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Merrimack Valley Magazine

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2021 MVMA Winners – Home Chic

July 9, 2021 by Kristin Cole

We are happy to present the winners of the 2021 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.

Custom Cabinetry & Remodeling
Blackdog Builders
Blackdog is a design/build firm started by Dave and Brenda Bryan in 1989. It was born out of a spare room and a pickup truck and has since grown into a residential remodeling company. They consistently build unique projects and thrive on the challenges remodeling offers.
Nashua and Salem, N.H.
BlackdogBuilders.com

Home Decor
Rose & Dove Specialty Gift Shop
Rose & Dove is a locally owned specialty gift shop that offers an ever-changing collection of hand-picked curated gifts. In addition to personalized gifts, their specialty collections include arts, crafts and puzzles; bar and kitchen; handbags; jewelry and much more.
565 Chickering Rd.
North Andover, Mass.
RoseAndDove.com

Indoor / Outdoor Furniture & Accessories
Yankee Fireplace Grill & Patio
Looking to heat up your indoor or outdoor space? Turn to Yankee Fireplace Grill & Patio, who offer a variety of indoor and outdoor fireplaces as well as grills, patio furniture, installation services and more. The team consists of home and hearth professionals who help make your dream project a reality.
140 South Main St.
Middleton, Mass.
YankeeFireplace.com

 

Kitchen Design & Supply
Cyr Kitchen & Bath
Since 1984, Cyr Kitchen & Bath has been a reliable source for design, dependability and quality customer service. The Cyr team helps customers with anything from small scale remodels to full renovations, offering individualized help with cabinetry, countertops, lighting, plumbing fixtures, flooring and paint.
Burton, Manchester, Salem, Tilton, and Windham, N.H.
CyrKitchen.com

Landscape Construction
Avedisian Landscaping
If you’re looking for a family-owned landscaping business, look no further than Avedisian Landscaping, who have been operating since 1921. The Avedisian family group promises to meet your needs with both residential and commercial landscaping solutions.
70 Salem St.
Methuen, Mass.
AvedisianLandscaping.biz

Landscape Supply
Rogers Spring Hill Garden Center
Beginning in 1902, Rogers Spring Hill Garden Center has grown into the largest nursery in the Merrimack Valley. In addition to their variety of annuals, perennials, nursery, tools and landscaping products, they also offer landscape design services.
1269 Boston Rd.
Haverhill, Mass.
RogersSpringHill.com

Stop by next week for the winners of the ‘Good Eats’ category.

 

The 2021 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Jeanne D'Arc Credit Union logo

Filed Under: MVMA Tagged With: Awards, bestof, MVMA, mvma21, MVMAs, Winners

2020 MVMA Winners – Good Eats (Part 1)

July 14, 2020 by Terry Suzuki

We are happy to present the winners of the 2020 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.

American
Burtons Grill & Bar
Burton’s Grill is the place to go for cuisine from the traditional to the innovative. Perfect for power lunches, after-work socializing and fine wine, Burton’s offers paleo, vegetarian and gluten-free options as well as classic American cuisine. Additionally, their scratch kitchens are able to customize menu offerings for your dietary needs and wants. Takeout is always available and several locations feature seasonal outdoor patios.
North Andover, Peabody, Burlington, Westford and Hingham, Mass.; Nashua, N.H.
BurtonsGrill.com

Asian
Feng Shui
With fun and unusual sushi offerings such as the Red Sox Maki roll (scallop tempura, spicy mayo, tuna and avocado) and the lobster tempura roll, Feng Shui’s extensive menu offers a playful spin on Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Executive Chef Patrick Shao’s background includes work at a five-star hotel in Beijing and top chef Johnson Ping Zhu did a stint at the famed Gramercy Park Hotel in New York. Their other chefs put on a show with their onion volcanos and knife wizardry at the hibachi grills.
Chelmsford and Tyngsborough, Mass.
GoFengShui.com

Pastry Shops / Bakery
Purple Carrot Bread Co.
In April 2018, Purple Carrot Bread Co. opened its doors as a cafe and eatery on Merrimack Street in downtown Lowell. Every item on the menu is made from scratch, from hearty stews to salad dressings and condiments. Rustic breads are the heart of Purple Carrot’s menu: Country Blonde, Kalamata olive, rosemary and garlic ciabatta are among the more popular offerings. Can’t make it to Lowell? Their wares are featured at summer farmers markets throughout the Valley.
107 Merrimack St. | Lowell, Mass.
PurpleCarrotBreadCo.com

