Best of West Sound Results 2022

April 21, 2022 - Best of West Sound Results, Featured - Comments: 

WestSound Magazine presents the annual Best of West Sound results for 2022! Entries have been submitted from Bainbridge Island all the way to Gig Harbor. On this page we’ve listed the businesses and places you love the most. Enjoy!

Best Seafood Restaurant

Boat Shed

Serving seasonal and local favorites along with all-time classics for 30-plus years on the Manette waterfront, the Boat Shed is accessible by car or boat. Whether it’s dinner in the summer on the huge deck, or a cozy fall lunch inside when the wind is blowing and waves are crashing, there’s always something good in store at the Boat Shed.

  • Runner-up: Yacht Club Broiler (Silverdale)

Best Restaurant

Two-Way Tie

Maynard’s

With the tagline “Kitsap’s culinary destination,” Maynard’s offers locally sourced menus with bold flavors in a spacious, modern atmosphere. You’ll also find a bar with about 20 beers on tap and specialty cocktails; an educational kitchen that offers classes; and an adjacent market that serves coffee, pastries and grab-and-go selections.

Crabtree Kitchen+Bar

Crabtree Kitchen+Bar is both a casual and fine-dining restaurant. The rotating menu includes high-quality ingredients from local farmers, as well as angus beef from the family’s Kingston cattle farm. For special events, the Garden Room opens into a patio overlooking a park.

  • Runner-up: Boat Shed (Bremerton)

Best Mexican Restaurant

El Sombrero

  • 15611 92nd ST KPN, Lakebay (Key Center)
  • 1472 Olney Avenue, Port Orchard
  • elsombreromex.com

A family-run restaurant that offers the same menu at both locations — authentic Mexican food as well as some American takes on Mexican cuisine. Just about everything is made from scratch, in-house, using fresh ingredients.

  • Runners-up (tie): Moctezuma’s (Silverdale, Gig Harbor), Taqueria del Huarache (Poulsbo)

Best Italian Restaurant

Sogno di Vino

Sogno di Vino brings a taste of Tuscany to downtown Poulsbo. Incredibly delicious pizza — made in a wood-fired oven with seasoned apple wood — is the star of the menu, but you’ll also find pasta, paninis and dinner entrees such as chicken marsala and pancetta-wrapped scallops, made from fresh and often organic ingredients.

Runner-up: Il Lucano (Gig Harbor)

Best Asian Restaurant

Kachai Thai Kitchen

Kachai Thai Kitchen continues a family tradition that started originally with San and Lani Tran’s Sawatdy on Bainbridge Island in the 1990s. Chef Binh Tu Tran of Kachai Kitchen is one of the Tran children who grew up in the restaurant business and later learned from renowned Northwest chefs before creating his own menu in Poulsbo, including organic soups, curries and extensive entrees.

  • Runner-up: Hakata (Silverdale)

Best Breakfast

Oak Table

With authentic recipes using fresh, high-quality ingredients and breakfast served all day, Oak Table has an extensive, made-from-scratch menu. You’ll find everything from pancakes and waffles to crepes and omelets — and a lunch menu available on weekdays.

  • Runner-up: Hi-Lo’s 15th Street Café (Bremerton)

Best Brunch

Oak Table

With authentic recipes using fresh, high-quality ingredients and breakfast served all day, Oak Table has an extensive, made-from-scratch menu. You’ll find everything from pancakes and waffles to crepes and omelets — and a lunch menu available on weekdays.

  • Runner-up: SeaWolfe Diner & Lounge (Kingston)

Best Deli Sandwiches

Monica’s Waterfront Bakery & Café

The menu at Monica’s has been crafted using excellent quality, fresh, house-made foods. The café supports local as well as organic suppliers whenever possible and strives toward Earth-friendly, sustainable practices.

  • Runners-up (tie): Jersey Mike’s (multiple locations), Cup & Muffin (Kingston)

Best Lunch

Two-Way Tie

Noah’s Ark Restaurant

Now operated by the second generation of the Garguile family, Noah’s Ark has been a landmark and icon for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches since 1972. Originally a drive-in, the restaurant has a relaxed, charming dine-in atmosphere, with the menu offering everything from burgers and gyros to malts and milkshakes.

Monica’s Waterfront Bakery & Café

The menu at Monica’s has been crafted using excellent quality, fresh, house-made foods and ranges from quiches and sandwiches to wraps and soups. The café supports local as well as organic suppliers whenever possible and strives toward Earth-friendly, sustainable practices.

  • Runner-up: Kingston Ale House (Kingston)

Best Wine Shop/Bar

d’Vine Wine Bar and Bistro

Opened in 2013 and located in charming downtown Kingston, d’Vine Wine Bar & Bistro specializes in small-production Pacific Northwest and Old World wines. It also serves locally brewed beer and wine by the bottle or case. The charming bistro is located within a block from the ferry and has a patio overlooking Appletree Cove.

