Best of the Inland Empire 2022 Readers' Choice Awards

SEPTEMBER 18, 2022

PE.COM/BEST | # BESTOFIE

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For rules, restrictions, or for any questions related to promotions, entertainment, or your Soboba Rewards Club membership account see Soboba Rewards Club. Soboba Casino Resort reserves the right to modify or cancel promotions at any time without notice. Must be 21+ to gamble. Problem Gambling? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

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HERE’S TO THE

BEST! MANY

pe.com/best Ron Hasse President and Publisher Frank Pine Executive Editor

of the events that define a typical year in our Inland community were rekindled and revitalized in 2022.

Generally speaking, more of us felt comfortable “getting out and doing.”

for the Best of Inland Empire 2022. We value your readership and appreciate your participation.

Collectively, you cast more than twice as many votes as you did last year. Way to go!

The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival returned to Indio along with its country cousin, Stagecoach.

The Inland Empire welcomed a new museum, The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture. And organizers of the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa’s Festival of Lights are planning to welcome visitors from all over Southern California to downtown Riverside for the holiday season.

During a busy month of balloting earlier this year, readers like you chose their favorite local winery, bank, taco, craft brewery and city to live in, among a total of 83 categories. As in past years, categories are sorted by chapters: Go & Do, Shopping & Services, Food & Drink and Home & Garden.

2022 BEST of Inland Empire

This year also is very different.

We have not left the pandemic completely behind us. Restaurants are welcoming diners, indoors and out. Kids are back in school. We can again watch a movie or attend a concert with family and friends.

Consider Best of Inland Empire to be your re-introduction to the place where you live. In its 27th year, this indispensable guide to getting the most out of our community recognizes the best places to go, businesses to patronize and restaurant meals to eat – and all the recommendations are coming from your neighbors.

We hope you enjoy Best of Inland Empire 2022 and will keep it to use as a resource to find a new spot to eat or a new place to spend a day with your family. Our community is filled with incredible things to experience – and this year we’re better able to go out and enjoy them.

Ron Hasse

Publisher, The Press-Enterprise President, Southern California News Group

Jim Krup General Manager, Senior Director of Advertising Bill Van Laningham Vice President of Marketing EDITORIAL Editors Don Sproul and Jerry Rice Contributing Writers Amy Bentley, George A. Paul Brian Robin, Monica Rodriguez Jenelyn Russo COVER DESIGN Amie Lam, Rhonda Suhrie ADVERTISING Sales Manager Bobbi Meyer Project Manager Claudi M. Villar ADVERTISING SALES Alex Garcia Andre McAdory David Graham Jennifer Davis Miranda Garcia Rhiannon Fox Trinidad Verduzco COVER PHOTO Riverside’s Mission Inn Shutterstock image

Thank you to our many subscribers and readers who cast their votes

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BEST OF INLAND EMPIRE 2022

shopping & services

home & garden

Hometown Favorites APPEAR AT THE BACK OF EACH SECTION.

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Go & Do I

f you’re looking for something fun to do, the Inland Empire is a great place to start!

From amusement parks and casinos to wineries and weekend getaways, there’s so much to enjoy and explore right here.

Background: Practice putting greens at Journey at Pechanga, the golf course at Pechanga Resort Casino SHUTTERSTOCK

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amusement parks. . ...................7 mini golf................................7 Bowling Alleys . . ......................7 Golf Courses . . ........................ 8 live theater .......................... 8 local music venues. . ..............10 Local Weekend Getaways.........10 movie theaters..................... 11.

NIGHTCLUBS . . ..........................11 so cal casinos......................11 wineries...............................12 hometown favorites...............13

BEST AMUSEMENT PARK BEST PLACE TO MINI GOLF CASTLE PARK 3500 Polk St., Riverside 951-785-3000, castlepark.com Family fun has been the name of the game at Castle Park for more than four decades. It was built, owned and operated by Bud Hurlbut, who also designed attractions for Knott’s Berry Farm, Santa’s Village and other amusement parks elsewhere in California and the U.S. At Castle Park, there are four 18-hole mini golf courses surrounded by fountains, rapids and waterfalls (illuminated by 4,000 lights after dark). The Prince and Princess courses are geared toward beginners and children, while the Duke and Merlin courses are more challenging. Mini golf lessons are available. The arcade features video games that range from classic to modern, as well as SkeeBall, air hockey tables and more. Over at the ride park, there is a wide assortment of attractions, such as roller coasters (Merlin’s Revenge, Screamin’ Demon), bumper cars, rides (Dragon Flyer, Fireball) and midway games. Parents can check the website for intensity levels and height requirements. The circus tent-themed Big Top Restaurant hosts kids’ parties and illusionist shows by Anthony the Magic. Recently, the Castle transitioned to an electronic payment system to expedite entry. During summer months, the Buccaneer Cove water playground offers varying levels of water play, five water slides, interactive aqua domes, spray cannons, spray loops and cylinder spray fountains.

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Bowlero’s modern lanes are open throughout Southern California.

AMUSEMENT PARK 2. MULLIGAN FAMILY FUN CENTER 24950 Madison Ave., Murrieta 951-696-9696 murrieta.mulliganfun.com 3. DISNEYLAND 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim 714-781-4636 disneyland.disney.go.com

PLACE TO MINI GOLF 2. MULLIGAN FAMILY FUN CENTER 24950 Madison Ave., Murrieta 951-696-9696, murrieta mulliganfun.com 3. GLO MINI GOLF 1299 Tyler St., Suite E106, Riverside 888-896-8419, glominigolf.com

BEST BOWLING ALLEY BOWLERO 10781 Indiana Ave., Riverside and multiple other locations 951-353-2695, bowlero.com Bowling is just one of many activities to enjoy at Bowlero centers in Riverside, Moreno Valley, Norco, Murrieta and elsewhere around the Inland Empire. The all-around entertainment options in select locations include laser tag, billiards, corn hole, darts, beer pong, arcade games and pinball. No wonder it’s considered the “in” place for young friends to hang out and couples to go on dates. Recent examples of 1

IAN YOUNG / SHUTTERSTOCK

Riverside’s Fox Performing Arts Center has attracted several big-name performers this year, including Jerry Seinfeld. Among the upcoming acts before year’s end: guitarist Joe Satriani as well as comedians Lewis Black and Kathleen Madigan.

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PHOTO BY D.J. COREY / COURTESY OF THE AMERICAN THEATRE GUILD

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February’s “On Your Feet” from Emilio and Gloria Estefan was part of the 2022-23 Broadway season at the Fox Performing Arts Center.

Bowlero’s cool quotient? R&B singer H.E.R. and members of K-pop group BTS competed on a punching bag and basketball games at one Bowlero and posted videos to social media. A couple on ABC’s “The Bachelorette” also were filmed there on a SoCal date night, lighting up socials in the process. Blacklight bowlers can indulge in a lane-side menu of burgers, craft beers, cocktails and chicken wings, while the special events menu adds oven-fired pizzas, veggie spring rolls and lamb lollipops. The sports bar has HD televisions for games and plush seating in the lounge.

2. ROUND 1 40810 Winchester Road, Temecula and multiple other locations 951-225-6133, www.round1usa.com 3. TEMECULA LANES 27475 Jefferson Ave., Temecula 951-676-1111, temeculalanes.com

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JOURNEY AT PECHANGA RESORT CASINO 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula 951-770-8210

BEST OF INLAND EMPIRE 2022

www.pechanga.com/indulge/journey Journey at Pechanga – a 7,219-yard links-style championship golf course – has been rated among the top public courses in California

by Golf Week magazine. Holes are named for Luiseño (the native Pechanga language) words and cultural artifacts can be seen along the way to some holes. Lessons for all playing abilities are taught by PGA professionals. Journey’s End clubhouse features a large Pro Shop, restaurant, bar, outdoor patio and locker rooms.

Besides being regularly designated a Four Diamond-rated property by the Auto Club with its 1,100-room/suite luxury hotel, Pechanga has 15 restaurants and bars. 1882 Cantina – featuring cuisine from Mexico, Central and South America – is the most recent addition.

2. SEVEN HILLS GOLF CLUB HEMET 1537 S. Lyon Ave., Hemet 951-925-4815 golfsevenhills.com 3. TEMEKU HILLS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 41687 Temeku Drive, Temecula 951-694-9988, thelegendsgc.com

BEST LIVE THEATER FOX PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 3801 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-779-9800, riversidepac.com There’s no doubt about it: The Fox Performing Arts Center lures people to downtown Riverside. The Spanish Colonial Revival style building opened 93 years ago as a vaudeville/movie house. In 1939, a rough cut of “Gone with the Wind” was screened at the venue with the film’s producer, David O. Selznick, in attendance.

Successive decades saw the likes of Bing Crosby and Judy Garland perform here. After a multimillion-dollar renovation, the landmark reopened in 2010 with Sheryl Crow leading the inaugural event slate. Since Live Nation took over show bookings, all manner of top tier musicians and comedians have graced the stage.

Inside, ornately painted walls, ceilings and chandeliers give attendees a sense of history.

Once in a while, a daring performer might try to climb the narrow decorative stairs on each side of the stage (as Rufus Wainwright attempted). Theatrical, multicultural and children’s events as well as fundraising galas are also held 1

EDITOR’S

5 FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE I.E.

INDOOR GO-KARTS At K1 Speed Ontario, drivers will find two indoor asphalt tracks for different experience levels. Also indoors, Pole Position Raceway in Corona is equipped with electric go-karts that run at close to 45 mph.

• K1 Speed Ontario, 5350 Ontario Mills Parkway, Building E, Ontario; k1speed.com/ ontario-location.html • Pole Position Raceway, 1594 E. Bentley Drive, Corona; polepositionraceway.com INDOOR SKYDIVING Vertical wind tunnels and columns of air provide an experience that’ll give you, at the very least, an idea of what a free fall is like after jumping from a plane. Packages are

available for families and groups.

• iFly, 4510 Ontario Mills Parkway, Ontario; iflyworld.com/ontario • Skydive Perris, 2091 Goetz Road, Perris; skydiveperris.com/indoor ZIPLINES At Skull Canyon Ziplines in Corona, pick a zipline based on the difficulty of the hike required to reach the line’s starting point.

Ziplines of different length, speeds and distance from the ground also are available.

13540 Temescal Canyon Road, Corona; skullcanyon.com

PHOTO BY CINDY YAMANAKA / SCNG FILE

HORSEBACK RIDING Enjoy mountain vistas and views of the desert during one-hour and half-day rides from Baldwin Lake Stables in Big Bear City.

Private guided rides are available. baldwinlakestables.com

PICKS

ZOO At The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, see 12 species of rhinos, take one of three hiking trails or visit the zoo’s hospital and see how the animals are cared for.

47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert; livingdesert.org – MONICA RODRIGUEZ

Skull Canyon Ziplines in Corona

Have you seen our website?

Check us out at pe.com/best Visit us online https://www.historichemettheater.org

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at The Fox PAC. The 2022-2023 Broadway season begins with Inland Pacific Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 17-18.

2. RAMONA BOWL AMPHITHEATRE 27400 Ramona Bowl Road, Hemet 951-658-3111, ramonabowl.com

PHOTO BY WILL LESTER / SCNG FILE

3. HISTORIC HEMET THEATER 216 E Florida Ave., Hemet 951-658-5950, hemetht.com

BEST LOCAL MUSIC VENUE RAMONA BOWL AMPHITHEATRE 27400 Ramona Bowl Road, Hemet 951-658-3111, ramonabowl.com Since 1923, this venue, located on 160 acres in the south hills of Hemet, has been known as home of the annual Ramona Pageant. The outdoor spring play is a love story set in 1850s California. It is based on Helen Hunt Jackson’s celebrated and influential 1884 novel “Ramona,” which depicts the cultural diversity of emerging settlers and native people. The Amphitheatre’s first sound system was installed in 1965.

Before that, performers had to employ the canyon’s natural acoustics for projection. Two decades later, a new stage area moved some play elements closer to the audience while still utilizing the nearby hillside and trails. Attendees can visit the museum to learn about the history of local tribes, the pageant and story of Ramona. Upcoming: Boo at the Bowl (a Halloween-themed event for all ages), Oct. 28-30.

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE SCHULTE / SCNG FILE

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Voted the Inland Empire’s Best Local Music Venue, the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre returned to action with the first performance of the “Ramona” pageant in two years due to the coronavirus pandemic. Above, Dee Cozart, president of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Board of Directors, celebrated the return of the historic landmark in April.

2. THE MERC 42051 Main St., Temecula 866- 653-8696, temeculaca.gov/theater 3. FOX PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 3801 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-779-9800, riversidepac.com

BEST LOCAL WEEKEND GETAWAY IDYLLWILD CAMPGROUND 25905 State Highway CA-243 Idyllwild Pine Cove, 951-659-2607 parks.ca.gov, reservecalifornia.com Located in Mount San Jacinto State Park, this campground is open year-round and contains more than two dozen sites. Some can accommodate RVs and trailers. Amenities include full hook ups and electric campsites, flush toilets and coin-operated showers. Visitors can hike, explore nature trails, check out Idyllwild Nature Center and walk to shops and restaurants – all within close proximity. The Hike & Bike campsite is geared toward people arriving by foot or bicycle. The Idyllwild Ranger Station is located at the campground entrance. Dogs are welcome.

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2. TEMECULA CREEK INN 44504 Rainbow Canyon Road,Temecula 833-267-2418, temeculacreekinn.com 3. PECHANGA RESORT CASINO 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula 877-711-2946, pechanga.com

The Temecula Creek Inn with dining at Cork | Fire Kitchen, at left, garnered Best of Inland Empire votes for Best Local Weekend Getaway.

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With locations across Southern California, Regal theater multiplexes offer moviegoers the lastest in high-tech sound and screen viewing as well as a broad assortment of treats and ticket discounts.

BEST MOVIE THEATER REGAL THEATRES Multiple locations regmovies.com Regal has provided moviegoers with the ultimate in film experiences for more than 20 years. There are hundreds of locations across America – including Riverside, Corona, Ontario, Temecula, San Bernardino and elsewhere in the Inland Empire. The theater chain embraces the latest technology, equipping many of its multiplexes with IMAX, 3D, 4DX, Screen X and RPX viewing options. The latter, Regal Premium Experience 2D, features uncompressed surround sound, images in 2D, and RealD 3D, a giant immersive screen illuminated by high quality digital projectors and a state-of-the-art sound system. Crown Club members can earn credits toward various rewards, including candy and popcorn discounts on designated days and more.

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2. READING CINEMAS CAL OAKS WITH TITAN LUXE 41090 California Oaks Road, Murrieta 951-696-7045 readingcinemasus.com/caloaks 3. GALAXY THEATRES 121 E. Alessandro Blvd., Riverside 951-780-4379, galaxytheatres.com

BEST NIGHTCLUB VIP NIGHTCLUB & RESTAURANT 3673 Merrill Ave., Riverside 951-784-2370, vip-nightclub.com Once again topping the reader’s poll in this category, the VIP Nightclub and Restaurant celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. A hotspot for the local LGBTQ+ community, the establishment – located behind Riverside Plaza – was named among the Best Nightclubs in the Inland Empire by KCBS-TV in Los Angeles and also was featured on the Bravo channel. Some of the VIP’s regular drag performers have appeared on past seasons of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” There is a full-service bar and kitchen, a 2,000-square-foot outdoor patio, pool tables and dance floor. The food menu is divided into small bites (fries, chicken wings, tacos, mozzarella sticks) and main bites (flatbreads, patty melts, burger, tuna melt, BLT, chicken sandwich), plus happy hour specials. Open Wednesday-Sunday, various nights are devoted to karaoke, beer pong, drag bingo and drag variety shows. A DJ spins vinyl LPs on the patio every Saturday night.