Coffee Shops & Cafes
Frobie’s Cafe
This family-friendly cafe is relatively new to the Merrimack Valley scene. The pleasant staff and tasty food and coffee have earned Frobie’s a loyal following since it opened in 2014. They offer the unexpected: cherry blossom ice cream and homemade jalapeno Sriracha cream cheese are included on their updated menu. Plus, there’s outdoor seating.
101 Broadway Rd. | Dracut, Mass.
Frobies.com

 

Italian
Al Fresca Ristorante
A family-owned and run independent restaurant serving homemade Italian cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails, Al Fresca offers a taste of Italy in Tewksbury. Al Fresca is also the perfect host for social gatherings, business functions and family events. Need a place for outdoor dining? Call for reservations — their full menu is available.
1768 Main St. | Tewksbury, Mass.
AlFrescaRistorante.com

Irish Pub
The Old Court Irish Pub & Restaurant
The Old Court is an authentic Irish pub and restaurant located in historic downtown Lowell. Since opening in February 2001, they have become an integral part of Lowell’s bustling dining and entertainment scene while retaining their unique Irish identity. Their kitchen features the best in contemporary American cuisine. They also serve traditional Irish classics including shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and fish and chips.
29-31 Central St. | Lowell, Mass.
OldCourtIrishPub.com

Mexican
Casa Blanca
In 2006, the first Casa Blanca opened in North Andover. Its authentic Mexican food appealed to locals, and soon the Vargas family opened more locations throughout the Merrimack Valley. The atmosphere is inviting, the food is fresh, and the margaritas may be the best in the region. The tamales de pollo alone make Casa Blanca worth a visit, and with six locations in and around the MV, one shouldn’t be far away.
Locations throughout the Merrimack Valley.
CasaBlancaMexican.com 

Middle Eastern
Jocelyn’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge
The lamb, kafta and kibbee dishes make this Salem eatery a carnivore’s paradise. But fear not, herbivores — the vegetarian combo appetizer plate is so packed with freshness and flavor that you’ll forget it’s healthy. Jocelyn’s offers Lebanese and American food, a full-service bar and a martini lounge. Since May, they have offered outdoor seating.
355 South Broadway | Salem, N.H.
JocelynsRestaurant.com

Pizza
Tremonte Pizzeria
Tremonte Pizzeria specializes in Neapolitan thin-crust, hand-tossed pizza cooked in a stone hearth oven at over 700 degrees. They also serve burgers, wings and a variety of authentic Italian specialties. The comfortable dining environment is complemented by a wraparound bar featuring 36 beers on tap. Want something different for dessert? Try the warm apple crostata.
Lowell and Tyngsborough, Mass.
TremontePizzeria.com

Specialty Market
Butcher Boy Market
Featuring everyday favorites and hard-to-find specialty items, Butcher Boy Market has everything you need for your summer dining. While their 60-foot meat counter has all the poultry, beef, lamb, veal, pork and homemade sausages you need, you can also find baked goods, craft cheese, wines and spirits, as well as an eye-popping array of treasures for those with a sweet tooth. They’ve been around since 1955. Stop in and find out why.
1077 Osgood St. | North Andover, Mass.
ButcherBoyMarket.com

 

Stop by next week for the winners in the second half of our ‘Good Eats’ category.

 

The 2020 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Filed Under: MVMA Tagged With: 2020, Al Fresca Ristorante, Burtons Grill and Bar, Butcher Boy Market, Casa Blanca, Feng Shui, Good Eats, Jocelyn's Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge, Merrimack Valley Magazine Award, MVMA, MVMAs, Purple Carrot Bread Company, The Old Court Irish Pub and Restaurant, TreMonte Pizzeria, Winners

2019 MVMA Winners – Retail Therapy

August 13, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

We are happy to present the winners of the 2019 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.

Florist (tie)
The Flower Mill
Since it opened in 2012, The Flower Mill provided the Lowell community with a wide variety of custom floral arrangements for all occasions. Owner Joanna Hall is a self-taught designer who studied fine arts in Italy and at Manchester’s New Hampshire Institute of Art. She also makes the stores 100% soy wax candles.
183 Dutton St.  |  Lowell, Mass.
LowellFlowerMill.com

Flowers by Steve
Step into a floral paradise at Flowers by Steve’s Haverhill store. Steve’s can create specialized arrangements for weddings, anniversaries and other special occasions. Offering everything from classic roses to exotic bouquets, Flowers by Steve can tailor arrangements to your requests. Find the perfect bouquet for your favorite person with the help of the expert designers at Steve’s.
14 Cross Road  |  Haverhill, Mass.
FlowersbySteveInc.com

