Best of West Sound Results 2023

April 24, 2023 - Best of West Sound Results, Featured - Comments: 

WestSound Magazine presents the annual Best of West Sound results for 2023! 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 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.

  • Runners-up: Silver City Restaurant (Silverdale), The Loft at Latitude Forty Seven (Poulsbo)

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 Mexican Restaurant

Puerta Vallarta

With food created using the freshest, finest ingredients, Puerta Vallarta offers an authentic Mexican menu and atmosphere to create a truly enjoyable visit. Friendly service, vibrant décor and reasonable prices complete the experience.

  • Runners-up: Moctezuma’s (Gig Harbor, Silverdale), El Sombrero (Port Orchard, Key Center)

Best Italian Restaurant

Massimo Italian Bar & Grill

Located on the waterfront in Purdy, Massimo offers authentic Italian food with a beautiful view. The menu, which offers everything from pizza to spaghetti, reflects the roots of chef Massimo Terracciano, a native of Naples in southern Italy.

  • Runner-up: La Fermata (Manette)

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.

  • Runners-up: Uncle Dave’s Café (Port Orchard), Family Pancake House (Port Orchard, Bremerton)

Best Brunch

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. The extensive brunch menu ranges from pancakes and eggs benedict to chicken fried steak.

  • Runner-up: The Restaurant at Alderbrook (Union)

Best Lunch

The Loft at Latitude Forty Seven

The Loft has been serving a unique menu of fresh, homemade dishes on the Poulsbo waterfront for more than a decade. The food is prepared fresh from scratch using the finest ingredients, with choices ranging from tacos and burgers to steak.

  • Runner-up: Noah’s Ark Restaurant (Bremerton)

Best Wine Shop/Bar

Sinclairs 22

The wine and beer shop aims to feel like an experiential space and a sophisticated, New York style shop with an upscale atmosphere and friendly service. You’ll also find charcuterie and cheese, as well as crackers — everything you need for a party.

  • Runners-up: The Weekender (Bremerton), Morso Bistro (Gig Harbor), Holy Water A Heavenly Lounge (Port Orchard), d’Vine Wine Bar and Bistro (Kingston)

Best Brewery

Silver City Brewery

Started in 1996 by two brothers, Silver City Brewery is an unabashed local success story. Brewing nine year-round ales, as well as various seasonal lagers and limited series lagers, Silver City offers a brew for every taste bud and occasion. The Silver City Taproom features an extensive selection of draft beer.

  • Runner-up: Rainy Daze Brewing (Poulsbo)

Best Liquor Store

High Spirits

A huge wine cellar with just about every varietal of wine, a 1,000-square-foot walk-in beer cooler and a large selection of liquor — you’ll find this and a lot more at High Spirits. Much more than your typical a liquor store, this shop is a destination for anyone looking for a unique collection of curated wine, beer and spirits.

  • Runner-up: Suquamish Liquor Store (Suquamish)

Best Deli Sandwiches

Monica’s Waterfront Café

A staple in Old Town Silverdale for many years, Monica’s has a team who thinks globally and acts locally, sourcing from local farms and businesses and offering ingredients that are sustainable and responsible as much as possible. The café also supports local food banks and other nonprofits.

  • Runner-up: Cup ‘N Muffin (Kingston)

Best Steaks/Prime Rib

McCloud’s Grill House

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 runs daily, preparing the applewood- and alderwood-smoked ribs, pulled pork and brisket. The steaks come from the Midwest, and only corn-fed beef is used. And prime rib is always on the menu.

  • Runners-up: Sully’s Bistro & Bar (Suquamish), Carbon Mexican Steakhouse (Port Orchard, Silverdale), Crabtree Kitchen+Bar (Poulsbo), 19th Hole Bar & Grill (Bremerton)

Best Desserts

McGavin’s Bakery

  • 619 N Callow Avenue, Bremerton

Known as the go-to place in Bremerton for quality baked breads, cakes, pies and pastries since 1981, McGavin’s is best known for its traditional Pink Champagne Cake. You’ll find treats like peanut butter cookies, banana nut cakes, chocolate cream pies and cherry strudels, just to name a few.

  • Runner-up: Amy’s Decadent Chocolates (Bremerton)

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.