  • Runner-up: High Spirits (Poulsbo)

Best Brewery

Silver City Brewery

Started in 1996 by two brothers, Silver City Brewery is an unabashed local success story. Now brewing 10 year-round ales, as well as various seasonal lagers, limited series lagers, barrel-aged beers and rotating “rarities,” Silver City offers a brew for every taste bud and occasion. The Silver City Taproom features an extensive selection of draft beer.

  • Runner-up: Downpour Brewing (Kingston)

Best Steaks and Prime Rib

Two-Way Tie

Crabtree Kitchen+Bar

Crabtree Kitchen+Bar is both a casual and fine-dining restaurant. The rotating menu includes high-quality ingredients from local farmers, as well as angus beef from the family’s Kingston cattle farm. For special events, the Garden Room opens into a patio overlooking a park.

McCloud’s Grill House

  • 4111 Wheaton Way, Bremerton

McCloud’s caters to those looking for a great family-friendly setting featuring “down-home” food with an emphasis on prime rib, steaks, applewood-smoked St. Louis ribs and great burgers. A commercial smoker prepares the applewood- and alderwood-smoked ribs, pulled pork and brisket. The steaks come from the Midwest, and prime rib is always on the menu.

  • Runner-up: Kingston Ale House (Kingston)

Best Desserts

Monica’s Waterfront Bakery & Café

The menu at Monica’s has been crafted using excellent quality, fresh, house-made foods, with desserts ranging from cookies to cakes. The café supports local as well as organic suppliers whenever possible and strives toward Earth-friendly, sustainable practices.

  • Runner-up: Butcher & Baker Provisions (Port Gamble)

Best Burgers

Grub Hut

The Grub Hut is a laid-back and unpretentious gathering place specializing in classic American eats such as burgers, sandwiches, shakes, salads and, of course, tons of fried goodies. There’s a kids’ menu, fresh homemade soups and veggie chili, as well as homemade veggie patties to substitute on any burger, gyro or sandwich. Plus, almost 30 flavors of milkshakes and soft-serve ice cream.

  • Runner-up: Axe & Arrow Gastropub (Bremerton)

Best Pizza

Westside Pizza

Eat it. Love it. That’s the motto of Westside Pizza, which serves hand-crafted pizzas from freshly made dough, sauce made from vine-ripened California tomatoes, savory authentic meats and freshly grated mozzarella. The service is excellent and some locations even have live music.

  • Runner-up: Sourdough Willy’s Pizzeria (Kingston)

Best Out-of-the-Way Restaurant

Molly Ward Gardens

Located off the beaten path, Molly Ward Gardens is a family-owned restaurant worth the trip for its exquisite epicurean cuisine, the romantically eclectic dining room and the lush gardens surrounding the property. The menu includes garden-fresh, organic soups and salads; in-house sauces made from in-season produce; and homemade-style desserts; plus there’s a full bar.

  • Runners-up (tie): Big Apple Diner (Bremerton), Hamma Hamma Oyster Co. (Lilliwaup)

Best Coffee Shop

Coffee Oasis

  • 822 Burwell Street, Bremerton
  • 11212 NE State Highway 104, Kingston
  • 807 Bay Street, Port Orchard
  • 780 NE Iverson Street, Poulsbo
  • thecoffeeoasis.com

Coffee Oasis offers not only good coffee, but hope for at-risk and homeless youth. Thousands of youth have passed through the doors of the Coffee Oasis, which started in the 1990s as a street ministry and has since expanded to include a variety of resources (showers, laundry, clothing and food), youth centers, job training, mentoring, case management, a shelter and more. Stop by for a cup of good coffee and do some good for your community as well.

  • Runners-up (tie): Monica’s Waterfront Bakery & Café (Silverdale), Cup & Muffin (Kingston)

Best Restaurant

(when someone else is paying)
Two-Way Tie

La Fermata

  • 2204 East 11th Street, Bremerton

La Fermata offers “Northern Italian dining with a Northwest twist.” With a menu that’s more sophisticated than many locals may be accustomed to, it’s clear why the place is so busy on many nights. The menu is quite diverse — and features more than just Italian fare. It’s food made with passion and a dedication to excellence.

Molly Ward Gardens

Located off the beaten path, Molly Ward Gardens is a family-owned restaurant worth the trip for its exquisite epicurean cuisine, the romantically eclectic dining room and the lush gardens surrounding the property. The menu includes garden-fresh, organic soups and salads; in-house sauces made from in-season produce; and homemade-style desserts; plus there’s a full bar.

  • Runners-up (tie): Green.House (Gig Harbor), Maynard’s (Silverdale)

Best BBQ

Danny’s BBQ & Catering

With a tagline of “Texas-style barbecue done right,” Danny’s serves authentic “Texas Hill Country” barbecue. Using highest quality meat and hardwood, the barbecue is smoked for 12-18 hours — no sauce required. Melt-in-your mouth brisket, baby back ribs, pulled pork, cornbread and Texas toast are some of the other options — not to mention the beer.

