST BRIDAL SHOP

Does anyone know of a House of the

Groom? Let the record show no one replied, “I do.” Ah, but House of the Bride, that’s another story altogether. In fact, readers say it’s the best bridal shop in our fair city. Elegant Bridals comes down the aisle next, followed by Tiffi nie Bleu Bridal Boutique.

BEST BANK/FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

The reigning king of banking in these parts is Queensborough National Bank & Trust, holding court before SouthState and SRP Federal Credit Union. (If you’re new to the area, SRP stands for what they strive to achieve for each of their customers: Superb Revenue Portfolio.)

BEST REALTOR

Readers say their favorite realtor — and by the way, the word is not pronounced “realiter” — is Ann Marie McManus. She has a few decades of experience under her belt. The same could be said for the second-place realtor, Kathryn Stone, daughter of veteran realtor Claire Stone. Kim Writer of the Azalea Home Group finishes third. All three ladies and their realty groups are affiliated with Meybohm Real Estate.

BEST COLLEGE/HIGHER EDUCATION

There are more options for this category than you may realize. For instance, there is the Doc

Savage School of Heating & Air Conditioning in the old Bungalow Road Elementary. Don’t laugh. When it’s 100° outside and your AC breaks, a degree in Medieval Art History is of questionable value. Even so, Augusta University wins, followed by Augusta Technical College, then USC Aiken.

Best Place To Walk Your Dog The Greeneway

wins second because, after all, everyone needs oxygen. The good old Family Y rounds out the finalists.

BEST HAIR SALON

Bliss Salon & Spa continues its lengthy reign in this category. Congratulations! Mane 18 (salon & spa) holds down 2nd place in its stylish black building, while Halo Salon & Spa beautifies the world from its Broad Street HQ.

BEST DAY SPA

Speaking of beautification, that word is no doubt in their mission statement as the reader favorite day spa, Cucumber & Mint, growing from Surrey Center to a second location at West Lake Commons. Rosewater Spa & Wellness gets enough 5-star reviews for second place, and Retreat Salon & Spa earns third.

BEST NAIL SALON

BEST GYM/FITNESS CENTER

Fun fact: the EFC of the Evans Fitness Center stands for “Evans Fitness Club.” You, too, can join the club if you want what readers say is the best. Oxygen, growing into a swanky new second location by West Lake,

If you’re thinking you need a passport to visit Paris Nails & Spa, we have news: you can repurpose those travel funds for something else. Maybe French accent lessons from a voice coach. Sky Nails and Spa wins second; Rainbow Nails, third.

BEST PLACE TO SWIM

My Y is your Y, and your Y — the Family YMCA of Greater Augusta — performed swimmingly in Lane 1. The Augusta Aquatic

Center finished next, and in third, that big pool we call Clarks Hill Lake. Or do you prefer Lake Strom Thurmond?

BEST GOLF COURSE

With a longer history than even the Augusta National, Forest Hills Golf Course finishes with the lowest score. In golf, that means they win. Bartram Trail Golf Club wins second. Next, the currently-underAugusta-National-Tiger-Woods-and-TomFazio-renovation Augusta Municipal Golf Course. Never heard of it? That’s because everyone calls it The Patch. If it’s in 3rd now, just wait ’til next year!

BEST PLACE TO PLAY TENNIS

Readers feel the love for Newman Tennis Center, and in tennis terminology, that really means something. Columbia County Racquet Center (formerly known as

Petersburg Racquet Club) places second in this two-court race.

BEST YOGA STUDIO

Looking for a place to wear those new yoga pants? Readers recommend Space Yoga + Wellness Studio as your best option. They also suggest you breathe in Oxygen Fitness. It promotes the peace you need for yoga. In third, GVO Studios, where they feature yoga and pilates. And yes, yogalates is a real word.

BEST PLACE TO WALK YOUR DOG

In the aftermath of everyone’s least favorite hurricane, dogs had to hold it for quite a while. But The Greeneway in North Augusta, their top pick, is once again in greene means go mode. The Augusta Canal and Evans Towne Center Park are two more Fido-approved options. Remember, people: if your dog doesn’t clean up after itself, you have to do it.