  • Runners-up: The Loft at Latitude Forty Seven (Poulsbo), Noah’s Ark Restaurant (Bremerton), Juicy J’s Smoked Burgers (Poulsbo), Gourmet Burger Shop (Gig Harbor)

Best Pizza

Spiro’s

  • Multiple Locations

Spiro’s is always a reliable spot for pizza, no matter which location you land at. The menu varies for each location but typically includes other offerings besides pizza, such as pasta or subs, as well as beer and wine.

  • Runner-up: Tony’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria (Bremerton)

Best Barbecue

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: The Smokin’ Robinsons in McCloud’s Grill House (Bremerton)

Best Coffee Shop

Café Corvo

Located in Bremerton’s Charleston neighborhood, Café Corvo has the tagline “Coffee. Kindness. Community.” The café strives to work with local vendors located within a 25-mile radius, including roasters like Pegasus on Bainbridge Island and Cab Coffee Roasters in Bremerton, as well as source pastries from neighbor McGavin’s Bakery and Port Orchard’s Dude Donuts.

  • Runner-up: Coffee Oasis (multiple locations)

Best Restaurant (When Someone Else Is Paying)

La Fermata

  • 2204 East 11th Street, Bremerton

Located in Manette, 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.

  • Runner-up: Crabtree Kitchen+Bar (Poulsbo)

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.

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

Best Restaurant to Take the 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: Noah’s Ark Restaurant (Bremerton)

Best Bakery

Sluys 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: McGavin’s Bakery (Bremerton)

Best Doctor

Andrea Chymiy, MD, MPH, Pacifica Medicine

Dr. Andrea Chymiy established Pacifica Medicine in Poulsbo in 2016 with Dr. Marie Matty, and the practice has since expanded with more physicians and a Bainbridge location. Together, they offer high-quality primary medical care to families and patients of all ages, along with many wellness offerings not available at “normal” doctors’ offices.

  • Runners-up: Teresa Andersen, MD (Sound Family Health, Poulsbo); Robert Caulkins, DO (Bremerton)

Best Pediatrician

Niran Al-Agba, MD, Silverdale Pediatrics

An Olympic High School alumna, Dr. Niran Al-Agba joined Silverdale Pediatrics in 2016. The practice, which was founded by her father, Dr. Saad Al-Agba, in 1986, now serves the third generation of families from across West Sound.

  • Runner-up: Wendy Hawley, MD (Sound Pediatrics, Poulsbo)

Best Dentist

Lisa Arthur, DMD, PS, Illahee Dental Clinic

Dr. Lisa Arthur’s goal is to create a comfortable environment for all her patients with exceptional, full-service dental care. She loves to connect personally with patients, especially those who may experience dental anxiety.

  • Runner-up: Matthew Cosby, DDS (Key Center Family Dentistry, Lakebay)

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 six clinics.

Best Spa

Admire Medical Aesthetics

The team at Admire Medical Aesthetics is focused on its clients’ health, beauty and quality and life. The mission is to provide both education and solutions to fit your lifestyle and improive your wellbeing.

  • Runner-up: Seaport Salon and Spa (Silverdale)

Best Hearing Professional

Diane Raszler, AuD, CCC-A, Hearing Advantage

Dr. Diane Raszler founded Hearing Advantage with her husband, Scott, in Sequim in 1985, expanding to Poulsbo in 1996. She strives to make a difference in her patients’ lives by helping them communicate better.

Best Eyecare

Janice Ngan, OD, 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: Kitsap Eye Physicians (Bremerton, Port Orchard)

Best Assisted Living Facility

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: Bay Vista Commons (Bremerton)

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.

Best Gym

YMCA

  • 3909 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: Kitsap Tennis and Athletic Center (Bremerton)

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: Haselwood Autoplex (Bremerton)

Best New Car Dealership

Haselwood Autoplex

Haselwood Auto Group is 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: Liberty Bay Auto (Poulsbo)

Best Auto Body

Trew Auto Body

Established in Bremerton in 1984, the family-owned Trew Auto Body has since expanded to Olympia. The shop provides quality collision repair and personalized services and many of its employees have two or three decades of experience in the industry.