  • Runner-up: Slippery Pig Brewery (Poulsbo)

Best Restaurant to Take Kids

Red Robin

Red Robin’s gourmet burgers don’t disappoint. The kids’ menu has everything from pizza and mac-and-cheese to meatballs and grilled cheese sandwiches. Adults, of course, will find their own dining pleasure, with a bevy of appetizers, gourmet burgers, salads and more, plus all kinds of beers and cocktails.

  • Runner-up: McCloud’s Grill House (Bremerton)

Best Bakery

Sluy’s Bakery

West Sound’s must-visit bakery, Sluys is famous for its breads and scrumptious sweet treats. This small, family-owned bakery offers a variety of breads, cookies, pastries and specialty desserts, all made from scratch. The donuts and cookies are hand-cut and individually glazes or iced — you won’t find a conveyor belt or assembly line here. Even the pie dough and lefse are rolled by hand. Don’t be surprised to see the line stretch to the street.

  • Runner-up: Monica’s Waterfront Bakery & Café (Silverdale)

Best Dentist

Costa Lowry & Dageenakis Family Dentistry

Costa Lowry & Dageenakis Family Dentistry has been located in Port Orchard since 2004 and prides itself on its warm, friendly and compassionate atmosphere where you’re treated like a family member.

  • Runners-up (tie): Dr. Melanie Bloomquist, Woodridge Dental (Port Orchard), Dr. Lisa Arthur, Illahee Dental (Bremerton)

Best Plastic Surgery

Cole Aesthetic Center

The core mission of Cole Aesthetic is positive transformation of every patient’s life, as well as transformation of the lives of all the employees. The center also expects its employees to deliver the “wow” factor and for the patients to experience that every time.

  • Runner-up: Cavalon Aesthetics (Silverdale)

Best Pediatrician

Dr. John Corrales-Diaz, The Doctors Clinic

  • 450 S. Kitsap Blvd. Suite 250, Port Orchard

Specializing in the field of pediatrics, Dr. Corrales-Diaz provides comprehensive medical care for infants, children and adolescents, acting as their primary care physician. He has the experience and skills to provide the proper medical care for children of all ages, working closely with parents to ensure that the child is developing and maturing properly.

  • Runner-up: Dr. Wendy Hawley (Poulsbo)

Best Hospital

St. Michael Medical Center

As part of the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, St. Michael Medical Center builds on the rich legacy of care that began with the Harrison family more than 100 years ago. The premier medical center in Silverdale puts patients and families first, offering everything you need for your best health and wellness — without a trip across the water.

  • Runner-up: St Anthony’s (Gig Harbor)

Best Physical Therapy

Kitsap Physical Therapy

Kitsap Physical Therapy is a group practice that’s owned and operated by a majority of its physical therapists. KPT specializes in orthopedic, work- and sports-related injuries. It also offers various specialty and preventative programs, including senior fitness, Strength After Cancer and cardiac conditioning. Founded in 1979, KPT now has about 20 partners/physical therapists and six clinics.

  • Runner-up: Poulsbo Athletic Club (Poulsbo)

Best Gym

YMCA

  • 3 909 NW Randall Way, Silverdale
  • 10550 Harbor Hills Drive, Gig Harbor
  • 2261 Homer Jones Drive, Bremerton
  • ymcapkc.org

The YMCA offers programs for people of all ages, interests and abilities. Whether it’s a fitness class, childcare program, day or resident camp, teen or family activities, small group support, volunteer opportunities or special events, you’ll find it all the “The Y.”

  • Runner-up: Bainbridge Fitness (Bainbridge)

Best Spa

Seaport Salon Spa

Located in Old Town Silverdale, Seaport Salon Spa is a family-owned and community-driven business. It began small and built its award-winning team to offer a full range of salon and spa services to help you renew and replenish your body, mind and spirit with holistic treatments.

  • Runner-up: Angeline Spa (Suquamish)

Best Hearing Professional

Megan Nightingale, Peninsula Hearing

Dr. Megan Nightingale has been serving the Kitsap and Jefferson county areas since 1990. She treats her clients as family, striving to provide a home-like, easy atmosphere and helping clients with a range of hearing and tinnitus needs. An officer in several state and national professional organizations, she’s been working with hearing and tinnitus issues for more than 30 years.

  • Runner-up: Hearing Advantage (Poulsbo)

Best Eyecare

Janice Ngan, Woodridge Vision Clinic

With an office in a private, serene setting, Dr. Janice Ngan uses state-of-the-art equipment for extended visual testing for eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. The large optical boutique has a vast selection of designer frames.

  • Runner-up: 20/20 Eyecare (multiple locations)

Best Senior Care

Martha & Mary

Serving seniors as well as children since 1891, Martha & Mary provides services across numerous locations including offices and campuses throughout the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas. Its diverse list of services includes home care and geriatric care management, senior independent living and assisted living, and rehab and skilled nursing care.

  • Runner-up: Fieldstone Memory Care (Bainbridge)

Best Assisted Living

Martha & Mary

Serving seniors as well as children since 1891, Martha & Mary provides services across numerous locations including offices and campuses throughout the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas. Its diverse list of services includes home care and geriatric care management, senior independent living and assisted living, and rehab and skilled nursing care.

