A supplement to The Pajaronian
2026
Tarmo Hannula of the Pajaronian
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O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
o u Y ! k n a h T
Tooth be told, we appreciate you!
FOR VOTING US
BEST DENTAL PRACTICE
DENTAL WELLNESS PLANS STARTING AT
IN THE PAJARO VALLEY 2026!
$795
DENTAL CLEAR ALIGNER IMPLANTS THERAPY
LASER GUM THERAPY
FOCUSED ON PREVENTION
EARLY CAVITY REVERSAL
ALL AGES WELCOME
36 Aspen Way, Suite A Watsonville, CA 95076 (831) 728-2266
SAME DAY CROWNS
COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY
PREVENTIVE CARE EXAMS
PER YEAR
RADIOGRAPHS
AFFORDABLE CARE, REAL VALUE, BETTER HEALTH
UP TO 20% OFF
¡HABLAMOS ESPAÑOL!
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
East Lake Animal Clinic
TIERED MEMBERSHIPS INCLUDE:
www.wd-wc.com @watsonvilledental
OnCall Aesthetix & Wellness TWO YEARS. TWO WINS.
Best Health Care Facility & Best Skin Care Spa
W
We’re So Doggone Proud! Thanks for Voting Us Best Veterinarian!
740 East Lake Ave, Watsonville (831) 724-6391 | www.eastlake-animalclinic.com Hours: SUNDAY - FRIDAY: 8am - 6pm, SATURDAY: 8am - 5pm
e’re incredibly grateful to be named Best of Pajaro Valley for the second year in a row! What makes this recognition especially meaningful is knowing it comes from the community we’re lucky enough to serve. Every visit, referral, review, and vote means so much to our team. At OnCall Aesthetix & Wellness, we’re proud to provide personalized aesthetic and wellness care right here in our local community. We truly appreciate the trust you place in us and the opportunity to be part of your journey. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote, support us, recommend us, and continue to choose OnCall Aesthetix & Wellness. We couldn’t do this without you! Thank you, Pajaro Valley, for two incredible years! With gratitude, The OnCall Aesthetix & Wellness Team
Specializing in Botox, various dermal fillers, vitamin therapy, Medical grade advanced skin care and hair loss solutions Our Beauty Experts Samantha Fernandez, NP @oncallaesthetix Jannica Sebastian, NP @jannicaaestheticnp Adriana Fernandez, RN @adriana_oncallaesthetix Maricela Fernandez @oncallaesthetixwellness
831-200-3532 40 Penny Ln Suite 208, Watsonville, CA 95076
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
IMURA WOULD LIKE TO
Thank You FOR VOTING US
BEST SERVER (AND RESTAURANT): JIM IMURA: (GOLD) BEST PLACE FOR A DATE (GOLD) BEST DINING EXPERIENCE (GOLD) BEST JAPANESE OR SUSHI RESTAURANT (GOLD) BEST RESTAURANT (GOLD) BEST SUSHI (GOLD) BEST VEGETARIAN OR VEGAN DISHES (SILVER) THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT OVER THE PAST 34 YEARS! WE APPRECIATE YOU! IMURA
JAPANESE RESTAURANT
BESTOF_SCCF_V2.pdf
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9/30/26
1:33 PM
Thanks for being part of the 2026 Santa Cruz County Fair! C
This is truly an honor and surprise, we want to sincerely thank everyone for their love and support. As a token of our gratitude we would like to invite you to join us
Friday, October 30, 4pm–6pm for our 1 Year Celebration We will have free food and treats.
A
rmando has been serving this community for over 15 years. Come see him for the same great service at his new location. Special thank you to Jose Jimenez who’s been part of this community for over 30 years.
M
Y
CM
We offer • IN HOUSE FINANCING • BANK FINANCING
Don Jose Auto Sales is under new management but with years of experience. 445 Auto Center Dr. Watsonville | DonJoseAutoSalesWatsonville.com Fluffysvette@gmail.com | 831.724.7739 | cell: 626.329.2589
MY
CY
CMY
K
Best Event Best & Best Place to Take the Kids 2601 East Lake Avenue (Highway 152), Watsonville, CA
(831) 724-5671
santacruzcountyfair.com
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O CTOBE ctobe R r 2 026 | BEST Best O o Ff PA Pa JA ja RO ro VA Va L lL l EY ey | PA pa JA ja RO ro N n Ii A aN n .CO .co M m
Celebrating our local businesses Gold in Best of Pajaro Valley for Best Tire Store
Thank You For Voting Us Best Tire Store Serving Freedom CA area since 1994 Family-owned and operated
1/2v Ad
W
e are so lucky to be a part of the Pajaro Valley. The thriving, verdant agricultural fields that drive our economic engine, the people who live here and the local businesses and services upon which we rely all combine into a rich tapestry that makes life here a joy. And what better way to honor the best of these than with our annual Best of Pajaro Valley section?
2026
The winners—voted upon by our readers—represent some of the best that our area has to offer. If there is a takeaway message here, it is that this section highlights the importance of supporting local businesses. With online shopping decimating small businesses nationwide, it is more important than ever to seek the things you want and the services you need from local businesses. These are your neighbors, this is your community and this is the Pajaro Valley.