  • Runners-up: Uptown Auto Body (Bremerton), Modern Collision Rebuild & Service (Bainbridge Island)

Best Mechanic

Town & Country Auto Repair

  • 3420 Chico Way NW, Bremerton

Serving the community for more than 50 years, Town & Country does it all. The complexities of contemporary automobile technology make even the most basic maintenance a daunting task, so whether you need maintenance to keep your vehicle running smoothly for a long time, or get a problem fixed right the first time, these are the people you can count on.

  • Runners-up: L&R Automotive (Bremerton), Hall-N-Sons Automotive (Port Orchard)

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: Discount Tire & Wheel (Bremerton)

Best Remodeler

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: A Kitchen That Works (Bainbridge Island)

Best Building Contractor

Fairbank Construction Co.

Fairbank Construction Co. was founded on one man’s dream several decades ago to build timeless structures that emanate individuality and excellence in craftsmanship. Since then, Fairbank Construction has earned the reputation of one of the Northwest’s finest builders.

  • Runner-up: WRK Construction (Poulsbo)

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: Cloise and Mike Construction (Port Orchard)

Best Plumber

Swift Plumbing & Heating

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 it on the principle of providing the community with the highest level of craftsmanship and outstanding customer service—and these values remain at the core of the company.

  • Runner-up: Mountain View Plumbing (Poulsbo)

Best Interior Designer

Connie LaMont, LaMont Design

An interior designer and colorist, Connie LaMont has lived in the Pacific Northwest since 1993. She owns LaMont Design, Inc., with her architect husband, Wayne. Some of their joint projects include Austin Towers in Poulsbo and Elkhorn Place in Sequim. Specializing in residential and commercial work, she has won awards for her talents, including the Poulsbo Chamber Beautification Award twice for her work on Austin Towers and The Poulsbo Athletic Club.

  • Runners-up: Zech Interiors & Design (Belfair), Mise En Place Design (Bremerton), Bloom Design Group (Seabeck)

Best Electrician

Ahearn Electric

Ahearn Electric has been serving Kitsap County since 1939, offering all types of electrical work, as well as data and communications wiring, for commercial and residential customers. The company’s customers range from shopping malls to government agencies.

  • Runners-up: Sunset Electric (Poulsbo), George’s Electric (Port Orchard)

Best Architect

Rice Fergus Miller

Named one of best 100 companies to work for in Washington state by Seattle Business magazine, Rice Fergus Miller encourages experimentation and innovation. Among its innovative projects is its own green-build headquarters in downtown Bremerton. Offering both new construction and renovation services, the firm is a Certified B Corporation for its sustainable business practices. Completed projects include Harrison’s Heart and Vascular Center, Kitsap 911 Memorial, Kitsap Bank’s East Bremerton Branch, Bremerton School District’s West Hills STEM Academy and Kingston Branch of the Kitsap Regional Library, just to name a few.

  • Runner-up: Wayne LaMont/LaMont Design (Poulsbo)

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 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: Westside Custom Cabinets (Poulsbo)

Best Flooring

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 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.

  • Runner-up: Creekside Cabinet & Design (Silverdale)

Best Heating and 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 a team of professionals who serve the entire West Sound and beyond.

  • Runner-up: Air Masters Heating & Cooling (Port Orchard)

Best Paint Store

Peninsula Paint Centers

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 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), HP Tiles (Bremerton)

Best Hardware Store

Scott Mclendon’s Ace Hardware

Scott McLendon’s Ace Hardware has been serving Port Orchard since 1995 and Belfair since 2000. Thanks to their knowledgeable staff and a huge inventory of hardware and related items, the two stores attract customers from across West Sound.

  • Runner-up: Henery Hardware (Kingston)

Best Furniture Store

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.

  • Runner-up: Red Plantation Marketplace (Poulsbo)

Best Antique Shop

Red Plantation Marketplace

  • 18833 Front Street NE, Poulsbo

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: Silverdale Antiques (Silverdale)

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).

  • Runner-up: The Candy Shoppe (Port Orchard)

Favorite Business

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.