Best Yoga Studio Space Yoga + Wellness Studio

BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL

The best fest, say readers, is Arts in the Heart of Augusta, spilling this year from the Commons onto Reynolds Street instead of onto Broad. There’s more shade down by the river, and shade is always a good thing. The Augusta Greek Festival is another top pick, and North Augusta’s Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee is the third finalist. Blues Traveler is the headliner for the free Saturday night concert there.

BEST FUNDRAISING EVENT

Readers remembered to vote for Music for Memories, benefitting Alzheimer’s treatment and care. Fake It To Make It, a casualty of Hurricane Helene last time, will hopefully be alive and well for next year. Stay tuned. Burger Battle — uh, you had us at burger — benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of Augusta, and it wins 3rd place.

Best Visual Artist Jason Craig Arts & Entertainment

For the best of live music and entertainment, here are a few people and places to put on your short list.

Jason

BEST VISUAL ARTIST

Informed readers say the top artist is Jason Craig Uninformed readers have seen his art and murals all over town and had no idea it was Jason Craig. So that’s how art brings people together! Grace Roberts may be more findable as GKATROB (short for Grace Katherine Roberts). She wins second, and April Henry King takes third.

BEST VOCALIST, MALE

Ryan Abel is the BMOS — the Big Man on Stage — according to the discerning ears of the voting public. Just off-center stage is Shaun Piazza and his eponymous band, and readers give Michael Patterson third place.

BEST VOCALIST, FEMALE

The gold record in this category goes to Robin Dixon. How about a standing O for Robin, y’all? Jaycie Ward, in second place, is an experienced performance veteran despite her young age. Completing the finalists is Bethany Davis. She’s back, and she brought her pipes.

BEST LOCAL R&B BAND

Give it up for The Lady & The Gents if you like classic R&B with a side of smooth jazz blended in. Likewise, for Garden City Jazz, if you enjoy smooth jazz with a blend of classic R&B. Finally, your favorite and ours, The Brownstown Gritty in third.

Best Local Rock/Alternative Band

Bodega Cat

BEST LOCAL JAZZ BAND

The difference between The Lady & The Gents (in first) and The Brownstown Gritty (in second) is like the difference between Willie Nelson and Shaboozey. They’re both country, but they sound different. The same can be said for your top two finalists. Garden City Jazz gets another Top Three finish.

BEST LOCAL COUNTRY BAND

Not to be confused with the 5K and 10K fun run of the same name (slogan: “Run first. Drink later.”), this Whiskey Run is actually a country band. Hence, boot scootin’ takes place, not sneaker runnin’. The previously acclaimed Robin Dixon reappears here in 2nd place, fronting the Midnight

Best Bar The Indian Queen

Moon Band. Third place is Anybody’s Guess. No, really, that’s the name of the band.

BEST LOCAL ROCK/ ALTERNATIVE BAND

Even if you have to search high and low, you definitely want to scour the local music scene for gigs featuring Bodega Cat, Black Dawg, and The Coveralls, your Top Three choices. Otherwise, they could go the way of Ruff Mix, Neato Torpedo and other lost bands of Augusta’s past.

BEST PERFORMING ARTS GROUP

You know that old theater saying, “The show must go on”? The Augusta Players take that quite literally. They have been staging productions since 1945, and readers say Bravo! Encore! Colton Ballet Company

wins the silver, and Augusta Junior Players, training tomorrow’s thespians today, takes home the bronze.

BEST BAR

The Indian Queen raises the bar, and readers say it’s the best, bar none. Other worthy options for good libations and good times: Craft & Vine, then Stillwater Taproom.

BEST LATE-NIGHT SPOT

A place as unique as The Indian Queen certainly deserves another round, and readers willingly obliged. Cheers! And speaking of unique, The Fox’s Lair is another one-of-a-kind spot, tucked away speakeasystyle beneath the Olde Town Inn. Seek and ye shall find … eventually. But it will be worth it. Craft & Vine is the final medalist.

BEST LIVE MUSIC BAR

The vote tally recognizes Doc’s Porchside, both Augusta and Grovetown, as the premier venues for live local music. The bands are there, so are the beers and the burgers and lots more. They just need you and me. See you there! Downtown neighbors Stillwater Taproom and Soul Bar are also top supporters of live music.