PO Box 1547, Watsonville, CA 95077 Phone: 831.761.7301 CEO & Executive Editor
Dan Pulcrano Editor
Todd Guild
14
Director of Creative Services
Cindy Couling
Creative Services Production Manager
Deb Fisher Ad Director
Debra Whizin
1621 Freedom Blvd., Freedom | 831-724-4696 calderonsfreedomtires@gmail.com
Advertising Account Executives
Danielle Ratliff, Jon Allred, Lisa Buckley, Kate Kauffman, Sue Lamothe Editorial Production Manager
Zk Bradley
Mon - Fri, 8AM to 6PM Sat 8AM to 3PM | Sunday Closed
Assistant Editorial Production Manager
Haley Tweedell
Editorial Designer
Saoirse Alesandro Graphic Designers
Rowdy Tompkins, Jackie Mujica, Elena Razgonov, Jennifer Meyer Cover Design
20 6
Family & Pets
8
Food & Drink
14 Fun 16 Health & Beauty 18 Home 20 Services 24 Shopping
Haley Tweedell, Saoirse Alesandro Photographer
Tarmo Hannula Published by WatsNews, LLC, Watsonville, CA. Entire contents © 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form prohibited without publisher’s written permission.
TO PLACE AN AD Email:
sales@pajaronian.com Call:
831.761.7325
THANK YOU
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
Pajaro Valley for your votes and your trust!
Best Real Estate Agency ~ Aldina Real Estate Best Property Management Company Watsonville Office 831.722.7131 Property Management 831.763.7777 & 209.826.7777 Los Banos Office 209.826.7777 www.aldinarealestate.com • www.aldinapropertymanagement.com
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O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
2026
Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
BEST FRIENDS A man walks his dog at Pinto Lake Dog Park.
FAMILY & PETS
Best Animal Adoption Center Santa Cruz Animal Shelter
Best Animal Groomer
Best Company to Work For
Best Family Restaurant
Best Nursery School
Watsonville Parks & Community Services
Cowboys Corner Cafe
Hearts & Hands
SILVER
SILVER
SILVER
California Grill
BRONZE
Miyuki
Freedom Meat Lockers Monarch Services-Servicios Monarca
Paoutygrooms
Best Day Care
Best Community Volunteer
Community Bridges
Tony Camargo SILVER
Barbie Gomez BRONZE
Brad Hubbard
BRONZE
Best Feed Store Corralitos Feed and Pet Supplies Inc SILVER
SILVER
Wishbone Pet Company
BRONZE
Country Hills Feed
Hearts & Hands Little Sunshine Daycare
Best Dog-Friendly Restaurant Buena Vista
BRONZE
Best House of Worship St. Patrick's Parish SILVER
Our Lady Help of Christians Church BRONZE
Watsonville Buddhist Temple
Vista Verde Early Education Center
Best Pediatric Dental Practice Haskin & Goldstine Family Dentistry SILVER
Gilbert Grio, DDS BRONZE
Julius M. Kong, DDS
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
Best Pet Supply Wishbone Pet Company SILVER
Corralitos Feed and Pet Supplies Inc BRONZE
Tractor Supply Co
Best Place for a Date Imura SILVER
Best Senior Living Community Elderday Adult Day Health Care (ADHC), Community Bridges SILVER
Paloma Del Mar
Best Summer Camp Program
CineLux Green Valley Cinema
Camp WOW (Wild on Watsonville)
BRONZE
SILVER
Jalisco Cuisine
Best Place to Take the Dog Pinto Lake County Park SILVER
Franich Park Dog park BRONZE
Paoutygrooms
Best Place to Take the Kids Santa Cruz County Fair SILVER
Franich Park BRONZE
The Nucleus
Best Private or Charter School
Watsonville Family YMCA BRONZE
Camp Mustang, Monte Vista Christian School
Best Tutoring or Academic Support Service Tutoring Club of Watsonville SILVER
Community Bridges BRONZE
Foster Grandparent Program
Best Veterinary Clinic East Lake Animal Clinic SILVER
Pajaro Valley Veterinary Hospital
SILVER
Best Youth Sports Program
St Francis High School
Pajaro Valley Little League
BRONZE
SILVER
Monte Vista Christian
Moreland Notre Dame
Best Public School
Thank You Pajaro Valley!
Enjoy the Fair! Trending Now – The Brands You Love!
B B
Serving Our Community Since 1969
“Your Family Appliance Store”Store” “Your Family Appliance
bakerbrosfurnitureandappliance.com
FURNITURE | APPLIANCES | MATTRESSES
AKER AKER t s 1 ROS. t 5 s FREE DELIVERY 1 ROS. 831.7225.1776
APPLIANCE APPLIANCE 31 E. Fifth St, Watsonville Serving Our Community FREE DELIVERY • 722-1778 FREE DELIVERY • 722-1778 31 E. Fifth St., Watsonville Since 1969 31 E. Fifth St., Watsonville www.bakerbrofurnitureandappliance.com
FP Ad
www.bakerbrofurnitureandappliance.com
FREE DELIVERY (831)722-1776 31 E.Fifth St., Watsonville
bakerbrosfurnitureandappliance.com
of Best Auto Dealer in the Pajaro Valley!