  • Runner-up: Crista Shores (Silverdale)

Best Mani/Pedi

Apollo Nails

From mani/pedi and facials to spa services, Apollo offers quality, thorough and consistent services. The staff strives to make clients feel comfortable, satisfied — and in a state of pleasure and bliss.

  • Runner-up: Avalon Nail Bar (Poulsbo)

Best Used Car Dealership

Liberty Bay Auto

Liberty Bay Auto has built a reputation for expertise, service and dependability since 1989. It’s a second-generation local business with a culture of honesty and is known for selling only high-quality, reliable used cars that are backed up with great service.

  • Runner-up: Dick Vlist Motors (Port Orchard)

Best New Car Dealership

West Hills Auto Plex

West Hills Auto Plex is part of Haselwood Auto Group, a family of dealerships that began in 1949, when Chuck Haselwood opened the first one in downtown Bremerton. The recipient of various awards, including top-performing dealerships, Haselwood Auto Group continues Chuck Haselwood’s tradition of excellent customer service and high-quality repairs.

  • Runner-up: Grey Chevrolet (Port Orchard)

Best Mechanic

B&B Auto Repair

Bremerton’s venerable B&B Auto Repair was founded by brothers Joel and Nathan Baxter. The shop was one of the very first EnviroStars participants and recipients of the Governor’s Win Award. Today, B&B is perhaps the most experienced local shop when it comes to working on electric vehicles.

  • Runner-up: Town & Country Auto Repair (Bremerton)

Best Autobody

Ken’s Northwest Automotive

  • 19470 Viking Avenue NW, Poulsbo

Ken’s is known for being friendly, fair and honest — with great mechanics you can trust. They won’t try to upsell you and will make recommendations like they would for their own cars.

  • Runner-up: Trew Auto Body (Bremerton)

Best Tire Store

Les Schwab Tire Centers

In business since 1952, Les Schwab offers friendly and reliable service that includes more than tires, and is known for going above and beyond for its customers. It offers several locations throughout the West Sound region.

  • Runner-up: Kitsap Tire (Poulsbo)

Best Building Contractor

Disney & Associates

With a passion for construction and backed by years of wisdom under his belt, Bob Disney went into business as a general contractor in 1998. From the start, he committed himself and his enterprise to a high standard, in terms of both quality and customer service. Two decades later, Disney & Associates still clings to the principles it was founded on: honest business, unmatched quality and fair prices.

  • Runners-up (tie): A Kitchen That Works (Bainbridge), WRK Construction (Poulsbo), Smallwood Design & Construction (Bainbridge)

Best Kitchen & Bath

A Kitchen That Works

A Kitchen That Works LLC (AKTW) is a full-service design-build firm specializing in kitchens and baths. Passion for excellence is reflected in every project, and the holistic approach ensures the design and materials selected work well with the homeowner’s lifestyle and budget. Owned and operated by certified sustainable professionals, AKTW is dedicated to protecting natural resources while providing clients with beautiful, functional, low-maintenance homes.

  • Runners-up (tie): Smallwood Design & Construction (Bainbridge), Kitsap Kitchen & Bath (Poulsbo)

Best Remodeler

Two-Way Tie

A Kitchen That Works

A Kitchen That Works LLC (AKTW) is a full-service design-build firm specializing in kitchens and baths. Passion for excellence is reflected in every project, and the holistic approach ensures the design and materials selected work well with the homeowner’s lifestyle and budget. Owned and operated by certified sustainable professionals, AKTW is dedicated to protecting natural resources while providing clients with beautiful, functional, low-maintenance homes.

WRK Construction

WRK Construction endeavors to provide the very best service to its clients by listening to their needs, furnishing solid design and sound advice, and creating living environments with quality products and craftsmanship to match their exact specifications. The company is owned by Wayne R. Keffer, who has worked in the residential construction industry in Kitsap County since 1986.

  • Runner-up: Smallwood Design & Construction (Bainbridge)

Best Roofing Company

Hanley Construction

Established in 1987, Hanley Construction Inc. grew out of a side business more than 30 years ago to become Kitsap Peninsula’s premier roofing company. It offers high-quality work at competitive prices, and thousands of homeowners and business owners have entrusted their roofs to Hanley. When you hire Hanley, you’re guaranteed to be working with some of the best professionals in the business.

  • Runner-up: Integrity Roofing & Construction (Poulsbo)

Best Heating & Air

Dana’s Heating & Cooling

Locally owned and operated, Dana’s Heating & Cooling offers a variety of HVAC services and electrical repairs. The company has grown from a one-person shop in 1997 to employ more than 40 people and serve the entire West Sound and even beyond.

  • Runner-up: Advanced Heating & Cooling

Best Architect

Coates Design

Inspired by owner and architect Matthew Coates, Coates Design is a 14-person architectural design firm that provides design services for commercial, civic, residential and healthcare projects throughout Washington, as well as in California, Oregon, Idaho and beyond. The firm is committed to making a positive impact, creating and advocating for responsible and sustainable architecture.