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2. DERBY’S BAR & GRILL 2860 W. Florida Ave., Suite B, Hemet 951-652-2440, derbyshemet.com 3. TEMECULA STAMPEDE 28721 Old Town Front St., Temecula 951-695-1761 thetemeculastampede.com

BEST SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CASINO PECHANGA RESORT CASINO (TIE) 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula 877-711-2946, pechanga.com Pechanga is the definition of a full-service resort casino. Besides being regularly designated a Four Diamond-rated property by the Auto Club with its 1,100-room/suite luxury hotel, Pechanga has 15 restaurants and bars.

1882 Cantina – featuring cuisine from Mexico, Central and South America – is the most recent addition. Great Oak Steakhouse also is a multiple AAA award winner. The 200,000-squarefoot casino contains more than 5,000 slot machines and 150-plus table games. For rest and relaxation, guests can indulge at Spa Pechan1

ga, with massage therapies, nail services and personalized skincare; cool off at The Cove – a 4.5-acre pool complex with spas, pools, waterslides, a swim-up bar and two dozen cabanas – and then grab a salad, sandwich or pizza at Coveside Grill. Music enthusiasts can check out a concert at the 1,200-seat Pechanga Theater. Upcoming shows include Caifanes, Oct. 22-23; Belinda Carlisle, Nov. 5; Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt, Nov. 13; Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Nov. 20.

SOBOBA RESORT CASINO (TIE) 22777 Soboba Road, San Jacinto 951-665-1000, soboba.com The original Soboba Casino opened in 1995 and expanded into a full-fledged resort in 2019. It now features a 200-room hotel, seven dining options, a pool, conference center and the Soboba Event Center where actor/comedian Nick Swardson recently appeared. The 15,000-square-foot conference center is available for various events. Tribute bands often perform in the Cabaret Lounge, while DJs spin at Tree Bar. Past headline concerts have included Smokey Robinson, Earth Wind & Fire, Don 1

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Henley and Stevie Nicks. The Canyons Steakhouse menu features seafood, signature steaks (notably a three-course Tomahawk dinner for two on Wednesdays-Thursdays), items for children and hundreds of wines from California and elsewhere. La Casetta emphasizes Italian fare like pasta. Each spring, Soboba hosts a food truck fiesta event. Additionally, there are more than 2,000 slot machine and three dozen table games. Soboba Springs, a PGA-rated golf course with waterfalls and streams, hosted the 2010 California State Open Championship.

The course has a wedding arbor and banquet room for nuptials.

2. MORONGO CASINO, RESORT & SPA 49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon 951-849-3080 morongocasinoresort.com 3. YAAMAVA’ RESORT CASINO 777 San Manuel Blvd., Highland 909-864-5050, yaamava.com

BEST WINERY PONTE WINERY 35053 Rancho California Road, Temecula 951-694-8855, pontewinery.com Opened in 2003, Ponte Winery is a boutique wine producer that makes its alcohol in small batches. The winery is available for weddings, corporate meetings and special events. It has an indoor tasting room, which is open daily, and a reserve room for members. The Ponte Wine Club provides discounts on wine, merchandise, special event tickets, stays at the Ponte Vineyard Inn (a luxury AAA four-diamond accommodation with pool and view of the vineyard), plus The Restaurant at Ponte and Bouquet Restaurant dining. The 90-room boutique hotel opened in 2012. Hourlong vineyard estate tours run weekdays, except on afternoons with extremely hot temperatures. The Restaurant at Ponte, in a garden setting, occasionally presents live music where guests can dine al fresco. Meanwhile, the Bouquet Restaurant menu includes breakfast and brunch items (omelets, wraps, French toast), lunch selections (pasta, sandwiches, salads, flatbreads) and dinner (filet mignon, scallops, salmon).

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2. AKASH WINERY & VINEYARD 39730 Calle Contento, Temecula 951-888-1393, akashwinery.com 3. LORENZI ESTATE VINEYARDS 36095 Monte De Oro Road, Temecula 951-506-1300, lorenziestatewines.com

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NOTEWORTHY MUSEUMS

EDITOR’S

PICKS

Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture (exhibit at right) 3581 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside; riversideartmuseum.org Open since June, The Cheech (as it’s commonly called) is among the only permanent spaces devoted to showcasing Chicano art and culture in America. There are paintings, sculptures, photographs and drawings; an auditorium, and classrooms for educational purposes; plus a gift store.

Upon entry, guests are greeted by a towering Aztec earth goddess piece.

The museum has a community gallery with works by more than a dozen artists.

Inaugural exhibitions include “Cheech Collects” – selected works from actor Marin’s collection of 500 items housed at the museum (a second iteration opens in December and runs through June 2023).

“Collidoscope,” a Jamex and Einar de la Torre retrospective exhibition, features glass blown and lenticular printed objects and runs through January.

Ontario Museum of History & Art 225 S. Euclid Ave., Ontario; ontariomuseum.org Established in 1937, this is one of the Inland Empire’s oldest museums. Housed in an historical landmark building, it covers the history and culture heritage of Ontario – from Native Americans and California rancheros to the city’s founding by the Chaffey brothers and more. Art walks, lectures, arts and crafts and workshops are held throughout the year.

Visitors can also stroll the surrounding native plant and rose gardens. Upcoming events: Ontario Festival of the Arts (Oct. 15) and “Cempasuchil: Instruments of the Wind,” a Día de los Muertos exhibition (Oct. 8-Nov. 27).

San Bernardino County Museum 2024 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands; sbcounty.org/museum Focusing on cultural and natural history, the exhibits and collections at this museum include a giant mastodon, ancient fossils, covered wagon, horsedrawn buggies, historic automobiles tied to the area, birds, mammals, and geology of the county. The popular Train Days annual event contains model train displays and a miniature train. Branch sites are in Colton, Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Chino and Yucaipa. The

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“Open to Interpretation” exhibit of surreal still life photographic images spotlights Benoit Malphettes, a French American photographer. It runs through Jan. 8.

Temecula Valley Museum 28314 Mercedes St., Temecula; temeculavalleymuseum.org Initially started in 1985, the museum has displays about Temecula history (including some revolving around Luiseño Indians), the Mission San Luis Rey period, transportation (stagecoach, railroads), establishment of the ranchos and more. Notably, the permanent exhibit “Erle Stanley Gardner: Perry Mason Author” sports 6,000 photographs and memorabilia items from the late Temecula resident. Current exhibit “Ancestry and Animals: The Art of Hajime Ohno” runs through Dec. 4. Families can picnic outside the facility and enjoy a children’s playground.

Western Science Center 2345 Searl Parkway, Hemet; westernsciencecenter.org Founded in 2006, the WSC delves into the natural world – from the I.E. and beyond, with exhibits featuring Ice Age fossil discoveries made during Diamond Valley Lake’s excavation. Prehistoric Pathways has a Cretaceous forest with dinosaurs from a New Mexico formation.

The Hall of Archeology displays a typical 1880s house from the Diamond Valley region. Additionally, there are original and replica fossils including a T. Rex skull and artifacts created and used by Native Americans. The Inland Empire Science Festival is presented annually, and kids can partake in hands-on activities, games and demonstrations.

—GEORGE A. PAUL

Hometown Favorites

BEST CITY TO LIVE IN 1. RIVERSIDE 3900 Main St., Riverside 951-826-5557, riversideca.gov 2. REDLANDS 35 Cajon St., Suite 4, Redlands 909-798-7531, cityofredlands.org 3. RANCHO CUCAMONGA 10500 Civic Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga 909-477-2700, cityofrc.us

BEST COMMUNITY EVENT 1. MISSION INN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-784-0300, riverside.ca.gov/fol 2. REDLANDS CITY MARKET NIGHT 210 E. Citrus Ave., Redlands 909-798-7629 cityofredlands.org/marketnight 3. REDLANDS BOWL 25 Grant St., Redlands 909-793-7316, redlandsbowl.org

BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION 1. MY LEARNING STUDIO OUTREACH 17086 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside 951-789-5402, mylearningstudio.org 2. FOSTER ARMY ANIMAL RESCUE & PET RESCUE THRIFT STORE 3711 Central Ave., Riverside 951-222-2104, fosterarmy.org 3. FEEDING AMERICA RIVERSIDE | SAN BERNARDINO COUNTIES 2950 Jefferson St., Unit B, Riverside 951-359-4757, feedingamericaie.org

BEST PRESCHOOL 1. CHILDREN’S LIGHTHOUSE OF RIVERSIDE 19743 Lurin Ave., Riverside 951-653-6688 childrenslighthouse.com/ca1 2. HARVEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 6115 Arlington Ave., Riverside 951-359-3932 harvestchristianschool.org 3. FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF RIVERSIDE 4845 Brockton Ave., Riverside 951-683-7831, fumps.org

Riverside’s arts, parks schools, shops and dining are all part and parcel of an experience that earned votes as Best City to Live In.

BEST SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY 1. THE GARDENS OF RIVERSIDE 10849 Arlington Ave., Riverside 951-637-8844, thegardensofriverside.com 2. CITRUS PLACE 7898 California Ave., Riverside 951-446-0706, mbkseniorliving.com 3. WESTMONT VILLAGE 17050 Arnold Drive, Riverside 951-697-2100 westmontliving.com/ca/riverside/westmont-village-0

SOUTH: BEAUMONT, CANYON LAKE, HEMET, MENIFEE, MURRIETA, PERRIS & TEMECULA BEST CITY TO LIVE IN 1. HEMET 445 E. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-765-2301, cityofhemet.org 2. TEMECULA 41000 Main St., Temecula 951-694-6444, temeculaca.gov 3. MURRIETA 1 Town Square, Murrieta 951-461-6010, murrietaca.gov

BEST COMMUNITY EVENT 1. RAMONA PAGEANT Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre, Hemet 951-658-3111 2. DIA DE LOS MUERTOS LAKE ELSINORE City of Lake Elsinore, 951-471-4407 3. BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES EASTER EGG HUNT,

PHOTO BY TERRY PIERSON / SCNG FILE

NORTH: CORONA, LOMA LINDA, MORENO VALLEY, REDLANDS AND RIVERSIDE

MURRIETA 39028 Winchester Road, Suite 101, Murrieta, 951-677-3565

BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION 1. VALLEY RESTART SHELTER 200 E. Menlo Ave., Hemet 951-766-7476, valleyrestart.info 2. ANGEL VIEW RESALE STORE, HEMET 304 S. Sanderson Ave., Hemet 951-929-8093, angelview.org 3. FELINE UNDERGROUND RESCUE 30724 Benton Road, Winchester 951-400-2019 felineundergroundrescue.com

BEST PRESCHOOL 1. VIP TOTS 41915 Acacia East Ave., Hemet 951-652-7611, viptots.org 2. HEMET KINDERCARE 42111 California 74, Hemet 951-927-8194 kindercare.com/our-centers/hemet/ca/ 3. KIDS COLLABORATE EARLY LEARNING CENTER, INC. 36555 Van Gaale Lane, Winchester 951-926-1600, frenchvalleypreschool.com

BEST SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY 1. THE VILLAGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY 2200 W. Acacia Ave., Hemet 951-766-5116 thevillageriversidecounty.com 2. BROOKDALE SUNWEST 1001 N. Lyon Ave., Hemet 951-925-0822, brookdale.com 3. FOUR SEASONS BEAUMONT 951-769-6358 fourseasonsbeaumont.org

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Sports and sports bars are back!

These Chili Nachos and Guilty Pleasure Pastrami Fries can be found at Heroes Restaurant and Brewery which offers indoor and outdoor dining.

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BEST OF INLAND EMPIRE 2022

Food & Drink

BEST BAKERY / PIES POLLY’S PIES RESTAURANT & BAKERY Multiple locations pollyspies.com Polly’s Pies has built a pie dynasty in Riverside, Los Angeles and Orange counties. The 13 restaurants – including locations in Norco, Hemet and Moreno Valley – are owned by founders Don and Eddie Sheldrake, brothers from Los Angeles who have been with Polly’s since 1964. Delicious flavors unique to Polly’s include the Banberry, a pie with banana cream filling topped with fresh strawberries and a ring of real whipped cream; and the Sunnylicious, which has a vanilla cream cheese base with lemon filling and is topped with real whipped cream and garnished with fresh sliced lemon.

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amily, friends and food are three things that come together deliciously at these eateries and restaurants, whether you’re hungry for barbecue or a burger; Italian, Mexican or another cuisine; or ice cream and frozen yogurt for dessert.

2. MARIE CALLENDER’S Multiple locations mariecallenders.com 3. THE BATTER UP BAKERY 26490 Ynez Road, Suite K, Temecula 951-677-4555 batterupbakerytemecula.com

BEST BARBECUE

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LUCILLE’S SMOKEHOUSE BAR-B-QUE Multiple locations, lucillesbbq.com

2. HOBO’S BBQ 30590 Rancho California Road, Suite C303, Temecula 951-693-3227 hobosbbqnow.com 3. DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT Multiple locations dickeys.com

BEST BREAKFAST JOURNEY'S END Pechanga Resort Casino 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula 951-770-8208 pechanga.com/eat/journeys-end Located in the golf course clubhouse at the Pechanga Resort Casino, Journey’s End opens for breakfast a 7 a.m. Patrons can sit indoors or on the outdoor patio with a view of the resort’s expansive golf course in the rolling hills of the 1

PHOTO BY HOWARD FRESHMAN / SCNG FILE

Polly's Pies has an assortment guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.

PHOTO BY TERRY PIERSON / SCNG FILE

Bakery / Pies. . .......................15 Barbecue.. .............................15 Breakfast.............................15 Burger.. ................................16 Chicken.. ...............................16 Chinese Food.........................16 Cocktails . . ........................... 17 doughnut shops . . ................... 17 Hot Dogs............................... 17 Indian Food...........................18 Italian Food..........................18 Mexican Food.. .......................18 Pizza....................................18 Sandwich Shops. . ...................20 Seafood................................20 Sports Bars..........................20 Steakhouses. . ........................21 Sunday Brunches...................21 sushi / poke. . ........................21 Sweet Treats / Cupcakes........21 Tacos...................................21 thai food..............................22 Wings. . .................................22 Yogurt / Ice Cream . . ...............22 ------------------------------hometown favorites...............22

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Before opening the first Lucille’s in Long Beach in 1999, the restaurant chain’s founder, Craig Hofman, perfected his barbecue style by spending several years touring the South to check out the region’s barbecue. He visited the Carolinas, Kansas, Texas and Tennessee (and a bunch of places in between) before developing his “low and slow” barbecue technique using hickory wood and smoking ribs, brisket, tri tip and other meats for hours. The restaurant also is known for buttermilk biscuits and sweet apple butter for authentic Southern flavor.

