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Cooking daily for you and your family since 1976, for that Gracias Amigos
778-3730
Taqueria 460 Tres Pinos Rd. Hollister, CA 95023 (831) 636-5849
The image on the cover of this year’s Best of Gilroy magazine was created by the Dispatch’s in-house artist, Saoirse Alesandro. The art is inspired and informed by iconic memories—no doubt shared by many—of local culture.
Alesandro said she vividly recalls driving by, and often stopping at, the familiar cherry stands with handpainted signs as she traveled through Gilroy as a child.
“I like the bright colors, bold shapes and lines, and handwritten type. I like that the paint is applied thick and with care but without any self-consciousness,” said Alesandro, who sought to mimic those brush strokes when she created the digital illustration in Procreate.
The fruit stands represent many aspects of the region’s history—a
background that is acutely part of Alesandro’s upbringing. Her Japanese grandmother worked on nearby fruit farms and likely saw similar roadside stands when she traveled the area.
Alesandro adds, “For me, Gilroy’s inimitable, old-school, charm is totally encapsulated in (the fruit stand’s) signage…I like that the people of Gilroy care about and celebrate farm labor and their working class—a concept so often bulldozed over and not considered in most parts of the larger Bay Area.”
The pages ahead will demonstrate how much the people of Gilroy care about their community and its businesses, institutions, places of recreation and, of course, the people who work to make it such an enticing place to live.
STELLAR STAFF Taylor Pierleoni and Freddy Barcenas, pictured at Pop’s Public House on June 28, were voted Gilroy’s Best Waitress and Best Chef, respectively, for 2024.
At Pop’s Public House, the people—not just the customers but also the entire staff—come first. That’s the approach that the restaurant’s owners and siblings Mike Vollmer and Katie Perales take to the operation of the popular First Street business.
“What we’ve tried to create here is a family atmosphere, not just in the front of the house with the guests, but also our team,” Vollmer said.
Pop’s Public House racked up numerous awards in this year’s Best of Gilroy voting—most of them in recognition of the restaurant’s cuisine and cocktail prowess. But two of the honors—Best Waitress for Taylor Pierleoni and Best Chef for Freddie Barcenas—seem to amplify the owners’ focus on maintaining an environment where everyone feels welcome and happy.
“They take passion in their work and
everybody has creative ideas and has fun at work,” Vollmer continued. “I think that really shines through to the public as they come here.”
Added Perales, “I think they work with their heart first, in everything they do. And they care. And people notice that.”
Pierleoni has worked in the food service industry for about six years—including a stint at Tempo in downtown Gilroy. When Pop’s opened about a year ago, Pierleoni said she felt the new restaurant could offer a unique, opportunity-rich experience. Now, customers often ask to sit in Pierleoni’s section when they enter Pop’s Public House.
One thing that stands out about Pop’s management is the owners give their customers’ and staff’s suggestions serious consideration, Pierleoni said.
“I was super excited when we first opened because when I talk they listen,” Pierleoni said. “There’s a lot of people here that work
really hard and it shows in the restaurant and it shows in…people coming back and being honest with us and telling us our imperfections so we can perfect them,” Pierleoni said. “It makes me feel super good.”
Barcenas is relatively new to restaurant kitchen work, and has been Pop’s chef since they opened in 2023. He feels that being recognized as Gilroy’s Best Chef validates not only his work, but also the entire restaurant crew’s willingness to work together.
“We are always working hard to make new items and make people happy with their meals,” Barcenas said. “We serve big portions and we are always asking the servers and owners how the people like it. I'm very happy to see my food coming out (with) quality presentation and (that) people like it.”
Pop’s Public House is located at 1300 First Street in Gilroy.