Jeweler
Barmakian Jewelry
Barmakian Jewelers Nashua offers a large selection of loose diamonds, engagement rings, wedding bands, designer jewelry and Swiss watches in their newly renovated showroom. Shop for top watch brands such as Omega, Breitling and TAG Heuer or jewelry from bridal designers such as Tacori, Coast Diamond, Kirk Kara and Scott Kay.
300 Daniel Webster Highway  |  Nashua, N.H.
Barmakian.com

Mens Fashion
The Andover Shop
Men can dress for success with quality clothing from The Andover Shop. Their unmatched selection of suit jackets, oxford shirts and silk ties will make you the best dressed man in the office. Spending the day at home? Their jerseys and colorful shorts will keep you cool and classy through even the hottest summer days.
Cambridge and Andover, Mass.
TheAndoverShop.com

Womens Fashion
Humanity
Humanity sells overlooked and timeless pieces that encourage their clients to live in style. As a Lowell-based boutique, they incorporate the culture and style of the city into this mix and attitude. This is why over the years they have become the go-to place for individualistic fashionistas.
128 Merrimack St.  |  Lowell, Mass.
HumanityStyle.com

Consignment Shops
Chic Consignment
Clients come from all over the Merrimack Valley to visit this Andover consignment shop. They offer an ever-changing selection of fun, trendy and high-end clothes and accessories, with a head-turning selection of handbags.
46 Main St.  |  Andover, Mass.
ChicConsignment.com

Apothecaries/Natural Products
Red Antler Apothecary
Red Antler Apothecary is located in Lowell’s Mill No. 5, a repurposed factory on Jackson Street. The apothecary sells soaps, moisturizers, cleansers and even mustache wax. Their ethically created, home crafted products include a pine tar soap recipe that is over 100 years old. Environmentally conscious clients can bring their own containers —
Red Antler’s cream, lotions and cleaners are sold by the ounce.
Mill No. 5  |  250 Jackson St.  |  Lowell, Mass.
RedAntlerApothecary.com

 

 

Stop by next week for the winners in the ‘Retail Therapy’ category.

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Filed Under: Fashion, MVMA Tagged With: 2019, Apothecaries and Natural Products, Barmakian Jewelry, Best Of, Chic Consignment, Consignment Shop, Florist, Flowers by Steve, Humanity, Jeweler, Mens Fashion, Merrimack Valley, Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards, MVMA, MVMAs, Red Antler Apothecary, The Andover Shop, The Flower Mill, Winners, Womens Fashion

2019 MVMA Winners – Health & Beauty

August 6, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

We are happy to present the winners of the 2019 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.

Day Spa
Spa Nijoli and Salon
Rejuvenate your body and soul with treatments at Spa Nijoli. Treat yourself to a soothing seaweed wrap or bring out your inner queen with your signature goddess treatment. Bring your man for a mens facial or couples massage. They also offer waxing, spray tans and a salon with hair, nail and makeup studios.
116 Pleasant Valley St.  |  Methuen, Mass.
Nijoli.com

Salon
Eyeful Beauty
For ten years, Eyeful has brought a sense of fun and fashion to downtown Lowell. Pinups adorn the walls, The Clash plays on the stereo — this is not your mother’s salon. Unless your mom is cool. Lowell’s premier salon for extensions, color, and cuts is located right in the heart of the city, so after getting your hair done, you can walk the cobblestone streets and visit some of our other MVMA winners.
Lowell, Mass.
EyefulBeauty.com

Health & Fitness Club
Merrimack Valley YMCA
The Merrimack Valley YMCA is a nonprofit association dedicated to promoting a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The Y’s activities have significantly enhanced public access to fitness, health, educational enrichment and numerous other services especially among children, the disabled, the homeless and at-risk populations.
Andover/North Andover, Lawrence and Methuen, Mass.
MVYMCA.org

Alternative Health & Wellness
Advanced Health & Wellness
This Andover establishment offers a full range of holistic health treatments, including infrared sauna, massage and craniosacral therapy. Their licensed practitioners will help you seek relief from pain, stress and inflammation.
76 Main St.  |  Andover, Mass.
AdvancedHealthOnline.com

Laser Center
All Care Laser Center
All Care Laser Center is the Merrimack Valley’s go-to for all things laser technology. They specialize in coolsculpting, laser facials, Botox injections, tattoo removal, cellulite treatments and a whole host of other procedures. Laser hair removal is also available for all skin types, and their professional, qualified staff will make sure your experience is pleasant and comfortable.
820A Turnpike St. | North Andover, Mass.
AllCareLaserCenter.com

Skincare (tie)
Soleil Salon and Spa
Soleil Salon and Spa have been committed to exceptional standards of service and guest care since opening in 2003. What started as a six-chair salon has become something even bigger and better. Their carefully chosen and exceptionally trained staff believe that our only competition is within ourselves.
49 Range Rd., Suite 105  |  Windham, N.H.
Soleil-Salon.com