West Coast Volleyball Club BRONZE
PV United
Linscott Charter School SILVER
Watsonville High School BRONZE
Bradley Elementary School
Sales: 831.851.3264 | Service: 831.353.6243 490 Auto Center Dr, Watsonville, CA 95076
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O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
FOOD & DRINK
2026
Best Aguachile or Ceviche Mariscos El Nayarita SILVER
Taqueria Mi Tierra BRONZE
Chucho's Cocina
Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
Best Asian Noodles Miyuki SILVER
Pho Kitchen BRONZE
Sukho Thai Restaurant
FAMILY BUSINESS Sergio Carrera and his family recently reopened the popular El Frijolito Restaurant in downtown Watsonville after a major rebuild and expansion.
Best Bakery
Best Brewery
Freedom Bakery SILVER
Melo Bread BRONZE
Rebeca's Bakery
Best Cocktails
Beer Mule Bottle Shop + Pour House
Best Butcher Counter
SILVER
Freedom Meat Lockers
SILVER
Fruition Brewing BRONZE
Corralitos Brewing Co
SILVER
Corralitos Market & Sausage Co BRONZE
Don Rafa's Super Mercado
Cilantros California Grill BRONZE
Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill
Best Bar or Pub
Best Brunch
Beer Mule Bottle Shop + Pour House
Cowboys Corner Cafe
Best Caterer
SILVER
SILVER
Five Star Catering
SILVER
BRONZE
BRONZE
Best Chef
BRONZE
Best Deli or Sandwich Shop Freedom Meat Lockers
Fruition Brewery Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill
Silver Spur Breakfast & Lunch Cadillac Cafe
(and Restaurant)
Best Birria
Best Burger
Juan Diaz, Cowboys Corner Cafe
Patty's Red Tacos
Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill
SILVER
SILVER
SILVER
Tyler Reiner, Circle & Square Bistro BRONZE
Tacos Al Fuego BRONZE
Tacos el Jerry
Kong's Burger & Cafe BRONZE
Habit Burger & Grill
Best Breakfast
Best Burrito
Cowboys Corner Cafe
El Frijolito Restaurant
SILVER
SILVER
BRONZE
BRONZE
Beach Street Cafe Silver Spur Breakfast & Lunch
Santa Rosa Market D’La Colmena Market & Catering
Leo Welsh, Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill
Best Chinese Restaurant
Best Coffeehouse Coffeeville Honeylux Coffee Humble Sebi
SILVER
Corralitos Market & Sausage Co BRONZE
Erik's DeliCafe
Golden China SILVER
Happy Garden Restaurant BRONZE
May’s Garden Restaurant
» 10
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
Thank You Pajaro Valley! Best Butcher Counter Best Deli or Sandwich Shop Best Lunch Best Steaks Best Customer Service
NO ORDER IS
TOO LARGE
- OR -
TOO SMALL!
Open Tues-Sat 9-6pm Butcher Shop: 831.724.4355 Deli Hours: 10-4pm Deli Orders: 831.724.1167 160 Hi Grade Lane • Freedom CA FreedomMeatLockers.com
Best Company to Work Best To-Go Eats
Best French Fries
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O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
Best DessertsRestaurant
2026
California Grill SILVER
Circle & Square Bistro BRONZE
Erik's DeliCafe
Best Desserts-Retail Gizdich Ranch SILVER
Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
Staff of life
Best Dining Experience Imura SILVER
California Grill BRONZE
Miyuki
TEEMING Customers fill the dining room at Imura restaurant.
Best French Fries
Best Horchata
Best Liquor Store
Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill
Tacos Al Fuego
Barsi's Liquor Store
SILVER
SILVER
SILVER
Best Donuts
Beer Mule Bottle Shop + Pour House
Ms. Donuts
Freedom Meat Lockers
BRONZE
SILVER
Top Donuts BRONZE
Donuts Basket
Best Grocery Store Nob Hill SILVER
Best Farm-toTable Restaurant California Grill SILVER
Circle & Square Bistro BRONZE
The Farm House
Best Food Truck Hot Birds SILVER
Tacos el Jerry BRONZE
La Papa Loca
Staff of Life BRONZE
Vallarta Supermarkets
Best Happy Hour Cilantros SILVER
Fruition Brewing BRONZE
Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill
Best Healthy Eats Staff of Life SILVER
Circle & Square Bistro BRONZE
The Farm House
Vallarta Supermarkets
Best Ice Cream La Michoacana Paleteria y Neveria
Lalo's Liquors BRONZE
Cork & Bottle
SILVER
Conchita's Ice Cream & Bakery
Best Local Food Grower
BRONZE
Lakeside Organics Gardens
Apapacho Ice Cream Shop
Best Japanese or Sushi Restaurant Imura SILVER
Miyuki
BRONZE
SILVER
Driscoll's BRONZE
Live Earth Farm
Best Locally Made Food Product (name it and retailer)
Sushi Garden
Gizdich Pies, Gizdich Ranch
Best Late Night Dining
SILVER
Tacos Al Fuego
Honey, Rivas Bees BRONZE
Bread, Melo Bread
SILVER
Tacos El Jalisciense
» 12
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
Thank you Pajaro Valley For Voting Us BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR AND AGENCY 2026
Excellence in Wealth Management: Partnered for Success
At Jacob Young Financial, we partner with our clients to guide them in achieving personalized financial success to provide peace of mind, and optimize wealth for now and for generations to come.
