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Hundreds of Readers Select Best of North Central CT We asked and you answered by the hundreds. And what follows are the top businesses in North Central Connecticut in each of their respective fields. There was nothing high tech about it. Just our capable staff sorting through the ballots and tallying up the totals with that “four sticks, then a slash” system we all learned in grade school. But when all was counted, we do believe that all of the winners – as well as those who took time to fill out the ballots – should be proud. After all, feedback from critics and peers is always valuable, but a ringing endorsement like this from customers and community members is a true sign a business has reached the highest level of success. So again, congratulations to all of our winners and those who voted to make them winners. FOOD BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT Hazard Grille 39 Hazard Ave., Enfield (860) 239-0004 www.hazardgrille.com Last year’s winner of the “Best Dinner” award, the Hazard Grille has stepped it up even further this year, taking the most votes for best overall restaurant. The Grille features classic American food with an upscale twist. But don’t be fooled—the atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed. Seafood, pasta, chops, and steaks are featured, along with signature dishes like Statler chicken and lobster fettuccini. The affordable luncheon menu includes sandwiches as well as entrees like meatloaf and baked scrod. The Grille also boasts an extensive wine list and a newly renovated lounge area.
In This Issue • BEST OF ‘08: You voted, we counted. Readers’ Poll results.pgs.3-6, 10 • ELLINGTON: Taxpayers may have to decide fate of Pinney House ...........p.7 • ELLINGTON: Local youth gaining ‘PUL’ in the community ............................p.8 • ELLINGTON: High School announces fourth quarter honor roll ............p.9 • FOODSTUFFS: No Name Cafe ....p.11 • SOMERS: Town taking stock in park & fields, Woodcrest news...p.12
Frankie Vono, owner of Frankie’s Firehouse Restaurant in Somers, readies one of his award-winning pizzas. Photo by Stacey Lyn McDonald hop service, is your choice for the area’s The soups are homemade, and the Plaza BEST BREAKFAST best breakfast. Owner Michelle Palardy, has great sandwiches, too. The great food Chelle’s 107 W. Stafford Rd. (Rte. 190), Stafford who opened the restaurant six years ago, and warm, welcoming atmosphere makes credits her “Happy Days” breakfast spe- the Plaza a readers’ favorite. As Parker (860) 684-6622 Chelle’s, with its ’50’s theme and car- cials for keeping people coming back. said, “We’re just a real friendly place.” Each special features a different combinaBEST DINNER tion breakfast named for a character on the John Henry’s Restaurant and Tavern • SOMERS: Town mourns loss of Alfred sitcom. And you can get a great breakfast 36 W. Main St., Stafford A. Lerz, former Johnson CEO..........p.13 any time of the day. (860) 684-1071 When we called to congratulate John The restaurant also serves favorites like • STAFFORD: Historical Society finds homemade soup, hot dogs, and burgers in Henry’s for grabbing this year’s best dinthird Lt. Governor with town ties...p.21 a family atmosphere with a ’50’s twist. ner award, owner/chef Tony Pitts — “Plus, we’re family owned and operated,” understandably — was too busy to talk. • STAFFORD: ‘Visioning Session’ helps But his wife, Karen Pitts, was delighted Palardy added. town find strengths, weaknesses...p.23 BEST LUNCH with the news. Plaza Restaurant The restaurant, which first opened in • CLASSIFIEDS: ..............pgs.34-35 48 South Rd., Somers December 2006, has earned a loyal follow(860) 749-0666 ing—and for good reason. Pitts has creatThe Plaza, last year’s best breakfast ed a series of small, intimate dining rooms winner, takes the honors this year as the where patrons can enjoy upscale yet combest spot for lunch. “This year we’re fortable dining. offering summer salads, which have been And on nice days, look for diners (and really popular,” said owner Linda Parker. luncheoners) enjoying their meals on the They also offer lunch specials at reasonable prices—like fish and chips for $6.95. BEST OF/PAGE 3
*NEXT ISSUE Editorial/Advertising Deadline: Aug. 28 (860) 698-9328