BEST SPORTS BAR

A true Augusta classic, our Sports Center is so awesome that ESPN named a show after it. Look it up! While we’re on the subject, readers’ next-best option, Twin Peaks, also inspired a hit television show. We are definitely on the map! Last but not least is Doc’s Porchside. Any of these sports bars has more screens than Best Buy.

The following is not fake news. It’s the results of the media categories of our annual reader poll.

Best Local TV Anchor (Female)

Jennie Montgomery

BEST LOCAL TV STATION

Readers say their favorite local TV station is WJBF NewsChannel 6 That doesn’t mean they like the sitcoms, soap operas and crime dramas on ABC. It means they like the local on-air personalities at Channel 6 best. WRDW News 12 comes next, and WFXG FOX54 after that.

BEST LOCAL TV ANCHOR (FEMALE)

Experience counts, and reader favorite Jennie Montgomery has 30 years of it at WJBF. Zayna Haliburton of WRDW also has somewhere in the neighborhood of 30 years’ experience. Total. Since birth. Kimberley Scott, WFXG anchor, scores third.

BEST LOCAL TV ANCHOR (MALE)

Jennie’s WJBF co-anchor Brad Means

leads the boys, with venerable WFXG anchor Trent Butler right behind. Shawn Cabbagestalk, WJBF weekend anchor of “Good Morning Augusta” wins third.

BEST LOCAL TV MORNING SHOW ANCHOR

If you haven’t noticed that Mary Morrison is WJBF’s morning anchor, where have you been? She started in this time slot in 1988. At the time, she was only 12. Now in her 30s, she shows no signs of slowing down. Her co-anchor and colleague, Barclay Bishop, also loves getting up many hours before dawn. WRDW’s Ashley Campbell wins third.

BEST LOCAL TV WEATHER ANCHOR

For the best weather prognosticator, we have a clear case of age before beauty, as WFXG’s Jay Jefferies tops WJBF’s Jenna Petracci. Riley Hale of WRDW wins third.

BEST LOCAL TV REPORTER

No one has ever heard a George Eskola report on WJBF from the next room and called out to a person near the TV saying, “Who was that talking just now?” Not even once has that ever happened. Speaking of unique reporters, Shawn Cabbagestalk of WJBF is pretty one-of-a-kind himself. Investigative reporter Liz Owens of WRDW is also a medalist.

BEST LOCAL MEDIA SPORTS REPORTER

Mister Walking Sports Encyclopedia himself, Ashley Brown, is the clubhouse leader. One of his stats is having something like 2,000 sports columns in his portfolio, plus countless radio and TV appearances. According to the ballots, the man is a good sport. WFXG is the station that sports Michael Manny, and Joseph Doehring covers sports for WRDW.

DropTheDis Best Local Podcast

BEST LOCAL RADIO STATION

What we have here is a country sandwich. Readers placed 105.7 The Bull on the bottom, laid in a tasty center of WGAC News Talk 95.1, and then topped it all off with Kicks 99. That’s ... mmmm good

BEST LOCAL RADIO TALK SHOW PERSONALITY

Earlier this year, Austin Rhodes of WGAC surpassed 100,000 million words spoken on the air. Wow! That takes more than simple loquaciousness. It also requires longevity, and that requires good ratings. Austin has the recipe down. John Patrick, owner of one of the friendliest voices on local airwaves, wins second, with Mr. Sports, Ashley Brown, taking third.

BEST LOCAL RADIO MORNING SHOW

The Kicks 99 Wake Up Krew — you know, Dub and Cody — is tops among readers and gets ratings gold for WKXC. Augusta’s Morning News with John Patrick and Mary Liz Nolan is next up at WGAC. Ethan & April from the “Morning Show” at WAFJ (88.3 FM) take third.

BEST LOCAL WRITER

Support local journalism is the message of readers who voted for Charmain Brackett, who has been pounding out readable copy for 35 years. Nice work! The Augusta Chronicle’s Joe Hotchkiss has more than a quarter century in local journalism to his credit, and Campbell Vaughn has saved the lives of countless living things through his columns as county extension agent.

BEST LOCAL PODCAST

You know “Disgusta”, that poisonous Facebook page? It’s the place to go for all things negative, critical, hateful and cynical. By contrast, readers send their love to “DropTheDis” [Augusta]. Amen! Next most popular is “Into the Wild”, a podcast by Raysean Ricks for Augusta University. Meanwhile, Tara Simkins holds third in lifeimproving master classes on her podcast.