Andrea’s Skin Care
Skin feeling tired? Bring its natural beauty back to life at Andrea’s. Their skin experts offer facials, microdermabrasion and eyelash and eyebrow tinting. If you’re getting ready for a night out, stop in for a wax or have a professional makeup artist create a stunning look with Andrea’s own line of mineral makeup.
78 Main St.  |  Andover, Mass.
AndreasSkinCare.com

Oral Health
Dr. Joseph A. Cardarelli Jr.
Cardarelli Orthodontics of Massachusetts delivers a full range of advanced orthodontics, from traditional braces to Invisalign Teen. Dr. Cardarelli’s practice features an in-house orthodontic lab and has been serving the Merrimack Valley for over 35 years. He is an assistant clinical professor in the department of orthodontics at Tufts University.
234 Summer St.  |  Haverhill, Mass.
DrCardarelli.com

 

 

Stop by next week for the winners in the ‘Retail Therapy’ category.

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Filed Under: MVMA Tagged With: 2019 MVMAs, Advanced Health and Wellness, Alternative Health and Wellness, Andrea’s Skin Care, Best Of, Day Spa, Dentist, Dr Carderalli, Dr Joseph A Cardaralli Jr, Eyeful Beauty, Health, Health & Fitness Club, Merrimack Valley, Merrimack Valley Magazine Rewards, Merrimack Valley YMCA, Oral Health, Skincare, Soleil Salon and Spa, spa, Winners

2019 MVMA Winners – Wine & Dine (Part 2)

July 30, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

We are happy to present the winners of the 2019 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.

Specialty Market
Butcher Boy Market
Break out the grill and grab an apron. Butcher Boy Market’s 60-foot meat counter has all the poultry, beef, lamb, veal, pork and homemade sausages you need. Not sure what you want? Their experienced butchers are happy to help you decide. Pick up some fresh fruit and beer for the perfect summer spread.
1077 Osgood St.  |  North Andover, Mass.
ButcherBoyMarket.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.
Andover, Mass.
AndoverClassicWines.com

World Cuisine
Fuse Bistro
Chef-owned Fuse prides itself on making its food from scratch, right down to the ice cream and chipotle ketchup. 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
The Keep
The Keep has quickly rose to prominence as a go-to spot in downtown Lowell for craft beer, dinner with the family or cocktails with friends after work. Featuring beer from award-winning breweries both near and far, signature cocktails and fresh, locally sourced food served in an approachable atmosphere. The Keep also boasts an extensive whiskey and bourbon selection.
110 Gorham St.  |  Lowell, Mass.
TheKeepLowell.com

Diner
Four Sisters Owl Diner
Breakfast at this historic diner is guaranteed to start your day off right. Old favorites are given new life in Owl’s savory steak and eggs, homemade corned beef hash and creamed chipped beef on toast. Soups, salads and sandwiches make up the lunch menu. Wake up and fuel up at the Owl Diner.
244 Appleton St.  |  Lowell, Mass. 

Frozen Treats
Kimball Farm
Kimball Farm has been making ice cream for more than 75 years. With a variety of sherbet, sorbet and frozen yogurt, in addition to more than 50 flavors of ice cream, there’s something for everyone. Vanilla ice cream is a traditional crowd favorite, particularly in hot fudge sundaes, banana splits, and the Kimball Special — three softball-size scoops of ice cream, three toppings, marshmallow, whipped cream and nuts.
Carlisle, Lancaster and Westford, Mass.; Jaffrey, N.H.
KimballFarm.com

Alfresco Dining
The Deck
The Deck is located at historic Bridge Marina, the oldest marina on the Merrimack River, and offers delicious drinks and a simple, refined menu. The food is freshly prepared each day from scratch to deliver a unique and tasty experience and the waterview is one of the best in the region. After a recent expansion, there is now a second-floor roofed lounge area.
179R Bridge Rd.  |  Salisbury, Mass.
TheDeckSalisbury.com

Caterers
Two Chefs Are Better Than One
Two Chefs Are Better Than One Catering can create an ideal menu for any wedding or celebration, whether it’s a quaint family gathering or an extravagant gala with hundreds of guests. 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
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

 

 

Stop by next week for the winners in the second half of our ‘Wine & Dine’ category.

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Filed Under: Food & Drink, MVMA Tagged With: 2019, Andover Classic Wines, Awards, Butcher Boy Market, Congrats, Four Sisters Owl Diner, Fuse Bistro, Good Eats, Hooked Seafood, Kimball Farm, MVMA, MVMAs, ReadersChoice, The Deck, The Keep, Two Chefs Are Better Than One, wine & dine, Winners

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