  • Runner-up: Bloom Design Group (Seabeck)

Best Electric

Day Road Electric

Day Road Electric is a full-service residential electrical contractor serving Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap, specializing both in new construction and remodels, as well as small repairs. Its team of five electricians have a combined experience of 90 years in the industry.

  • Runner-up: Nexus Electric (Port Orchard)

Best Interior Design

Two-Way Tie

Bloom Design Group

Bloom Design Group was founded upon the idea that your space should speak your language, not the designers’. The firm creates homes that are more personal than perfect as well as more loved than simply lived-in offices that reveal core branding and attract the right target market. Cheryl Bloom is an award-winning expert whose talents have earned a reputation within her industry for innovative design in both residential and commercial projects.

DeMane Design

Nancy Finneson is an award-winning interior designer and kitchen and bath designer who holds several design certifications. She loves working with people and enriching their lives by helping create spaces that inspire, entertain and function brilliantly. Her achievements include three first-place and one second-place awards for design from the prestigious American Society of Interior Designers.

  • Runner-up: LaMont Design (Poulsbo)

Best Plumber

Two-Way Tie

Swift Plumbing

With 24-hour service, seven days a week, Swift Plumbing & Heating is a full-service plumbing company. Cal and Bev Swift founded the company in 1986 and built on the principle of providing the community with the highest level of craftsmanship and outstanding customer service.

Kimco Plumbing

Kimco Plumbing is a residential and light commercial plumbing company specializing in new construction. The company was established in 1990 by Bill and Patti Kimle and is now operated by the couple’s daughter and son-in-law, Robb and Jessica Young. Kimco’s reputation is based on providing the best possible customer service along with quality products.

  • Runner-up: Port Orchard Plumbing

Best Cabinetry Shop

Creekside Cabinet & Design

Creekside Cabinet & Design is a locally owned business that’s provided exceptional value to customers on the Kitsap Peninsula and in the Puget Sound region for more than 15 years. If you live on the Kitsap Peninsula, chances are the company has done work for someone you know.

  • Runner-up: NW Cabinet (Poulsbo)

Best Flooring Store

Floor Decorators/Carpet One

Locally owned and operated, Floor Decorators/Carpet One offers a complete selection of residential and commercial flooring options, including carpets, area rugs, ceramic tile, hardwood flooring, sheet and vinyl flooring, along with countertops and professional installation services.

  • Runner-up: Great Floors (Silverdale)

Best Countersurfaces

Creative Countertops

Creative Countertops specializes in custom quartz and granite countertops, as well as being Kitsap Peninsula’s largest Corian fabricator. It also offers green alternatives like icestone, paperstone and bamboo, and is the place to go for the best selection of solid-surface counters and sinks, shower and bath surrounds, as well as tile.

  • Runners-up: Works Granite & Stone (Bremerton), Great Floors (Silverdale)

Best Paint Store

Peninsula Paint

As an independently owned store, Peninsula Paint offers a level of service you thought no longer existed, along with an array of superior quality products, including premium Benjamin Moore paints and stains. The in-store professionals are specialists with experience and helpful advice to ensure the success of every project you have.

  • Runner-up: Sherwin Williams (multiple locations)

Best Furniture Store

Two-Way Tie

Arnold’s Home Furnishings

Arnold’s Home Furnishings has been serving the community since 1951 and is renowned for its excellent level of customer service, outstanding selection of home furnishings and accessories, along with a complete department devoted to mattresses. Arnold’s can assist you with room arrangements, fabric and carpet selection, and tie it all together with accessories to create a unique look.

Seldens

A complete home furnishings destination in the Puget Sound region since 1940, Seldens serves customers from all over West Sound. The stores help you achieve your dream of a beautiful home with more than 70 designer home furnishing brands and manufacturers of quality furnishings in variety of styles and price points to suit every budget. They also offer complimentary design services and financing options.

  • Runner-up: Bainbridge Home Furnishings (Bainbridge)

Best Hardware Store

Henery Hardware

Kingston Henery Hardware was opened in 2003 by Mike and Jane Henery with their son and their daughter-in law, Matthew and Tara Henery. The store prides itself on great product selection, competitive prices, top-notch service and family atmosphere.

  • Runner-up: Scott McLendon’s Ace Hardware (Port Orchard and Belfair)

Favorite Business

Kitsap Bank

Headquartered in Port Orchard and with branches throughout Kitsap, Pierce, King, Jefferson and Clallam counties, Kitsap Bank has been serving the local community’s banking needs for more than 100 years and is one of the oldest and largest locally owned and operated community banks in the state.

  • Runner-up: Evergreen Home Loans (multiple locations)

Best Candy Store

Amy’s Decadent Chocolates

Perfect place for that chocolate fix — mouthwatering, handcrafted confections like truffles, barks, caramels and creams. And the caramel apples are simply to die for (and a bit difficult to choose, considering all the tempting selections).