Best of Home

Best of home is back in Best of Augusta!

Best Custom Frame Shop Art Broadon

BEST BATH SUPPLY SHOWROOM

Landrum Supply Co. exists to make your home’s good, clean fun headquarters even better. Readers love it. Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery is another business that voters say has a squeakyclean reputation. And speaking of bathing beauties, W. A. Bragg & Co. wins third place.

BEST BLIND/SHUTTER COMPANY

There is something undeniably classy about blinds — quality blinds, mind you — that mere curtains just can’t compete with. IYKYN, and voters say they definitely K at Summerville Shutters. The people also suggest Lowe’s and Budget Blinds, in that order.

BEST CABINET COMPANY

Isn’t it amazing that cabinets go out of style? How crazy is that? They are just boxes with a door, but you can look at some cabinets and they just scream “eighties!” Readers say Crawford Cabinets is the area’s top cabinet makeover maker-overer. That is a direct quote. Looper Cabinet Company and Lowe’s win second and third.

BEST COUNTERTOP COMPANY

When you endlessly tell all your friends about your new cabinets, someone will eventually say, “Put a lid on it.” They’re referring to the countertops, the finishing touch for your cabinets. And they’re probably talking about CounterSync,

the reader favorite. Star Granite Interiors gets 2nd place and Lowe’s adds another #3 ranking.

BEST CARPET CLEANING COMPANY

The advantage of the reader favorite, Stanley Steemer, is that steem not only lifts stains, but also sanitizes carpeting by killing germs, much like steam does. Two services for the price of one! Option 2: Duraclean CSRA, because it’s not clean until … well, you know the rest. Chem-Dry wins third.

BEST CARPET/RUG COMPANY

Let’s say you tried Stanley Steemer, Duraclean, or ChemDry and your carpeting

just won’t come clean. Those stains are permanent. In such a scenario, call Merit Flooring, Kitchen and Bath, suggest the ballots. Start fresh. You’ll be glad you did. Hardwood Floors & More, followed by Augusta Flooring, round out the Top Three.

BEST CUSTOM FRAME SHOP

You bought a painting for $12 at Goodwill that you’ve just discovered is an actual Van Gogh. What’s your next move? Obviously, you would head over to Art on Broad for a beautiful new frame to protect your investment and enhance the painting’s beauty. Then again, say voters, you could visit Augusta Art & Frame Shop on Furys Ferry, or downtown’s Hang-Ups Custom Framing and Art Gallery.

BEST DECORATOR FABRIC STORE

When you hear people say that the very fabric of society sometimes seems to be unraveling before our very eyes, what they’re really saying is, we need to go to Decorator’s Outlet. Quality fabric will prevent a lot of this unraveling. And they’ll let you shop there even if you aren’t a certified decorator. Curtain Call Fabrics & Interiors and Park Avenue Fabrics are also cut from quality cloth, say readers.

BEST ELECTRICIAN

Those who know BZ Electric — that would be our readers — are not shocked by their win in this category. Another company on a permanent power trip is Golden Rule Electrical. Why else would they exist? Rob Zapata’s Electric takes third place.

BEST FURNITURE STORE

Are you sitting down? I have some news for you. Weinberger’s Furniture is your #1 choice. Oh, and look! You were sitting on one

Best Appliance Store

of their couches when we broke the news. Small world! We’ll be furnishing Andrews Gallery with a 2nd-place trophy and Kelley Appliance Center wins #3.

BEST FENCE COMPANY

Voting for this category came in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which destroyed an estimated 17,463 miles of fencing in the Savannah River Region alone. So, when voters say East Georgia Fence is tops, their ranking is based on experience, and recent experience at that. Guardian Fencing & Outdoor Services and Augusta Fencing take second and third. Note: none of these winners is the “en garde!” kind of fencing. Just wanted to make that point clear.

BEST GARAGE DOOR COMPANY

Overhead Door Company of Augusta/

Aiken wins because its doors go overhead on command and then close on command. That’s basically all we really want, and the ballots say that’s what they deliver better than anyone. Precision Garage Door Service gets the silver, and the bronze goes to Lowe’s.