- Michael Moore
Bakery
House of Bagels
Bar or Pub
Pour Me
BBQ Restaurant
Barbeque 152
Breakfast
O.D.'s Kitchen
Brunch
West Side Grill
Burger
Pop's Public House
Burritos or Tacos
Super Taqueria
Caterer
Station 55
Chef
Freddie Barcenas—
Pop's Public House
Chinese Restaurant
Ginger Cafe
Coffee Shop
Camino Coffee
Deli or Sandwich Shop
Cafe 152 Bread Company
Desserts
Pop's Public House
Donut Shop
Gilroy Donut House
Family Restaurant
Pop's Public House
Food Truck
Cousins Maine Lobster
French Fries
Brew City Burgers
Hawaiian Restaurant
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
Healthy Eats
Cafe 152 Bread Company
Hot Dog
Wienerschnitzel
Ice Cream or Yogurt Shop
Neveria Alaska
Ice Cream
Indian or Pakistani
Restaurant
Little India
Italian Restaurant
Mama Mia's, Gilroy
Japanese Restaurant
Ninja Sushi
Late Night
Dining
Pop's Public House
Locally Made
Food Product
Pepper Plant Hot Sauce
Lunch
Pop's Public House
Margaritas
Pop's Public House
Mediterranean
Restaurant
Olives Mediterranean
Market And Grill
Mexican Restaurant
Victoria's Mexican
Restaurant
Middle Eastern
Restaurant
Olives Mediterranean
Market And Grill
New Restaurant
Pop's Public House
Pho Restaurant
Saigon -2- Siam Bistro
Pizza
Pinocchio's Pizza
Restaurant
Pop's Public House
Romantic
Wine & Food
Experience
West Side Grill
Salads
Brew City Burgers
Seafood
Restaurant
Jellyfish Seafood Bar
Steaks
Chama Nativa
Brazilian Steakhouse
Sushi
Ninja Sushi
Thai Restaurant
Saigon -2- Siam Bistro
To-Go Eats
Brew City Burgers, Station 55 Seafood & Mexican Cocina
Vietnamese Restaurant
M Noodle & Cafe
Waitress/Waiter
Taylor Pierleoni—
Pop's Public House
Winery
Besson Family
I am honored & humbled to have been voted #1 Best Physician - General Practice in the “Best of Gilroy 2024”. I want to thank my patients for entrusting me with their health. I want to thank my team at GFMG / Bass Medical Group for all they do, which allows me to continue my mission to provide compassionate care and improve lives. My Heartfelt Appreciation, Dr. Kumar Veronica Sanchez, O ce Manager • Diana Reyes, Front Desk Ignacia Lopez, MA • Genoveva Nassiere, MA
At age 40, Primal Canine owner Mike Jones has trained dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes since he was a child. His work—which can equally be described as his passion— has encompassed every type of dog training in the book: from obedience and behavioral training to service, protection and police dogs.
He has worked with and been a mentor to countless dog trainers, and has even traveled to foreign countries for philanthropic missions that include help for people in need of service dogs.
Jones’ experience and his unique way with animals and their people shine through at the Gilroy facility, as the community voted Primal Canine as the Best Dog Trainer and Best Doggie Daycare in Gilroy for 2024.
“The biggest thing is the culture we provide,” Jones said when asked why his clients are so impressed. “We’re very straightforward and transparent. We’re going to tell (clients) what’s going on with their dog, and we’re always looking out for them.”
Although Primal Canine just moved a couple of years ago to its current location just across the tracks from the downtown Gilroy VTA station, Jones’ reputation seems to follow him wherever he goes. He notes that running a successful dog training business isn’t only about understanding dogs; Jones notes that he relies on his dedicated staff of trainers—including his 10-year-old daughter, Ivy Skye—whom he is always helping to improve their skills.
“I tell my guys, dogs don’t have weekends, so we don’t have weekends either,” Jones said. “We’re working seven days a week, constantly trying to help everybody out. We’re not stuck to a singular method so we do a variety of (techniques), always tailored to that individual dog.”
Jones’ methods follow the construct that dog training is a “three part system”: dog, handler and trainer. “As long as everyone works cohesively we’re good to go. For the handlers we talk to them a lot, break it down to them” on how to keep their animal on point after working with a trainer, Jones added.
Primal Canine’s website further explains, “Our method was created by rescuing and training all types of dogs regardless of their breed, temperament, size, and age, and placing them in a loving home.”