  • Runners-up (tie): Boehm’s (Poulsbo), Bon Bon (Bainbridge)

Best Realtor

Jane Woodward, John L. Scott

Jane Woodward is dedicated to transactional excellence and customer satisfaction. She works tirelessly to ensure that her customers’ home buying or selling process is as efficient, stress-free and lucrative for them as possible.

  • Runners-up (tie): Joni Kimmel (Poulsbo), Wanda Menees (Port Orchard)

Best Gifts & Specialty Store

Thistle Floral & Home

Thistle Floral & Home is a European-style flower shop with garden and contemporary floral design. The shop focuses on simplicity, preferring to offer well-curated gift options rather than a myriad of “trendy stuff.” The business is a firm believer in giving back, donating to local charities, groups and events.

  • Runners-up (tie): Red Plantation Marketplace (Poulsbo), Revival (Port Orchard)

Best Antique Shop

Two-Way Tie

Olde Central Antique Mall

Larger than most antique stores, this unique shop located on the downtown Port Orchard waterfront offers an eclectic blend of antiques, curiosities and collectibles. Plus, the knowledgeable and friendly staff add to a great treasure-hunting atmosphere.

Red Plantation Marketplace

Red Plantation is a bustling shop with an eclectic collection of vintage, recycled and upcycled, home and garden décor with a modern flair. The shop sources its merchandise from around the world and has about 20 local curators.

  • Runner-up: Thistle Floral & Home (Kingston)

Best Financial Advisor

Jason Wright, Edward Jones

Jason Wright believes it’s important to invest his time into understanding what his clients are working toward before they invest their money. He uses an established process to determine the most appropriate financial strategy for the clients, their family and their business, ensuring they have more options in retirement. He enjoys volunteering with local organizations and spending time outdoors with his family, including riding ATVs in the Tahuya Forest.

  • Runner-up: Matt Augspurger (Poulsbo)

Best Mortgage Company

Fairway Independent Mortgage

At Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, customer service is a way of life. Since opening doors 26 years ago, the team has help thousands of Americans achieve their dream of homeownership. Their goal is to act as your trusted advisor, providing a highly personalized service through every step of the loan process.

  • Runner-up: Evergreen Home Loans (Multiple Locations)

Best Real Estate Office

Two-Way Tie

Windermere

Founded in 1972, Windermre has multiple locations throughout West Sound and has been serving the local communities for many years.

John L. Scott

John L. Scott has many offices across West Sound. The broker associates live in the local community and make their mission to provide first-rate experiences for their clients.

  • Runners-up (tie): Sotheby’s (multiple locations), KW Greater 360 (Poulsbo)

Best Insurance Agency

Three-Way Tie

State Farm

State Farm has insurance agents throughout West Sound, offering services both to individuals and small businesses. The company is nearly 100 years old. Auto, life, renters, homeowners, health insurance and pet insurance — you name it and State Farm likely has it.

Farmers

Founded in 1928, Farmers offers an extensive network of local agents who specialize in a broad range of insurance products and are involved in their communities.

EHL Insurance

Now part of Brown & Brown, EHL Insurance has been serving the Poulsbo community and beyond since 2003. EHL was the result of a merger of two Poulsbo independent insurance companies, each dating back to the 1930. The company’s services range from personal insurance to property and casualty.

  • Runner-up: Countrywide Insurance (Bremerton)

Best Veterinarian

Alder Trail Animal Hospital

The family-run Alder Trail Animal Hospital has been serving Bremerton and Kitsap County since 1973. The hospital offers state-of-the-art veterinary medical care using many advanced technologies and modalities, coupled with good, old-fashioned customer service. The staff care about the wellbeing of your pet and spend time getting to know you both.

  • Runner-up: Purdy Veterinary Hospital (Gig Harbor)

Best Marina

Port of Kingston Marina

Opened to the public since 1967, the Port of Kingston Marina offers 262 slips for permanent moorage, 49 guest slips, and a variety of amenities such as shower and laundry facilities and small boat storage.

  • Runner-up: Brownsville Marina

Best Nursery

Valley Nursery

With certified professional horticulturists on staff, Valley Nursery offers a wide variety of products and services. Started in the early 1970s as a hobby farm, it includes a house and barn built before the 1920s. The nursery offers 6 acres of plants, along with professionals who can help your garden dream come to life.

  • Runner-up: Bremerton City Nursery (Bremerton)

Best Landscaper

Northwest Construction & Landscape, LLC

Whether you’d like a custom landscape with a decorative concrete patio, lawn care or landscape maintenance services, the skilled and professional team at Northwest Construction & Landscape will deliver an exceptional product at an affordable price.

  • Runner-up: Blacklotus Landscaping (Port Orchard)

Best Rockery

Morrison Gravel

Morrison Gravel has provided quality landscape products for the professional and the do-it-yourselfer in Kitsap, Mason and Pierce counties for more than 60 years. Its products are available for pickup or delivery in the local area.