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Temecula Valley. Leading the kitchen staff as the head chef is Ronnel Capacia, who worked at the resort as a busser in the employee cafeteria while also attending the San Diego Culinary Art Institute. Capacia has been the head chef at Journey’s End since 2017, overseeing the preparation of unique breakfast dishes like Bananas Foster Stuffed French Toast.

2. DENNY'S Multiple locations dennys.com PHOTO COURTESY PECHANGA RESORT CASINO

3. POLLY'S PIES RESTAURANT & BAKERY Multiple locations pollyspies.com

BEST BURGER IN-N-OUT BURGER Multiple locations in-n-out.com In-N-Out Burger, a repeat winner for Best Hamburger, has built cult-like following by keeping its menu simple with a focus on allbeef hamburgers, cheeseburgers, french fries, shakes and sodas. Fresh meat and a soft buttered bun have helped to make these burgers so popular year after year. There’s also the wellloved “Animal Style” burger with lettuce, tomato, a mustard-cooked beef patty, pickles, plus extra spread and grilled onions. The “Protein Style” burger swaps out the bun for a wrapping of lettuce. If you’re extra hungry, you can get a burger with two, three or four patties and extra cheese.

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While Journey's End at Pechanga Resort Casino grabbed top honors for Best Breakfast, the barbecue burger at the resort, above, certainly deserves attention. However in the Best Burger category, In-N-Out once again scored top honors in the Best of Inland Empire 2022 voting.

biscuits and coleslaw. Or, try something different, such as a fried chicken mac and cheese bowl.

2. CHICK-FIL-A Multiple locations chick-fil-a.com 3. EL POLLO LOCO Multiple locations elpolloloco.com

2. THE HABIT BURGER GRILL Multiple locations habitburger.com 3. MONTY'S GOOD BURGER Riverside Food Lab, 3605 Market St., Riverside 213-915-0257 montysgoodburger.com

BEST CHINESE FOOD

BEST CHICKEN KFC Multiple locations kfc.com In 1930, Harland Sanders began feeding hungry travelers who stopped at a service station in Corbin, Kentucky, and the legendary Colonel Sanders was born. He spent the next nine years perfecting his cooking technique and secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, starting a chicken empire which today has more than 24,000 KFC outlets worldwide. Fans can choose the traditional bucket of fried chicken with all the fixins’, including mashed potatoes with gravy,

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CHANG'AN EXPRESS 142 W. Stetson Ave., Hemet 951-392-3300 Casual and quick with buffet-like, walk-up counter service, Chang’an Express offers all the regular Chinese food favorites on its large menu. Choose from a variety of soups, appetizers and dishes with vegetables, beef, noodles, chicken and shrimp, as well as fried rice with all the added goodies. Combo dishes and bowls offer an especially good value, and the portions are generous. The restaurant is casual with a small dining room, or take your lunch or dinner home to enjoy. Another bonus: Chang’an Express is open seven days a week.

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2. PF CHANG'S Multiple locations pfchangs.com

3. PANDA EXPRESS Multiple locations pandaexpress.com

Best Cocktail ­— one might not expect the honor to go to a place known as "Yard House," a phrase which refers to an old-style way to sell beer in a very tall glass — but Best of Inland Empire voters recognize a great cocktail when they find one. Also at Yard House, plenty of food choices, sports on TV screens, and, of course, beers on tap.

BEST COCKTAIL YARD HOUSE Multiple locations yardhouse.com If beer is your thing, Yard House is the place to go, as it offers 100-plus drafts on tap – as well as wine and cocktails and a large food menu.

Yard House hosts a weekday happy hour with appetizers and pizzas for half price, and other discounts for beer, wine, spirits and cocktails.

(Check each location for happy hour specials, as they may vary.) Try a Salted Watermelon Margarita and an onion tower, or, maybe a Dragon Fruit Cosmo Martini. Inland Empire restaurants are in Chino Hills, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside and Temecula.

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PHOTO COURTESY YARD HOUSE

2. MARIO'S PLACE 3646 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-684-7755, mariosplace.com 3. VIP NIGHTCLUB & RESTAURANT 3673 Merrill Ave., Riverside 951-784-237 vip-nightclub.com

BEST DOUGHNUT SHOP HEMET DONUTS 199 N.State St., Suite108, Hemet 951-267-0035, hemet-donuts.com Hemet Donuts opened in 2012 with the goal of becoming the local favorite doughnut shop.

Popular treats include the signature blueberry doughnut holes. Hemet Donuts is open seven days a week and welcomes early birds, starting at 4:30 a.m. Choose from a wide variety in1

cluding cake doughnuts plus buttermilk bars (plain or iced), raised doughnuts in different shapes and sizes (glazed or iced), bear claws, fancy doughnuts and cream puffs. Also on the menu are an assortment of croissants and breakfast croissant sandwiches that are made to order.

2. KRISPY KREME Multiple locations krispykreme.com 3. LISA DONUT & BOBA 31821 Temecula Parkway, C1, Temecula 951-406-8818

BEST HOT DOG WIENERSCHNITZEL Multiple locations wienerschnitzel.com The world’s largest hot dog chain was founded in 1961 by 1

PHOTO COURTESY KRISPY KREME

John Galardi, with a single location in Southern California. Wienerschnitzel today serves more than 120 million hot dogs per year and fans keep coming back to restaurants nationwide for the tasty chili that, if you like, can be smothered on hot dogs, burgers and fries. Wienerschnitzel has many locations around the Inland Empire and Southern California, including in Beaumont, Chino, Colton, Corona, Fontana, Hemet, Jurupa Valley, Murrieta and Lake Elsinore. Join the Wiener Lovers’ Club on the Wienerschnitzel website for free food and special offers.

2. PORTILLO’S HOT DOGS 12840 Day St., Moreno Valley 951-653-1000, portillos.com 3. DOG N SUDS 28120 Jefferson Ave., B207, Temecula 951-365-0040, dognsudssocal.com

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BEST INDIAN FOOD PUNJAB PALACE CUISINE OF INDIA 1766 University Ave., Suite 102, Riverside, 951-686-9968 punjabpalacecuisineca.com A repeat first-place winner in the Best Indian Food category, Punjab Palace serves authentic cuisine from Northern India. Popular dishes include barbecue Tandoori chicken and chicken tikka masala, which Punjab Palace owner and founder Raj Sharma says is the most sought-after dish. Diners can choose from a selection of appetizers, rice dishes, chicken and seafood curries among other main dishes, and desserts. When asked why the restaurant is so popular and a repeat winner for Best Indian Food, said Sharma: “It’s authentic food, and we have been here about 22 years. We have a lot of loyal customers.”

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2. MANTRA INDIAN CUISINE 27645 Jefferson Ave.,Temecula 951-506-1800 and multiple other locations mantrarestaurants.com 3. NAMASTE INDIAN KITCHEN 6061 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-275-5316, namasteindiankitchen.com

BEST ITALIAN FOOD & BEST PIZZA 1

FILIPPI'S PIZZA GROTTO • 1192 Sixth St., Norco,

PHOTO BY KATE WOOD / SCNG FILE

Filippi's Pizza Grotto takes "Best of" honors for both Italian food and its pizza. The lasagna and spaghetti at Filippi's both come served with meat sauce.

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951-371-3800 • 27309 Jefferson Ave., Suite 110 Temecula, 951-699-8900 realcheesepizza.com Vincent DePhilippis, a New York native raised in Naples, Italy, and his wife, French-born Madeleine Manfredi, moved to San Diego in 1947 and opened an Italian market named Cash & Carry Italian Foods, beginning what has grown into a successful line of casual family Italian restaurants now called Filippi’s Pizza Grottos. Family members still own and operate the restaurants and market, and they also continue to use traditional old Italian family recipes. The restaurants have expanded to locations in Temecula and Norco, in addition to the establishments around San Diego County and one in Napa.

ITALIAN FOOD 2. OLIVE GARDEN ITALIAN RESTAURANT Multiple locations olivegarden.com 3. OLD SPAGHETTI FACTORY Multiple locations osf.com

PIZZA 2. DOMINO'S PIZZA Multiple locations dominos.com

3. MOD PIZZA 3444 Arlington Ave., Riverside 951-374-5255, modpizza.com

BEST MEXICAN FOOD EMILIO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 2340 S. San Jacinto Ave., San Jacinto 951-925-3721 Emilio and Shirley Redin opened their family run restaurant in 1983. In 2000, the second generation of the Redin family – Juan Carlos Redin and his wife Toni Redin, along with help from many of their 10 children – took over ownership and management of Emilio’s. The Redins have continued to use the time-honored recipes introduced in the early 1980s, and with new dishes added over the years, Emilio’s remains a favorite in the San Jacinto Valley. The menu features traditional enchiladas, tamales, chile rellenos, tacos, flautas, chile verde, chile Colorado, carnitas, fajitas, carne asada, fish tacos, pozole and many other Mexican food favorites.

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2. EL RANCHITO TACO SHOP 39840 Los Almos Road, Murrieta 951-600-9600 and multiple other locations elranchitotacoshop-losalamos.com 3. OLIVIA’S MEXICAN FOOD 9447 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-689-2131 oliviasmexicanrestaurant.com

VOTED INLAND EMPIRE'S 'S

BEST WINGS

EPICWINGS.COM BEST OF INLAND EMPIRE 2022

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BEST SANDWICH SHOP SUBWAY Multiple locations subway.com This ubiquitous sandwich shop is responsible for some of the most addicting commercials you’ll ever see – commercials that invite you to partake in a smorgasbord of sandwiches covering the tastes of carnivores and vegetarians alike. The Meatball, Pastrami and Subway Club are three of the most popular options, along with the Veggie Delite. Shops also feature wraps, such as the Chipotle Southwest Steak & Cheese, the Rotisserie-Style Chicken Caesar and the Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki. While Subway has its reliable go-tos, it often rotates in new offerings that appear and disappear, so checking ahead is always a good idea.

PHOTO BY JEFF GRITCHEN / SCNG FILE

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2. BENNY'S PLACE 25021 Madison Ave., Suite106, Murrieta 951-698-5660 bennyssubs.com 3. JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS Multiple locations jerseymikes.com

BEST SEAFOOD BLUEWATER GRILL 26700 Ynez Court, Temecula 951-308-2722 and multiple other locations bluewatergrill.com It’s counterintuitive that Bluewater Grill is a chain, sporting locations from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, with a side trip to Catalina Island.

Counterintuitive, because no two Bluewater Grills are alike, with each sporting its own menu based on the seasonal availability of seafood and local ingredients. The Temecula location, a perennial winner in this category, features such delicacies as pan-seared sea scallops from Massachusetts, walnut-crusted halibut from Alaska, cedar plank salmon from Norway, rainbow trout from Idaho, and rockfish and sanddabs from the California coast. Bluewater Grill doesn’t forget the stand-bys, including fish and chips, cioppino and lobster tail. Salad lovers can take the plunge into a Seafood Louie or Mediterranean Ahi salad.

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2. MARKET BROILER RIVERSIDE 3525 Merrill Ave., Riverside 951-276-9007, marketbroiler.com 3. KING'S FISH HOUSE 2530 Tuscany St., Corona

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951-284-7900 and multiple other locations kingsfishhouse.com

BEST SPORTS BAR HEROES RESTAURANT AND BREWERY (TIE) 3397 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-292-7160 heroesrestaurantandbrewery.com As anyone who has circled the block looking for parking can attest, this is one of downtown Riverside’s most popular dining destinations.

When you finally park, arrive at your table and see the expansive menu, numerous beer options – including Heroes’ home brews – and detailed whiskey and bourbon list, you understand why this is such a popular restaurant.

You’ve got your barbecue favorites, including a Fiery BBQ Mac and Cheese topped with brisket and barbecue sauce. You’ve got a large sandwich menu, featuring everything from a Louisiana Peppered Chicken Sandwich to Your Godfather, starring four types of meat with veggies on a French roll. And not to be forgotten are the burgers – don’t miss the Red Tractor Burger – appetizers and brewpub pizzas.

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KILLARNEY'S RESTAURANT & IRISH PUB (TIE)

32475 Temecula Parkway, G101 Temecula 951-302-8338, killarneys.com This Irish pub located in a Temecula strip mall came from Ireland – literally! The Sonas Design Company designed, built and shipped Killarney’s from Ireland to Southern California. With that setting, you get your choice of 29 beers on tap and a full bar that includes the largest selection of Irish Whiskey and Single-Malt Scotches in the Temecula Valley. Those provide the perfect complement to an Irish-flavored menu featuring such Emerald Isle staples as Bangers & Mash, two sizes of Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef & Cabbage, Harp-battered Fish & Chips and a Chicken Curry. There’s also non-Irish fare including Corned Beef Tacos, five burgers and nine sandwiches. Of course, the usual appetizer fare rides shotgun, as do numerous events such as National Rum Day, National Drink Beer Day and National Cheeseburger Day. 2. SPORTS STOP PUB & GRILL 31586 Railroad Canyon Road, Canyon Lake, 951-244-3369 thesportsstoppub.com 3. KELSEY'S Pechanga Resort Casino 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula 951-770-8399, pechanga.com/eat/kelseys

BEST STEAKHOUSE STEER ‘N STEIN 3104 W. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-658-6838 and multiple other locations steernstein.com In an area boasting the likes of Duane’s, Greensleeves, Fleming’s and the Great Oak Steakhouse, this Inland Empire chain – with locations in Hemet, Moreno Valley, Rancho Cucamonga and Victorville – pulled off one of this year’s biggest upsets capturing this ultra-competitive category. It did so by following a seven-word dictum: “Keep serving good food at reasonable prices.” Steer ‘n Stein’s featured item is the Stockyard or Super Stockyard Steak: a 12- or 16-ounce top sirloin grilled to order.

Carnivores have their choices of that, a ribeye, a pair of 4-ounce tri-tip filet mignons, a 20-ounce plank steak for two or teriyaki steak kebabs. Seafood offerings include salmon, grilled cod, fish and chips, and shrimp. There is an appetizer menu, along with salads, burgers and sandwiches, plus a full bar.

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

ers. Party plates that serve anywhere from 42 to 60 rolls also are available for takeout.

2. SUSHI OK 5228 Arlington Ave., Riverside 951-689-8054 sushiok.menu11.com

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3. YUZU JAPANESE IZAKAYA 960 Sixth St., Unit 101B, Norco 951-479-5744 yuzuizakaya.com

BEST SWEET TREAT / CUPCAKES

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salmon plate. Journey’s End also has a full bar, delivering one of the best views in the house.