Although Primal Canine has faced some difficulty securing a long-term location in recent years— largely due to the unique noise and space challenges of operating a dog training facility—Jones thinks his business has found a permanent home in Gilroy.
“Ever since we moved here they have welcomed us with open arms,” Jones said. “Gilroy has helped us out so much. They’re very good people in this community.”
Primal Canine is located at 8395 Forest Ave. in Gilroy. Their website is primalcanine.com.
- Michael Moore
A/C & Heating Service
LJ Mechanical Heating & Cooling Inc.
Accounting/
Bookkeeping Service
Blaettler Accountancy
Acupuncture Practice
Heart Space Healing
Acupuncture
After School Program
CIEL Community Services
Animal Rescue Group
South County Tail Waggers
Architectural
Design Services
Stefanie Okada-McCabe Inc.
Attorney
The Law Offices of James A. Ward
Auto Body Shop
Bonfante Collision Center
Auto Detailing
Fast and Furious Detail
Auto Repair Shop
Gilroy AutoWorks
Bank or Credit Union
Pinnacle Bank
Barbershop
Midtown Barber Company
Bed/Mattress Store
Mancini's Sleepworld
Car Wash
Gilroy Express Wash
Carpet
Cleaning
Platinum Carpet Cleaning
Charity or Non-Profit
South County Compassion Center
Chiropractic
Office
Bostock Chiropractic
Community Organization
CIEL Community Services
Computer Repair
Robot Shark
Cosmetic Surgeon
Andrew J. Matthews—
AJM Plastic Surgery
Customer Service
CIEL Community Services
Dance Instructor
Lana Wright—
Lana's Dance Studio
Dance Studio
Lana’s Dance Studio
Day Care/
Preschool
Pacific Point Christian
Preschool
Day Spa
Pure Lavender
Day Spa & Salon
Deck and Fencing Company
Fence Solutions
Dentist
Jernell Escobar
Dermatologist
Clayton Schiltz—
Coastal Dermatology and Aesthetics
Dog Groomer
Cali Pet Goodz
Dog Trainer
Primal Canine
Doggie Day Care
Primal Canine
Dry Cleaners
Lapels Cleaners
Electrical Contractor
Cornejo Electric
Financial Advisor/ Planner
Kristi Ellington— Ellington Financial, LLC
Fitness Center/Gym
LOVEHER
Flower Shop
Expressions Floral (Frank's Garden)
Framing Shop
Leedo Art & Framing
General Contractor
Harris & Son Construction
Hair Salon
Shag Salon
Home Health Care Provider
Visiting Angels
Hotel/Motel/ Lodging
Hilton Garden Inn House of Worship
St. Mary Parish Insurance Agency
Pinheiro Insurance Agency, Inc.
Interior Design
Stefanie Okada-McCabe Inc.
Kitchen Bath Remodeling Company
Stefanie Okada-McCabe Inc.
Landscaping Service
Red Roots Landscape, Inc.
Local Employer
Pour Me
Martial Arts
Studio
Gilroy Brazilian
Jiu Jitsu Academy
Massage Services
Synergy Spa
Wellness Center
Mortgage Broker
Jayson Stebbins—
Guild Mortgage
Mortuary/
Funeral Home
Habing Family
Funeral Home
Motorcycle
Dealer
Gilroy Motorcycle Center
Motorcycle
Repair
Gilroy Motorcycle Center
Moving Company
Mah's Furniture Transport
Nail Salon
Royal Nails Spa, T2 Nails
OB-Gyn
Elsie Madrid—
Kaiser Permanente
Optometry/
Vision Center
Visual Edge
Optometric Group
Pediatrician
K K Bhatia MD
Personal
Trainer
Coach Bobby Bluford
Pharmacy
Kaiser Permanente Gilroy
Medical Offices
Photographer
Theresa Parshall
Photography
PhysicianGeneral Practice
Smitha Kumar—
Gilroy Family
Medical Group
Place to Take a Class
CIEL Community Services
Plumber/ Plumbing Company
Ernie's Plumbing Inc.