Jacob Young, CFP® President, Chief Financial Planner
Kevin Newhouse Financial Advisor
Investment Management
Retirement Planning
Estate Conservation
Tax-Efficient Coordination & Planning
Education Savings
Life & LongTerm-Care Insurance
Legacy Planning
Future Asset & Income Projection
Risk & Investment Evaluation
Reach Out to Us (831) 722-3625 Natalie Smith
Mark Gerber, CFP®
Wealth Advisor
Wealth Advisor
Thank you
for voting for us for Best Of Pajaro Valley!
jacobyoungfinancial.com
Disclosure: Securities offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, Jacob Young, Registered Representative. CA Life Insurance License # 0B91297. Advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. Jacob Young Financial and the Osaic Wealth, Inc. companies are not affiliated. Osaic Wealth, Inc. and its representatives do not offer tax or legal advice.
ASIAN NOODLES – GOLD SEAFOOD RESTAURANT - GOLD JAPANESE OR SUSHI RESTAURANT – SILVER RESTAURANT – SILVER SUSHI – SILVER SERVER, LUCY ROSALES – SILVER FAMILY RESTAURANT – BRONZE DINING EXPERIENCE - BRONZE
Serving traditional authentic sushi and Japanese cuisine for 46 years • 452 E. LAKE AVE., WATSONVILLE • 831.728.1620
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2026
Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
LOCAL FAVORITE A mural welcomes diners to Miyuki restaurant.
Best Lunch Freedom Meat Lockers SILVER
Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill BRONZE
Woody's at the Airport
Best Mexican Restaurant El Frijolito Restaurant SILVER
Cilantros BRONZE
Jalisco
Best New Restaurant (opened since Jan. 1, 2025)
Silver Spur SILVER
Woody's at the Airport BRONZE
Circle & Square Bistro
Best Outdoor Dining Jalisco Restaurant
Best Panadería
Best Pizza
El Nopal Bakery
Cassidy's Pizza
SILVER
SILVER
BRONZE
BRONZE
Best Pearl Teas
Best Pozole
Pho Kitchen
Real Colima 1 Restaurant
SILVER
SILVER
Guadalajara Bakery Mana Bakery
Mr. Z's Crêpes & Teas
OZZY'S Pizzeria Slice Project
CIlantros
SILVER
BRONZE
Woody’s at the Airport
La fondita
BRONZE
Best Produce Stand
Fruition Brewing
El Primo Produce SILVER
El Valle Produce
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
2024 Business of the Year
Best Restaurant
Best Tamales
Imura
The Tamale Factory
SILVER
Miyuki
Best Taqueria
BRONZE
El Frijolito Restaurant
California Grill
SILVER
Best Salads
Tacos Al Fuego
California Grill
Super Taqueria
SILVER
Circle & Square Bistro BRONZE (TIE)
Erik's DeliCafe Round Table Pizza
BRONZE
Best Thai or Laotian Restaurant Sukho Thai Restaurant SILVER
Best Seafood Restaurant Miyuki SILVER
The Fish House Bar & Grill
Best Server (and restaurant)
Jim, Imura SILVER
Lucy Rosales, Miyuki BRONZE
Chuy, Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill
Best Steaks Freedom Meat Lockers SILVER
California Grill BRONZE
Circle & Square Bistro
Best Sushi Imura SILVER
Miyuki
BRONZE
Sushi Garden
Lemongrass Seafood Bar & Grill Thai Cuisine BRONZE
Bangkok West
Best To-Go Eats El Frijolito Restaurant
The best food. 3 The best selection. The best healthy eats in Santa Cruz County! Voters in Pajaro Valley have given STAFF OF LIFE top honors in multiple categories. We welcome you into our Watsonville store to discover firsthand what the buzz is all about!
3 VOTED: FP Ad
Best Healthy Eats Best Grocery Store Best Desserts – Retail
SILVER
Freedom Meat Lockers BRONZE
Cassidy's Pizza
Best Vegetarian or Vegan Dishes Circle & Square Bistro SILVER
• Full Deli • Grab & Go items • Hot & salaD bars •bulk FooDs • Complete GroCery • beer, Wine & CHeese • Full butCHer, bakery & Vitamins
Imura
BRONZE
Strawberry Patch Cafe
Best Winery Alfaro Family Vineyards SILVER
Anatum Winery
LOCALLY OWNED FOR OVER 50 YEARS
BRONZE
Integrity Wines
SANTA CRUZ
1266 Soquel Avenue • 831-423-8632
WATSONVILLE
906 East Lake Avenue • 831-726-0240
www.staffoflifemarket.com
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O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
FUN
2026
Best Cannabis Dispensary The Hook Watsonville SILVER
Catalyst
Best Cycling or Running Route/Club Strawberry Fields Forever
Best Day Trip Gizdich Ranch SILVER
Manresa Main State Beach BRONZE
Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
Sierra Azul Nursery & Gardens
Best Event Santa Cruz County Fair SILVER
FAIR READY Lily Jones of Morgan Hill entered Milo in the market steer competition in 2025.