2. CIELO 49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon 951-755-5527 morongocasinoresort.com/dining/cielo

2. THE MISSION INN 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-784-0300 missioninn.com/dining/sunday-brunch

3. THE GAMBLING COWBOY 42072 Fifth St., Temecula 951-699-2895 ilovethecowboy.com

3. TAPS FISH HOUSE & BREWERY 2745 Lakeshore Drive, Corona 951-277-5800 tapsfishhouse.com

BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH JOURNEY'S END 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula 951-770-8208 pechanga.com/eat/journeys-end Perhaps it’s the stunning view of the nearby mountains and Journey at Pechanga, the resort casino’s stellar golf course – a view you get from every seat. Perhaps it’s standout chef Ronnel Capacia’s twist on the Eggs Benedict with his Grilled Petite Filet Benedict, or his Crabcake Benedict. Maybe it’s the Bananas Foster Stuffed French Toast. Or perhaps it’s the entire package that allowed Journey’s End this year to break the Mission Inn’s hammerlock on this category. The Sunday brunch at Journey’s End is the same as its daily breakfast offerings, which includes the aforementioned, along with such breakfast staples as made-to-order omelets, steak and eggs, Belgian waffles, huevos rancheros and the reliable egg combos and a smoked 1

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES Multiple locations, nothingbundtcakes.com Wherever your sweet spot is, this national chain that started in the kitchens of Dena Tripp and Debbie Shwetz some 25 years ago can find it with one of its nine bundt cake flavors. Come for the red velvet, stay for the snickerdoodle, chocolate chocolate chip, confetti, lemon, strawberries and cream or carrot. The melt-inyour-mouth flavor of a bundt cake comes in a variety of sizes: from miniature bundtlets and bite-sized, cupcake-style bundtinis to tiered, wedding-style bundt cakes that serve up to 30. Nothing Bundt Cake also offers decorated bundt cakes celebrating sports triumphs, birthdays, holidays and even Canada Day. 1

BEST SUSHI / POKE SUSHI CAMP 32240 Temecula Parkway, Suite 104, Temecula, 951-302-1330 sushicamptemecula.com In a world of pretentious sushi bars, how can you not love a place that features the I Don’t Know Roll – a veritable meal in itself with spicy tuna, spicy albacore, shrimp, cream cheese and cucumber inside topped by tuna and avocado?

Or, the Sea Monster (octopus inside, octopus salad outside)? Yes, this is one camp that sushi lovers can pack up and set out for. When you arrive at Sushi Camp’s unpretentious restaurant, you’ll see a menu featuring 65 different rolls. That doesn’t count the usual individual sushi and sashimi offerings, which are plentiful as well. Sushi Camp offers diners, who may shy away from raw fish, five types of protein bowls, along with numerous salads, soups, fried rice choices, noodle bowls and appetiz1

2. CASEY’S CUPCAKES 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-328-6908 caseyscupcake.com 3. THE BATTER UP BAKERY 26490 Ynez Road, Suite K, Temecula 951-677-4555 batterupbakerytemecula.com

BEST TACO TACO STATION 4088 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-782-8226 tacostation.com This downtown Riverside restaurant fuels your passion for tasty street tacos with Brake Pad Tacos. You’ll come to a screeching halt deciding between chicken, carne asada, chicken/asada combo, al pastor or shredded beef. But wait, there’s more! Taco Station offers grilled fish tacos, chorizo tacos, the Ensenada-style battered fish and battered shrimp tacos and a grilled shrimp taco. Burrito lovers aren’t silenced with Taco Station’s Muffler Burritos, which include stand-bys like chicken, carne asada, al pastor and shredded beef, and also the Surfboard 1

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(carne asada, shrimp, beans, rice, cabbage and secret sauce) and Route 66 (french fries, cheese and meat). Taco Station also offers full-service plates featuring various taco, sopa, flautas, enchilada, gorditas, chile relleno and quesadilla combos.

2. EL RANCHITO TACO SHOP Multiple locations elranchitotacoshop-losalamos.com 3. TACO BELL Multiple locations tacobell.com

BEST THAI FOOD GRA POW! 497 E. Alessandro Blvd., Suite D, Riverside, 951-780-1132, grapow.net The pleasant problem facing diners at this perennial category power is locking into either the extensive, three-dozen-deep sushi menu and forsaking the numerous Thai dishes – or staying with Gra Pow! Thai staples. Staples such as the Crying Tiger Steak, the Gra Pow! Hot Plates (shrimp, crab, squid, clams, mussels and fish bathing in Thai spicy herbs on a sizzling plate) or the popular Kung Pik Pow (stir-fry shrimp in roasted curry paste with cashews, onions, water chestnuts and bell peppers). As tasty as Gra Pow’s! go-to Thai offerings are, there’s a reason this east Riverside restaurant regularly captures Best of IE sushi honors. Reasons that begin with that extensive sushi menu and segue into tasty rolls such as the Spicy Yuzu Kanpachi (spicy tuna, cucumber, yellowtail, jalapeño, fried garlic and citrus) or the Hangover Roll (spicy tuna, cucumber, cream cheese, jalapeño, deep-fried tempura and spicy tuna on top).

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2. THAI HOUSE RESTAURANT 1824 W. Redlands Blvd., Redlands 909-798-3143, thaihouseredlands.com 3. AIYARA THAI CUISINE 41533 Margarita Road Suite M102, Temecula 951-296-2966 aiyarathaitemecula.com

BEST WINGS EPIC WINGS Multiple locations epicwingsnthings.com Once upon a time, the Sacco family stood outside their original San Diego location literally giving away wings to uncertain passersby.

Forty years later, hungry Californians – from 1

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Hometown Favorites NORTH: CORONA, LOMA LINDA, MORENO VALLEY, REDLANDS & RIVERSIDE BEST CRAFT BREWERY 1. THOMPSON BREWING COMPANY 9900 Indiana Ave., #7, Riverside 951-956-0480 thompsonbrewing.com 2. HEROES RESTAURANT AND BREWERY 3397 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 951-292-7160 heroesrestaurantandbrewery.com 3. HANGAR 24 1710 Sessums Drive, Redlands hangar24brewing.com

BEST LOCAL RESTAURANT

951-781-7662 romanosrestaurants.com

SOUTH: BEAUMONT, CANYON LAKE, HEMET, MENIFEE, MURRIETA, PERRIS & TEMECULA BEST CRAFT BREWERY 1. REFUGE BREWERY 43040 Rancho Way, Temecula 951-506-0609, refuge.beer 2. 8 BIT BREWING COMPANY 26755 Jefferson Ave., Murrieta 951-677-2322 8bitbrewingcompany.com 3. OSCAR’S BREWING COMPANY 29375 Rancho California Road, Temecula 951-695-2422 oscarsbrewingcompany.com

BEST LOCAL RESTAURANT

1. FLAT TOP BAR AND GRILL 17960 Van Buren Blvd., Woodcrest 951-780-0114, flattopbarandgrill.com

1. EL JALAPENO 199 N. State St., Suite 102, Hemet 951-652-2386

2. CREST CAFE 5225 Canyon Crest Drive, #40, Riverside 951-784-2233, canyoncrestcafe.com

2. POLLY’S PIES RESTAURANT & BAKERY 2204 W. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-929-2553, pollyspies.com

3. ROMANO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & CHICAGO PIZZERIA Multiple locations

3. STEER ‘N STEIN RESTAURANT 3104 W. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-658-6838, steernstein.com

San Diego to Northridge – practically fly into one of 19 Epic Wings locations, including seven in the Inland Empire. They come in search of fresh tenderloin strips and wings, made-fromscratch breadsticks and homemade sauces and dips. Those sauces come in four levels of heat: mild, medium, hot and extra hot, along with five other flavors: Original BBQ, Garlic Parmesan, Honey BBQ, Lemon Pepper and Sweet Chili. Customers also flock to the hand-rolled breadsticks, which come in two flavors: Buffalo Chicken Pizza and Regular. Meals are served in combos, with boneless, bone-in or tenderloins, breadsticks and the requisite celery/carrots and ranch dressing.

2. WINGSTOP Multiple locations wingstop.com 3. BUFFALO WILD WINGS Multiple locations buffalowildwings.com

BEST YOGURT / ICE CREAM COLD STONE CREAMERY Multiple locations coldstonecreamery.com There is just something satisfying about watching a Cold Stone employee knead your freshly made ice cream selection on a granite stone.

The mix of homemade churned ice cream – with candy, fruit, nuts and/or cake – has brought ice cream and shake aficionados to this franchise for more than 30 years. Each Cold Stone offers 11 regular flavors, along with seasonal choices and local favorites that vary from store to store.

While Cold Stone doesn’t offer sugar-free delicacies, it does have selections with almond milk, a Vanilla Lite flavor and multiple sorbets.

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2. YOGURT ISLAND 32240 Temecula Parkway, Temecula 951-303-8888, yogurt-island.edan.io 3. BASKIN-ROBBINS Multiple locations, baskinrobbins.com

OPEN MIC NIGHTS

EDITOR’S

PICKS

BACK TO THE GRIND 3575 University Ave., Riverside; facebook.com/riversideopenmic Every Wednesday; all ages, music sets of all genres. Host Patrick Maloney attempts to maintain “a family friendly, PG-13 vibe. It’s not super loud. We have monitors, a PA system and really good sound.”

MEMELLI SPORTS BAR 41539 Kalmia St., Suite 109, Murrieta; memellisportsbar.com Thursdays; includes music and poetry.

ONTARIO IMPROV Ontario Mills, 4555 Mills Circle, Ontario; improv.com/ontario First Tuesday of month; ages 18 and older, one-drink minimum. Four-minute comedy sets of any content. If performance slots are filled, a lottery system potentially rolls over to the next month.

SHUTTERSTOCK

ROYAL FALCONER PUB & RESTAURANT 106 Orange St., Redlands; redlandsroyalfalconer.com Every other Thursday; includes comedy, poetry, music from all genres.

YUCAIPA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 12062 California St., Yucaipa; yucaipaperformingartscenter.org Every third Wednesday of the month; maximum 10-minute sets of music and poetry.

— GEORGE A. PAUL

Thank You

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to the Marketing, Advertising Coordinators and Production staff for their work on this publica ation.

, we’v en c m itt t se vin s est, hig al t u ers s ak ou d. While t ndar re h gh, h ou thin a m s l t d ff renc Thank you!

For location information, visit In-N-Out.com

Check us out at pe.com/best In N- ut. om

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Shopping & Services For many, a university education is the launchpad for achieving the American Dream, so it’s no surprise that taking top honors in Best of the Inland Empire 2022 voting for Best Four-Year College/University is UC Riverside which has been ranked the nation’s No. 1 institution for social mobility

by U.S. News & World report for three years running.

PHOTO BY MILKA SOKO / SCNG FILE

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f you want a new ride, hope to improve your health or that of your pet, or are simply looking for new places to shop for a variety of items, there are dozens of quality local businesses your neighbors already visit. Check out their recommendations on the following pages.

BEST AUTO COLLISION CENTER JIM MC COMAS AUTO BODY REPAIR 210 S. Gilbert St., Hemet 951-658-2538 To give you an idea how old school Jim Mc Comas Auto Body Repair is, he doesn’t have a website. No matter. This Hemet auto body repair shop consistently reels in recommendations with quality old-school service, repairing autos involved in accidents or any mishap. The shop’s expertise covers the spectrum of cars, from a 1957 Ford to the latest model Lexus.

Mc Comas Auto Body Repair also provides quality auto painting services. Reviewers on Yelp consistently praise the extraordinary service that even includes dealing with insurance companies. “These are good people, and this is a good shop,” reads one Yelp review.

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2. FAITH QUALITY AUTO BODY 41108 Nick Lane, Murrieta 951-698-8215, faithqualityautobody.com 3. CALIBER COLLISION 6634 Indiana Ave., Riverside 951-683-6734 and multiple other locations caliber.com

BEST AUTO MALL RIVERSIDE AUTO CENTER 8201 Auto Drive, Riverside 951-643-7012, riversideautocenter.com At the Riverside Auto Center, it is a car shopper’s smorgasbord. Want a late-model Porsche?

It’s there. Looking for a used Volkswagen or Honda that’ll be your teenager’s first car? You can find that too. Want to go full luxury with a Jaguar, Audi, Lexus or Land Rover? Yes, yes, yes and yes. Literally freeway-adjacent off the 91, Riverside Auto Center has more than 8,000 vehicles representing 32 brands and 25 dealerships. You can easily walk from one dealer to the next, kicking tires, asking questions and test-driving your target vehicles. Lest you get overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices, there’s a car shopper’s hotline available to start you down the right path.

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2. TEMECULA VALLEY AUTO MALL Ynez Road, south of Overland Drive, Temecula, 888-790-6460 automalloftemecula.com 3. ONTARIO AUTO CENTER 1350 Auto Center Drive, Ontario 951-658-8366, ontarioautocenter.com

auto collision centers........... 25 AUTO MALLs............................ 25 auto repair shops. . ................. 26 Bed & Breakfasts. . .................. 26 Cannabis dispensaries............ 26 Career colleges / nursing...... 26 career colleges / trade school.. 26 CBD retail stores.. ...................27 community colleges. . ...............27 dealership service departments.. . 28 domestic car dealers. . ............ 28 eye doctors.. .......................... 28 florists.. ............................... 28 Four-year college/universities.. 28 Grocery stores. . ..................... 29 health / organic food stores . . . 29 HOSPITALS. . ............................. 29 import car dealers................. 29 jewelry stores.. ..................... 30 LAW FIRMs / LAWYERs. . ............. 30 local radio personalities....... 30 Medical groups...................... 30 mortgage lending services...... 30 motorsports dealers.............. 32 music schools. . ...................... 32 new model car or truck.......... 32 places to buy a used vehicle.... 32 places to get a massage. . ........ 32 plastic surgeons.. .................. 32 spas / cryotherapy................. 34 TATTOO STUDIOs....................... 34 tire dealers. . ......................... 34 tutoring services . . ................. 34 urgent care / er .. .................. 36 veterinarians ....................... 36 weight loss clinics................ 36 ------------------------------hometown favorites...........38, 42

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BEST AUTO REPAIR QUALITY AUTO REPAIR 125 S. Palm Ave., Hemet 951-658-8366 This 36-year-old establishment with a simple, straight-forward name is ready to tackle the most complex issues when it comes to your car.

Everything from basic preventive maintenance to computer reprogramming to all-brands brake service to full transmission repairs is in Quality Auto Repair’s toolbox. Along with that, the shop can do the repairs you don’t often think about until you need them – such as window repair, A/C service and lift kit installation.

Quality Auto Repair also handles tires, including balancing and rotating. Great service extends beyond the experienced technicians. For your convenience, there’s early and nighttime drop-off times and shuttle service available.

2. MAKESTAR AUTOMOTIVE 28733 Vía Montezuma, Temecula 951-699-9921 makestarautomotive.com 3. EXCELLENT AUTO CARE AND TIRE 26673 Ynez Road, Suite A, Temecula 951-699-1009 excellentautocare.com

BEST BED & BREAKFAST TEMECULA CREEK INN 44501 Rainbow Canyon Road Temecula. 866-448-3612 temeculacreekinn.com For years, one of the I.E.’s best-kept secrets was this 300-acre resort tucked into an oak treelined corner of the Temecula Valley. Golfers knew it for its 27 holes of championship, picturesque golf. Wine lovers knew it for its proximity to the Temecula Wine Country. Foodies knew it for the Cork | Fire Kitchen and its award-winning, creative California cuisine that often featured locally sourced ingredients from the area. And newlyweds knew it for its charming, storybook wedding setting. Alas, as the numerous Yelp ratings and lengthy reservation lists attest, the secret is out for this resort and its 125 hotel rooms and suites, many overlooking the golf course and surrounding hills.