  • Runner up: West Sound Landscape Supplies (Port Orchard)

Best Florist

Thistle Floral & Home

Thistle Floral & Home is a European-style flower shop with garden and contemporary floral design. The shop focuses on simplicity, preferring to offer well-curated gift options rather than a myriad of “trendy stuff.” The business is a firm believer in giving back, donating to local charities, groups and events.

  • Runner-up: Paul’s Flowers (Bremerton)

Best Attorney

John Mitchell — Sanchez, Mitchell & Eastman, PSC

A Bremerton native, John Mitchell has been practicing law in Kitsap County for more than 40 years. He specializes in personal injury law, as well as estate planning and probate, among other areas. The managing trustee of the Bremer Trust and a former Kitsap County pro tem judge in several courts, Mitchell has received many professional awards, such as Local Hero” award from the Washington State Bar Association, and has been active with several community organizations.

  • Runner-up: Bill Broughton (Silverdale)

Best Computer/Network Services

Help Desk Cavalry

Based in Bremerton and serving the entire Kitsap Peninsula, Help Desk Cavalry specializes in IT services for small businesses. The team provides friendly, patient and knowledgeable service to help businesses succeed.

  • Runner-up: Anywhere Technologies (Bainbridge)

Best Accounting Firm

Two-Way Tie

Hearthstone CPA Group

Hearthstone CPA Group is a full-service public accounting firm providing tax, auditing, financial and business advisory services. Its team includes about a dozen CPAs and several accountants who deliver results-driven solutions for individuals and businesses throughout the region.

Whitlock & Forster

Whitlock & Forster provides seasoned expertise and a full range of professional services tailored to clients’ unique needs. The firm is big enough to offer a range of services and consulting at a fair price, but small enough to give you the individual attention that you deserve.

  • Runner-up: Randy Biegenwald PS (Silverdale)

Best Bank

Kitsap Bank

Headquartered in Port Orchard and with branches throughout Kitsap, Pierce, King, Jefferson and Clallam counties, Kitsap Bank has been serving the local community’s banking needs for more than 100 years and is one of the oldest and largest locally owned and operated community banks in the state.

  • Runner-up: 1st Security Bank (multiple locations)

Best Credit Union

Kitsap Credit Union

  • 155 Washington Avenue (main branch), Bremerton
  • kitsapcu.org

KCU is a member-owned cooperative with more than a dozen branches throughout Kitsap County and more than 300 employees. KCU is committed to its members’ financial wellbeing and the prosperity and quality of life in the communities that the credit union serves.

  • Runner-up: Peninsula Credit Union (multiple locations)

Best Jewelry Store

Blue Heron Jewelry

Founded by Leo Fried more than 40 years ago, Blue Heron Jewelers is a destination for unique, high-quality, custom-made jewelry for all occasions. The store makes its own jewelry and also curates a complementary selection of jewelry designers to reflect the beauty of our region and appeal to clients who appreciate well crafted, thoughtfully designed jewelry.

  • Runners-up (tie): Two Sisters Fine Jewelry (Bremerton), Chrey’s Fine Jewelry (Bremerton),

Best Daycare

North Kitsap Boys & Girls Club

  • Kingston

Located in the Village Green Community Center, the North Kitsap Boys & Girls Club offers before- and after-school programs that include homework assistance and a variety of enrichment activities such as gardening, cooking and games. The club also has amenities such as a computer lab, half-court gym, outdoor playground and more.

  • Runner-up: Martha & Mary (multiple locations)

Best Nonprofit

Two-Way Tie

Coffee Oasis

  • 822 Burwell Street, Bremerton
  • 11212 NE State Highway 104, Kingston
  • 807 Bay Street, Port Orchard
  • 780 NE Iverson Street, Poulsbo
  • thecoffeeoasis.com

Coffee Oasis offers provides hope and services for at-risk and homeless youth. Thousands of youth have passed through the doors of the organization, which started in the 1990s as a street ministry and has since expanded to include a variety of resources (showers, laundry, clothing and food), youth centers, job training, mentoring, case management, a shelter and more. Several coffee shops support the Coffee Oasis programs — stop by for a cup of good coffee and do some good for your community as well.

North Kitsap Fishline

Serving the North Kitsap community since 1967, Fishline has the vision of a community where a safety net exists for all people, which includes adequate food, shelter, healthcare and employment. One of the oldest food banks in the country, Fishline also operates a thrift store. The organization received two Food Lifeline Excellence in Client Services awards, which recognizes most innovative and impactful food banks in the state.

  • Runners-up (tie): Kitsap Humane Society (Silverdale), North Kitsap Boys & Girls Club (Kingston)

Best Customer Service

Two-Way Tie

Kitsap Bank

Headquartered in Port Orchard and with branches throughout Kitsap, Pierce, King, Jefferson and Clallam counties, Kitsap Bank has been serving the local community’s banking needs for more than 100 years and is one of the oldest and largest locally owned and operated community banks in the state.