  • Runners-up: Swift Plumbing & Heating (Kingston), Evergreen Home Loans (multiple locations)

Best Gifts/Specialty Store

Clever Gift Shop

Clever Gift Shop has been offering a unique inventory of home, garden and novelty items since 2003. You’ll find everything from books and jewelry to toys and foods.

  • Runner-up: Cameo Boutique (Union)

Best Realtor

Donna Cryder, Keller Williams West Sound

  • 3212 50th Street Court NW, Suite 200, Gig Harbor

Donna Cryder has been helping clients in all phases of selling, buying or building custom homes since 1994. She likes to stay ahead of the latest trends in decorating, designing and home building so she can help clients sell their homes.

  • Runner-up: Joni Kimmel (Poulsbo)

Best Real Estate Office

Keller Williams Realty

  • Multiple locations

With several independently owned and operated locations around West Sound, Keller Williams is an industry leader with an innovative spirit.

  • Runners-up: Windermere (multiple locations), John L. Scott (multiple locations)

Best Mortgage Company

Evergreen Home Loans

Founded in Seattle in 1987, Evergreen Home Loans is a leading full-service direct lender with branch offices in 11 states throughout the western USA, including five in West Sound. It offers an extensive menu of affordable home loan products, including solutions that are especially helpful for first-time homebuyers.

  • Runner-up: Fairway Independent Mortgage (multiple locations)

Best Financial Adviser

Angela Sell, Edward Jones

A Kitsap County resident since 1992, Angela Sell has become deeply rooted in the area both through her practice and her community service, and established her Silverdale office in 2004. She’s an active member of the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce and the Central Kitsap Community Council, and participates on many nonprofit boards.

  • Runner-up: Ross Patton (Edward Jones, Kingston)

Best Insurance Agency

State Farm

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

  • Runners-up: Kuresman Insurance (Silverdale), All Insurance Services (Bremerton)

Best Horticulturist

Bremerton City Nursery

The family-owned Bremerton City Nursery promotes sustainable and organic gardening practices, offering a vast array of plants and gardening supplies. The nursery’s experts like to share their love of all things garden through classes and workshops.

  • Runners-up: Send Nodes Plant Shop (Bremerton), Olmsted’s Nursery (Poulsbo), Megan Pulkkinen (Bremerton)

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 Veterinarian

Two-way tie

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.

Bayview Veterinary Hospital

A privately owned business, Bayview Veterinary Hospital has been serving the local community for more than 70 years and has gone through a big remodel in 2023. The team strives to provide cutting-edge care for cats and dogs, from wellness exams to routine surgic procedures.

  • Runner-up: Willow Tree Animal Hospital (Port Orchard)

Best Landscaper

Brookside Landscape and Design

Brookside Landscape and Design strives to follow the mantra of people, process, product: employ the best people, maintain a well-founded process that meets clients’ needs and produce a product that is second to none. The team has 25 years of combined experience in landscaping, and they firmly believe in sustainability.

  • Runners-up: Samuel’s Landscaping (Bremerton), Bremerton City Nursery (Bremerton)

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 Marina

Port of Brownsville Marina

Port of Brownsville has more than 300 permanent moorage slips as well as 40 moorage slips. The list of amenities includes free Wi-Fi, self-service laundry, a full-service fuel dock, restrooms and more.

  • Runner-up: Port Orchard Marina

Best Rockery

Brookside Landscape and Design

Brookside Landscape and Design strives to follow the mantra of people, process, product: employ the best people, maintain a well-founded process that meets clients’ needs and produce a product that is second to none. The team has 25 years of combined experience in landscaping, and they firmly believe in sustainability.

  • Runners-up: Sergio’s Landcaping Y Mas (Poulsbo), Morrison Gravel (Port Orchard), L&L Excavating & Landscaping (Kingston), Elandan Gardens (Bremerton)

Best Attorney

Ryan Witt, Witt Law Group

The Witt Law Group has helped thousands of clients in criminal defense and personal injury cases. Having grown up in Alaska, Ryan Witt has played hockey his entire life and uses those skills to stay a step ahead of his “opponents.”

  • Runner-up: David LaCross (LaCross & Murphy, Port Orchard)

Best Accounting Firm

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.

  • Runner-up: Peterson NW CPA (Port Orchard)

Best Computer/Network Servicing

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.