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2. THE INN AT EUROPA VILLAGE 41150 Via Europa, Temecula 951-506-1818 europavillage.com 3. SOUTH COAST WINERY RESORT & SPA 34843 Rancho California Road, Temecula 951-566-4622 southcoastwinery.com

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Mt. San Jacinto College Temecula Valley

BEST CANNABIS DISPENSARY STRAINS DISPENSARY 820 W. Rider St., Perris 951-473-8766, strainsusa.com You must appreciate a business that doesn’t take itself too seriously. When you click on this dispensary’s webpage, you’re greeted by a chat window asking, “High there! How can we help?” Dad jokes aside, Strains captured this category again because it takes its products and services seriously. Much of what this establishment sells is locally harvested, and once that cannabis is in-house, the experienced, knowledgeable budtenders direct you to the perfect items. Strains carries three types of cannabis, along with edibles, topicals, concentrates and branded merch. The dispensary also offers a rewards program and weekly specials, along with online orders.

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2. EMPIRE TWIN PALMS 9806 Mission Blvd., Riverside 951-416-7006, shopempire.com 3. THE GREEN CHAMBER 7224 Mission Blvd., Riverside 951-790-1135 greenchamber420.com

BEST CAREER COLLEGE / NURSING MT. SAN JACINTO COLLEGE 28237 La Piedra Road, Menifee and multiple other locations 951-672-6752, msjc.edu Last year, MSJC’s nursing school boasted a 1

92.86% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination. It hasn’t dropped below 92.76% in the last five years, illustrating the preparation and engaged process involved in preparing students for nursing careers. Not only does MSJC check all the boxes to make transferring to a four-year university seamless, but its 76 required units of study cover every angle of the profession. Everything from ethics to communication skills to using environmental and holistic methods comes into play.

Students are assigned a clinical facility every semester for training, adding necessary practical elements to their education.

2. RIVERSIDE CITY COLLEGE 4800 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-222-8000, rcc.edu 3. STANBRIDGE UNIVERSITY 1325 Spruce St., Suite 500, Riverside 866-931-1078, stanbridge.edu

BEST CAREER COLLEGE / TRADE SCHOOL MOUNT SAN JACINTO COLLEGE 1499 N. State St., San Jacinto and multiple other locations 951-487-6752, msjc.edu Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Digital Media, Automotive Transportation Technology, Wine Industry and Hospitality, Culinary Arts and Fire Technology are only a handful of disciplines where MSJC applies its real-world teaching standards. Classes are taught by experienced instructors who keep up on the latest trends in their respective fields, and who use 1

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2. SJVC TEMECULA 27270 Madison Ave., No. 103, Temecula 951-296-6015, sjvc.edu 3. RIVERSIDE CITY COLLEGE 4800 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-222-8000, rcc.edu

BEST CBD RETAIL STORE THE CBD STORE 6682 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-742-2472 One customer came in looking for CBD products for her dog after it suffered a leg injury.

Another came in looking for something to help her father, stricken with Stage 4 brain cancer. A third came in looking for something for her grandmother’s loss of appetite due to an illness. All left with the exact CBD product they were looking for. This central Riverside location in the Brockton Arcade is easy to find with its stand-out, modern font sign. The shop contains numerous tinctures, pens, lotions, oils, waters, teas and other CBD products, including edibles and gummies, along with recommended dosage tables. The CBD Store also has a separate room that allows for sampling products. Helpful staff are on hand to assist with questions

2. IT’S CBD STORE 31801 Mission Trail, Lake Elsinore 951-205-5641 3. BLAZED UTOPIA 620 S. State St., San Jacinto 951-350-8383 blazedutopia.com

BEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE RIVERSIDE CITY COLLEGE 4800 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-222-8000, rcc.edu Come for the well-regarded nursing program, stay for the top-notch performing arts, culinary arts, cosmetology, automotive technology and computer information systems programs. A presence in downtown Riverside for 106 years, RCC offers more than 100 study programs and 2,000 courses to its 30,000 students. Courses are organized along eight distinct academic pathways, giving undecided and decided students alike numerous options as they work toward an associate’s degree and transfer to a four-year university, or earn a certificate in a specific discipline. RCC’s complete college experience extends to a 19-sport athletics program that regularly contends for state titles.

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2. MT. SAN JACINTO COLLEGE 1499 N. State St., San Jacinto and multiple other locations, msjc.edu 3. CHAFFEY COLLEGE 16855 Merrill Ave., Fontana 909-652-7400, chaffey.edu

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and suggestions.

PHOTO COURTESY KFRG 95.1-FM

current, industry-specific technology, equipment and curriculum. MSJC also offers an apprenticeship program in five career education paths: Automotive, Cybersecurity, Engineering Drafting, Water Technology and Wine Technology. There, students work with a company, getting paid and mentored, while taking classes at MSJC.

Riverside City College has welcomed students to its downtown campus for 106 years.

CATCHING UP WITH HEATHER FROGLEAR Most listeners may not realize this, but longtime KFRG 95.1-FM radio personality Heather Froglear wears many hats at the station where she works.

Aside from being the midday announcer on weekdays, Froglear is the station’s music director and assistant brand manager. She also has an afternoon drive-time show that airs on Audacy’s country station in Seattle, plus she’s on “’90s Country with Heather,” a program broadcast on 20 Audacy country music stations across the nation (and can be heard locally from 8-10 a.m. Sundays).

“Most people think that I’m on the air for three hours and then I go home,” she said.

Juggling multiple responsibilities is something all KFRG personalities do, which can make for frequent nine- to 10-hour days. Public appearances on Saturdays or Sundays can result in short weekends.

“You work really hard,” she said. “Is it easy? No, but it’s fun.”

Froglear, who has worked in radio for 32 years, including 29 at KFRG, has seen her industry embrace the use of social media and digital tools such as apps and streaming – giving Froglear and her colleagues multiple means to reach and interact with audiences.

“We’re a multilevel entertainment company,” she said, adding that audiences can stream and hear their favorite radio personalities on demand.

The use of those social and digital resources aren’t limited to entertainment.

They allow Froglear and her colleagues to provide valuable information to audiences, say, when a wildfire breaks out, during a large-scale disaster and other significant news events.

“We want to be top of mind 24/7,” she said. ­— MONICA RODRIGUEZ

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BEST DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT HELLO SUBARU OF TEMECULA 42050 Dlr Drive, Temecula 877-869-6589 hellosubarutemecula.com Located in the heart of the Auto Mall of Temecula, Subaru leaves nothing to chance when it comes to service. Each mechanic is trained to handle everything from routine oil changes to transmission and engine replacements by Subaru technical instructors. Technicians earn certification through specific Subaru of America training programs, and update that training annually. Only genuine Subaru parts are used, and the state-of-the-art shop includes a free multipoint inspection with every service request. Scheduled service requests – such as oil changes, tire rotations and inspections – are covered for the first two years or 24,000 miles.

2. GOSCH FORD TEMECULA 26895 Ynez Road, Temecula 855-975-9574, goschfordtemecula.com 3. HEMET CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM 425 Motor Way, Hemet 951-390-2222, hemetcdjr.com

BEST DOMESTIC CAR DEALER GOSCH FORD TEMECULA 26895 Ynez Road, Temecula 855-975-9574, goschfordtemecula.com In 1964, three months after the Ford Mustang was introduced, Jack Gosch left his job of more than a decade with Ford Motor Company and founded Jack Gosch Ford. The downtown Hemet location saw success from the start, and Gosch expanded his auto dealership business in the Inland Empire and beyond. Today, Gosch Auto Group owns dealerships in Hemet, Escondido and Temecula, including Gosch Ford Temecula, which has been named California’s Ford Dealer of the Year by Dealer Rater the last four years in a row.

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3. HEMET CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM 425 Motor Way, Hemet 951-390-2222, hemetcdjr.com 3. GOSCH FORD HEMET 150 Carriage Circle, Hemet 951-658-3188, goschfordhemet.com

BEST EYE DOCTOR KEVIN LANE, O.D. 2390 E. Florida Ave., Suite 207, Hemet 951-652-6100, caleyepros.com A practicing optometrist with California Eye Professionals Medical Group since 2002, 1

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A Southern California institution, Stater Bros. prides itself on supporting local charities while also delivering wholesome food to consumers.

Dr. Kevin Lane specializes in all facets of comprehensive eye care for his patients, including therapeutic treatment of ocular diseases, pre- and post-operative needs associated with cataract and refractive surgeries, and any functional, refractive, pathological and contact-lens related issues. Additionally, Lane assists patients with contact lens and prescription eyeglass needs through the medical group’s on-site optical department. Serving the Inland Empire, he practices primarily out of California Eye Professionals’ Hemet and Temecula locations.

2. DR. KATHRYN DUGAN 39252 Winchester Road, Suite 127 Murrieta, 951-600-9226 bit.ly/3CmwtKK temeculacreekoptometrist.com 3. INLAND EYE SPECIALISTS (TIE) 25395 Hancock Ave., Suite 100, Murrieta 951-696-5388, and multiple other locations inlandeyespecialists.com 3. TEMECULA CREEK OPTOMETRY (TIE) 43980 Margarita Road, Suite 103, Temecula, 951-302-1331 temeculacreekoptometrist.com

BEST FLORIST RICKY’S FLOWERS & MORE 16781 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside 951-776-8999, rickysflowers.com Serving the Riverside area since 2016, Ricky’s 1

Flowers & More offers free same-day delivery for online orders of flower arrangements and gift baskets celebrating any occasion. Ricky’s provides floral services for weddings and anniversaries, holiday and corporate events, funerals, proms, birthdays or any other special moments. The shop also offers gift and fruit baskets, plants, business gifting and free floral consultation. For customers who can’t decide on which arrangement to choose, the Florist’s Choice Daily Deal will surprise recipients with a curated mix of seasonal blooms.

2. THE FLOWER SHOP 10530 Magnolia Ave., Suite A, Riverside 951-354-2700, theflowershopriverside.com 3. WES’ FLOWERS 28007 Jefferson Ave., Suite D, Temecula 951-693-5700, wesflowers.com

BEST FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE / UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE 900 University Ave., Riverside 951-827-1012, ucr.edu The premier research and educational institution serving the Inland Empire, UC Riverside is home to more than 26,000 students, including nearly 23,000 undergraduates. Ranked No. 1 in the country for social mobility for three years in a row by U.S. News & World Report, the 1,200-acre campus also boasts a No. 12 ranking 1

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by Forbes as one of the nation’s top public universities. More than 80 undergraduate majors and 50 graduate programs are offered across three colleges and four professional schools in engineering, medicine, public policy, business, education and other fields.

2. CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY 8432 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 877-228-3615, calbaptist.edu 3. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, SAN BERNARDINO 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino 909-537-5000, csusb.edu

BEST GROCERY STORE STATER BROS. Multiple locations, staterbros.com Twin brothers and World War II veterans Cleo and Leo Stater got their start in 1936 with a single grocery store location in Yucaipa. Eightysix years and 170 locations later, Stater Bros. serves seven counties across Southern California with nearly 18,000 employees and annual sales of more than $4 billion. Now headquartered in San Bernardino, Stater Bros. prides itself on providing customers with low prices alongside top-notch service and quality. Their commitment to the community can also be seen through the more than $80 million contributed to local organizations.

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2. SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET Multiple locations, sprouts.com

951-686-4757, and multiple other locations clarksnutrition.com 3. ORGANIC ROOTS 40458 Winchester Road, Temecula 951-296-3444, organicroots.net

BEST HOSPITAL

3. KAISER PERMANENTE RIVERSIDE MEDICAL CENTER 10800 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 833-574-2273 healthy.kaiserpermanente.org

BEST IMPORT CAR DEALER

HEMET GLOBAL MEDICAL CENTER 1117 E. Devonshire Ave., Hemet 951-652-2811 https://hcai.ca.gov/facility/hemet-valley-medical-center/ Founded in 1943, and with the mission of providing quality care to people of all ages, the Hemet Valley Medical Center became the Hemet Global Medical Center in 2019 and is a 327-bed hospital that offers comprehensive patient services – including emergency, cardiac, imaging and surgical care, plus more specialized services such as oncology, orthopedic and skilled nursing. The largest private employer in the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley, website resources give patients access to a health library and a physician database. Additionally, the medical center holds community education classes covering a range of topics such as maternity and diabetes care.

BMW OF MURRIETA 41430 Auto Mall Parkway, Murrieta 951-200-5491, bmwofmurrieta.com Located on eight acres in the Temecula Auto Mall, the award-winning BMW of Murrieta offers a range of new and certified pre-owned vehicles, as well as a service department to meet your vehicle’s needs plus a parts and accessories boutique. The dealership is a member of Hendrick Automotive Group, a privately held organization with more than 100 dealerships across California and the Carolinas. BMW of Murrieta reopened their new state-of-the-art facility in 2019, and in addition to their extensive inventory, they carry a multiyear designation as a “Center of Excellence.”

2. TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL 31700 Temecula Parkway, Temecula 951-331-2200, temeculavalleyhospital.com

3. GOSCH TOYOTA 350 Carriage Circle, Hemet 951-808-3134, goschtoyota.com

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2. LEXUS OF RIVERSIDE 3150 Adams St., Riverside 855-212-1461, lexusofriverside.com

3. TRADER JOE’S Multiple locations, traderjoes.com

BEST HEALTH / ORGANIC FOOD STORE SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET Multiple locations sprouts.com Clean eating and healthy living are at the core of Sprouts Farmers Market, a natural food grocer that has helped to make organic, farmfresh produce and other healthy items accessible and affordable. Sprouts got its start in 2002 and has grown to 31,000 team members at more than 370 locations nationwide. The introduction of the Sprouts smartphone app in 2016 brought coupons and other savings to the store’s already low prices, and the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation aims to empower individuals, especially children, to live healthy lives through nutrition education and fresh food access.

2. CLARK’S NUTRITION & NATURAL FOODS 4225 Market St., Riverside

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A nurse works in the emergency room at Hemet Global Medical Center.

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BEST JEWELRY STORE D’ROBERTS JEWELERS 236 N State St., Suite A, Hemet 951-929-2247, drobertsjewelers.com D’Roberts Jewelers offers unique and custom fine jewelry pieces, featuring diamond and color stone settings, fine beads and pearls across a variety of rings, bracelets, pendants and earrings. Their Hemet-based showroom includes jewelry and watch repair, engraving services and a custom design studio. Seeking to build long-term relationships with their clients, D’Roberts provides several continuing services such as appraisals, third-party financing and pre-owned jewelry purchases and tradeins. The jeweler has been recognized as one of Hemet’s “Hidden Jewels” since 1982.

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2. MARDON JEWELERS 5225 Canyon Crest Drive, No. 14, Riverside 951-682-2325, mardonjewelers.com 3. JEWEL SCENE FINE JEWELRY 41493 Margarita Road, G-105B, Temecula 951-296-1616, jewelscene.com

BEST LAW FIRM / LAWYER ROBERT J. SPITZI 204 N. San Antonio Ave., Ontario 909-395-0909, robertspitzlaw.com The Law Offices of Robert J. Spitz brings more than 40 years of experience in serving individuals and small businesses throughout the Inland Empire. The Ontario-based law firm offers expertise in several real estate and business law service areas, including business contracts and formation, foreclosures, landlords/ tenant issues, loan modifications, patents and trademarks, intellectual property rights and real estate litigation. As a dedicated sole practitioner, Spitz personally handles all aspects of his clients’ cases, and takes a “proactive and practical approach” to meeting each of their needs.