BRONZE
No Kings Day
Best Live Music Venue
Best Martial Arts School
Best Place to Take a Class
Best Golf Course
El Vaquero Winery
Freedom Taekwondo
Cabrillo College
Spring Hills Golf Course
SILVER
SILVER
SILVER
Pajaro Valley Golf Club
BRONZE
BRONZE
BRONZE
Best Gym or Health Club
Best Local Band
Best Musician
Best Swimming Lessons
Watsonville Strawberry Festival
SILVER
Toadal Fitness SILVER
Pilates Glow Studio BRONZE
Watsonville Yoga, Dance, and Healing Arts
Watsonville City Plaza Jalisco Restaurant
Watsonville Taiko SILVER
Formerly Alien
Claudio Franca Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Jiu Jitsu Therapy
(and band if applicable)
The Rayburn Brothers
Best Outdoor Recreation Spot Pinto Lake County Park SILVER
Sunset State Beach BRONZE
Callaghan Park
Watsonville Parks & Community Services Pilates Glow Studio
Jim Booth Swim School SILVER
Aquatics Programs, City of Watsonville BRONZE
Watsonville Family YMCA
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
We’re grateful for your trust and proud to serve our community. PC & Mac Repair | IT Support | Security Cameras | Gaming PCs 135 Aviation Way Suite 8B | Watsonville IzzyTechSolutions.com | 831-316-4690 | @izzytechsolutions
Best Computer Repair Service
Thanks for voting Hearts & Hands Preschool
Best Nursery School! AND
Best Day Care
Thanks for voting us
Best Day Care and Best Nursery School! Come see what we are all about!
Wash and fold Alterations Comforters Full service laundry and dry cleaning services M-F: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sun: Closed
$100 100 OFF OFF
$
registration fee for new students only. Expires 11/30/26
of registration fee until 2/29/24
831.724.0175 • hhpreschool.com • 40 Blanca Lane, Watsonville
40 Blanca Lane, Watsonville 831.724.0175 hhpreschool.com
Same Day Service available Monday through Friday
831-761-0800 shalom_cleaners |
shalomcleaners
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O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
2026
Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
CLEAN CUT Luis Miguel Nunez Rodriguez prepares to give a customer a haircut at The Chop Shop in Watsonville.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Best Barbershop The chop shop SILVER
True Blendz barbershop BRONZE
The Lab
Best Chiropractor Dr. Corinna Romero SILVER
Green Valley Chiropractic BRONZE
Atlas Family Chiropractic
Best Dental Practice
Best Health Care Facility
Haskin & Goldstine Family Dentistry
Palo Alto Medical Foundation
SILVER
SILVER
BRONZE
BRONZE
Watsonville Dental Wellness Center
Salud Para La Gente
Best Mental Health Practice or Therapist Gwendolyn Trowbridge, Shine a Light Counseling
Watsonville Health Center
SILVER
Best Full-Service Salon
Best Massage Therapist (and practice)
Best Nail Salon
Saiah Salon
Olivia's Heritage Spa
SILVER
SILVER
Grio Gilbert J DDS
Andreas Family Salon BRONZE
Lily's Beauty Salon
Best Hair Salon Saiah Salon SILVER
Andreas Family Salon BRONZE
Hair We Are
Sarah Diaz Bastin
Illana Berger PhD
Enhanced by Drea SILVER
Cut Loose Hair & Nail Studio BRONZE
Lacquer Beauty Lounge
Best Optometrist Family Optometry SILVER
Vista Eye Center
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
DELTA GLASS
Best Pharmacy Watsonville Pharmacy
Thanks for your votes & 54 years of support!
SILVER
Valle Verde Pharmacy
Best Physical Therapy Practice Pacific Coast Therapist SILVER
Balance Physical Therapy BRONZE
J.B. Physical Therapy
Best PhysicianFamily Practice O'Grady Christopher MD SILVER
Ven A. Cortes, M.D. BRONZE
Catherine A Martin, D.O. MPH
Best Skin Care Spa Oncall Aesthetix & Wellness SILVER
Skin + Grace Esthetics BRONZE
Blush Skincare
Best Urgent Care Center Palo Alto Medical Foundation
Life is better when you find the right waxer From the bottom of my heart, thank you to my community and everyone who took the time to vote for me. I am truly honored and grateful for this nomination. Thank you for trusting me.
Full Service Glass Shop
RESIDENTIAL WORK
• Tub & Shower Enclosures • Screens • Plexiglass • Mirrors • Table Tops • Insulated Windows • Patio Doors All Professionally Installed
Se Habla Español
FIND ME HERE:
Skin For You 77 Aspen Way Suite 101, Watsonville instagram.com/annalyse.esthetics
Thank you for voting us
Best Jewelry store We appreciate your continued support!
State Contractors LIC. #678627
724-6385 1811 Freedom Blvd. FREEDOM CA.
3/4v Ad
Thank You, Watsonville!
On behalf of the Huizar-Albor Insurance Agency, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who voted us Best Insurance Agency. This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from our community — the families, friends, and neighbors we proudly s erve every day. Our mission has always been simple: to protect what matters most to you with care, professionalism, and integrity. Receiving this recognition reaffirms that our hard work and commitment are making a difference.