Real Estate Agent-
Commercial
George Renz— Renz & Renz
Real Estate AgentResidential
Mark Salcido—
Keller Williams
Real Estate Company
Keller Williams Property Team
Recycle Center
Recology South Valley
Roofing
Contractor
Affordable Roofing & Solar
School-Private St. Mary School
School-Public
Christopher High School
Senior Living
Community
Merrill Gardens at Gilroy
Skin Care
Shag Salon
Solar Installer
Golden State Solar
Storage Facility
Extra Space Storage, Murray Avenue
Tattoo & Piercing Parlor
29:11 Tattoo
Tire Shop
JC Custom Tires and Wheels
Tree Service
Alpine Landscapes
Urgent Care Center
St. Louise Regional Hospital Emergency Room
Veterinary Office
Gilroy Veterinary Hospital
Wedding Event Planner
Amy McKinney
Wedding Venue
Fortino Winery
Happy, healthy neighbors. That’s our mission.
At Kaiser Permanente, we continuously strive to improve the conditions for health and equity in our communities. That’s why we’re excited to be a part of Gilroy. Our doors, hearts and minds are always open to help you thrive. Learn more at kp.org/sanjose For
Antique Store
Garbo's Antique Mall
Auto Dealership
Gilroy Chevrolet
Clothing
Boutique
IVORI Boutique, Gilroy
Flooring &
Carpet Store
Floors Direct Carpet One
Garden Center
Moon Valley Nurseries
Gift Store
Garlic World
Grocery Store/ Supermarket
Nob Hill Foods
Hardware Store
Ace Hardware of Gilroy
Home Furnishings
Rosso Furniture & Decor
Jewelry Store
Zales at the Outlet
Mexican Market
Arteaga's Food Center
Natural Food Store
LJB Farms
New Retail Store
Nordstrom Rack
Pet/Feed Store
Cali Pet Goodz
Sporting Goods
Big 5 Sporting Goods
Thrift Store
Goodwill of Silicon Valley
The Compassion Center’s mission to provide access to the services unhoused people need to survive, become stable, and lead self-sufficient lives has helped resolve homelessness for 200 individuals over the past year. In the coming year, we are merging with St . Joseph’s Family Center as a single agency striving to alleviate community poverty, diminish food and housing insecurity, strengthen the safety net for the most vulnerable, and to provide essential support to the unhoused population.
1335 1st St., Suite C, Gilroy 95020 | (408) 763-7120 TheCompassionCenter.org
Garlic World, established in 1986, is a unique combination of fruit stand, gourmet food store, and gift shop. Our specialty is garlic (in every way, shape and form imaginable), but we also stock fresh produce, dried fruits, nuts, honey, preserves, Gilroy wines, and some very interesting gifts and cookbooks.
STAY COOL The Water Oasis is a popular feature at Gilroy Gardens, which the readers selected for numerous honors for the Best of Gilroy.
Gilroy and its environs boast among the most glorious year-round outdoor climates in the northern hemisphere. Thus it’s no surprise that readers’ selections for Best of Fun include the community’s most serene, family friendly, sun soaked venues as their favorite places for well-deserved recreational down time.
The immensely popular Gilroy Gardens (Best Day Trip, Best Place to Take the Kids) has it all, from amusement park rides to cool twisting water slides to beautifully manicured groves and gardens.
Christmas Hill Park (Best Park) is a Gilroy gem, offering free amenities for people of all ages: athletic fields, a playground and swing
set, an amphitheater with a stage, picnic areas, a grove of shady trees that bring protection from the sun, even a creekside respite where kids are often seen splashing in the waters of Uvas Creek while parents lounge on the bank. Uvas Creek Trail (Best Running/Hiking/ Walking Trail) gives runners and walkers a quiet, peaceful route through south Gilroy. The Gilroy Rodeo (Best Outdoor Event) comes to town Aug. 9-11. And Eagle Ridge Golf Club (Best Golf Course) boasts designs by Ron Fream and David Dale, and has been named among the Top Ten Golf Courses in Silicon Valley.