Thistle Floral & Home

Thistle Floral & Home is a European-style flower shop with garden and contemporary floral design. The shop focuses on simplicity, preferring to offer well-curated gift options rather than a myriad of “trendy stuff.” The business is a firm believer in giving back, donating to local charities, groups and events.

  • Runner-up: Monica’s Waterfront Bakery & Café (Silverdale)

Best Hotel

Clearwater Casino Resort

Clearwater Casino Resort is nestled on the shores of Agate Passage. Indoors and out, this breathtaking property captures the rustic, natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. It features guest rooms with spectacular waterfront views, as well as several dining options.

  • Runner up: Point Casino (Kingston)

Best Casino

Clearwater Casino Resort

Clearwater Casino Resort is nestled on the shores of Agate Passage. Indoors and out, this breathtaking property captures the rustic, natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. It features guest rooms with spectacular waterfront views, as well as several dining options.

  • Runner-up: Muckleshoot Casino (Auburn)

Best Live Music

Brother Don’s

Family owned and operated since 1978, Brother Don’s is a full-service restaurant that offers live music — from country blues to classic rock — several nights a week. It’s a favorite hangout for locals, families and travelers alike.

  • Runners-up (tie): Clearwater Casino Resort (Suquamish), Gig Harbor Summer Sounds (Gig Harbor waterfront)

Best Gallery

Lisa Stirrett Creative Warrior Studio

Since 1988, Lisa Stirrett’s work has evolved as she has explored and mastered many different mediums. Her work lends itself to beautiful interior and exterior art for personal or commercial use. In addition to selling art, the studio hosts frequent events and offers various classes.

  • Runners-up (tie): Collective Visions Gallery (Bremerton), Gallery Row (Gig Harbor)

Best Summer Camp

Miracle Ranch

Crista Camps’ Miracle Ranch offers scores of unique activities in addition to traditional camp fun. Wranglers also teach horsemanship classes that span a wide spectrum of skills. The camp’s goal is to offer experiences that result in personal growth, authentic relationship development, high-level customer service and massive fun.

  • Runner-up: North Kitsap Boys & Girls Club (Kingston)

Best Sports Field

Central Kitsap High School

  • Silverdale

The new CKHS football, soccer and lacrosse field opened in 2019, thanks to a facilities improvement bond approved by voters in 2016. The field is part of the new Kitsap Credit Union Athletic Complex, which also includes tennis courts and new baseball and softball fields.

  • Runners-up: Lobe Fields (Bremerton), Klahowya High School (Silverdale)

Best Park

Two-Way Tie

Battle Point Park

  • 11299 Arrow Point Drive NE, Bainbridge Island

Owned by the Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District, the 90.3-acre Battle Point Park includes lots of open space, two ponds, a jogging trail, athletic fields, a kids’ playground, a former naval radio station and much more.

Evergreen Rotary Park

  • 1500 Park Avenue, Bremerton

This 10.3-acre city of Bremerton community park features an inclusive playground, basketball court, water access and boat ramp, picnic areas and more. The park is also home to the Kitsap 9/11 Memorial, made from two steel beams, 5,000 pounds each, from the destroyed World Trade Center and from limestone from the damaged Pentagon.

  • Runner-up: Skansie Brothers Park (Gig Harbor)

Best Place to Take a Family

Point No Point Lighthouse

The 61-acre Point No Point Lighthouse and Park, owned by Kitsap County, includes a sandy beach and picnic areas, saltwater access and the oldest Puget Sound lighthouse, which the county leases from the U.S. Coast Guard. The U.S. Lighthouse Society has its headquarters in the old lightkeepers’ duplex, with half available as vacation rental. Tours are offered regularly.

  • Runners-up (tie): Ocean5 (Gig Harbor), Scenic Beach State Park (Seabeck)

Best Golf Course

Gold Mountain Golf Club

Dramatically sculpted into the Pacific Northwest splendor, the Olympic Course has garnered impressive awards and has taken its place as one of America’s finest municipally owned golf courses. Wooded enclaves, rolling terrain and wide fairways are touted by the Cascade Course, with a long history of providing championship golf in the Northwest. You’ll find stunning views and delicious cuisine at the clubhouse.

  • Runner-up: White Horse Golf Club (Kingston)

Best Town/City

Two-Way Tie

Poulsbo

Known affectionately as Little Norway, historic downtown Poulsbo is just one destination in this Viking city. A stroll through downtown will take you all day, as you explore the many local shops, studios and restaurants. A beautiful waterfront, water recreation, live theater, festivals galore and regular events make Poulsbo a year-round attraction. Make sure to venture beyond downtown, where you’ll find breweries, parks, more shopping and dining, and even an alpaca farm.

Kingston

More than just a ferry transportation hub, the historic town of Kingston is known as the northern gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. The quaint, walkable downtown has beautiful waterfront views, a park overlooking the ferry terminal and lots of shopping and dining opportunities. Beyond downtown, you’ll find more public parks, local shops with friendly merchants, a variety of restaurants and even a little gambling at the Point Casino.

  • Runners-up (tie): Bainbridge Island, Bremerton