BEST APPLIANCE STORE

Some readers think Kelley Appliance Center is the coolest. Others say they’re hot. Well, guess what? They’re both right. That’s the kind of bipartisan support that got them elected to a 1-year term atop this category. Davis Appliance & Furniture (2nd) and Howard’s Appliance Center (3rd) complete the Top Three.

BEST HEATING & AIR COMPANY

Sometimes we focus on global warming and the need for AC. Don’t forget that we

had snow twice last winter. Better put Busby’s Heating & Air on speed dial, suggest the ballots. In second place is Advanced Air Technology. Remember to say each word separately and distinctly. Bailey’s Comfort Services is next because who doesn’t like comfort?

BEST HARDWOOD FLOORING COMPANY

As with fencing, many an area floor is brand new these days, courtesy of Helene. The ballots reveal Hardwood Floors & More as the preferred source of those floors. And more. Kirkland’s Flooring is your next best option, followed by A & D Carpets & Hardwoods.

BEST KITCHEN SUPPLY SHOWROOM

Looking for a new sink, new fixtures, or both? Head to Landrum Supply Co., say

Best Home Accessories Store

Design Images & Gifts

your friends and neighbors. W. A. Bragg & Co. ranks almost as high, and Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery finishes third.

BEST LANDSCAPING COMPANY

Where those trees used to be, we need to put something, right? Better call Jacobs Land Management and see if we can put the yard back together. That’s what the ballots say. Pebble Creek Landscaping wins the silver, and Anderson Horticultural Concepts in Evans takes third.

BEST LIGHTING COMPANY

How many employees from Southern Lighting Gallery does it take to change a light bulb? As many as possible: many

hands make light work, so have them send everyone they can. As promised in their very name, Hardwood Floors & More offers more, including this appearance in the best lighting category. Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery keeps making the list, taking bronze.

BEST LUMBER COMPANY

Elephants never forget, which might be why Howard Lumber Company, with its elephant mascot, wins top honors. Maner Builders Supply puts the yard in lumber yard, and Mulherin Lumber Company rounds out the reader favorites.

BEST MORTGAGE COMPANY

Mortgage is a strange word. It literally means “dead pledge.” Say what? Fortunately,

the friendly folks at SouthState Bank are not only not strange, but they are experts in each and every one of the 312 forms that all new mortgage holders need to sign. That’s fire! Queensborough National Bank & Trust Co. also gets major props from readers, as does First Citizens Bank.

BEST HOME ACCESSORIES STORE

Nobody wants to live in a home that has all the cozy charm of a hospital room. We need to accessorize our living spaces, and we need to do so with the help of Design Images & Gifts. They can help even the minimalists among us to display a little personality. West End Collective is another source for cool stuff, followed by Signature Interiors (as in Signature Mike) on Furys Ferry Road.

Best Pool Company

PetePoolAlewine & Spa

BEST HOME BUILDER

Are you currently unhoused? Readers recommend calling Ivey Homes. It sounds too simple, but even if there’s more to it than that, at least it’s a starting point. DMP Homes comes next and Tully Custom Homes wins third.

BEST OUTDOOR FURNITURE STORE

If patios and sunrooms could vote, Casual Furniture of Augusta would be the recommendation. Alas, that would violate federal regulations. But shopping at Casual Furniture is perfectly legal — we checked. The ballots say Weinberger’s Furniture also offers a great selection of outdoor furniture, and Carolina Pottery is also a medal-worthy option.

BEST PAINT STORE

Readers who are customers of the local Sherwin-Williams store report the experience is a brush with greatness. Want other options? Roll with Gerald Robinson’s Paint & Decorating Center. Your final top choice is Lowe’s.

BEST PEST CONTROL COMPANY

Locally-owned pest control services are almost as rare as cockroaches after a visit by Horne’s Pest Control. Remember bugs used to tremble at the sound of their name? Horne’s is now Massey Services Pest Control, a company with locations across the South and Southeast. In second place, David M. Parker Exterminating is still around and still familyowned. Borden Pest Control gets third.

BEST POOL COMPANY

When you can take a hole in the ground and turn it into something almost magical, you must be talking about Pete Alewine Pool & Spa, the area’s favorite pool company. They design, build, maintain and repair pools, hot tubs and saunas. Peachtree Pools and Hefner Pools are two additional top options.