On the flip side, living in such a beautiful climate means that some days (mostly in the peak of summer) it is just too hot to be outside.
Luckily, Gilroy also has many entertaining venues for indoor fun, and the readers spoke about that too.
CineLux Gilroy Cafe & Lounge (Best Movie Theater) is a mainstay for air-conditioned refuge and relaxation. Pour Me Taproom (Best Employer, Best Place to Take the Dog) offers no shortage of cold beverages to bring some liquid salvation on a hot day.
Whether you choose to have your fun indoors or out, check out the following list for all our readers’ favorite fun spots. Visit your own favorite places, or gain some insight on how to spend your down time with your family, friends and pets in Gilroy.
- Michael Moore
Thank you, Gilroy community, for the tremendous honor of being voted the best Mexican market in town!
This achievement is a true triumph for all of us. As integral members of this vibrant community, we are committed to listening to our customers and striving for excellence because you deserve nothing but the best.
This award holds special meaning when we reflect on our journey. Let me take you back to the humble beginnings and introduce you to our founder, Alfredo Lopez. Alfredo was born on a small ranch on the outskirts of Agulilla, Michoacán, Mexico and was the oldest of 14 children. Forced to drop out of school after the third grade to begin working to help support the family, Alfredo’s childhood was one of many struggles, hard work, and limited opportunity. At the age of 17, Alfredo decided to migrate to the United States in hopes of a better future for his family and himself. During his early years in the States, Alfredo struggled and worked many jobs, among them, he was a car washer, a bus boy, a candlemaker, a gardener and a baker. Always motivated to do better and have a better life for his family, Alfredo always dreamed of being a business owner. In 1993, he got the opportunity to purchase a grocery store in Newark, California. His cousin David Chavez, owner of Chavez Supermarket, had purchased a grocery store in Newark and after just two short struggling months, David had determined that Newark was not a city that had any long-term potential for success for his business and he wanted to sell. He offered the store to Alfredo on the condition that he would give Alfredo a year to pay for the purchase of the store with the simple condition of signing a contract and securing it with his house deed. Gambling with his family's livelihood, Alfredo took the deal.
Initially resistant and lacking a plan, money, or business experience, Alfredo's sense of honor and determination led him to accept the challenge. Against all odds, he committed himself wholeheartedly. Working tirelessly from 4 AM to 9 PM, seven days a week, Alfredo knocked on every door within a two-mile radius to introduce himself and pledge two things, quality products and exceptional service. Through sheer determination and the grace of God, he turned the struggling store into a success.
A year later, Alfredo expanded the business, turning a difficult situation into a remarkable success story. Inspired by his achievements, his sister-in-law, Maria Arteaga opened Arteaga’s Market on 1st Street in Gilroy in 1994. The community embraced the new store, and Maria later partnered with Alfredo to open Arteaga's Food Center on Chestnut Street. Determined as always, Alfredo would commute every day from Newark to Gilroy at 4am often stopping at the local Gilroy farms along the way to source local produce for our communities. We love Gilroy; Arteaga's is Gilroy, as much as Gilroy is Arteaga's. Arteaga's stands as a vibrant hub within the community, it is more than just a grocery store; it's a gathering place where locals and visitors alike come to experience a slice of Gilroy's essence.
Arteaga's Food Center has become synonymous with quality, diversity, and a commitment to serving the community. The store caters to a wide range of culinary tastes, specializing in fresh produce, meats, and specialty items that reflect both local agricultural abundance and the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community.
Under the leadership of Alfredo's wife and children, the store has expanded to 10 grocery stores located throughout the Bay Area and Lodi and has evolved while remaining true to its roots. Their commitment to quality and customer service has earned Arteaga's Food Center a reputation for excellence throughout Gilroy and beyond. Whether you're seeking fresh ingredients for a family dinner or looking to reconnect with familiar flavors, Arteaga's continues to be a destination where the spirit of community and culinary passion converge.
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Our journey is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and unwavering dedication. Gilroy, Newark, along with all the other local communities that we serve, thank you for being a part of our story and for your continued support. Together, we will grow and continue to serve you with the excellence you deserve!