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2. COLLEEN S. PATTERSON LAW OFFICE 41591 E. Florida Ave., Suite H, Hemet 951-658-4900, colleenspatterson.com 3. SHOUP LEGAL 39755 Date St., No. 203, Murrieta 951-445-4114, shouplegal.com

BEST LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY HEATHER FROGLEAR, KFRG 900 E. Washington St., Colton 888-431-3764, kfrog.radio.com Born in San Bernardino, KFRG on-air radio personality Heather Froglear has been with the Colton-based country music station since 1993.

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A child gets a vaccination through comprehensive care at Kaiser Permanente.

Froglear hosts the 9 a.m. to noon slot, serves as the station’s brand manager and music director, and also is the new host of “’90s Country with Heather,” where listeners can tune in to hear her each Sunday morning from 8-10 a.m. on Audacy radio stations around the country.

Froglear recently added “hall-of-famer” to her resume, as the popular host was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 2021.

2. JEFF POPE, HOT 103.9 242 E. Airport Drive, San Bernardino 909-890-1010, hot1039.com 3. JESSE DURAN, KOLA 1940 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands 909-798-5600, kolafm.com

BEST MEDICAL GROUP KAISER PERMANENTE Multiple locations 833-574-2273 kp.com What started as a healthcare program for shipyard and steel workers during the Great Depression and World War II, and pioneered by industrialist Henry J. Kaiser and surgeon Dr. Sidney R. Garfield, Kaiser Permanente is now one of America’s leading healthcare providers and nonprofit health plans. Kaiser has several comprehensive medical centers serving the Inland Empire, including Riverside Medical Center, Moreno Valley Medical Center and Fontana Medical Center. Also, there are medical offices throughout the region, including 1

Murrieta, Ontario, Temecula and Colton.

2. RIVERSIDE MEDICAL CLINIC Multiple locations 951-683-6370, riversidemedicalclinic.com 3. BEAVER MEDICAL GROUP 2 W. Fern Ave., Redlands 909-793-3311, beavermedicalgroup.com

BEST MORTGAGE LENDING SERVICE LOCKE YOUR LOAN 2900 Adams St., Suite A16, Riverside 951-405-2454, lockeyourloan.com Locke Your Loan, led by Lara Locke, provides mortgage loan services to residents in Riverside and the surrounding areas. Locke and her team’s approach of “home loans done with integrity” aims to provide a smooth, hassle-free experience to the often-confusing home-buying process. Whether clients are first-time homebuyers or refinancing a current property, Locke and her team walk them through each step with one-on-one loan officer meetings, weekly updates and client concierge services – all with a depth of low interest rates and tailor-made loan options.

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2. FRANKLIN LOAN CENTER 41607 Margarita Road, Suite 102, Temecula, and multiple other locations 951-296-1640, franklinloancenter.com 3. PROSPERITY HOME MORTGAGE, LLC 31685 Temecula Parkway, Suite B, Temecula, 909-580-0700 phmloans.com

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Riverside Auto CENTAUR

Plus 1000’s of Pre-Owned Cars & Trucks are available at the Riverside Auto Center.

“The World’s First Auto Center since 1964”

Adams Street Exit Off of the 91 Freeway BEST OF INLAND EMPIRE 2022

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BEST MOTORSPORTS DEALER TEMECULA MOTORSPORTS 26860 Jefferson Ave., Murrieta 951-698-4123, temeculamotorsports.com Powersport enthusiasts across Southern California, no matter their skill level, can meet their vehicle and gear needs at Temecula Motorsports. Serving the Inland Empire for more than a decade, the dealership offers a wide range of motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, boats, watercraft and other powersport vehicles – both new and pre-owned – and represents some of the biggest names in the industry, including Yamaha, Suzuki and Honda. The fastest-growing full-line dealership in the region, Temecula Motorsports also provides customer support through their financing specialists, as well as an on-site service and parts center.

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2. CHAPPARAL MOTORSPORTS 555 S. H St., San Bernardino 909-889-2761, chapmoto.com 3. CORONA MOTORSPORTS (TIE) 363 American Circle, Corona 951-444-9314, coronamotorsports.com 3. MALCOLM SMITH MOTORSPORTS (TIE) 7599 Indiana Ave, Riverside 951-687-1300, malcolmsmith.com

BEST MUSIC SCHOOL SCHOOL OF ROCK 30630 Rancho California Road, Suite 501F, Temecula 951-693-2000 schoolofrock.com/locations/temecula From singing lessons to songwriting to perfor1

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mance training, School of Rock Temecula has a variety of programs for beginning musicians or those who are looking to sharpen their music skills. Students as young as age 3 can learn the foundations of music through interactive play, while older kids and teens combine weekly private lessons with group rehearsals to learn some of rock music’s most well-known songs – all with the goal of preparing them for live stage performances. Instrument lessons, equipment purchases, remote instruction and adult programs also are available.

2. ROCKSTARS OF TOMORROW | RIVERSIDE 3392 Tyler St., Riverside 951-344-5554, rockstarsoftomorrow.com 2. WILLDEBIETZ MUSIC CONSERVATORY 148 N. Harvard St., Hemet 951-484-6016, willdebietz.com

BEST NEW MODEL CAR OR TRUCK HYUNDAI SONATA Multiple locations hyundaiusa.com Hyundai’s mid-size sedan, the Sonata, can go head-to-head with longtime names in this car category, including the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. The Sonata comes in nine trim options in both gas and hybrid models that get up to 31 and 52 miles per gallon, respectively.

The 2022 Sonata N Line offers a 290-horsepower turbocharged engine and several sporty design features, while the exclusive N Line Night in Phantom Black or Quartz White includes a race-inspired trim with several premium style upgrades.

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2. DODGE RAM Multiple locations ramtrucks.com 3. GENESIS GV80 Multiple locations https://bit.ly/3wmQ61z

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BEST PLACE TO BUY A USED VEHICLE CARMAX Multiple locations carmax.com As the nation’s largest used car retailer, CarMax aims to take the stress out of car buying and selling with their “no-haggle” pricing structure. Each car receives a 125-point inspection, and customers oversee their experience and can complete transactions either online or at one of the more than 200 locations nationwide. The CarMax “Love Your Car Guarantee” offers prospective buyers 24-hour test drives 1

Rehearsal at School of Rock

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and a 30-day return window, along with express pickup or home delivery options – a format that has led to more than 9 million vehicles sold.

2. VIP AUTOS 4291 W. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-652-9500, vipautos.net 3. GOSCH FORD TEMECULA 26895 Ynez Road, Temecula 855-975-9574, goschfordtemecula.com

BEST PLACE TO GET A MASSAGE MASSAGE ENVY Multiple locations massageenvy.com A commitment to whole-body wellness – in the form of massage, stretch and skin care services – are behind Massage Envy’s goal of “keeping your body working.” Launched in 2002, the franchised spa believes that these therapeutic services are more necessity than luxury and should be part of a well-balanced lifestyle routine. More than 35,000 massage therapists, estheticians and other associates serve customers across 1,100 locations in 49 states. Each area of service is customizable, and membership options are available for those who desire regular self-care treatments.

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2. LIFESTYLE CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS 2091 W. Florida Ave., Suite 120, Hemet 951-929-0100 lifestylechiropracticandwellness.com 3. KELLY’S SPA BOUTIQUE AT THE MISSION INN 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside 800-440-5910, kellysspa.com

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON REVIVAMED PLASTIC SURGERY 31775 De Portola Road, Suite 200, Temecula 619-232-3040, revivamed.com Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kian Samimi leads the team at RevivaMed Plastic Surgery, a Temecula-based clinic with an expansive offering of treatments and services.

With the belief that “beauty is a reflection of health and inner well-being,” Dr. Samimi brings more than 20 years of experience in the areas of cosmetic surgery, including breast augmentation and face lifts, laser treatments, injectables, body contouring and skin care treatments. RevivaMed also provides hair restoration and regenerative treatments, weight loss programs and reconstructive surgery related to breast and skin cancers.

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Thanks to the talented

FACULTY, supportive CLASSIFIED PROFESSIONALS, amazing STUDENTS, and successful ALUMNI, Riverside City College was voted BEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE.

www.rcc.edu

INLAND EMPIRE’S BEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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2. ADVANCED INSTITUTE FOR PLASTIC SURGERY 27345 Jefferson Ave., Suite 100, Temecula, 951-699-9201 aiplasticsurgery.com

2. DIAMOND CITY TATTOO & PIERCING 40119 Murrieta Hot Springs Road, Suite B-101, Murrieta 951-461-2700 diamond-city-tattoo-piercing.business.site

3. PHUONG M. PHAM, M.D. UNITED PLASTIC SURGERY 31150 Temecula Parkway, Suite 103, Temecula 951-414-3530 unitedmdplasticsurgery.com

3. THE MADD TATTER’Z TATTOO PARLOR 3688 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside 951-977-9292, maddtatterz.com

BEST SPA / CRYOTHERAPY ALIVE AND WELL CENTER FOR NATURAL HEALING 29992 Hunter Road, Suite 100, Murrieta 951-501-9977, stayaliveandwell.life A concierge alternative wellness center, Alive and Well Center for Natural Healing brings together specialists in preventative and holistic modalities, all with the goal of inspiring and empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being. Owner and founder Cindy Kelly is a certified colon hydrotherapist, hyperbaric oxygen therapist, digestive therapist, reflexologist and nutritional counselor. She uses her personal experience as a Stage 3 colon cancer survivor to drive her mission to help others navigate their own journey to wellness from the inside out.

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2. KORI KRYOTHERAPY ATHLETIC RECOVERY CENTER 39400 Murrieta Hot Springs Road, Suite 117, Murrieta, 951-461-0734 korikryotherapy.com 3 FROZEN IN TIME CRYOTHERAPY 31534 Railroad Canyon Road, Suite H, Canyon Lake, 888-348-2796 frozenintimecryo.com

BEST TATTOO STUDIO KNUCKLEHEADS TATTOO 1231 E. Washington St., Suite D, Colton 909-222-4112 Knuckleheads Tattoo offers a range of tattoo and piercing services from their Colton-based studio. By appointment or as a walk-in, owner Luis Martinez and his team of artists provide tattoo services that include black and gray, cover up and color. Piercing services feature ear cartilage and ear lobe piercing, as well as a range of other piercings, including navel, tongue, eyebrow and nose. The popular studio has a 4.5-star Yelp rating and 4.8-star Google rating, with many customers sharing positive experiences in areas such as professionalism, skill and cleanliness.

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3. BUD’S TIRES Multiple locations budstires.com

BEST TUTORING SERVICE

BEST TIRE DEALER AMERICA’S TIRE Multiple locations americastire.com America’s Tire in Riverside is a one-stop shop for all of your tire needs. In addition to new tires and rims, the Tyler Mall location offers six service bays and several on-site experts ready to perform tire rotation and balancing, flat repair, tire inspection, winter tire change and new tire/wheel consultation. The Riverside location also offers America’s Tire Fleet services, meeting the unique tire and wheel needs of customers with vehicle fleets through custom pricing. Appointments for all services can be scheduled, and walk-ins are welcome.

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2. KUMA TIRE & WHEEL 6589 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-684-1852 kumatire.com

MY LEARNING STUDIO 17086 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside 951-789-5402, mylearningstudio.com Based in Riverside, My Learning Studio has been meeting the tutoring needs of students of all ages in the area since 2006. The one-on-one private tutoring format includes instructional support in all K-12 academic subjects, ESL, as well test-taking and study skills for standardized tests such as SAT and ACT. Additionally, My Learning Studio offers specialized programs for those with learning challenges such as ADD, ADHD or APD. Customized lessons are offered in-person or in a virtual format, and discounted pricing is available for low-income, at-risk and disadvantaged students.

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— SPONSORED CONTENT — Johnsons Hearing Aid Center has been serving Southern California since 1953. We currently have eight locations in Riverside, Orange, and San Diego counties. We offer a full range of professional services including hearing aid screening, evaluations, hearing aid repair, and hearing aid sales and service.

At Johnsons Hearing Aid Center you can expect exceptional customer service.

Julian Abedi and Kevin Mokhtari have over 50 years combined Julian Mary Kevin experience in hearing testing, hearing aid fitting, and programming. We are very proud of our EIGHT CONSECUTIVE YEARS winning the Press-Enterprise’s Readers Choice Award for Best Place to Buy a Hearing Aid! We work with many different hearing aid manufacturers which ensures no product bias. This means that we have numerous options regarding hearing aids that are specifically suited for your type of hearing loss and are not limited to just one or two options. We are dedicated to keeping abreast of the latest improvements in technological advancements in the hearing industry and are committed to offering the most current options to our clients.

In addition, we accept most major insurances and can help you get the most out of your hearing aid insurance benefits, if there are any.

Please feel free to call us to schedule your free hearing test. If you already wear hearing aids, call us for a free cleaning or adjustment of them. There is never a charge for these services no matter where you purchased your hearing aids!

Call us directly at: 951-925-6639

Voted

Voted

1 1 DOMESTIC CAR DEALER

#

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In the Inland Empire!

Proud Automotive Sponsor

■ Sales es ■ Parts & Service ■ Collision Center ■ Commercial Trucks

8000 Auto Center Dr. • Riverside Auto Center

951-687-2121 | www.frittsford.com BEST OF INLAND EMPIRE 2022

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— SPONSORED CONTENT —

Our practice is, and always will be, built around providing exceptional dental care to all of our patients living in the Hemet/San Jacinto Valley, and the surrounding areas of Riverside County and the Inland Empire. Winning the BEST OF IE again in 2022, and bestowed with the distinguished 2019 HUMANITARIAN AWARD, our skilled team is dedicated to providing the best possible dental services in a comfortable, hygienic atmosphere.

When you visit our office, you are choosing to work with a dentist and his team whose primary goal will always be to provide for the unique, individual dental needs of each patient. We are excited to create healthy smiles that will give each patient confidence. If you have questions regarding how Dr. Scott Gray can restore, maintain, and improve your oral health, please contact our office today at 951-925-0508 and one of our friendly team members will be happy to assist you!

550 E. Latham Ave., Suite 1, Hemet 951-925-0508 hemetsmilespecialist.com 2. SYLVAN LEARNING Multiple locations sylvanlearning.com 3. MATHNASIUM Multiple locations mathnasium.com

BEST URGENT CARE / ER TEMECULA VALLEY HOSPITAL 31700 Temecula Parkway, Temecula 951-331-2200 temeculavalleyhospital.com Open 24/7, the Emergency Department at Temecula Valley Hospital meets a wide range of emergency and urgent care needs. TVH is a designated receiving center for Riverside and San Diego counties in the areas of heart attack (STEMI) and stroke care. TVH also provides several advanced emergency medicine 1

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services including cardiac catheterization and post-cardiac-arrest therapeutic hypothermia.

TVH’s website displays current ER wait times, and the ER Reserve feature allows patients to request a time up to 12 hours in advance for non-life-threatening needs or injuries.