SILVER
Sutter Health
Best Waxing or Sugaring Studio
Thank you for trusting us with your insurance needs and for supporting a locally owned business. We look forward to continuing to serve Watsonville with the same dedication that earned us this award.
Annalyse Esthetics
With gratitude, Naomi Albor Owner, Huizar-Albor Insurance Agency, Inc.
SILVER
Skin + Grace Esthetics
Agent Naomi Albor Huizar-Albor Insurance Agency, Inc.
BRONZE
Drecials by Andrea Sullivan 42 MARIPOSA AVE. WATSONVILLE 831-724-6296 JOHNSJEWELERS.COM
You're in good hands.
Family-owned Legacy Business Serving the Community Since 2000
Huizar-Albor Insurance Inc. CA 95076 831-740-4939 • 734 E.Agency, Lake Watsonville, Family-owned Legacy Business Serving the Community Since 2000
Agent
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2026
Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
PLANTING IDEAS Geoff Scurfield (left) chooses a colorful pot at Alladin Nursery & Gift Shop in Corralitos.
HOME
Best A/C & Heating Service Hardy Quality Air
Best Commercial Real Estate Agent (and agency)
Jose Marquez Real Estate SILVER
Nico Vargas, Coldwell Banker
Best Deck or Fencing Company NorCal Coast Construction SILVER
Cypress Coast Fence BRONZE
Anderson Fencing
Best Flooring Company Max Builders, Inc
Best Furniture Store Baker Bros
Best Hardware Store Ace Hardware of Watsonville
Best House Painter Darren Hicks
Best Garden Center
Best Kitchen & Bath Remodeler
Alladin
Harris & Son Construction
SILVER
SILVER (TIE)
Sierra Azul Nursery & Garden BRONZE
El Paraiso Nursery
Flores Construction Max Builders, Inc BRONZE
Sanchez Construction
Best Landscape Supplies Alladin
Best Lumber Yard Big Creek SILVER
Monument lumber
Best Plumbing Service SA Plumbing SILVER
Gold Coast Plumbing Services
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
Best Property Management Company Aldina Real Estate
Thank you Pajaro Valley!
SILVER
Oliver Property Management
Best Real Estate Agency Aldina Real Estate SILVER
Jose Marquez Real Estate
Best Residential Building Contractor
The Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay ReStore Watsonville is honored to be voted Best Thrift Shop by Pajaronian readers!
g Thank you for votin Cabrillo College Class! Best Place to Take a Gracias por votar a Cabrillo College se! la C a n u r a m o T ra a p ¡Mejor Lugar
Your support helps us build homes, community, and hope right here in the Pajaro Valley.
NorCal Coast Construction SILVER
Harris & Son Construction BRONZE
Max Builders, Inc
Best Residential Real Estate Agent (and agency)
Nico Vargas, Coldwell Banker SILVER
Rudy & Paloma Zamora BRONZE
Jarah Sakamoto
555 Main St., Watsonville 10am-4pm
habitatmontereybay.com/restore
Thurs. Oct 1
STEEL PULSE REGGAE AGAINST RACISM TOUR Fri. Oct 2
TWIN TEMPLE DOOMED LOVER’S TOUR PA IT’S A 2000’S
Shelton Roofing
DOMI & JD BECK – WHO ASKED? TOUR
SILVER
Watsonville Roofing Inc BRONZE
Kennedy Roofing
FRI. OCT 9
RTY
Sat. Oct 10
Fri. Oct 16
NTS: XAVIER WULF PRESE
THE COOL WORLD TOUR Sat. Oct 17
Best Tree Service Davey SILVER
Community Tree Services BRONZE
Green Tree Services
FP Ad
LIVE IN SANTA CRUZ, CA
Best Roofing Contractor
THE FLOOZIES Mon. Oct 19
URS LAST DINOSA Sat. Oct 31
HALLOWEEN BA SH TICKETS AVAILABLE
CATALYSTCLUB.COM
19
Late starting classes are available. Enroll now! Clases que comienzan más tarde están disponibles. ¡Inscríbete ahora! cabrillo.edu
20 O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
SERVICES
2026
Best Accounting or Bookkeeping Practice Evan J. Benevento, CPA SILVER
Esmeralda's Tax & Business Center BRONZE
Uyematsu Alan K CPA
Best Attorney (and practice)
Robert H. Allen SILVER
Liliana S. Diaz BRONZE
Tanya Ridino
Best Auto Body Repair Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
Freedom Body Shop SILVER
Caliber Collission BRONZE
Carstar Auto Body Repair Experts
Best Auto Service Center
DRIVEN David Toriumi shows a photo of one of his father’s favorite cars at Toriumi’s Auto Repair in Watsonville. He took over the business after his dad died in 2023.