  • Runners-up: Pro Group Networks (Gig Harbor), Precision Electronics and Computer Repair (Port Orchard)

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: Liberty Bank (Poulsbo)

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: BECU (multiple locations)

Best Daycare

Martha & Mary

Martha & Mary KIDS offers a variety of children’s programs, including the Child Care Center in Poulsbo, which has been serving families since 1989; the Early Learning Center in Silverdale; and before-and-after school care at local schools; as well as summer programs. The longtime teachers and staff are dedicated to helping each child discover his or her unique potential by nurturing the growth of the whole child — emotionally, socially, physically and intellectually.

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

Best Jewelry Store

Blue Heron Jewelry

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.

  • Runner-up: Chrey’s Fine Jewelry (Bremerton)

Best Salon

Alainn Salon

  • 3547 NW Lowell Street, Silverdale

With stylists who boast years of experience and continuing education, the salon has dedicated staff who will help you find your best look and achieve it. The comfortable, relaxed atmosphere is designed to make you feel great.

  • Runners-up: Three Arrows (Silverdale), The Proper (Port Orchard), PNW Color Collective (Silverdale), Moda (Bainbridge Island), Family Hair Studio (Bremerton)

Best Mani/Pedi

Apollo Nails & Spa

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.

  • Runners-up: Ocean Nails & Spa (Port Orchard), Home Nail Spa (Bremerton)

Best Nonprofit

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 (Poulsbo), Kitsap Humane Society (Silverdale), Fishline (Poulsbo), Coffee Oasis (multiple locations)

Best Customer Service

Swift Plumbing & Heating

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.

  • Runner-up: Thistle Floral & Home (Kingston), Evergreen Home Loans (multiple locations)

Best Hotel

Suquamish 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.

  • Runners-up: The Point Casino & Hotel (Kingston), Oxford Suites (Silverdale)

Best Casino

Suquamish 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: The Point Casino & Hotel (Kingston)

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.

  • Runner-up: Kitsap Golf & Country Club (Bremerton)

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 — most nights. It’s a favorite hangout for locals, families and travelers alike.

  • Runner-up: Bethel Saloon (Port Orchard)

Best Sports Field

Lions Park

  • 251 Lebo Boulevard, Bremerton

Owned by the city of Bremerton, the 17-acre community park offers basketball and tennis courts, lighted softball fields, trails and various amenities, plus a beautiful view.

  • Runners-up: Pendergast Regional Park (Bremerton), Bremerton Sports Center, Evergreen Park volleyball (Bremerton)

Best Gallery

Wilkerson’s Port Orchard Gallery

  • 724 Bay Street, Port Orchard

Founded by artists Shelly and Glen Wilkerson, the gallery is a community of painters, photographers and writers who share their work, talents and skills with the public.

  • Runner-up: Collective Visions (Bremerton)

Best Place to Take a Family

Kitsap Live Steamers

The nonprofit Kitsap Live Steamers is a volunteer group of railroad enthusiasts who share their passion for 7.5-inch gauge scale trains by offering rides on a miniature railroad track. They also educate the public about railroad safety through demonstration and various events.

  • Runner-up: Point No Point Lighthouse (Hansville)

Best Summer Camp

Crista Camps

Crista Camps at Island Lake and Miracle Ranch offer scores of unique activities in addition to traditional camp fun like boating, swimming and fireside bonding. At Miracle Ranch, wranglers teach horsemanship classes that span a wide spectrum of skills. Island Lake specializes in extreme adventures like dirt bikes and high ropes. The consistent goal at both camps is to offer experiences that result in personal growth, authentic relationship development, high-level customer service and massive fun.

Best Park

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 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.

  • Runners-up: Lions Park (Bremerton), Illahee Forrest Preserve (Bremerton)

Best Town/City

Two-way tie

Bremerton

Home to a thriving artistic and cultural community, Bremerton is a great destination for shopping, waterfront views, theater, museums and more. The downtown, which is famous for its gorgeous Harborside Fountain Park, hosts a variety of festivals and other events, with more shopping, parks, golf and other attractions in various other neighborhoods.

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. Venture beyond downtown to find more breweries, parks, shopping and dining.

  • Runner-up: Kingston