— SPONSORED CONTENT —

2. BEAVER MEDICAL GROUP Multiple locations, 951-845-0313 beavermedicalgroup.com 3. INLAND URGENT CARE Multiple locations inlandurgentcare.com

BEST VETERINARIAN 1 TEMECULA VALLEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL 26612 Margarita Road, Suite 104, Murrieta, 951-200-3877 temeculavalleyanimalhospital.com Temecula Valley Animal Hospital’s “fear-free” philosophy to pet care, led by veterinarian Dr. Lara Downs and her team, takes “the ‘pet’ out of petrified” for every furry and feathered patient. Through the use of pheromones and calming music, anxious or nervous pets find a comfortable setting for care – an approach that makes TVAH a local favorite for pet owners.

Located in Murrieta, TVAH offers a range of comprehensive services, spay and neuter procedures, vaccines, blood work, surgical procedures and prescription pharmacy support.

2. HEMET ANIMAL HOSPITAL 130 N. Girard St, Hemet 951-658-3119 hemetanimalhospital.com 3. BUTTERFIELD ANIMAL HOSPITAL 33449 Temecula Parkway, Temecula 951-303-8260 butterfieldvet.com

BEST WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC TRI VALLEY MEDICAL WEIGHT CONTROL 39525 Los Alamos Road, Suite E, Murrieta, 951-447-8956 trivalleymedicalweightcontrol.com For those looking to shed unwanted pounds, Tri Valley Medical Weight Control has provided individualized weight loss programs for more than 30 years to both adults and children. A team of licensed nurse practitioners and physicians develop a personalized plan for each patient that includes a body composition analysis, meal plans, B12 injections and supplements. Progress is supervised through weekly or monthly consultations to support patients in achieving their weight loss goals and main1

A spacious, inviting, and friendly establishment—Car Wash Depot takes special pride in offering the best in the car wash industry. We are the only car wash in the valley that offers 100% hand car wash. We use no brushes, and we offer a fullservice car wash, where we do all the work, and you enjoy our amenities. You don’t have to work on cleaning your own car. We do all that for you. We put a lot into every step involved in cleaning your vehicles; from our three step Hydrojet Wheel Cleaning, Multi-Point Pre-Wash Prep, and Soft Touch 100% Hand Washing, to our 4-Step Rinse Process, plus our Niagara Falls Super Rinse, designed and manufactured by our very own engineers.

Add to all that our Superior Window Shine, Compressed Air Treatment, and Power Wipe Down, and you’ve got a unique auto washing experience. We also offer Oil Change services, where we only use Castrol oil for most of our oil changes. We have a Smog Check department where we are State Licensed to do test only smog check on 2000 and newer vehicles. Our Window Tinting is back after the nation went through a pandemic. We have a complete detail center to keep your car looking brand new.

taining a healthy lifestyle – all without any start-up fees or contracts.

2. JENNY CRAIG WEIGHT LOSS CENTER Multiple locations jennycraig.com 3. WEIGHT WATCHERS Multiple locations weightwatchers.com

Johnsons Hearing Aid Center has been serving Southern California since 1953. We currently have eight (8) locations in Riverside, Orange, and San Diego Counties.

We offer a full range of professional services including hearing aid screening, evaluations, hearing aid repair, and hearing aid sales and service.

At Johnsons Hearing Aid Center you can expect exceptional customer service. Julian Abedi and Kevin Mokhtari have over 50 years combined experience in hearing testing, hearing aid fitting, and programming.

We are very proud of our EIGHT CONSECUTIVE YEARS winning the Press-Enterprise’s Readers Choice Award for Best Place to Buy a Hearing Aid! We work with many different hearing aid manufacturers which ensures no product bias. This means that we have numerous options regarding hearing aids that are

specifically suited for your type of hearing loss and are not limited to just one or two options.

We are dedicated to keeping abreast of the latest improvements in technological advancements in the hearing industry and are committed to offering the most current options to our clients.

In addition, we accept most major insurances and can help you get the most out of your hearing aid insurance benefits, if there are any.

Please feel free to call us to schedule your free hearing test. If you already wear hearing aids, call us for a free cleaning or adjustment of them.

There is never a charge for these services no matter where you purchased your hearing aids!

401 E Latham Ave, Hemet, CA 92543

Call us directly at: 951-925-6639 Julian

Mary

Kevin

RICKY'S

F l owe rs & M o r e

THANK YOU

for voting us #1 Florist in the IE Full service florist Fresh floral blooms Special events and designs for Weddings, Special Occasions and Funerals 16781 VAN BUREN BLVD. SUITE 1A RIVERSIDE, CA 92504

951.776.8999

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Hometown Favorites NORTH: CORONA, LOMA LINDA, MORENO VALLEY, REDLANDS & RIVERSIDE

— SPONSORED CONTENT —

BEST BANK

3. ACHESON & GRAHAM GARDEN OF PRAYER MORTUARY 7944 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-688-1221, dignitymemoral.com

2. CHASE BANK Multiple locations chase.com 3. BANNER BANK Multiple locations bannerbank.com

1. QUICK QUACK CAR WASH 5116 Hamner Ave., Eastvale 951-422-3123, dontdrivedirty.com 2. MAIN STREET CAR WASH 4401 Main St., Riverside 951-686-8790 3. MISSION GROVE CAR WASH 383 E. Alessandro Blvd., Riverside 951-776-0425

BEST CHILDREN’S DANCE STUDIO 1. THE DANCE COMPANY 17088 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside 951-780-5757 thedancecompanyriverside.com 2. MISS CANDICES DANCE CENTER 10178 Indiana Ave., Riverside 951-525-3044 misscandicesdancecenter.com 3. ON POINTE TOO DANCE STUDIO 19348 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside 951-789-0391, onpointedance.org

BEST CHIROPRACTOR 1. DR. KENNETH HOLT, D.C., CHIROPRACTOR 3593 Arlington Ave., Riverside 951-274-0400 2. THE JOINT CHIROPRACTIC Multiple locations thejoint.com 3. DAVID G. MADISON, D.C. 3768 Jurupa Ave., Riverside 951-784-7800, drdavidmadison.com

BEST DENTAL OFFICE 1. ANNE MAROCCO-CASEY, D.D.S. 4959 Arlington Ave., Riverside 951-689-0220

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1. MARK B. SHAW FUNERAL DIRECTORS 1525 N. Waterman Ave., San Bernardino 800-303-3610, markbshawmortuary.com 2. AKES FAMILY FUNERAL HOME 9695 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-785-4071 akesfamilyfuneralhome.com

1. PROVIDENT BANK Multiple locations myprovident.com

BEST CAR WASH

BEST FUNERAL HOME

BEST PLACE TO BUY A HEARING AID At VIP Tots we believe that early learning is a partnership between parent, child and educator.

Children are actively learning at all times which means parents and caregivers are some of their first teachers. It is our mission to equip you with knowledge and skills in order to create an engaging and inclusive environment in and outside of the classroom.

By focusing on educating the family and child simultaneously, our early learning programs are a natural extension of the learning that is already taking place in the home. This continuity allows children to develop a range of skills, a sense of self and a strong foundation for learning to carry through the course of their lives.

We believe the parent/ child relationship is so inextricably linked that our brand identity visually reflects the connectedness where one does not exist without the other. On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire staff of administrators and teachers, we want to thank you for engaging in your child’s life and considering us to come alongside you.

2. RIVERSIDE DENTAL GROUP Multiple locations 951-689-5031, riversidedentalgroup.com 3. CHILDREN’S DENTAL FUNZONE, RIVERSIDE 5628 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside 951-406-1488 childrensdentalfunzone.com

1. MIRACLE-EAR HEARING AID CENTER Multiple locations miracle-ear.com 2. COSTCO WHOLESALE Multiple locations, costco.com 3. HEARUSA Multiple locations, hearusa.com

BEST SALON/BARBER 1. THE BOARDWALK BARBER SHOP 3627 Tenth St., Riverside 951-530-3387, boardwalkbarbershop.com 2. BELLO SALON 3600 Lime St., Suite E, Riverside 951-276-1475, bellosalon.net 3. JULIE JOHNSON SALON 6956 Indiana Ave., Suite 12, Riverside 951-784-4247

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY/AGENT 1. AUTOMOBILE CLUB OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (AAA) 3700 Central Ave., Riverside 951-684-4250, travel.aaa.com 2. COSTCO WHOLESALE Multiple locations, costco.com 3. EXPEDIA expedia.com

SOUTH: BEAUMONT, CANYON LAKE, HEMET, MENIFEE, MURRIETA, PERRIS & TEMECULA BEST BANK 1. WELLS FARGO BANK Multiple locations, wellsfargo.com 2. BANNER BANK Multiple locations, bannerbank.com

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Since 1975, Miller Jones Mortuary & Crematory has provided knowledge and compassion to families in the heart of Riverside County.

Our experienced and caring staff blends traditional values with contemporary products and services to memorialize every life with attention to detail.

With GREAT pride we are now a Dignity Memorial Provider and that brings us into the largest mortuary, cremation and cemetery provider of all North America, Canada and Puerto Rico network. We have professional and caring staff that can help you plan ahead. When you plan ahead, you get to carefully consider your options and make choices that ensure your life is remembered and celebrated the way YOU want- but you also lock in today’s prices and protect your family from worrying about money. If you would like to talk to us about pre-planning a funeral, cremation or would like a tour of our cemetery, please give us a call and we can answer your questions. We’re honored to be your favorite mortuary of choice.

Thank you so much to the amazing families and communities that we are privileged to serve.

Miller Jones Mortuary and Crematory

McWane Family Funeral Home

Miller Jones Mortuary and Crematory

Miller Jones Mortuary and Crematory

26855 Jefferson Ave Murrieta, CA 92562 951-698-6400

350 N San Jacinto St. Hemet, CA 92543 951-658-9497

165 West Seventh St. San Jacinto, CA 92583 951-487-6500

1835 N. Perris Blvd Perris, CA 92571 951-943-8313

Miller Jones Mortuary and Crematory 23618 Sunnymead Blvd Moreno Valley, CA 92553 951-485-4542

Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary & Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary 26770 Murrieta Rd. Menifee, CA 92585 951-672-0777

Miller Jones Mortuary and Crematory 1501 W. Florida Avenue Hemet, CA 92543 951-658-3161

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Hometown Favorites 3. BANK OF HEMET Multiple locations bankofhemet.com

BEST CAR WASH 1. CAR WASH DEPOT 140 N. Inez St., Hemet 951-765-6120, carwashdepot.com 2. QUICK QUACK CAR WASH 250 S. Sanderson Ave., Hemet 951-484-0003, dontdrivedirty.com 3. SPLASH EXPRESS 330 N. Sanderson Ave., Hemet 951-925-7034, splashcarspa.com

BEST CHILDREN’S DANCE STUDIO 1. TEMECULA DANCE COMPANY 32625 Temecula Parkway, Temecula 951-699-9952 temeculadancecompany.com 2. ACADEMY OF BALLET ARTS 26305 Jefferson Ave., Suite B, Murrieta 951-216-1853, academyballet.org 3. MISS APRIL’S DANCE 41810 Juniper St., Murrieta 951-304-7275 facebook.com/Danceinyourpants/

BEST SALON/BARBER

BEST FUNERAL HOME 1. MILLER-JONES MORTUARY Multiple locations 951-672-0777, miller-jones.com 2. INLAND MEMORIAL HARFORD CHAPEL 120 N. Buena Vista St., Hemet 951-658-3288, inlandmemorial-hemet.com 3. EVANS-BROWN MORTUARY, LAKE ELSINORE Multiple locations 951-679-1114 evans-brownmortuary.com

BEST PLACE TO BUY A HEARING AID 1. JOHNSON’S HEARING AID INC 401 E. Latham Ave., Hemet 866-377-6381, cchaid.com 2. JESTERS Locations in Hemet and Beaumont 951-929-2122 jestershearing.com 3. COSTCO WHOLESALE Multiple locations 951-719-2000, costco.com

1. VERONICA’S BEAUTY SALON 199 N. State St., Suite 101, Hemet 951-658-9777 veronicas-beauty-salon-beauty-salon. negocio.site 2. TANGLES HAIR SALON 3691 W. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-766-1669 3. HAPPY JOE’S BARBER SHOP 3116 W. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-925-9897

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY/AGENT 1. AUTOMOBILE CLUB OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (AAA) Multiple locations travel.aaa.com 2. DESTINATIONS EXPLORED 40583 La Salle Place, Murrieta 951-440-7575 jhose.dreamvacations.com/travel 3. CANYON LAKE TRAVEL 31740 Railroad Canyon Road, Suite 2, Canyon Lake 951-244-1831, cltravel.com

BEST CHIROPRACTOR 1. GREEN CHIROPRACTIC 43950 Margarita Road, Suite A, Temecula, 951-302-0130 green-chiropractic.com

— SPONSORED CONTENT —

2. LIFESTYLE CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS 2091 W. Florida Ave., Suite 120, Hemet 951-929-0100 lifestylechiropracticandwellness.com 3. WEST COAST CHIROPRACTIC 41750 Winchester Road, Suite M, Temecula, 951-296-3595 temeculachiropractor.com

BEST DENTAL OFFICE 1. HEMET SMILES SPECIALIST: SCOTT D. GRAY, D.D.S. 550 E. Latham Ave., Suite 1, Hemet 951-925-0508 hemetsmilespecialist.com 2. EDWARD J. FORMICA, D.D.S., INC. 1800 E. Florida Ave., 3rd Floor, Hemet 951-398-0680, drformica.com 3. ARMBRUSTER STANLEY DDS 40680 California Oaks Road, Suite 2C, Murrieta, 951-894-6440 stanarmbrusterdds.com

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The Village, a 60+ Active Life Plan Community (formerly a CCRC), has been a mainstay in the San Jacinto Valley for over 33 years. The Village offers an active, independent lifestyle, with a guarantee of support and services for life. Additional levels of care, such as Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing, are available with a substantial reduction on rates.

Village residents have peace of mind knowing this benefit is in place should they need additional services. Envision a well-planned retirement lifestyle free from the burdens of home management. There’s time for making new friends, staying engaged with arts and cultural programs, fitness and wellness classes, live monthly entertainment, in-house theater, fun outings and 5-star dining in a variety of culinary settings. Surprisingly affordable, The Village has maintained a low monthly service fee because, most importantly, the community is debt free. Where you choose to live matters and at The Village your dream retirement lifestyle awaits.

To learn more or to schedule a tour and complimentary lunch, please visit The Village website at www.thevillageriversidecounty.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S

BEST OF IE WINNERS!

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS! PLATINUM SPONSORS

DIAMOND SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSOR

A digital version of the Best of IE magazine is also available on PE.com BEST OF INLAND EMPIRE 2022

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BEST APPLIANCE STORE LOWES Multiple locations, lowes.com Anyone who has shopped at Lowe’s already knows that you can find pretty much everything for your home – from nuts, bolts and screws to paint to a new set of patio furniture to a barbecue to a new washing machine or refrigerator. Lowe’s carries many brands and types of appliances with a wide selection on display so you can see what they will look like in your home. Lowe’s also offers on-site remodeling specialists to help shoppers select what they’ll need to remodel the kitchen, bathroom or any other part of the home.

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ooking for a new appliance, dining room table or recliner?

Perhaps you’re finally ready to start that long-delayed home improvement project.

No matter your plans, the local companies here are ready to help.