Toriumi’s Auto Repair
Best Community Organization
Best Customer Service
Best Financial Advisor (and agency)
SILVER
Pajaro Valley Loaves and Fishes
Freedom Meat Lockers
Jacob Young Financial Services
SILVER
SILVER
SILVER
Kadotani Auto Repair BRONZE
Mac Auto Repair
Best Car Wash or Auto Detailing Hec of a Detail SILVER
Aztec Luxury Detailing
Second Harvest Food Band of Santa Cruz County BRONZE
Gardenia Amor Y Bienestar
Best Computer Repair Service
Cassidy's Pizza BRONZE
Watsonville Parks & Community Services
Best Dry Cleaner Shalom Cleaners
Luann M Lauesen, Edward Jones
Best Glass Supplier Delta Glass
Izzy Tech Solutions SILVER
Watsonville Computers, LLC BRONZE
TechSol
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pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
IED P EP I
COMPLETE PEST CONTROL RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
C.
YEARS
IN
MI
R PE
90
EXTER
OVER
TH
Thanks for voting us THE BEST PEST CONTROL
N AT O R S
FR
E initial sE e rvice w
Houses • Shrubs • Lawns • Oak & Large Tree Spraying Lawn & Garden Fertilization • Guaranteed Service Knowledge & Professional Service For You Trained Certified Technicians • Insured for your Protection
hen sign for a mainteing up nan program – ce just menti on this ad.
We’ll Keep Your Trees & Ornamental Shrubs Pest Free.
Locally Owned & Operated Since 1935 831.440.0909 | thepiedpiper.com
Thank you for ThankErik’s! you for voting
voting Erik’s!
Thank You Pajaro Valley! To my family, my friends, my past clients, and everyone who took the time to vote, thank you. Being recognized by my own community and hometown paper means a lot.
Erik’s DeliCafé
Aptos • Capitola • Santa Cruz • Scotts Valley • Watsonville
Erik’s DeliCafé
www.Order.EriksDeliCafe.com Aptos • Capitola • Santa Cruz •
Scotts Valley • Watsonville
Nico Vargas, REALTOR® 831.227.6901 | nicovargasrealty.com CalRE #01983874
Best Residential Real Estate Agent
Best Commercial Real Estate
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22 O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
Best Hotel or Lodging
2026
Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
Best Insurance Agency AAA SILVER
Huizar-Albor Insurance Agency
Best Local Bank or Credit Union Bay Federal Credit Union SILVER
West Coast Community Bank BRONZE
Santa Cruz Community Credit union
Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
Best Mortuary or Funeral Home Ave Maria Memorial Chapel SILVER
Mehl's Colonial Chapel
Best Notary or Title Company
MEATING FRIENDS Sarah Lewis ( from left), Kyndall Lewis, Jasmine Guerrero and Jeff Bassmann show off a tri-tip sandwich in front of the popular meat counter at Freedom Meat Lockers.
The UPS Store
Best Photographer
SILVER
Carlos Olivarez
Jorge Lopez BRONZE
David Bardellini
Best Pest Control Pied Piper Exterminators SILVER
Terra X Pest Services
SILVER
Carlos Campos BRONZE
Andy Knorr
Best Staffing or Employment Agency Express Employment Professionals
Best Printer/ Sign Shop
Best Tax Preparation Service
Pajaro Valley Printing
Esmeralda's Tax & Business Center
SILVER
SILVER
BRONZE
BRONZE
Chaz Design Safari Signs
Evan J. Benevento, CPA Monserrat Tax & Business Center
Best Towing Service Chaz Towing
Best Translation or Immigration Services Community Bridges SILVER
Santa Cruz County Immigration Project (SCCIP)
Best Videographer Luis Mendoza SILVER
Carlos Campos
BESTOF_CORRALITOS_FEED.pdf
Voted by the readers of the Pajaronian! C
M
GOLD WINNER
Best Pet Supply Y
CM
1
9/28/26
SCAN FOR SAVINGS!
SILVER WINNER SERVING
MONDAY - FRIDAY 9AM - 6PM
Best Feed Store CMY
K
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
Than You k !
MY
CY
9:00 PM
THE COMMUNITY FOR
21 YEARS
4 • 1486 FREEDOM BLVD. | WATSONVILLE, CA 95076 | 831 728-2244 10-4 • CORRALITOSFEED.COM
SATURDAY 9AM - 5PM
SUNDAY 10AM - 4PM
GROWING TO SERVE YOU BETTER!
Scan for Savings
Best Feed Store Gold STORE #1
2895 B FREEDOM BLVD., CORRALITOS, CA 95076 (831) 722-7884
Best Pet Supply Silver STORE #2
1486 FREEDOM BLVD., WATSONVILLE, CA 95076 (831) 728-2244
THANK YOU PAJARO VALLEY FOR VOTING US BEST WINERY
Open Saturdays Reservations Recommended
420 HAMES RD. CORRALITOS • 831.728.5172 • ALFAROWINE.COM
ADOPT LICENSE VOLUNTEER FOSTER DONATE
Thank you for voting us BEST HAIR SALON and BEST FULL-SERVICE SALON! 10 Alexander St., Downtown Watsonville • saiahsalon.com
www. scanimalshelter.org
23
24 O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
SHOPPING
2026
Best Auto Dealership Chevrolet of Watsonville SILVER
Don Jose Auto Sales
Best Cannabis Dispensary The Hook Watsonville SILVER
CannaCruz BRONZE
Catalyst Dispensary
Best Clothing Boutique El Dorado Fashions
Best Farmers' Market Watsonville Farmers' Market SILVER
El Mercado Farmers' Market Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian
Best Flower Shop Flowers by Toshi SILVER
D Lily’s Flowers BRONZE
Vallarta Supermarkets
Best International Market Vallarta Supermarkets SILVER
Don Rafas Súper Mercado
GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY John’s Jewelers in Watsonville is a small but well-stocked store.