BEST PLUMBING COMPANY

Of all the places on this vast planet (let alone outer space) Universal Plumbing could have chosen for their operations, they chose Augusta, Ga. We get faster response times here than pretty much from everywhere else. Remember that, along with Hardy Plumbing Co. and RickyJay Plumbing. You

Photo by

never know when you’ll need a plumber, but when you do, you want them to be the best.

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS (CONSIGNMENT)

The finalists in this category offer a place to buy cool stuff at discounted prices and/or the option to sell the cool stuff you no longer want or need. That is what we call The Complete Package. Here are your finalists:

1) Savvy Shopper

2) Consign Design

3) Goodwill Industries

BEST INSURANCE COMPANY

Since this time last year, we’ve all had a master class called Insurance 101.

We reviewed the importance of having insurance, how to file claims, what happens when claims are denied, and so much more. Fun, right? Your fellow readers tell us the ordeal was much more bearable for Blanchard and Calhoun policyholders. Thanks for the tip! Voters also had good words for State Farm and Travelers. You heard it here first: people saying good things about insurance companies.

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Meybohm Real Estate is nearing a half-century of service to the Augusta area. They must be doing something right, and the votes bear that out. Another legacy realtor of our community area comes next: Blanchard and Calhoun Real Estate, followed by Southeastern Residential.

BEST REMODELING COMPANY

Byrd’s Remodeling and Home Repair, Inc. gets the golden hammer. Owner Jeff Byrd and anyone else in this category, and the one to follow, have been worked to the bone over the past year since Helene. Bless their hearts. Holmes Construction comes up in the runner-up slot, with Signature Restoration Solutions offering another top option.

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

If remodeling companies have been working seven days a week since the hurricane, then it’s at least 8 days a week for roofers. If they aren’t, that might be a red flag. Judging by the votes, Southpaw Roofing should be the busiest roofers around, with Penn Roofing and Lovelace Roofing not far behind.

BEST SECURITY SYSTEM COMPANY

Readers say the best choice — that means the most secure — is Cruise Security Systems. They have that great combination of local ownership and super high-tech equipment that spells peace of mind for clients. At least that’s what the votes say. ADT Security Services is the fi rst runner-up, and Estroff Protective Services follows.

BEST TILE COMPANY

One of the coolest things about the top reader choice — Tile Center — has nothing to do with tile. It’s their stone yard on Reynolds Street, offering tons (quite

literally) of landscaping and patio stones for all kinds of outdoor applications. And it’s right next door to their tile showroom. That’s convenient. Unlike Tile Center and Maven, you’re unlikely to happen to drive past your second option, Traditions in Tile & Stone. They’re just off North Leg. The aforementioned Maven Tile & Stone takes 3rd place.

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER/DECORATOR

If just anybody can do great interior design, then explain paneling. No, there’s a reason why designers like Beth Welsh Interiors exist. It’s to stage our homes beautifully and, when necessary, to

Best Roofing Company Southpaw Roofing

stage interventions. We may need extra convincing to finally get rid of that brown hi-lo shag carpeting. Similarly, Lauren Robbins Interiors and Brittany Cason Interior Design are here to send us, when possible, into the pages of Veranda and Southern Living.

BEST ASSISTED LIVING

We all want our elders to live their best life and their longest life. That could explain why Brandon Wilde is the #1 choice of readers. The votes say it’s the best. Which is not to say Thrive at Augusta, the runner-up, isn’t also a sterling option. Sterling silver, in fact. Augusta Gardens is the third of the Top Three.

RICKYJAY PLUMBING LLC

LICENSED / BONDED / INSURED

Ricky Jay and his wife, Mary Louise Jay founded RickyJay Plumbing LLC. At the time of Ricky Jay’s death in December 2023, he had been in the plumbing industry for 45 years. He believed strongly in being fair and honest with his valued customers, He always guaranteed all the work. His work ethics were the highest. He loved the plumbing industry, his customers and his employees. He was grateful for each employee and treated them with respect. His sense of humor was unmatched. He acquired loyal customers because he was sincerely interested in getting to know them and chat with them, not just about plumbing, but their families, hobbies, professions or any interest of theirs. The company is proud to say that we still do it

“The Ricky Jay Way - Love, Laughter and Kindess” 706-399-5361