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appliance stores.....................45 CARPET / FLOORING COMPANIES....45 door and window companies.. ....46 fencing companies...................46 FURNITURE STORES. . ...................46 garage door companies............46 garden centers / nurseries.....46 heating and a/c companies.......46 new home builders . . .................48 plumbers................................48 real estate companies..............48 SOLAR / ALTERNATIVE ENERGY COMPANIES....................50 ------------------------------hometown favorites.................50

BEST CARPET / FLOORING COMPANY

2. TAYLOR’S APPLIANCE 6140 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-683-6365 taylorsappliance.com

CASTILLO’S CARPET SHACK 6692 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-684-0212 facebook.com/CastillosCarpetShack Installing a new floor doesn’t have to be daunting or a major hassle, and it won’t be with help from Castillo’s Carpet Shack – a full-service flooring store that offers carpet, ceramic tile, hardwood, laminate and vinyl from a wide range of brands. Castillo’s also specializes in installation. The company was started some 25 years ago by Richard and Vera Castillo, who wanted to open a small business that would provide quality work and excellent customer service. The business is still family owned (run

by Vera and son Chris), and most new customers come in thanks to a referral.

3. THE HOME DEPOT Multiple locations homedepot.com

2. WEST COAST FLOORING CENTER 28011 Jefferson Ave., Temecula 951-693-1866

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Homebuyers create an economy all their own as they move into new places with their hearts set on making living spaces that distinctly suit their own family’s needs.

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westcoastflooringtemecula.com

and installing high quality garage doors since 1969, and says that its mission is “to help people when they are in trouble.” Abbott’s enjoys a solid reputation in the community for operating with honesty and integrity, and the business offers free installation estimates as well as 24hour emergency service.

3. FAIR PRICE CARPETS 1070 Center St., Riverside 951-419-3679, fairpricecarpets.com

BEST DOOR & WINDOW COMPANY ANDY’S GLASS & WINDOW COMPANY 25751 Jefferson Ave., Murrieta 951-677-7421, andysglass.com In times of rising costs for home heating and cooling, as well as the need to reduce energy consumption, replacing old windows and doors are smart home improvements that will make your home more energy efficient and reduce heating and cooling costs. And here’s a bonus: you also help the environment. Andy’s is a leading Andersen Window dealer in Southwest Riverside County, and offers a wide range of products in a variety of colors, materials and styles from the industry’s top manufacturers.

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2. GLASS DOCTOR, MURIETTA 26019 Jefferson Ave., Murrieta 951-894-5710 and multiple other locations glassdoctor.com 3. LOWES Multiple locations lowes.com

BEST FENCING COMPANY MCCABE’S LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION 30914 Wealth St., Murrieta 951-694-5384 temeculalandscapeconstruction.com A family owned and operated business since 2002, McCabe’s Landscape Construction prides itself on integrity, creativity and the passion they bring to every project. McCabe’s Landscape offers one-stop shopping for all outdoor living needs to save customers time, and the company has an in-house design team to get projects started. In addition to doing landscaping work plus gates and fencing, McCabe’s can design and install interlocking pavers, water features, stone and brick work, concrete, turf alternatives, recreational spaces, pergolas and patio covers, walls and terraces, and decomposed granite paths to make your garden a unique outdoor living space.

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2. RIVERSIDE FENCE 9375 Narnia Drive, Riverside 951-206-5813, myriversidefence.com 3. ELROD FENCE CO. 6459 Mission Blvd., Riverside 951-684-3102, elrodfence.com

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2. GARAGE DOORS HERO 18565 W. Minthorn St., Lake Elsinore 951-570-5707, garagedoorshero.com 3. PRECISION GARAGE DOORS 6236 River Crest Drive, Suite G, Riverside 951-383-3950, garagedoorriversideca.com

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BEST GARDEN CENTER / NURSERY

BEST FURNITURE STORE MACY’S Multiple locations macys.com It turns out that the large department store where you bought your favorite blouse and summer sandals also is a great place to buy furniture for your home. New furniture from Macy’s can bring your living spaces back to life, with items perfect for every room – from the dining and living rooms to the bedroom to the home office. (Doesn’t everyone have a home office these days? If you don’t, you might need one soon.) Go to the Macy’s website and see how your newly furnished room can look with help from the virtual room designer.

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2. JEROME’S FURNITURE & MATTRESS STORE Multiple locations jeromes.com 3. LIVING SPACES Multiple locations livingspaces.com

BEST GARAGE DOOR COMPANY ABBOTT’S AUTOMATIC GARAGE DOOR COMPANY 32920 State Highway 74, Hemet 951-926-4199 abbottsgaragedoors.com A broken garage door is a major inconvenience, while a reliable garage door that works properly and stays shut keeps everyone in the family safe and keeps vehicles and possessions inside the garage secure. Abbott’s has been repairing 1

LOUIE’S NURSERY 16310 Porter Ave., Riverside 866-568-2153, louiesnursery.com From tropical fruit trees and cactus to succulents, water-wise plants and perennials, Louie’s Nursery in Riverside carries a wide selection of plants, organic garden products, garden art and gifts to add natural beauty to any home. Open since 1977 and family owned, Louie’s Nursery also carries pottery, statuary, garden art and fountains to enhance any garden. Louie’s carries a large selection of quality pottery – from glazed Vietnamese and Chinese ceramics to Italian and Mexican terracotta pottery. Landscape consultation, delivery and planting services are also available to help you get started on any garden project.

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2. PARKVIEW NURSERY • Canyon Crest - 4377 Chicago Ave., Riverside, 951-784-6777 • 3841 Jackson St., Riverside 951-351-6900 parkviewnurseries.com 3. ARMSTRONG GARDEN CENTERS 27401 Ynez Road, Temecula 951-308-9100 and multiple other locations armstronggarden.com

BEST HEATING & A/C COMPANY YEAR ROUND HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 10444 Corporate Drive, Redlands 909-473-7900, yround.com Year Round Heating & Air Conditioning provides heating and air conditioning (HVAC) repair, installation and maintenance services.

A local, family owned business, Year Round takes a personalized approach to deliver HVAC solutions that work best for each customer’s unique needs. Of course, no one anticipates their air conditioner breaking down in the 1

EDITOR’S

PICKS

5 HOME IMPROVEMENTS

• CLEAN THE INTERIOR Get rid of clutter and any old or discarded items, then give your home a good cleaning.

• CLEAN THE EXTERIOR It’s not necessary to have the yard professionally landscaped, but it is important to make sure it’s clean. Remove dead shrubs, trees and/or grass. Add some touches that brighten the property and add to the curb appeal.

• MAKE NEEDED REPAIRS If the roof leaks, it may not be necessary

to replace the whole thing if it’s, say, 10 or 12 years old. Repair the roof’s problem area and get certification that it no longer leaks.

Look for and repair leaks in bathrooms, under the kitchen sink and around windows.

• PAINT Old, chipped paint can turn off prospective buyers. A fresh coat of paint in bright neutral colors can significantly improve the look of a house – and even make it look bigger.

• CONSIDER REMODELING CAREFULLY Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom are major projects. If a kitchen hasn’t been updated in 30 years and looks like it, remodeling can make a difference, but the results may or may not appeal to prospective buyers. It’s often best to let the new owners remodel.

SHUTTERSTOCK

Improving the look of a house can go a long way to helping draw the attention of buyers and adding value when putting it up for sale. Mark Dowling, chief executive officer of the Inland Valleys Association of Realtors and a broker and realtor for 12 years, offers these tips that don’t cost much but can improve a property’s value:

– MONICA RODRIGUEZ

abbottsgaragedoors.com Voted #1 Garage Door Company 2014 to 2022! THANK YOU! wards 16’x7’ Sectional Garage Door

*in White or Almond.

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P R O U D LY S E R V I N G THE INLAND EMPIRE S I N C E 1 9 7 7.

LO U I E S N U R S E RY.CO M 8 5 5 - 5 6 8 - 4 6 2 7 1 6 3 1 0 P O R T E R AV E N U E , R I V E R S I D E C A 9 2 5 0 4

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At right is a home office in one of the models at KB Home’s Carmel Ridge development in Riverside. KB Home launched its “home office concept” last year, converting bedrooms and dens into work-fromhome spaces for $2,000 to $3,000.

“We saw an opportunity,” said Rob McGivney, KB Home regional president for Arizona and Southern California.

“Homeowners will be looking for ways to make working from home a good experience.”

PHOTO COURTESY KB HOME

middle of summer, but it does happen! Year Round offers reliable repair service when you need it most, providing 24/7 emergency service in all its service locations to help customers as soon as possible – even on nights, weekends and holidays, at no additional cost.

2. INTEGRITY AIR HEATING & COOLING SPECIALIST 41571 Corning Place, No. 1, Murrieta 951-306-9061, iateaminc.com 3. J & M AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING 395 W. Esplanade Ave., San Jacinto 951-654-3464, jmairnheat.com

for water efficiency and performance. This will help homeowners use less water and spend less money on utility bills. To date, KB Home has built more than 18,000 WaterSenselabeled and Water Smart homes – more than any other homebuilder – and installed more than 900,000 WaterSense-labeled fixtures.

2. TAYLOR MORRISON Multiple locations taylormorrison.com 3. LENNAR Multiple locations lennar.com

BEST PLUMBER BEST NEW HOME BUILDER KB HOMES Multiple locations kbhome.com One of the largest and most recognized homebuilders in America, KB Home is committed to building water-efficient homes in some of the nation’s most drought-stricken areas. KB Home announced in July that every home it builds in the future in California, Arizona and Nevada will be WaterSense-labeled, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s highest standard 1

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BIG B’S PLUMBING 41610 Date St., Suite 101, Murrieta 951-297-9946, bigbplumbing.com If you need a plumbing company for your residential or commercial plumbing issues, start with the professionals at Big B’s Plumbing. Big B’s provides plumbing services to Murrieta, Temecula, French Valley, Winchester, Sun City, San Jacinto, Hemet, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar and other areas of Riverside County. The company is licensed, insured, bonded, and is an accredited member of the Better Business 1

Bureau with an A+ rating. The highly skilled plumbers at Big B’s use state-of-the-art techniques and equipment, and the company offers 24-hour emergency service to get your leak fixed fast.

2. TONKIN PLUMBING 3032 Vine St, Riverside 951-784-7586 tonkinplumbing.com 3. BOB THE PLUMBER 13545 Kelton Court, Moreno Valley 951-743-4825 callbobtheplumber.com

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY WESTCOE REALTORS 7191 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-784-2500, westcoerealtors.com Westcoe Realtors is a leading local real estate company with dozens of dedicated, full-time agents, brokers, escrow officers and office support staff specializing in residential, commercial and vacant land sales and purchases in Riverside, Moreno Valley and Corona.

Westcoe’s website lists information about each of the cities it serves – including school districts and chambers of commerce – as well 1

Thank you for voting for us!

Our professional team of agents go above and beyond meeting client needs and expectations during the real estate buying and selling process. Find your dream home here today

www.search.myhomefinderinfo.com

Call us today! (951) 684-3000 7223 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA 92504

BEST OF INLAND EMPIRE 2022

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Hometown Favorites NORTH: CORONA, LOMA LINDA, MORENO VALLEY, REDLANDS AND RIVERSIDE BEST CREDIT UNION 1. ALTURA CREDIT UNION Multiple locations 888- 883-7228, alturacu.com 2. SCHOOLSFIRST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Multiple locations 800-462-8328, schoolsfirstfcu.org 3. WESCOM CREDIT UNION Multiple locations 888-493-7266, wescom.org

BEST INSURANCE AGENT/AGENCY 1. HUB INTERNATIONAL 3390 University Ave., Suite 300, Riverside 951-788-8500, bit.ly/3ThUs3C 2. NEW YORK LIFE INLAND EMPIRE 4204 Riverwalk Parkway, Suite 200, Riverside, 951-354-1400 inlandempire.nyloffices.com 3. JOSEPH INSURANCE SERVICES 3694 Sunnyside Drive, Riverside 951-683-0777 josephinsuranceriversideca.com

BEST PLACE TO BUY A MATTRESS 1. MACY’S Multiple locations macys.com 2. MATTRESS BROTHERS Multiple locations mattress-bros.com as displaying a vast array of properties for sale, so people can see what’s available on their own.

Check out the articles posted on the Westcoe website that help educate everyone about the current real estate market.

2. RE/MAX HORIZON 7223 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-684-3000, horizonremax.com 3. BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CA PROPERTIES 39028 Winchester Road Suite 101, Murrieta 951-677-3565 bhhscaproperties.com

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3. JEROME’S FURNITURE & MATTRESS STORE Multiple locations jeromes.com

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

calif.aaa.com/insurance 2. BURK INSURANCE AGENCY Allstate Insurance 2129 E. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-652-2857 bit.ly/3R7igpg

1. CHRISTI RAINEY SHELLNER Westcoe Realtors, Inc. 7191 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-533-3335 bit.ly/3PQagb3

3. DAVE NOBLE Allstate Insurance 41555 Florida Ave., Suite B, Hemet 951-658-2889 agents.allstate.com/dave-noble-hemet-ca. html

2. MICHELLE RISSER REALTOR 7223 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 714-206-6611 bit.ly/3chboXq

BEST PLACE TO BUY A MATTRESS

3. ALICIA HOYER Westcoe Realtors, Inc. 7191 Magnolia Ave., Riverside 951-288-9345, aliciahoyer.com

SOUTH: BEAUMONT, CANYON LAKE, HEMET, MENIFEE, MURRIETA, PERRIS & TEMECULA BEST CREDIT UNION 1. ALTURA CREDIT UNION Multiple locations 888-883-7228, alturacu.org 2. SCHOOLSFIRST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Multiple locations 800-462-8328, schoolsfirstfcu.org 3. NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Multiple locations 888-842-6328, navyfederal.org

BEST INSURANCE AGENT/AGENCY 1. AAA Multiple locations

BEST SOLAR / ALTERNATIVE ENERGY COMPANY NEW DAY SOLAR 30770 Wealth St., Murrieta 855-444-6329 and multiple other locations newdaysolar.com Based in Murrieta, New Day Solar provides people with clean, renewable energy. Customers receive a professionally designed solar electric system that meets each customer’s specific energy needs, with installation. New Day Solar was founded by Scott and Mary Carlson 24 years ago.

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1. THE MATTRESS STOP 2115 W. Florida Ave., Hemet 951-766-4614, the-mattress-stop.business.site 2. MACY’S Multiple locations macys.com 3. JCPENNEY Multiple locations jcpenney.com

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT 1. MAYRA MCGOWAN Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties 39028 Winchester Road, Suite 101, Murrieta, 951-551-8404 mayramcgowan.bhhscaproperties.com 2. ROBERT SUNDBACK Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Vogler Feigen 3292 E. Florida Ave., Suite A, Hemet 951-315-1527 robertsundbackrealtor.com 3. MIKE MACDONALD National Realty Group, Temecula 27247 Madison Ave., Suite 120, Temecula 951-677-9842, bit.ly/3CrBeTr The company was a pioneer in the solar industry in Southern California, installing some of the first solar electric systems in San Diego, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. New Day Solar allows the founders to share their passion for the industry and put their stamp on helping the environment while customers reap the benefits of going solar.

2. SUNRUN SOLAR Multiple locations sunrun.com 3. SOLARMAX TECHNOLOGY 3080 12th St., Riverside 951-221-8172, solarmaxtech.com

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