Best Jewelry Store
Best Tire Store
John’s Jewelers
Best Sporting Goods Store
SILVER
Big 5 Sporting Goods
SILVER
Don Roberto Jewelers BRONZE
Fatima's Fine Jewelry
Best Music or Instrument Shop Jansen Music
SILVER
Watsonville Cyclery
Best Thrift Store Habitat for Humanity SILVER
HopeTHRIFT
Calderon's Tires and Wheels Pasillas Tire Service BRONZE
Quintero's Tires
Best Vision Center Bay Eye Medical Group SILVER
Vista Eye Center
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
25
FALL PLANT SALE & PUMPKIN PATCH
Saturday, October 10, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Pick pumpkins in the Organic Farm Student-led Hydroponic Greenhouse Tours Three Sisters Garden Open House
Horticulture Center 6500 Soquel Dr., Aptos
for voting Pajaro Valley Loaves & Fishes
Best Community Organization VOLUNTEER WITH US AND FEED YOUR COMMUNITY Help us provide nutritious groceries and hot meals to our neighbors
www.pvlf.org • 150 Second St, Watsonville
100% of proceeds go to the Cabrillo College Horticulture Program
BEST
THANK YOU from the BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS!
VIDEOGRAPHER OFTHE PAJARO VALLEY • Native & Appropriate Plant Varieties • 2 Acre Display & Sculpture Garden • Edibles & Fruit Trees
Open Daily 10am-5pm sierraazul.com 2660 E. Lake Ave. Watsonville CA 95076
831.728.2532
30+ Years Family Owned & Operated
THANK YOU
Thank you so much for voting me Best Videographer of the Pajaro Valley 2026!
Spring Hills Golf Course 501 Spring Hills Drive, Watsonville Call us at 831-724-1404 for tee time reservations.
CONTACT
luis@superiormedia.info superiormedia.info
@_superiormedia
The best pizza in town CASSIDY ’ S PIZZA
1400 Freedom Blvd.Watsonville
26 O ctobe r 2 026 | Best o f Pa ja ro Va l l ey | pa ja ro n i a n .co m
BEST NEW
RESTAURANT IN
PAJARO VALLEY
BEST
BEST
LUNCH
OUTDOOR DINING
THANK YOU FROM
WOODYS 100 AVIATION WAY, WATSONVILLE, CA (831) 722-7077 CHEFTIMWOOD.COM
EXHIBIT EXTENDED ! ELECTRIC VEHICLE INCENTIVE PROGRAM
2026
INCENTIVES FOR THE PURCHASE/LEASE OF AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE FOR RESIDENTS OF MONTEREY, SAN BENITO AND SANTA CRUZ COUNTIES VEHICLE TYPE
INCENTIVE AMOUNT
USED
HYDROGEN FUELED LIGHT-DUTY
$2,500
N/A
*BATTERY ELECTRIC LIGHT-DUTY
$1,500
$1,000
PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC
$750
$500
E-MOTORCYCLE
$750
$500
ADOPT ADOPT VOLUNTEER VOLUNTEER FOSTER FOSTER DONATE
DRAWINGS • PAINTINGS • COLLAGES
Phoenix&Arabeth
DONATE
Sat-Sundays thru October 18 (1-7 PM)
*$5,000 INCENTIVE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC AGENCY & NON-PROFIT
Freedom ART Barn
LOW INCOME VERIFIED APPLICANTS MAY QUALIFY FOR ADDITIONAL $500 INCENTIVE AMOUNT! Visit our website for more information: www.mbard.org
MONTEREY BAY AIR RESOURCES DISTRICT
60 Years of California Art
scanimalshelter.org
scanimalshelter.org
371 Calabasas Rd FREEDOM, CA
artbarn.info
pa ja ro n ian.com | Best of Pajaro Val l ey | Octobe r 2 0 2 6
Thanks for Voting Us
Best Food Truck!
MADE TO ORDER & MADE FRESH!
HOT BIRDS #1 580 Auto Center Dr
WATSONVILLE & surrounding areas ... THANK YOU!!!
Thank you to each and every one of you who has supported Hot Birds from the very beginning. From the backyard pop-ups, to our food trucks, and now opening the doors to our first brick-and-mortar location, none of this would’ve been possible without all the love and support you’ve shown us along the way. We’re proud to call Watsonville home, and we’re excited for this next chapter.
HOT BIRDS #3 is opening next week at 15 E. Beech St #101 in Watsonville (where Kong’s Burger & Cafe used to be)
HOT BIRDS #4 is already in the works and will be headed to a DIFFERENT COUNTY.
Monday: Closed Tuesday - Sunday: 10:30AM - 6PM
HOT BIRDS #2 2239 E Lake Ave
Monday: Closed Tuesday - Sunday: 1PM - 9 PM Hot_Birds831
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