Thousands of ballots have been cast, the results tabulated, and now we present the winners of the 2017 Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards. This spring, the top picks in all categories were chosen by our readers via our online voting platform. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and congratulations to all the winners!

Pizza
Oregano Pizzeria and Ristorante
Oregano has become a local favorite for good reason — real buffalo milk mozzarella, homemade marinara sauce and a brick oven imported from Genoa, Italy, earned the Newburyport spot this year’s top honors in the pizza category. But Oregano is more than just pizza, with gluten-free options, a healthy wine list and even an array of authentic Lebanese dishes.
16 Pleasant St.
Newburyport, Mass.
OreganoPizzeria.com

Specialty Market
Borrelli’s Italian Deli
For nearly 40 years, Borrelli’s has been offering fine Italian products. Stop in for a specialty sandwich such as the Sicilian or Neapolitan or go for something simpler with a sub or club sandwich. In a rush but want a homemade meal? Borrelli’s also offers lasagna, chicken parmesan, stuffed shells, shepherd’s pie and more.
322 Merrimack St.
Methuen, Mass.
BorrellisDeli.com

Water View
Seaglass Restaurant and Lounge
The panoramic ocean views at this casual upscale restaurant make it an ideal destination for a simple night out or a big celebration. Seaglass offers a wide selection of surf and turf entrees and local seasonal specials. Stop by Sundays for Seaglass’s Brunch by the Sea and enjoy a bloody mary with your water view.
4 Oceanfront North
Salisbury, Mass.
SeaglassOceanside.com

Wine Shop
Andover Classic Wines
Whether you’re throwing a party or need to pick up wine for dinner, Andover Classic Wines can help. Shop your favorite style or vintner, or browse by country. Find a cabernet from Argentina, a Riesling from Germany or a pinot from New Zealand. International beers and spirits are also on hand at this well-versed shop that offers expert advice to all.
Andover, Mass.
AndoverClassicWines.com

World Cuisine
Fuse Bistro
Chef-owned Fuse prides itself on making its food from scratch, right down to the chipotle ketchup and ice cream. The creativity of the seasonal and locally-sourced menu is matched by the easygoing ambience — for many locals, the outdoor seating evokes lazy summers sipping ice-cold craft cocktails with friends.
45 Palmer St.
Lowell, Mass.
FuseBistro.com

New Restaurant
Vasa Waterfront Kitchen & Bar 
If the rum bar, outdoor seating and fresh seafood aren’t enough to draw you to this rising star on the local culinary scene, the waterfront deck is a must-visit. Owner Sean Toomey, the mastermind behind Amesbury’s Crave, and his team have created a menu focusing on classic dishes prepared with finesse.
175 Bridge Rd.
Salisbury, Mass.
VasaWaterfront.com

Frozen Treats
Heritage Farm Ice Cream & Restaurant
As famous for its summertime Monday night classic car shows as its ice cream, Heritage lives up to its name, having fed and entertained families in the valley for over 40 years. Order your ice cream and cross the street for a walk along the Merrimack. It’s a Lowell tradition that will likely endure for years to come.
163 Pawtucket Blvd.
Lowell, Mass.
HeritageFarmIceCream.com

Alfresco Dining
Black Cow Tap & Grill
Riverfront views and echoes of Newburyport’s maritime past earned Black Cow top honors in the alfresco dining category. Nothing makes a plate of seared monkfish taste better than salt air and a cool breeze. And here’s a tip — order a nightcap from their selection of coffee and hot chocolate-based drinks.
54 Merrimac St.
Newburyport, Mass.
BlackCowRestaurants.com

Caterers
Two Chefs Are Better Than One
Whether it’s a quaint family gathering or an extravagant gala with hundreds of guests, Two Chefs Are Better Than One Catering can create an ideal menu for any wedding or celebration. Let Two Chefs worry about the details while you enjoy your special day. Work with their event coordinators to customize a list of options that meets all your needs and desires.
Lowell, Mass.
TwoChefsFood.com

Seafood
Fishbones of Chelmsford
Since 2006, Fishbones has set the standard for fresh seafood. From steamers to herb halibut, this is the place for lovers of the grand New England culinary tradition. The smoky, silky clam chowder regularly shows up on local “best of” lists. Find out why.
34 Central Sq.
Chelmsford, Mass.
FishbonesOfChelmsford.com

 

Stop by next week for the winners in the “Health & Wellness’ category.

The 2017 MVMAs are sponsored by: