Best of San Joaquin 2019 Winners – San Joaquin Magazine

At San Joaquin Magazine, we spend months looking forward to our
biggest issue of the year. This year, we added even more categories and we can’t wait to share who our readers have voted as their top picks. We’re also giddy to share with you new winners and untapped local gems that make San Joaquin a great place to live.
•••
Behold, the 2019 winners of
Best of San Joaquin Magazine!

BEST OF FOOD

Best American Cuisine
If there’s a cuisine San Joaquin County knows how to throw down, it’s good old-fashioned American grub. Blame it on our roots. Blame it on our need for the familiar. But we can’t get enough of these tried-and-true spots. You can head to Market Tavern for everything from wood-fired pizzas to healthy grain bowls or even fried chicken! Or check out the meat-centric Midgley’s Public House menu to satisfy your indulgences. Their steak sandwich and poutine always hits the spot. And don’t forget about America Waffles for some sweet and savory cuisine. Think fried chicken with waffles. Yum!

BEST Appetizers
When you’re looking for someplace to savor small bites with friends without the commitment of a full meal, turn to a place that has something for everyone. Midgley’s Public House is one of those spots with everything from Ahi nachos to avocado fries. Market Tavern also delivers the goods with deviled eggs and savory bone marrow. West Oak Nosh is always a great place to grab an app. Chow down on their signature Nosh fries fried in beef fat and topped with all the goodies. Bistro 135 also puts out some serious starters with an over-the-top burrata paired with prosciutto, pesto, and crostini. Yes, please!

BEST Bakery
When you’re craving something warm and fresh out of the oven, SJ is full of great options. Stockton’s queen of all things sweet, M&W Dutch American Bakery pumps out delectable pastries like it’s going out of style. Customized cookies, extravagant cakes, and down right decadence is why they reign supreme. Frosted Flour is Lodi’s premier cakery, popular for its lavish cakes and cupcakes, which come in over ten flavors daily. And if you are ever in need of a scone to start your day, stop in to Corner Scone Bakery in Lodi for the freshest, seasonal goodies you can find.

BEST Bar Food
When it comes to bar grub, our readers have their fair share of foodie havens. We love to soak up our booze with Midgley’s Public House festival fried asparagus and pork belly sliders because they are everything bar food is supposed to be. Lodi’s Porters Pub shows up to the game with knockout nachos and a to-die-for bourbon whiskey BBQ burger. Finnegan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant dishes out some tasty fish tacos to chow down while sipping your favorite beer.

BEST Barbeque
If BBQ is your thing, stop into Fat City Brew & BBQ for smoked ribs, tri-tip, or a melt-in-your-mouth burger. Or hit up Tin Roof BBQ & Catering for the tastiest tri-tip burger you’ve ever had. Be sure to get a side of the mac and cheese with hot dogs too-it’s like the kind your grandma used to make and it’s delicious! Waterloo Restaurant also brings its A-game to the table with juicy BBQ chicken and ribs that fall off the bone.

BEST Breakfast Spot
If you are looking to start your day off with the heartiest of meals, look no further than the king of breakfast-Chuck’s Hamburgers. This long-running Stockton favorite serves up serious eats like corned beef hash with eggs. Be sure to order the savory country sausage and the crispiest bacon in the 209. Avenue Grill is also a great place to fuel up for a grueling day. With fluffy, larger-than-life pancakes and chicken fried steak, you won’t need to eat the rest of the day. Or, if you are near Tracy, check out Town & Country Cafe for an updated twist on old traditions. The French toast and cinnamon rolls are worth that extra trip to the gym.

BEST Brunch
Everyone’s favorite meal of the week-brunch, baby! Head to Market Tavern for the most satisfying dish of baked organic eggs to share. Made with house-made lamb sausage, chickpeas, roasted peppers, and feta, you’ll be sopping up every last drop with herbed flatbread. Or head to charming downtown Lodi for Dancing Fox Winery and Brewery and the over-the-top brunch buffet of omelets, French toast, and mimosas. If it’s something offbeat you crave, head to Bud’s Seafood Grille for a fresh dish of crab cake eggs benedict-simply delicious!

BEST Classic Burger
If you are looking for a classic burger packed with flavor, head to Stockton staple Bob’s at the Marina. It’s juicy, well-seasoned, and everything you want in a burger. In Tracy, The Squeeze Inn is another fun place to demolish a burger. If you haven’t experienced the cheese skirt that adorns this burger, you haven’t lived. Or head to Flip’s Burgers and go big with the cowboy burger stacked with all the indulgences you could ever need: BBQ sauce, bacon, onion rings, and American cheese.

BEST Specialty Burger
When you need a burger with a little flair, there is no better stop than Manny’s California Fresh Cafe. This place is always packed, so grab a number, order an avocado burger, and savor every bite. Of course, you can also try the Painted Hills burger from Market Tavern. Take it to the next level with Fiscalini cheddar, a fried egg, and Hobbs’s bacon. And do we need to even tell you what burger to order at Midgley’s Public House? Feast on the SJ Magazine burger…because, hello!

BEST Caterer
Planning a fundraiser or wedding? Angelina’s Spaghetti House is the premier caterer in all of SJ County. You can’t beat the filet mignon, mushroom risotto, and grilled asparagus. DeVinci’s Delicatessen & Catering in Stockton is always a solid choice with flavorful pastas to chow down on while celebrating. Or go Greek with the menu and hire Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar for hummus and grilled lamb chops.

BEST Chef
The talent of the men and women behind the knife in our region is unbelievable. But it’s no surprise that our favorite celebrity chef takes the top chef award! With a larger-than-life personality and over-the-top grub, Chef Michael Midgley, the mastermind behind Migley’s Public House, is king of San Joaquin. Chris Isert, helm of the kitchen at Brookside Country Club, is also a culinary rock star. Isert serves up delicious dishes to hungry club members on the regular. And Chef Ian Bens of downtown Lodi’s Rosewood is a culinary genius. With mad fermentation skills and a love of all things fresh, Bens is making a name for himself in the region.

BEST Buffalo Wings
If a good wing is your thing, we just happen to have some killer places to satisfy your cravings. At Smitty’s Wings & Things, the blue cheese wings are smothered in both crumbled and creamy blue cheese for the best combination of flavors. The honey BBQ wings are also a fan favorite. Porters Pub in Lodi delivers with both bone-in and boneless wings in seven different flavors, made fresh, never frozen. If you are feeling a little spicy, go for the mango habanero wings. Another local favorite for wings is at Fat City Brew & BBQ on the Mile, where you can order them with traditional hot sauce or another killer BBQ sauce.

BEST Casual Dining
If you need someplace casual to take the family, you can’t go wrong with Garlic Brothers Restaurant and Bar at the marina. Waterfront dining makes everyone happy, but it’s the garlic ribeye and scampi linguine that will have your table doing the happy dance. Porters Pub also scores big for its eight television screens, year-round patio dining, and serious grub. With salads, wraps, pub specialties, and 13 beers on tap, it’s easy to see why folks flock to the pub. Market Tavern also dishes up tasty food in a relaxed atmosphere. Sit outside and sip on a cocktail while savoring the bacon and kale pizza.

BEST Charcuterie Board
We all love a platter full of cheese and charcuterie, right? Our go-to spot is at Mile Wine Co., where they offer both for guests to relish. The charcuterie board with Creminelli wild boar salame, spicy speck, prosciutto, and salame Toscano is served with whole grain mustard. And they offer up some of the best cheeses on the market like Beemster-aged gouda, Humboldt Fog, and Camembert. Cheese Central has everything you need to create the cheese and charcuterie of your dreams. And their staff can help you pick out everything you could ever want to include. You can also stop into Market Tavern to taste the creamiest Di Stefano Burrata served with caponata, pine nuts, cacao nibs, grilled bread, and extra-virgin olive oil.

BEST Deli
Gian’s Delicatessen takes the top spot for sandwiches in San Joaquin for their long-running Italian deli. Choose from a huge selection of freshly-cut meats and cheeses loaded with all the goodies or just take our advice and order a #4. With pastrami, roasted turkey, Jack cheese, roasted peppers, Bruno’s peppers, and all the fixings, you’ll be doing the happy dance! If you grew up in Stockton, there’s no doubt you’ve devoured a deli sandwich or two at Podesto’s in Lincoln Center. Stacked high with all the goodies and fresh cold cuts, these sammies will remind you of those from a New York style-deli. If fresh baked bread is your thing, head to Genova Bakery in Stockton for a delicious stack of hot salami, coppa, Havarti, and locally-owned Bruno’s Peppers. Simply scrumptious!

BEST Filipino Restaurant
Filipino cuisine has found a welcome home in San Joaquin County and our readers are in the know about the must-visit spots. It’s called Best Lumpia for a reason-their lumpia is certainly a crowd-pleaser. Choose between beef, pork, chicken, or vegetarian, or opt for a combination plate to get your fill of lumpia, pancit (Filipino noodles), and other traditional tastes. At Papa Urb’s Grill, you’ll find a tantalizing selection of fusion dishes ranging from Adobo Quesadillas to sliders on a pandesal (a Filipino bread roll). Or stop by Red Orchids Restaurant on your lunch break Sunday through Friday to take advantage of their popular lunch buffet, which includes a rotating selection of Asian fusion and Filipino inspired salads, rice dishes, stirfrys, Sinigang (a Filipino soup), pancit, and more.

BEST Fine Dining
When it comes to fancy food, Prime Table Steak House takes the title. Upon entering, the dark and sexy interior sets the mood for the best dry aged beef you’ll find anywhere. Try the 60-day dry aged bone-in Rib-Eye. You can even take it to the next level by topping it with their cognac grain mustard cream. Market Tavern also elevates the foodie scene with dishes like the salt spring mussels with pork belly and the savory four cheese lasagna. You can always get fancied up for an evening at Midgley’s Public House where you can start the evening in the bar with a Sazerac cocktail and calamari appetizer. But you’ll want to end up in the dining room for butter-poached lobster, a delightful seafood pasta, and a rack of lamb.

BEST Food Truck
We love food on the go-and we aren’t talking about fast food. We have some of the tastiest food trucks around and this year Chef Michael Midgley launched Midgley’s Public Truck to much anticipation. With signature dishes like the Lockeford sausage luau, pulled pork sandwich, and truffle fries, you might not be going back to work after lunch! We are huge fans of Lodi’s gourmet green truck, A Moveable Feast. These boys serve up epicurean delights like the Cajun shrimp sandwich served on a soft, buttered bun and beer-battered fries that are not for the faint of heart. Don’t forget to ask about the secret menu. You can also stop by Lodi’s taco truck champion La Picosita for the best tacos in town. We dig the carne asada, but you simply can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

BEST Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt
When the temperature rises over 100 degrees and you just can’t beat the heat, head to Tigers Yogurt for the creamiest frozen treat in the county. With seasonal flavors like the pomegranate raspberry sorbet, the whole family will find a treat they love. At Lodi’s family-owned Honey Treat Yogurt Shoppe, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time. With friendly customer service and authentic fro-yo, the flavors change daily. Look for the monthly calendar and stop in when you see your favorite flavor pop up! If you are looking for ice cream that tastes great and will make for a killer Instagram post, check out Stockton’s House of Ice Cream. I mean, who wouldn’t want a milkshake topped with freshly baked donuts and crumbled cereal morsels?

BEST Dessert
SweetArts in Tracy bakes up the best of everything! The menu changes daily, so you can enjoy a different treat every time you stop in. From French Macarons to lemon bars and eclairs, you won’t be disappointed. And if you are looking for something special to order, go for the banana waffle cake, because, well, you’ll just have to taste for yourself! Frosted Flour also puts out some serious sweets. From cupcakes and cookies to truffles and brownies, they bake up a storm six days a week! Order our favorite-the Lodi Lemon-is sweet, tart, and down-right delicious! We can’t forget about Lincoln Center’s Nothing Bundt Cakes where there’s always a steady stream of customers coming in for their fix. Grab an assortment of flavors like the red velvet, confetti, or the ultra-rich chocolate, chocolate chip.

BEST Farmers Market
How lucky are we to live in San Joaquin County where the local produce is some of the best in the world? Which is why we love our local farmers markets, where we have first-hand access to the freshest bounty around. Spend a Thursday evening at everyone’s favorite-Lodi Farmers Market, offering vendors, live music, beer gardens, tasty food trucks, and so much more. The Tracy Farmers Market also stocks the fridge with all our favorite foods. Running from April 26th to October 26th, the market is the perfect place to bring the family out for food, produce, retail, and specialty goods! Our region’s only year-round market runs every Sunday from 8 AM to 1 PM. The Weberstown Mall Farmers Market offers up everything from local produce to fresh baked goods. We’re grateful it takes place come rain or shine!

BEST Happy Hour
When it comes to Happy Hour, all you need is a place that makes killer cocktails and good grub. Which is why we love winner Midgley’s Public House‘s Happy Hour! Everyday from 3-6 PM guests in the bar or the patio bar enjoy half-off all appetizers, draft beers, and house wine by the glass. We call that winning! Garlic Brothers Restaurant and Bar also scores high for its Happy Hour. Grab your besties, sit on the outdoor deck, and sip on the Fishbowl, a shareable cocktail that tastes great and is fun to drink, too! And we can’t forget to mention Market Tavern because the bar program is legit. With master mixologist Arzou manning the bar, the cocktails are creative, beautiful, and balanced. Tell them to fire up your favorite pizza for a Happy Hour made in heaven.

BEST Health Food Store
We love the plethora of health food stores that serve as our resource for all things health related. In Lincoln Center is the region’s top spot, Artesian Natural Foods, where you can pick up everything from collagen boosters and a huge selection from kombucha to veggie-based protein powders and essential oils. Downtown Lodi is also home to an incredible health food store, Sherri’s Sonshine Nutrition Center, which has been locally owned for almost 33 years. With all the supplements to keep your immune system healthy alongside organic and plant-based products, they have all the goods to boost your mood! With Stockton-based Green’s Nutrition, you can browse the herb vault, weight loss products, and additional supplements. Established in 1995, Dr. Eunice Green opened the Miracle Mile establishment to better serve the community, and that is exactly what she has done for almost 25 years!

BEST Indian Restaurant
If you love the spicy, rich flavors of Indian cuisine, Tandoori Nites is THE place to sit down with friends and devour platters full of goodness. The focus on fresh food with robust flavors keeps guests coming back for more. Try the butter chicken, which it is tender, flavorful, and tasty. Or, head to Swaggat Indian Cuisine for the chicken Tikka Masala in an aromatic sauce of onions and spices and served with fluffy basmati rice. Order it with the garlic naan to soak up all the sauce because you won’t want to leave a drop of it on the plate. Rounding out our reader’s top picks is Dhaba Indian Cuisine in Tracy where the portions are substantial, and the flavors are on point. The lamb samosas are stuffed with minced lamb and peas and wrapped in a delicate, flaky pastry. They serve it with a tamarind and mint sauce you may as well douse your entire meal in.

BEST Italian Restaurant
When you are looking for the most authentic Italian food around, look no further than Lodi’s irreputable Pietro’s Trattoria. The renovated dining room and patio oasis are the perfect settings to savor stuffed squash blossoms, wood fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and tomahawk steaks. Angelina’s Spaghetti House, a Stockton restaurant staple is practically a legend of its own. Famous for its incredible pastas and family-friendly vibe, you will leave full and happy. De Vega Brothers is another Italian eatery dishing up delicious cuisine. You must try the sautéed mussels with garlic, wine, and fresh herbs or go big with the Pork Osso Bucco served over linguine and topped with feta cheese.

BEST Japanese Restaurant
Good Japanese food is comforting, healthy, and packed with flavor. At Mikasa Japanese Bistro, they check all the boxes with everything from Bento Boxes, teriyaki specials, and the grandest sushi rolls in all of San Joaquin. If you haven’t been there, add it to your list. A great sign of a good Japanese restaurant is how packed the dining room is and for Komachi Sushi in Lodi, the line is always out the door. Here, owners Sonny and Tim Chang serve up traditional and authentic Japanese dishes for the community. In fact, they have quite the reputation for their old-world recipes. CoCoro Japanese Bistro and Sushi Bar, located on the Miracle Mile, is also a local favorite for authentic eats. The modern décor and open floor plan make the perfect place to nosh on Donburi bowls and crunchy Panko Prawns.

BEST Outdoor Dining
Looking to enjoy the outdoors as you eat? There are plenty of patios to dine on in San Joaquin County. Catch a sunset at Garlic Brothers in Stockton where the only thing that rivals the view is the food. Second place goes to Pietro’s Trattoria, a farm-to-fork eatery offering family-style dining both indoors and out. Third place goes to Midgley’s Public House where its location in Stockton’s Lincoln Center is prime for outdoor dining, drinking, and people watching.

BEST Mexican Restaurant
There’s no shortage of good Mexican cuisine in San Joaquin County. But one establishment holds the highest honor-Nena’s Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Stockton. This place is practically on the historic register for its long-running history of serving up the best of everything. If you are looking for a place to smash some serious grub check out Habanero Hots in Lodi for the monstrous burrito grande. It’s a behemoth of goodness and we dare you to try and finish it. Tio Pepe’s in Lincoln Center also makes stellar Mexican food. This establishment is family friendly. From authentic beef tacos to enchiladas smothered in cheese and sauce, we love everything on the menu.

BEST NEW Restaurant
San Joaquin County is a foodie’s paradise, and restaurant owners are taking advantage of the cuisine-conscious clientele by opening new restaurants wherever they can. Since 2018, many new hotspots have come on the scene, but which ones do our readers recommend most? M Sushi Bistro took top honors with its expansive menu filled with ramen, nigiri, sushi rolls, sashimi, izakaya, tapas, and more. The Downtowner in Stockton calls their cuisine “good mood food,” a blend of comfort food items and healthful meals. Stop in for the award-winning sandwiches and wraps! West Oak Nosh comes in third with its line-up of German-inspired fare including house-made sausages, delicious burgers, and cocktails to wash it all down.

BEST Pho Soup
Pho (pronounced fuh) is a trendy Vietnamese soup that is taking San Joaquin County by storm. Readers are drooling over Pho Saigon Bay Restauraunt‘s offerings: tasty noodles and broths that can be made from mild to spicy. Mama’s Pho & Sandwiches tastes like the pho your mom would make, if your mom grew up in Vietnam. The varieties are heavy with flavors of lemongrass and come with several options for mix-ins including rice, chicken, and beef. Pho Lucky Noodle House offers visitors more than a clever play on words, with generous portions and easy-to-order extras.

BEST Ramen
Warm your soul and your belly with a steaming bowl of ramen, a Japanese dish best served hot! Stockton is a mecca for tasty, quality ramen. Yujin Ramen & Noodle House is the best of the best, with varieties including miso ramen (pork or chicken, a soft boiled egg, cabbage, and green onion) and negi ramen (shoyu tonkotsu soup, minced chashu, and green onion). Make it your own at Tokyo Ramen by adding extra toppings, including a fish cake, bamboo, or steamed rice. Still looking for more ramen? Satisfy your cravings at Ushio Ramen House. Pro-Tip: If you like it hot, order extra spicy.

BEST Pizza Restaurant
It’s as universal a language as love, and with so many pizza joints in the county, how will you ever choose the best? Well, our readers have decided that three men reign supreme around here-David, Michael, and Rick. At David’s Pizza, order a New York-style cheese pizza, or opt for a specialty pie such as the Da Vinci or Maple St. Bridge. Michael’s New York Style Pizza has custom crust options including whole wheat and gluten-free, plus homemade sauce, and fresh ingredients. Rick’s Pizza rounds out our list, serving the community since 1980 with its list of classic creations and Rick’s-only combinations.

BEST Salads
What sounds better on a hot summer day than a delicious, green salad? We can’t think of much! At Whirlows, guests can dive into a specialty salad from the menu or build their own from an extensive list of ingredients. Make it filling by choosing something protein-rich such as the Greek Chicken or Grilled Salmon. In summer the Raspberry Chicken Blue Cheese hits the spot. At Bud’s Seafood Grille stack your greens with fresh catches. Choose the Louie Salad with shrimp and succulent crab or dine on a Shrimp Stuffed Avocado Salad complete with bay shrimp, celery, green onions, dill, parsley, and mayo. Pop on over to Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar and go sans lettuce with the Village Salad, an authentic Greek recipe made with tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions, artichoke hearts, kalamata olives, Greek peppers, and feta cheese.

BEST Sandwiches
Get ready to grub! There are dozens of A-plus sandwich shops in San Joaquin County, but the masses have spoken and identified the top three! Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe, once known as a place to pick up marinated meats, is now sandwich king. Order from the lists of local favorites, new creations, timeless classics, hearty appetites, and hot varieties. Chow down on a gourmet sandwich at Podesto’s in Lincoln Center, a family-owned deli that has been around since 1982. Still looking? Sandwiches are just one of the gems on Gian’s Deli’s menu. Choose a hearty Italian sub from the list to fuel up!

BEST Steak/Prime Rib
Where can you get a big hunk of delicious meat? If you ask our readers, they’ll point you to Stockton. No surprises here! Market Tavern’s sister restaurant, Prime Table Steak House was voted THE place to get a good steak or cut of prime rib in San Joaquin County. Come in for a slow-cooked, English-cut prime rib in three mouth-watering sizes, or opt for one of many other beef cuts. While in Stockton, step into El Rancho Inn Steak & Lobster, our number two winner for best cut of meat. Midgley’s Public House takes third place, serving up high-end food in a casual atmosphere. You can add a 14 oz. lobster tail to the 8 oz. Filet mignon or the 14 oz. grilled ribeye.

BEST Tacos
It doesn’t have to be Tuesday to enjoy a good taco! This popular Mexican fare is aplenty in every corner of our fine county. Seven days a week from 9 AM-10 PM, fans can grub on tacos at Taqueria El Grullense, a mainstay on Stockton’s Main Street. There are a few Casa Flores restaurants throughout the county, but Brookside is readers’ favorite. Eat your tacos a la carte, or have them served with rice and beans. In Lodi, Habanero Hots is the taco king. Start your meal with a basket full of mini tacos served with dipping sauce, or wait for the entrée to grub on fish, shrimp, shredded beef, chicken, or asada tacos

BEST Seafood Restaurant
Have a hankering for fresh fish? Catch this! Bud’s Seafood Grille has been voted the best seafood restaurant in town by San Joaquin Magazine readers. Come in for daily specials, bar bites, happy hour, lunch, or dinner. Komachi takes their seafood another direction, cooked (or not) into glamorous sushi rolls or served raw nigiri and sashimi-style. Las Islitas serves up seafood Mexican style, inside tacos, over rice, and more.

BEST Sushi
Everyone has a favorite local sushi joint. And if you don’t yet, well, you will. Step into Komachi Sushi for a long line-up of rolls, nigiri, and sashimi, served at the Lodi eatery. In Tracy & Lathrop, Mikasa Japanese Bistro serves its sushi with miso soup and salad. Choose from mild and spicy options, like the In & Out Roll (deep fried shrimp, spicy tuna, and more) or our favorite, the SJM Roll. Yummy. Rounding out our list is CoCoro Bistro & Sushi Bar with two Stockton locations-one Japanese bistro and sushi bar and one to-go restaurant.

BEST Thai Cuisine
Are visions are spicy noodle soup and spiced curry filling your mind? It’s time to get your hands on some of the Valley’s best Thai food. Readers have spoken and they say the best in San Joaquin County comes from Siamese Street Thai Restaurant. Stop in for plates filled with chicken pad Thai, pineapple rice, and pumpkin curry. For an authentic Thai meal, head to Thai Spices in Lodi. The restaurant is dedicated to dishing up meals made with ingredients native to Thailand. Coming in third, we have Thai Me Up, which serves tapas and brunch in addition to traditional Thai cuisine.

BEST OF 2019 FOOD WINNERS

AMERICAN
RESTAURANT
• Market Tavern
• Midgley’s Public House
• America Waffles

APPETIZERS
• Midgley’s Public House
• Market Tavern
• West Oak Nosh (tie 3rd)
• Bistro 135 (tie 3rd)

BAKERY
• M&W Dutch American Bakery
• Frosted Flour
• Corner Scone Bakery

BAR FOOD
• Midgley’s Public House
• Porters Pub
• Finnegan’s Irish Pub
& Restaurant

BARBEQUE
• Fat City Brew & BBQ
• Tin Roof BBQ & Catering
• Waterloo Restaurant

BREAKFAST SPOT
• Chuck’s Hamburgers
• Avenue Grill
• Town & Country Cafe

BRUNCH
• Market Tavern
• Dancing Fox
• Bud’s Seafood Grille

BUFFALO WINGS
• Smitty’s Wings & Things
• Porters Pub
• Fat City Brew & BBQ

BURGER (CLASSIC)
• Bob’s at the Marina
• The Squeeze Inn
• Flip’s Burgers

BURGER (SPECIALTY)
• Manny’s California
Fresh Cafe
• Market Tavern
• Midgley’s Public House

CASUAL DINING
• Garlic Brothers Restaurant and Bar
• Porters Pub
• Market Tavern

CATERER
• Angelina’s Spaghetti House
• De Vinci’s Delicatessen & Catering (Stockton)
• Papapavlo’s Bistro & Bar

CHEF
• Michael Midgley
(Midgley’s Public House)
• Chris Isert (Brookside Country Club)
• Ian Bens (Rosewood)

CHINESE (RESTAURANT)
• Dave Wong’s Restaurant
• Yen Du Restaurant
• Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

CHINESE (TAKE-OUT)
• Dave Wong’s Restaurant
• Chop Chop
• Peking Restaurant

CHOCOLATE SHOP
• Rocky Mountain
Chocolate Factory (Lodi)
• Ghirardelli (Lathrop)
• SweetArts

CLAM CHOWDER
• Bud’s Seafood Grille
• Midgley’s Public House
• Brookside Country Club

CHEESE PLATE / CHARCUTERIE BOARD
• Mile Wine restaurant
• Cheese Central
• Market Tavern

DELI
• Gian’s Delicatessen
• Podesto’s
• Genova Bakery

DESSERT
• SweetArts
• Frosted Flour
• Nothing Bundt Cakes

FARMERS MARKET
• Lodi Farmers Market
• Tracy Farmers Market
• Weberstown Mall Farmers Market

FILIPINO
RESTAURANT
• Best Lumpia
• Papa Urb’s Grill
• Red Orchids Restaurant

FINE DINING
• Prime Table Steak House
• Market Tavern
• Midgley’s Public House

FOOD TRUCK
• Midgley’s Public Truck
• A Moveable Feast
• La Picosita

ICE CREAM / FROZEN YOGURT
• Tigers Yogurt
• Honey Treat Yogurt Shoppe
• House of Ice Cream

HAPPY HOUR
• Midgley’s Public House
• Garlic Brothers Restaurant and Bar
• Market Tavern

HEALTH FOOD STORE
• Artesian Natural Foods
• Sheri’s Sonshine Nutrition Center
• Green’s Nutrition

INDIAN RESTAURANT
• Tandoori Nites
• Swaggat Indian Cuisine
• Dhaba Indian Cuisine

ITALIAN RESTAURANT (OTHER THAN PIZZA)
• Pietro’s Trattoria
• Angelina’s Spaghetti House
• De Vega Brothers

JAPANESE RESTAURANT
• Mikasa Japanese Bistro
• Komachi Sushi
• CoCoro Bistro & Sushi Bar

MEXICAN RESTAURANT
• Nena’s Mexican REstaurant
• Habenero Hots
• Tio Pepe’s

NEW RESTAURANT
(Opened in 2018 or later)
• M Sushi Bistro
• The Downtowner
• West Oak Nosh

OUTDOOR/PATIO DINING
• Garlic Brothers
• Pietro’s Trattoria
• Midgley’s Public House

PHO SOUP
• Pho Saigon Bay Restaurant
• Mama’s Pho
• Pho Lucky

PIZZA (RESTAURANT)
• David’s Pizza
• Michael’s Pizza
• Rick’s Pizza

RAMEN
• Yujin ramen
• Tokyo Ramen
• Ushio Ramen House

SALADS
• Whirlows
• Buds Seafood Grille
• Papapovlo’s Bistro & Bar

SANDWICHES
• Fiori’s Butcher Shoppe
• Podesto’s
• Gian’s Deli

SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
• Buds Seafood Grille
• Komachi
• Las Islitas

STEAK/PRIME RIB
• Prime Table Steak House
• El Rancho Inn Steak & Lobster
• Midgley’s Public House

SUSHI
• Komachi Sushi
• Mikasa Japanese Bistro
• CoCoro Bistro & Sushi Bar

TACOS
• Taqueria El Grullense
• Casa Flores Brookside
• Habanero Hots

THAI CUISINE
• Siamese Street
• Thai spices
• Thai Me Up

WAFFLES
• America Waffles
• Chuck’s
• Town & Country Cafe

BEST OF DRINKS

HERE’S AN EXCUSE TO BAR HOP. YOU’RE WELCOME. (Don’t worry-there’s a coffee stop along the way.)

BEST BREWERY
Looking for a craft beer in San Joaquin County? Lucky for you, we have plenty! Step into Five Window Beer Co. for a refreshing brew-there are seven to choose from. Plus, food trucks make frequent appearances during open hours Tuesday through Sunday. At Lodi Beer Co., choose from one of 16 beers on tap, including the San Joaquin Sour and Orange Blossom Wheat. When you’re in Stockton, stop into Valley Brewing Company-the city’s oldest brewery! Here you can watch a game or down a craft brewski, all while chowing down on some pub grub.

BEST BEER SELECTION
Some restaurants offer stellar, local craft beer, while others stock the staples like Corona and Bud Light. If you’re looking to eat at a place with a beer list as extensive as the menu (or at least close), we’ve got the place for you! Porter’s Pub pours more than 75 craft and micro brews. Swill 60 beers and the pub gifts you a mug. Taps Barrel House keeps beer-tasting adventures fresh with 28 rotating taps. Inside, the beer is local, and sometimes rare. Stop in for special events like tap takeovers. Ollie’s Pub may be Irish-and trust us the Guinness flows-but it serves more than just Irish beer, including San Francisco’s 21st Amendment.

BEST Craft BEER PUB
There is nothing quite like a cold brew at the end of the day-or for lunch, or on the weekends, or on hump day, or, basically, whenever. And surprise, surprise! Five Window Beer Co. is topping yet another beer list. Stop in to enjoy their quality brews six days a week. Fat City Brew and BBQ has just the food to pair with that beer-over-the-top barbecue dishes doused in hearty sauce and served with classic sides. At Taps Barrel House, guests can try a little of everything, with 28 rotating taps that consistently welcome new, local brewers to the pub.

BEST LOCAL COFFEE SPOT
Get your caffeine fix! Our local coffeehouses offer all that, and more. Stop into Empresso Coffee (throughout Stockton) for a delicious latte topped with local art (the baristas make foamy creations in your cup). In Lodi, House of Coffees is the hotspot, but it also offers cool summer iced teas and other beverages with and without caffeine. Get an early start at Barista’s in Tracy. The coffee shop, which also sells yummy sandwiches and iced and hot teas, opens at 5 AM Monday through Friday, and 6 AM on Saturday (closed Sundays).

BEST CRAFT COCKTAILS
You may be asking yourself just what it is that makes a craft cocktail, well, “craft.” Allow us to explain. Craft refers to the homemade element of the drink, typically served in specific glassware with house-made syrups and bitters. Reach for the namesake cocktail at Market Tavern, the Tavern Tonic (fever tree bitter lemon tonic, bubbles, pink peppercorn, thyme, and sand tar anise with your choice of vodka or gin). New to the scene, West Oak Nosh is sure to impress your palette with its exciting tastes, including a kombucha mule and a blackberry jalapeno margarita. While in Lodi stop into Rosewood for a Honey French 75 (made with gin, processco, basil, agave, and more) or a Pearfect Martini.

BEST BLOODY MARY
Whether you’re looking for some hair of the dog, or you just like the taste, the Bloody Mary is the quintessential breakfast cocktail. Market Tavern serves one of the best. In Lodi, Ollie’s Pub was voted the reader’s favorite for its take on the spicy, tomato juice-based drink. If you want to enjoy the beverage with breakfast, stop into America Waffles for the perfect cure to a late night.

BEST TEA ROOM
What makes you feel fancier than sipping tea with your friends? Probably not much. Enjoying tea, or even high tea, at a local teahouse has become a coveted experience. The Hidden Tea Room, which recently opened its own adjacent gift shop, provides the beverages, snacks, and fancy hats to guests who want to enjoy a spot of tea. Tea 4 You offers a different type of tea, commonly called boba or bubble tea. Stop in here for fun teas including the popular taro milk tea and flavorful boba. In Tracy, Trina’s Tea Kettle & Boutique features a walk-up tea bar, plus a gift shop where you can grab gifts and other fun items.

BEST MOSCOW MULE
A Moscow mule is classified as a cocktail made with ginger beer, lime juice, and vodka. Typically, it is garnished with lime and maybe mint leaves and poured into a fun, copper mug (a telltale sign of a mule). Whether you’re jonesing for the classic, or want a twist on the original, we’ve got three places serving up quality sippers: Market Tavern, Midgley’s Public House, and West Oak Nosh.

BEST Margarita
Here in San Joaquin, we like to consider ourselves experts in the margarita department. There are so many flavors and varieties to choose from, guests could easily taste a margarita a day all summer long and never run out. The margaritas at Habanero Hots are special in large part because they can be made with the restaurant’s exclusive tequila sourced from Mexico. Sip your marg on the Mile at La Palma Mexican Cuisine. On Thursdays the restaurant serves discounted pitchers of house margaritas from 3-6 PM for happy hour. Or, take your drinks outside on the quaint patio of Octavio’s. Happy hour runs 3-6 PM Tuesday through Friday, and Thursdays are reserved for tequila specials.

BEST Sparkling Wine
Cheers to the weekend, the promotion, girls’ night, a new job-really whatever you want! Bubbles are the best way to feel celebratory any day of the week. In downtown Lodi, Weibel Vineyards offers an experience, with tables inside and out for guests to gather and clink glasses of the label’s fruity sparkling wines. LVVR Cellars in Lockeford celebrates local roots with a production that takes place 100 percent within the Lodi appellation. Instead of being categorized as sparkling wine, this sophisticated sipper is called a champenoise. At Van Ruiten, we have one wine in mind. Step in for a glass-or a bottle-of the 2017 Sparkling Rose.

BEST WINE MENU
Look, the truth is you can get good wine just about anywhere in the Lodi Appellation, but if what you’re really after is a quality wine list, look no further than San Joaquin’s best wine bars and restaurants. In Stockton Mile Wine Restaurant pours local bottles and offers small plates, craft beers, and live music. In Tracy readers suggest a trip to The Press Wine Bar for glasses of your favorite vino, or a relaxed brunch. In Lodi, wine lovers flock to Wine & Roses (I mean, it’s in the name!) for variety.

BEST WINE TASTING ROOM
Embrace the tasting experience. A well-appointed tasting room is almost as important as the vino! (Hey, we said almost.) While tasting through the vines don’t forget to stop at Oak Farms Winery and have a drink under the lighted OF sign. At Michael David Winery, the large lawn is perfect for sprawling out on. The gardens and outdoor seating at Harney Lane Winery leaves little to be desired. Sit around the fire pit or underneath the towering oaks for a cozy space to taste.

BEST WINE CLUB
If you’re a true vino fan, you’re probably collecting wine club memberships like your life depends on it. Lodi lovers are drooling over the offering at Michael David Winery. You’ll feel like royalty when you walk up for a free tasting (for you and up to three guests), plus enrollment is free and the 25-35 percent discount counts for both wine and merchandise. You’ll feel like the who’s who of the town when invitations to members-only events start filling your inbox. Harney Lane Winery comes in second with its Wine:30 club. Join for four, six, or twelve bottles per quarter, free tastings for up to six people, discounts, and more. Oak Farm Vineyards is the other big winner-or perhaps you’re the one winning-and the benefits get better the more you buy.

BEST ZINFANDEL
In Lodi, we don’t mess around with our zins. People come from all over California to taste the fruits of our labor when it comes to this varietal. So how would someone ever choose the best?! Well, our readers have taken on the task and here is the verdict! The exotic, award-winning Harney Lane, 2016 Old Vine Zin Lizzy James takes top prize. Next up, the Macchia, “Mischievous” zin from Macchia Wines is both complex and fruit-forward. The Klinker Brick, Old Ghost Zin, which is made from small 90 plus-year-old vineyard blocks, rounds out our list of top three.

BEST OF 2019 DRINK WINNERS

BEER BREWERY
• Five Window Beer Co.
• Lodi Brewery
• Valley Brewery

BEER SELECTION (RESTAURANT / BAR)
• Porter’s Pub
• Taps Barrel House
• Ollie’s Pub

BLOODY MARY
• Market Tavern
• Ollie’s Pub
• America Waffles

CRAFT BEER PUB
• Five Window Beer Co.
• Fat City Brew and BBQ
• Taps Barrel House

CRAFT COCKTAILS
• Market Tavern
• West Oak Nosh
• Rosewood

COFFEE SPOT (LOCAL)
• Empresso Coffeehouse
• House of Coffees
• Baristas, Tracy

MARGARITA
• Habernero Hots
• La Palma Mexican Cuisine
• Octavio’s

MOSCOW MULE
• Market Tavern
• Midgley’s Public House
• West Oak Nosh

TEA ROOM
• The Hidden Tea Room
• Tea 4 You
• Trina’s Tea Kettle & Boutique

SPARKLING WINE
• Weibel Vineyards
• LVVR Lockeford
• Van Ruiten Winery

WINE MENU
• Mile Wine restaurant
• The Press
• Wine and Roses

WINE TASTING ROOM
• Oak Farms Winery
• Michael David Winery
• Harney Lane Winery

WINE CLUB
• Michael David Winery
• Harney Lane Winery
• Oak Farm Vineyards

ZINFANDEL
• Harney Lane, 2016 Old Vine Zin Lizzy James
• Macchia, “Mischievous”
• Klinker Brick, Old Ghost Zin

BEST OF SHOPPING

FIND EVERYTHING FROM NEW LOOKS TO OLD CLASSICS.

BEST Auto Dealership
Few decisions are as stressful as car shopping, but these dealerships make the process less intimidating and-dare we say it?-enjoyable. The family owned and operated Chase Chevrolet has been a car-buying staple in Stockton ever since opening in 1944 and they’re committed to helping you find your next set of wheels. Big Valley Ford knows that you have high expectations and their knowledgeable team is revving and ready to get you out on the open road. If you’re looking for a little luxury in your new car, look no further than Berberian. This Stockton based Mercedes-Benz dealership is ready to make your dream car a reality.

BEST Consignment Shop
If one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, then consignment shops are an absolute treasure trove. If you’ve ever lusted over your best friend’s impeccable sense of style, My Best Friend’s Closet is the place for you. Shop your way through this high-end consignment shop and get your hands on designer clothes and jaw-dropping accessories. Tired from trying on all those new outfits? Swing by New and Again to find that perfect pre-loved furniture to recline and relax. And when the kiddos start growing like weeds, stop by Once Upon a Child in Tracy to update their wardrobe with new threads.

BEST Bicycle Shop
These feet weren’t made for walking-but pedaling, now, that’s more our speed. And our readers agree. San Joaquin County offers residents a great variety of biking trails, whether you opt for a road bike, cruiser, or BMX bike. Robby’s Bicycle Shop in Stockton carries bikes of every shape and style, as well as parts and accessories to help customize your ride. If your bike needs a mid-summer tune up or if you’re looking for a new ride altogether, Anderson’s Mower & Bike has everything you need to put the pedal to the metal.

BEST Fashionable Accessories
When you need to bring new life to a well-loved sweater or jazz up a drab dress, San Joaquin County boasts just the boutiques you need to find that touch of glitz and glam. Bellissima Boutique is the place to be for head to toe accessories. Find everything from jewelry to shoes, purses to hats. For a shopping experience that’s on the move as much as you are, check out Lovely Girl Mobile Boutique, a traveling shop on wheels. Bella’s Closet has everything, including stylish shades, strappy sandals, and everything in between.

BEST Gift Shop
Whether you’re at your wit’s end looking for a last-minute gift or you’re just in the mood for a splurge, there’s nothing better than stepping into a specialty gift shop and laying eyes on that special something for that special someone-even if that special someone is you! At The Owl Box you’ll have a hard time choosing just one item from the selection of locally made candles, jams, and candy. If you’re in need of a good dose of relaxation, Mia Bella’s Boutique‘s selection of bubble bath, bath bombs, soaps, lotions, and candles is just what the doctor ordered. And for a great seasonal selection and year-round staples, Best Wishes is the place to go.

BEST Fine Jewelry
Nothing quite puts a sparkle in your eye like fine jewelry and Stockton’s oldest family owned and operated jewelry store, Peck’s Jewelers, has the skill and stock to make you-and your jewelry-shine. Engagements and special occasions can be the perfect excuse to add to your collection or you can swing by Gary J. Long Jewelers anytime to treat yourself to their collection of fashion jewelry. One of twelve locations throughout the greater Sacramento area, Stockton’s DeVons Jewelers can offer unique styles not found at any other jewelers.

BEST Designer Eyewear
For styles you never saw coming, look no further than our readers’ favorite glasses retailers. Great Spectacles wants to make sure your face never goes naked again. Let them help you find the perfect pair of glasses for your facial features and eye color. With over 1500 frames, choosey eyewear shoppers can’t overlook Brookside Optometric. Or visit husband and wife duo Dr. Derron Lee and Dr. Leanne Lee at Midtown Optometry for high quality spectacles, plus vision care, eye exams, frame fittings, and LASIK surgery.

BEST Music Store
If music is food for the soul, then San Joaquin County’s music stores are more than just a place to pick up a new instrument. Main Street Music is a one-stop-shop, offering new and used instruments for sale and rental, repairs, and music lessons. With quality products and friendly service, you’ll feel like part of the family at Mr C’s Music. Catering to all musicians from guitarists to flutists, Music Go Round is home to all the sweet sounds you seek.

BEST Pet Supplies
If you want to keep your furry friend fashionable or have a question about pet nutrition, Carter’s Pet Mart has the answers-and with 15,000 square feet stocked with toys, treats, and other supplies, you might come home with more than you knew you needed. Discount Pets can make some of those less-than-convenient pet chores a cinch. From flea and tick prevention to kitty litter, you can get the dirty work done and move onto the fun. For the four-legged farm family, Robinson Farms Feed Co. is stocked with everything you need for livestock, as well as poultry and other animals.

BEST OF 2019 SHOPPING WINNERS

AUTO DEALERSHIP
• Chase Chevrolet
• Big Valley Ford
• Berberian Mercedes-Benz

BICYCLE SHOP
• Robby’s Bicycle Shop
• Anderson’s Bike

CONSIGNMENT SHOP
• My Best Friends Closet
• New & Again Consignment Furniture Gallery
• Once Upon A Child

DESIGNER EYEWEAR
• Great Spectacles
• Brookside Optometric Group
• Midtown Optometry

FASHIONABLE ACCESSORIES
• Bellissima Boutique
• Lovely Girl Mobile Boutique
• Bella’s Closet

GIFT SHOP
• The Owl Box
• Mia Bella’s Boutique
• Best Wishes

FINE JEWELRY
• Peck’s Jewelers
• Gary J Long Jewelers
• DeVons Jewelers (Stockton)

MUSIC STORE
• Main Street Music
• Mr C’s Music
• Music Go Round

PET SUPPLIES
• Carter’s Pet Mart
• Discount Pet
• Robinson Farms Feed Co

SHOPPING CENTER
• Lincoln Center
• Stone Creek Villiage
• Sherwood Mall

SPECIALTY STORE
• Mia Bella’s Boutique
• The Owl Box
• The Bone Store

VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE
• Lilou of the Valley
• Pawtastic Thrift Boutique
• Crossroads Trading

WOMEN’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE
• FINA
• Bella’s Closet
• Bellissima Boutique

WOMEN’S SHOES BOUTIQUE
• Dennis Shea Shoes
• Bellissima Boutique
• Bella’s Closet (3rd Tie)
• FINA (3rd Tie)

BEST SHOPPING CENTER

From the bygone days of high school when malls were the pulse of our social lives to the unparalleled shopping convenience they offer us as adults, these San Joaquin County shopping hubs will always hold a special place in our hearts. With stores like Sassy Pants Children’s Boutique, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Trader Joe’s, Lincoln Center is the perfect place to spend a day. The open-air collection of shops and restaurants at Stone Creek Village is interspersed with tranquil fountains and home to some of our other Best Of winners. Feeling nostalgic? Sherwood Mall is your classic shopping mall with all the big-name stores you know and love.

BEST Specialty Store
Where do you go when you have that certain something in mind and just can’t wait for two-day delivery? No stress! San Joaquin’s best of the best specialty stores have you covered from last minute wedding décor to items for when the man-cave is in desperate need of a redesign. Mia Bella’s Boutique has a little of everything, which is one reason our readers hail it as the best. If you find yourself in need of that unique yet functional conversation piece, The Owl Box has a well-rounded stock of vintage furniture that will turn heads. If you expect more from your furniture than a place to sit, consider The Bone Store‘s selection of zero gravity and stress-less seating to alleviate aches and pains.

BEST Vintage Clothing Store
Old fashioned? You must be mistaken-when it comes to vintage clothing, old is the new, well, new. From Harley Davidson crop tops to Betty Boop Tees, fashion isn’t bound by what decade it is at Lilou of the Valley. Born from a love of our furry friends, Pawtastic Thrift Boutique offers recycled styles including formal wear and coats. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or trade in, Crossroads Trading wants to see your best vintage threads-and send you home with some new-to-you styles.

BEST Women’s Clothing Boutique
Boho or business casual; girly or geeky. No matter what your style is, you can find something that fits just right at our readers’ Best Of picks. From fringe-sleeved, floor length boho dresses to hip halter blouses and everything in between, Fina is your ticket to an unmatchable style. If your girlfriends always turn to you for advice on the most up-to-date trends, look at Bella’s Closet, a Lodi boutique that is always on the cutting edge. Bellissima Boutique knows that accessories can make or break a fashion ensemble, so they carry outfit staples and a variety of accessories for the perfect accent.

BEST Women’s Shoes Boutique
It’s time to step up, San Joaquin County, and these shoes stores will get you on the right track. If you’ve had enough of blisters and too-tight shoes, Dennis Shea Shoes & Accessories has just the fit. Specializing in those hard-to-find sizes, they stock styles from top-name brands. With boots, sandals, and heels, Bellissima Boutique is sure to have the perfect pair for any look. Whether you lace them, tie them, or slip ‘em on, Bella’s Closet has a cute pair of shoes to finish your favorite outfit. At Fina, bold prints reign supreme and their shoe collection is no exception. We say, go bold or go home.

BEST OF PLAY

AMP UP YOUR SOCIALITE STATUS, WIN IT BIG, BUST A MOVE, HEAR A TUNE.

Best Art Gallery
San Joaquin County is quickly turning into a cultural hub. New art galleries are coming on the scene, but San Joaquinians’ favorites seem to be the mainstays. The Haggin Museum, rich in history, is still enjoying the fruits of its labors after an intensive redesign just a few years ago. The Stockton Art League Goodwin Gallery houses wares from local artists in a variety of mediums. Peruse oil paintings, home goods, clothing, and more. Double Dip Gallery focuses on more than art-the downtown Lodi hotspot serves Gunther’s ice cream to patrons that come in and browse.

BEST Local Casino
You don’t have to cross state lines to hit the casinos. Local readers have picked three stellar options for gambling, all within 100 miles of home. Gold goes to Jackson Rancheria Casino Resort, a 24-hour operation boasting 1,700 slot machines, 32 gaming tables, a poker room, and more. Silver was awarded to Thunder Valley Casino Resort, filled with 2,500 slot machines, 110 table games, a 210-player poker room, and more. Don’t skip the stellar entertainment. Set in the scenic foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, the bronze goes to Black Oak Casino. Owned by the Me-Wuk Indians, this gaming and entertainment hub spans over 164,000 square feet.

BEST Event Space
From weddings to birthday parties, baby showers to business gatherings, San Joaquin is awash with gorgeous venues vying to host your event. Wine & Roses is a Lodi staple. Full coordination and event planning are part of the package, with add-ons for food, accommodations, and spa services. At Stockton Golf & Country Club there are five event spaces to choose from, accommodating up to 400 guests on the San Joaquin River. Brookside Country Club makes event planning easy with on-site catering, event coordination, and indoor-outdoor venues, all for events ranging from casual to black tie.

BEST Golf Course (Private)
Looking to hit some balls on a private course? You’ve come to the right county. Stockton Golf & Country Club is an 18-hole park-style course that has been on the property-and expertly maintained-since the 1920s. Once you master that course, move onto the next. Brookside Golf & Country Club boasts a par-72, 18-hole championship course designed for golfers of all skill levels. Woodbridge Golf & Country Club is home to a 27-hole championship course set amongst the vineyards and cherry orchards Woodbridge is known for. Regardless of where you choose to play, you can’t go wrong with one of these three picks!

BEST Golf Course (PUBLIC)
Looking for an accessible course without the membership? Swenson Park Golf Course caters to all levels of players with courses for each, featuring water hazards beneath looming oak trees. The view at The Reserve at Spanos Park rivals Swenson’s course, with Mt. Diablo in the background creating perfect sunrises and sunsets. At Elkhorn Golf Club an 18-hole course and driving range bring golfers in, but fans of the course keep coming back for the tournaments (hosted for both adults and kids).

BEST Family Festival
Looking for a little family fun in the valley? Check out our readers’ favorite family-friendly festivals. The Lodi Grape Festival was voted the best in the land. Hosted in September, visitors of all ages love the rides, petting zoo, live entertainment, and wine tasting. Ever eaten fried asparagus spears? Have you downed an asparagus margarita? To celebrate the local harvest, the ag-centric San Joaquin Asparagus Festival comes about every April, slinging an asparagus-heavy menu, rides, entertainment, and more. While you’re waiting for these annual festivals, check out the Stockmarket. The maker’s fair celebrates local vendors including vintage curators, street food makers, and musicians.

BEST Food Festival
Our valley is a hub for tasty cuisine. From local eateries to Lodi’s fine wineries, food and drink permeate the region. The San Joaquin Asparagus Festival is a community favorite, serving standard fair food in addition to asparagus-inspired dishes made with the local harvest. St. Bazil’s Greek Festival takes on a different region’s cuisine-Greek food-with vendors hocking their own creations throughout the festival. At the Lodi Grape Festival, food is only one component of the successful event that includes family-friendly performers and a petting zoo!

BEST Downtown Stockton Hot Spot
When we’re looking for a place to spend our evenings, we turn to our friends for worthy recommendations. Luckily, we have a LOT of friends around here, and they’ve told us exactly how they feel about downtown Stockton. Cast Iron Trading isn’t for the late night. The restaurant closes at 10 PM on Fridays and Saturday nights (it’s opened Tuesdays through Sundays). Before then, however, it’s the place to stop for gourmet food and local wine and beer. You may feel like you’re sitting in a law office while visiting the Deliberation Room. This speakeasy-style restaurant stays open until 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 12 AM on Thursdays (it’s open Tuesday through Saturday). For the beer lovers, there’s Channel Brewing Co., a local craft beer spot with an adventurous spirit.

BEST OF 2019 PLAY WINNERS

ART GALLERY
• Haggin Museum
• Stockton Art League Goodwin Gallery
• Double Dip Gallery

LOCAL CASINO
(WITHIN 100 MILES)
• Jackson Rancheria
• Thunder Valley Casino Resort
• Black Oak Casino

EVENT SPACE
• Wine and Roses
• Stockton Golf and Country Club
• Brookside Country Club

FAMILY FESTIVAL
• Lodi Grape Festival
• San Joaquin Asparagus Festival
• Stockmarket

FOOD FESTIVAL
• San Joaquin Asparagus Festival
• St. Basil’s Greek Festival
• Lodi Grape Festival

DOWNTOWN STOCKTON HOT SPOT
• Cast Iron Trading
• Deliberation Room
• Channel Brewing Co.

GOLF COURSE (PRIVATE)
• Stockton Golf & Country Club
• Brookside Golf & Country Club
• Woodbridge Golf & Country Club

GOLF COURSE (PUBLIC)
• Swenson Park Golf Course
• The Reserve at Spanos Park
• Elkhorn Golf Club

BEST OF HEALTH

PLACES TO GET GORGEOUS AND EXPERTS WHO WILL HELP YOU STAY THAT WAY.

BEST Allergist
If these Central Valley springs have you sniffling and sneezing, those over-the-counter cures aren’t your only option. The experts at Allergy Immunology & Asthma Medical Group have been treating allergies in San Joaquin County for over thirty years. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal allergies or ongoing reactions, Dr. Dennis W. Delpaine can help pinpoint the cause and determine the best method of treatment. Dr. Jun Lu of Sutter Gould Medical Group aims to find the cause of allergic reactions, so allergies have a minimal impact on patients’ day-to-day lives.

BEST BARBER SHOP
Nothing can quite make you feel self-conscious the way a bad haircut can. If you are looking for a barber you can trust who uses the best trimmers for barbers, turn to our readers’ top picks for barbershops in San Joaquin County. We all know how important it is to find a good barber who uses high quality equipment. Ever wished you could get a history lesson while getting your trim? At Village Barber Shop & Salon in Stockton, forget flipping through magazines mindlessly while waiting and instead study the wall of war pictures and memorabilia. Also in Stockton, Homers Barber Shop has its own way of remembering bygone days-ask for a hot towel shave and let the barber take you back to a simpler time. Or opt for a modern style at The Golden Rose Barber Co.

BEST CHIROPRACTOR
With four local offices, Hayes Chiropractic offers convenient locations and experienced chiropractors who can help with issues head to toe-literally. Whether you’re dealing with neck pain or foot pain, they will work to find the best treatment plan. Wilson and Allen Chiropractic specializes in treating pediatric patients and expecting mothers and in injury prevention for athletes. Meanwhile, Stockton residents who turn to Tom Paige Chiropractic for their back pain will enjoy the unlimited chiropractic care membership program.

BEST Day Spa
Looking for a relaxing daycation close to home? A romantic afternoon with your honey? Just need to lose the tension in your shoulders? Our readers know the key to relaxing is a little pampering, so take their suggestions for the best day spas around. The Spa at Wine & Roses is second to none with an extensive offering of services in a tranquil space. Offering everything from bridal packages to seasonal wraps, Perfect Balance Day Spa can help you unwind. Make a commitment to your selfcare with a membership at The Spa at Southern Exposure and enjoy monthly spa treatments.

BEST CrossFit
If you’re looking to lose a few extra pounds or work on body tone, CrossFit is a great fit for your fitness goals. You can combine weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio for a world-class workout with ASAP Fitness at one of five locations. Squat, pull, push, jump, and run your way to your fitness goals at CrossFit 209 Sport in Stockton. Or join Trevor Phillips at Fulcrum Fitness for personalized support during your fitness journey.

BEST Cosmetic Surgery
If you’ve decided on cosmetic surgery to look and feel your best, take our readers’ recommendations for the best plastic surgeons in San Joaquin County. Vu Plastic Surgery has been well received thanks to Dr. Vu’s personalized, low-pressure approach. He doesn’t believe in hocking the latest trend; instead, he wants to find the right solution to address your concerns. Dr. Kimberly Cockerham offers services such as eyelid and brow enhancements, facial laser resurfacing, lip and cheek augmentation, and more. And at the Plastic Surgery Center of Stockton, the team is dedicated to excellence with services such as breast augmentation, liposuction, and botox treatments.

BEST COSMETIC DENTIST
A smile is a beautiful thing, but less than perfect teeth can leave you hiding your smile. Let Todd A. Franklin, DDS fix your cracked teeth, get those pearly white really white, shape your gums, and more. Specializing in services such as dental makeovers, teeth whitening, and veneers, Amy Scriven, DDS will transform your smile and have you grinning ear to ear. Lester Low, DDS joined his father’s dental practice three decades ago and has built his career on rebuilding smiles.

BEST PEDIATRIC DENTIST
Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a scary experience for kids. Our readers shared the pediatric dentists that made their kids feel safe-and leave with a sparkling clean smile. Kids Care Dental and Orthodontics has several offices throughout the Central Valley and beyond (from Manteca to Roseville) and their dental hygienists, dentists, and orthodontists have extensive experience with everything from routine cleanings to extractions and oral surgery. At Lodi Pediatric Dentistry, Anisha Ranchhod, DDS draws on years of experience as a pediatric dentist and a mother to help educate children about the importance of dental hygiene. In Stockton, turn to Lester Low, DDS for dental care for the whole family.

BEST ORTHODONTIST
Providing orthodontic care to patients of all ages, Dr. Cameron R. Wheeler of Wheeler Orthodontics in Stockton offers services ranging from early treatment of patients as young as seven to several forms of braces for teens and adults. For a child-centric approach to orthodontics, Kids Care Dental and Orthodontics has convenient locations in Lodi, Stockton, Manteca, and Tracy and a team dedicated to making the orthodontic process as painless as possible. Whether you’re looking for traditional metal braces or more aesthetic options like Invisalign or ceramic braces, Lyndon Low, DDS offers a range of services to meet all your orthodontic needs.

BEST DERMATOLOGIST/SKIN DOCTOR
If you’re struggling with acne, eczema, or other dermatology problems, you probably aren’t comfortable in your own skin. You’ll be happy to hear that you don’t have to go far to find expert care for these and other dermatology conditions. In Stockton, Dr. Stuart Jacobs is one of our readers’ top picks for local dermatologists and with over four decades of experience, there isn’t much he hasn’t seen. For a team approach to dermatology care, Quail Lakes Dermatology has a friendly staff and experienced doctors who address concerns ranging from acne to skin lesions to skin cancer. If your skin has lost its glow, Central Valley Dermatology offers facials, Botox, microdermabrasion, and other services to lift, smooth, and brighten.

BEST Eye Care/Optometrist
Whether you’re struggling with an ever-changing prescription, dry eyes, cataracts, or glaucoma, eye health can seem like a moving target. Brookside Optometry is the result of a 1998 merger of Stockton’s three largest optometry practices, meaning that patients benefit from flexible scheduling and an extensive team of experts. With several locations, Zeiter Eye Medical Group offers services ranging from routine vision exams and glasses to Lasik, cornea, and glaucoma treatments. High school sweethearts Dr. Derron Lee and Dr. Leanne Lee serve patients at Midtown Optometry where they offer services such as vision therapy, sport vision training, and infant vision care.

BEST Eyelash Extensions
A beauty trend that proves to be sticking around, eyelash extensions provide a semi-permanent alternative to the morning mascara routine. Locals turn to Stockton-based Lindsay Lockmiller for eyelash extensions and other beauty services like mineral infused clay treatments and Aztec mud masks. In Lodi, your long-lash needs will be met and expectations exceeded by Licensed Esthetician Lina Espiritu. Or turn to Christie Goodman for the perfect lash volume, whether you want something more natural or long and full.

BEST EYEBROW ARTIST
If you’re feeling a bit bushy, it might be time your eyebrows got some TLC. In San Joaquin County, you’ll find lots of options for estheticians who rule the brow game. Here are our readers’ top picks. Visit Radiant Skin by Lauren for eyebrow shaping and stay for her full offering of services from facials to full body waxing and organic skin care products. Lindsay Lockmiller is a favorite for all beauty services. Trusted by locals for everything from lashes to skin care, she is a master waxer and brow expert. Brows by Otila at JC Salon is another artist you can trust with one of your most important features.

BEST FACIAL
Dry, hot summer days and chapping, cold winters are hard on skin. Even the shoulder seasons don’t offer much relief as your skin struggles to adapt to changing weather conditions. Treating yourself to a facial can strip off layers of dead skin and leave you looking and feeling rejuvenated. You’ll be in good hands with Perfect Balance Day Spa where every facial is customized for your skin type. The Spa at Wine & Roses also offers a variety of facial services such as a W&R Organic Signature Facial, an Age-Defying Facial, or a Deep Pore Facial. Lauren at Radiant Skin by Lauren knows that a good facial can bring your skin back to life.

BEST FITNESS CLASSES
Going to the gym can be a daunting endeavor, but your goals become so much more obtainable when you’re not alone. Join a group class led by the personal trainers at Valley Fit in Stockton and you’ll find yourself building more than muscle-you’re bound to build some friendships too! With a great selection of group classes from strength training to dance, yoga, or swim, In-Shape Health Clubs offer opportunities for all fitness styles. Under new management, Twin Arbors Health Club offers mainstay favorites and keeps up with new fitness trends in group classes. Both new and existing members can benefit from a free sit-down with a Nationally Accredited Certified Personal Trainer.

BEST HAIR SALON STUDIO
If your locks have lost their luster and you’re looking for a new look, turn to these stand-out salons for a new style. Proudly calling themselves a fashion-focused hair company, Pomp Salon is on the cutting edge of trending hairstyles. Go bright and bold with your color at Exclusive Beauty Salon in Stockton. Pick a pale pastel, or stick to a classic cut and color. No matter what color you pick, you’re going to leave looking your best. Salon Two Twenty is a blowout bar and salon ready to attend to all your hair and beauty needs. Book a namesake blowout for some added volume, or get Klix hair extensions and leave with longer locks than you came with.

BEST HEALTH CLUB (WITH MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
Franchise health clubs benefit from name recognition, but that certainly doesn’t mean you’ll be sacrificing quality service here. In-Shape Health Clubs has more than 70 locations in California, leading to tried and true approaches to fitness. With month-to-month memberships, you can enjoy dozens of workout options. Planet Fitness, known as “the judgement-free zone,” also has several locations within San Joaquin County and a range of membership options. If you find yourself in need of early-morning or late-night workouts, 24 Hour Fitness is the place for you.

BEST Health Club (SINGLE LOCATION)
If you’re looking for a place where you can feel at home during your workout, San Joaquin County’s single-location health clubs welcome you to become part of the family. At Twin Arbors Sports Club, you will have access to group workouts, yoga, pool exercise, and more-and you’ll always be greeted with a smile! Choose to drop in at 4F Fitness or commit to your workout routine with unlimited workout options. Ben Mackie Fitness offers the support of a personal trainer as well as spin, barre, and yoga classes to help you get in shape-or stay in shape.

BEST HEARING CENTER
Can you hear me now? No? Then you’ll be happy to hear about San Joaquin County’s best hearing centers. With over twenty years’ experience backing American Hearing Aids in Stockton, you can rest assured that you will benefit from competitive pricing and personalized service as the staff works to find you the best hearing solution. Get your hearing tested or address concerns of dizziness, vertigo, and tinnitus at Stockton’s University of the Pacific Hearing & Balance Center. At Wesson Hearing Aid Center, they know it takes more than just wearing any old hearing aid to provide better hearing to patients and they are enthusiastic about finding just the right solution for everyone.

BEST Independent Pharmacy
Hammer Lane Pharmacy believes independent pharmacies have the most satisfied patients and our readers can’t help but agree. Offering refills, transfers, delivery, flu shots, and many other services, they promise you’ll see the difference in their service. Bob’s Pharmacy in Manteca is a pharmacy and medical supply store that is locally owned and locally loved-with raving good reviews to prove it. As the only pharmacy in San Joaquin County to create customized medication for patients (and their pets), taking your prescription to Pacific Compounding Pharmacy offers one-of-a-kind service.

BEST LasikEye Surgery
Don’t let blurry vision hold you back any longer! Lasik might be the perfect solution and at our readers’ favorite providers, your experience is sure to be smooth sailing. Founded in 1962 by Henry Zeiter, MD, Zeiter Eye was later joined by Henry’s nephew Joseph T. Zeiter, MD and son John H. Zeiter, MD. Together they offer cutting edge Lasik operations. At Central Valley Eye Medical Group, you will have a team of optometry specialists looking after you. Enjoy the convenience of Heritage Eye, Skin & Laser Center‘s Stockton or Manteca locations to free yourself from glasses and contact lenses.

BEST MAKEUP ARTIST
Whether you’re after that blushing bride look when you walk down the aisle or just want to treat yourself, a makeup artist has a way of making those dreams come true. Get in touch with Shandi Alegre for the latest trending makeup styles, bridal makeup, or theater and costume makeup artistry. Sisters Jennifer Whiting and Elisabeth Graffin of Hi Pretty Beauty Services are ready to tag-team your beauty needs from lashes to lips. For weddings and other special events in Stockton, Heather Camacho is your go-to glam gal.

BEST Massage Therapy
San Joaquin County residents work hard and play hard-and when that go, go, go lifestyle leads to some built up tension, our readers know exactly where to turn. The Spa at Wine & Roses came out on top with their offerings of wellness massages, a relaxing sticks and stones deep tissue massage, a honey bee good hydrating treatment, and more. Offering optional upgrades of deep tissue, aromatherapy, or hot stones to any massage service, Perfect Balance Day Spa allows you to customize your massage experience. Kym with a Y Organic Spa & Waxing Studio offers massages with extras-for a full-body massage with a chocolate scrub and mud mask for your back, ask for the Salt, Mud & Massage treatment.

BEST MEDI-SPA
Sit back and relax and let the experts work their magic at these local medi-spas. Offering free consultations to discuss laser treatments, skin treatments, Botox, and Juvéderm, in addition to spa services, Total Body Medi Spa will see to your needs and send you off feeling and looking great. With Perfect Balance Day Spa, your needs are met from nail care to wraps and scrubs and even facials and waxing. Or turn to The Spa at Wine & Roses where your ongoing wellness is guaranteed with their frequent guest discount.

BEST MICROBLADING
This hip new beauty trend is a tattooing technique where a trained esthetician uses a semi-permanent pigment to color and shape your eyebrows and it has found an eager following in San Joaquin County. At Salon Two Twenty in Lodi, Taryn Wagner is your go-to gal for MicroBlading. Elisabeth Graffin is a twice-certified permanent brow artist offering brow beautification at Hi Pretty Beauty Services in Lodi. Also in Lodi, Shandi Alegre Hunt offers MicroBlading and other on-point semi-permanent beauty services-and with nearly 18k Instagram followers, you can be sure she knows her stuff.

BEST MEDICAL SUPPLY STORE
Whether you’re coming with instructions from your doctor or just looking to ease your aches and pains, our readers know where to turn for pain relief. When your bones get to aching settle into a comfortable seat from The Bone Store or pull up the covers on one of their adjustable iSense mattresses. To keep an active lifestyle, choose from their selection of braces and insoles. Or turn to Reich’s Pharmacy in Tracy with services above and beyond prescription refills. Join a health and wellness class or look into some durable medical equipment.

BEST Mani/Pedi
We can’t make it through summer without a good mani-pedi-or any time of year, for that matter. When your nails need a touch up and some TLC, look no further than our readers’ favorite parlors. Whether you’re in Lodi or Stockton, Signature Nails and Spa offers a relaxing ambience while you pick out your new favorite color. At Finishing Touch Nails & Hair, you can choose from a rainbow of classic or gel colors or ask for a custom design for some seasonal flair. Step into the VIP room at Brookside Nails & Boutique for your mani-pedi and continue the pampering with a message or waxing before browsing the boutique.

BEST OB-GYN
Looking forward to welcoming your baby? Have a family history of breast cancer? Or maybe you just need a new OB-GYN you can trust? Don’t leave your choice of doctors to chance. Take the recommendations of our readers, local women just like you, when looking for your OB-GYN. The Gill OB/GYN Medical Group is located in Stockton and with 65 years of experience, they’ve served generations of women in San Joaquin County. Dr. Stephen Tsang, M.D. is a Sutter Health doctor committed to meeting all your feminine health needs from birth control options to breast cancer prevention and beyond. Also a Sutter Health doctor, Dr. Carol Nakashima, M.D. is a trusted source of care in Lodi.

BEST PERSONAL TRAINER
You’ve tried home workouts, running blocks, and lifting weights, but you haven’t found the right fitness routine for your body. Personal trainers are able to consider your fitness goals, body type, and limitations to create a custom workout plan that will help you reach your goals. And they double as your personal cheerleader for that extra bit of motivation. Trevor Phillips at Fulcrum Fitness was voted the best by our readers and with Ryan Doscher at F4 you get access to squat racks, olympic barbells with rubber plates, dumbbells, resistance bands, fixed barbells, and more. Ben Mackie‘s previous life as a physical training instructor in the British army and professional soccer career set him up for success as a personal trainer.

BEST PILATES STUDIO
Pilates classes help you build overall strength, flexibility, and lean muscle tone by focusing on core strength building and repetitive motion. Join a class at Now and Zen Yoga in Lodi where you can get a 50 percent discount off your first month of classes as you test the waters. If you want to turn up the heat, True You Hot Yoga‘s Inferno Hot Pilates is for you. Get ready to sweat during this 95-degree, 40 percent humidity workout. At Ben Mackie Fitness, your personal trainer will help incorporate Pilates into your routine.

BEST TANNING SALON
There’s no shortage of sun during the California summer, but for that sun-kissed glow all year round, San Joaquin County’s tanning salons are happy to help. For a short-term tan, opt for the spray tan at Planet Beach (Lincoln Center), or for lasting and natural-looking results, consider UV Tanning. Also available are tanning after-care products to extend the life of your tan. Step inside and get a UV-free tan at La Stella Tanning and Day Spa or turn to Havatan in Lodi and Stockton to mix and match tanning services and products to reach your ideal bronze.

BEST URGENT CARE
Know where to turn for life’s little emergencies. In Stockton, Sutter Gould Urgent Care offers quick care for common illness care, minor injuries, pediatric urgent care, and whatever other hiccups life might throw your way. As an Urgent Care and Family Practice facility, Stockton Urgent Care provides urgent care treatment, as well as some scheduled services. Trinity Urgent Care was founded in 2009 and in the last decade has provided high quality care to Stockton area residents.

BEST Yoga Studio
Yoga is a great way to achieve balance in your life. Let’s face it, every now and then you need a little Now and Zen-Now and Zen Yoga Studio, that is. Drop in for a one-time class or sign up for unlimited monthly access to the full offerings of Beginning Yoga, Flow Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Indoor Standup Paddle Yoga, and more. Tracy’s Flow Yoga and Wellness Studio is committed to offering you options so you can find your flow and what works best for your body. Choose from restorative and yin yoga, heated and non-heated Vinyasa, and barre classes for all levels at Shine Yoga + Barre in Stockton.

BEST OF 2019 HEALTH WINNERS

ALLERGIST
• Allergy Immunology & Asthma Medical Group
• Dr. Dennis W. DelPaine
• Dr. Jun Lu @ Sutter Gould Medical Group

BARBER SHOP
• Village Barber Shop & Salon
• Homers Barber Shop
• The Golden Rose Barber Co.

CHIROPRACTOR
• Hayes Chiropractic
• Wilson and Allen Chiropractic
• Tom Paige Chiropractic

COSMETIC SURGERY
• Vu Plastic Surgery
• Dr. Kimberly Cockerham
• Plastic Surgery Center

CROSSFIT
• ASAP Fitness
• Crossfit 209 Sport
• Fulcrum Fitness

DAY SPA
• Wine and Roses Spa
• Perfect Balance Day Spa
• Southern Exposure

DENTIST (COSMETIC)
• Todd A. Franklin, DDS
• Amy Scriven, DDS
• Lester Low, DDS

DENTIST (PEDIATRIC)
• Kids Care Dental and Orthodontics
• Anisha Ranchhod, DDS
• Lester Low, DDS

ORTHODONTIST
• Dr. Cameron R. Wheeler
• Kids Care Dental and Orthodontics
• Lyndon Low, DDS

DERMATOLOGIST/SKIN DOCTOR
• Dr. Stuart Jacobs
• Quail Lakes Dermatology
• Central Valley Dermatology

EYE CARE/OPTOMETRIST
• Brookside Optometry
• Zeiter Eye
• Midtown Optometry

EYELASH EXTENSIONS
• Lindsay Lockmiller
• Lina Espiritu
• Christie Goodman

EYE BROW ARTIST
• Radiant Skin by Lauren
• Otilia Aguila Martinez
• Lindsay Lockmiller

FACIAL
• Perfect Balance Day Spa
• Wine and Roses Spa
• Radiant Skin by Lauren

FITNESS CLASSES
• Valley Fitness
• In-Shape Health Clubs
• Twin Arbors Health Club

HAIR SALON STUDIO
• Pomp Salon
• Exclusive Beauty salon
• Salon Two Twenty

HEALTH CLUB
(MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
• In-Shape Health Clubs
• Planet Fitness
• 24 hr Fitness

HEALTH CLUB
( 1 LOCATION ONLY)
• Twin Arbors Sports Club
• F4 / Form First Functional Fitness
• Ben Mackie Fitness

HEARING CENTER
• American Hearing Aids
• UOP Hearing and Balance Center
• Wesson Hearing Aid Center

INDEPENDENT PHARMACY
• Hammer Lane Pharmacy
• Bob’s Pharmacy
• Pacific Compounding Pharmacy

LASIK EYE SURGERY
• Zeiter Eye
• Central Valley Eye Medical Group
• Heritage Eye, Skin & Laser Center

MAKEUP ARTIST
• Shandi Alegre
• Hi Pretty
• Heather Camacho

MAN/PEDI
• Signature Nails (Lodi & Stockton)
• Finishing Touch
• Brookside Nails & Spa

MASSAGE THERAPY
• Wine and Roses Spa
• Perfect Balance Day Spa
• Kym with Y Organic Spa

MEDICAL SUPPLY STORE
• The Bone Store
• Reich’s Pharmacy

MEDI-SPA
• Total Body Medi Spa
• Perfect Balance Day Spa
• Wine Roses Spa

MICROBLADING
• Taryn Wagnerat Salon Two Twenty
• Hi Pretty Beauty Services
• Shandi Alegre Hunt

OB-GYN
• Gill OB/GYN Medical Group
• Dr Stephen Tsang, M.D.
• Dr Carol Nakashima, M.D.

PERSONAL TRAINER
• Trevor Phillips – Fulcrum Fitness
• Ryan Doscher – F4 F4 / Form First Functional Fitness
• Ben Mackie Ben Mackie Fitness

PILATES STUDIO
• Now and Zen Yoga
• True You Hot Yoga
• Ben Mackie Fitness

TANNING SALON
• Planet Beach (Lincoln Center)
• La Stella Tanning and Day Spa
• Havatan

YOGA STUDIO
• Now and Zen Yoga Studio
• Flow Yoga and Wellness Studio
• Shine Yoga + Barre

URGENT CARE
• Sutter Gould Urgent Care
• Stockton Urgent Care
• Trinity Urgent Care

BEST OF SERVICE

BEST ACCOUNTANT
People are picky when it comes to their money and with changes to the tax code, it’s more important than ever to trust your tax guy. The team at Iacopi, Lenz & Co is dedicated to providing quality service for your general accounting and tax needs. Whether you’re looking to file taxes for yourself or your business, Irma Pinon at Golden State Financial is happy to help. Or if you need a wider range of accounting services, All About Numbers offers everything from bookkeeping and payroll to tax problem resolution.

BEST Local Bank
Do you have a relationship with your bank? Opting for a local bank will often get you more personalized service and attention, which is a huge plus. Established in 1867, Bank of Stockton is an obvious choice for locals looking for services including checking and savings accounts, auto loans, home refinancing, mobile banking, business banking, and more. With headquarters in Lodi, F&M Bank is another popular choice for individual or business banking. As a family owned and operated bank, BAC Community Bank is able to offer tailored service to their customers.

BEST CAR WASH
Sometimes that gas station carwash just won’t cut it and that’s when it’s time to call in the big guns-the big water guns, that is. For a full-car foam wash, tire and wheel cleaning, and triple coat wax take a drive to Kelly’s Express Carwash. Shop a selection of seasonal gifts and goodies while your car gets a suds at Canapes Car Wash or if you feel the need for speed, Prime Shine Car Wash will have you in tip-top shape with their three-minute, top-to-bottom service.

BEST Credit Union
Sometimes the choice between a bank and credit union isn’t an easy one, but our readers have come to trust several local credit unions and want to recommend them to you. Financial Center Credit Union offers services from checking and savings accounts to discounted insurance products, financial planning, and a legal help hotline to help its members improve finances. With over 70 branches in California and 30,000 CO-OP ATMs nationwide, Golden 1 Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions in the country, meaning you don’t have to choose between size and service. Founded in 1931 to serve Stockton teachers, Premier Community Credit Union now proudly serves all members of the community in Stockton, Lodi, and Manteca.

BEST Dry Cleaners
It’s the clothes shopping order of operations: check the price tag, then check the care instruction. Many people shy away from garments that require dry cleaning, but with these reader-approved dry cleaners, you don’t have to. Parkwoods Cleaners is a full-service dry cleaner that will have your delicates spick and span in no time. For an earth-friendly wash, Guild Cleaners uses the non-allergenic, non-irritating, and environmentally friendly silicon-based GreenEarth® dry cleaning process. If your dry cleaning hang-up is a lack of convenience, Woodlake Cleaners offers free pick up and delivery service.

BEST CATERER
Give the foodies on your guest list something to celebrate. With a completely customizable catering menu for every budget and occasion, Angelina’s Spaghetti House offers a menu of Italian staples and favorites like Veal Parmesan or Pasta Primavera. Meat lovers can dig into Smokin’ Yankees BBQ‘s two-meat menu with pulled pork, chicken, and your choice of two sides. For large groups (100+), on-site cooking will get your mouth watering. Adapting to any event, no matter how casual or elegant, Country Catering offers a variety of menus for all times of day and taste palates.

BEST FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then the best way to fill your home with stories is with professional family pictures. Fritz Chin Photography is a second-generation photography studio where Arnold Chin has built upon his parents’ reputation of stunning portraits since 1998. Whether you’re looking for studio or on-site portraits, Mary Gillespie Photography will capture family memories-and you might just make some new ones during your shoot! Get those smiles ready and take advantage of great local venues for family photos with Heather Jean Photography.

BEST Dog Groomer
Our readers know pups are part of the family and have found lots of ways to pamper the pooch in San Joaquin County. Housed on 130 acres in the heart of Lodi Wine Country, Sycamore Lane Kennels offers more than boarding and daycare options. Choose from three different grooming packages tailored to your dog’s needs. Come for the puns, stay for the service at Diamond in the Ruff Pet Spa. In addition to typical grooming services, consider the FURminator® DeShedding service or The Kat’s Meow Bath. Bring your dog in for his regular trim or take advantage of the grooming services offered at Canine Culture during their stay at the kennel.

BEST Dog Trainer
New puppy chewing your slippers? Need to teach an old dog new tricks? Bone-a-Fide Dog Training offers multi-week courses or in-home training classes to address problems of housetraining, jumping, chewing, and more. Think your dog has what it takes to win big? Coaching for competitions is also offered. Whether you’re looking for group or private lessons, Sycamore Lane Kennels offers basic, intermediate, and competition-level obedience classes. Canine Culture believes the key to a well-behaved dog is a good relationship with their owner, so they’ll to teach you how to be a good owner and leader while teaching your dog to follow basic commands such as sit, stay, and heel.

BEST FINANCIAL PLANNING COMPANY
If this year’s tax season threw you through a loop or your long-term financial goals are on shaky ground, it might be time to sit down with a financial planner. Going beyond simple tax questions, The Salvetti Group works to understand their clients’ goals for their career, family, and future so they can help plan for things before they happen. By grouping investments into short-term, intermediate, and long-term, Tina Wells Lee & Associates is able to personalize each client’s financial goals to fit their needs. With the unique financial goals of business owners, farmers, and investors in mind, Levy, Daniel & McGee Wealth Management Group works to build, manage, and transition clients’ wealth around retirement.

BEST FLORIST
Flowers are our go-to gift for holidays like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day-and all the birthdays in between-but the floral arrangements from our readers’ favorite local florists prove that flowers shouldn’t be pigeonholed to holidays! With a commitment to offering the finest floral arrangements, the family owned and operated Silveria’s Flowers & Gifts offers arrangements that are perfect for birthday, get well, and anniversary gifts-or just because! Time crunch? Charter Way Florist offers same day delivery. Not sure what to order? Let the florist arrange something special with the Florist’s Choice Daily Deal. Specializing in wedding and funeral arrangements, Belle’s Lodi Flower Shop is run by third and fourth-generation florists.

BEST LAW FIRM
For most people, their knowledge of the legal system doesn’t extend beyond last night’s episode of Law and Order. For real life legal solutions, turn to the experts here in San Joaquin County. The largest law firm in the county, Neumiller & Beardslee is ready to take on everything from estate planning to business law. At Shore, McKinley, Conger & Jolley, LLP each named partner has over twenty years of experience practicing law. The firm takes a variety of cases, including personal injury, family law, and real estate. Hakeem Ellis & Marengo knows the legal system can seem impossible to navigate and they’re prepared to walk you through it with their team of counselors, negotiators, and litigators.

BEST INSURANCE AGENT
Insurance is one of those things that tends to sit on the back burner as life takes over, but it’s exactly when life takes over that you need insurance the most! George Azevedo Jr. is a Stockton State Farm agent with 35 years’ experience and numerous recognitions, ready to help you find the best coverage available to you, whether you’re looking for cheap car insurance, home insurance or any other insurance. Lodi native Jon Rader is proud to serve his local community as a State Farm agent, focusing on the insurance and financial needs of his customers and offering free, no-obligation quotes. Offering services from home and car insurance to business and recreational insurance, Ryan Turner of Farmers Insurance in Stockton has you covered.

BEST Veterinary Clinic
Our pets can’t speak for themselves, which is why we have to put a lot of trust in a vet. Luckily, San Joaquin County is full of caring- and capable-veterinarians. Sierra Veterinary Clinic offers regular appointments, vaccinations, and various diagnostic and care options, as well as emergency care. Specializing in small animals, Walker Veterinary Hospital has been treating Stockton pets since the 1960s. From dental care to parasite prevention, Jules Veterinary Center treats every pet as their own, ensuring each animal gets the care and attention it needs.

BEST Pet Spa
Go above and beyond a basic grooming experience with our readers’ top pet spa picks. At Diamond in the Ruff Pet Spa you can treat your pup to a premium wash with shampoo options like Tropiclean Spa Comfort or Tropiclean Spa Renew, a naturally exfoliating blueberry and vanilla Fresh Facial Scrub, or teeth brushing and breath freshener. Spa 4 Paws-the name says it all. Let your pup relax as they get a trim and watch them come back a whole new dog. While Fido is taking his bath and enjoying his cut at Carter’s Pet Mart, you can pick up a new toy or two.

BEST Pet Boarding
As much fun as it can be to travel with your pets, it isn’t always possible to take them with you. With four doggie daycare and two cat care options, Sycamore Lane Kennels is top dog when it comes to pet boarding. Additional services can be added a la carte to ensure all your pets’ needs are met. Offering your dog s personal-or should we say “pupsonal”-overnight kennel suite, you can rest assured your pooch will rest well at Canine Culture. Your dog will feel like a puppy again when staying at The Dog House in Lathrop and enjoying its climate controlled, 2000 square-foot indoor play area and 4400 square-foot outdoor area.

BEST Real Estate Firm
With offices throughout the Central Valley, it’s no wonder Grupe Real Estate is the top pick for San Joaquin Magazine readers. Well-versed in the needs of local clients, they can help with the process of either buying or selling your home-or both. PMZ Real Estate goes beyond simply finding your dream home; they can also help you finance and insure it. A well-known player in the national real estate field, Keller Williams Realty Lodi is able to use draw on Keller Williams tech-focused, nation-wide real estate model, while maintaining a well-rounded knowledge of the local market.

BEST Senior Assisted Living
If living at home isn’t possible or preferable anymore, it might be time to consider senior living. As the latest iteration of Father William O’Connor’s desire to create a Home for Old Men in 1899, today’s O’Connor Woods is a gated, resort-style retirement community with options for apartment or cottage living. With both independent and assisted living arrangements, social activities, gardens, and a fitness center, convenience store, and beauty salon, Rio Las Palmas offers a flexible and comfortable retirement lifestyle. The Commons at Union Ranch provides options for short- and long-term stays and boasts a robust events calendar. A cross between a resort and a family home, Astoria Senior Living Communities allows residents to take advantage of California living with excursions to nature trails and other outdoor activities.

BEST TATTOO STUDIO
Body art isn’t a decision you should rush, but when you’re ready our readers have you covered. If you did go into getting your last tattoo a bit rashly, don’t stress! Emerald Tattoo & Piercing specializes in cover-ups. Nothing to clean up, but can’t quite get your vision down on paper? They also love the chance to get creative and are eager to bring your ideas to life. Union Tattoo & Piercing draws inspiration from Manteca’s history as a stop off along the railroad. While the shop takes on an old-time aesthetic, tattoo styles range from realism to watercolor, tribal to Japanese. Still looking? Bring your ideas to Hard Luck Tattoo or pick from their selection of art.

BEST OF 2019 SERVICES WINNERS

ACCOUNTANT
• Iacopi, Lenz & Co
• Irma Pinon – Golden State Financial
• All About Numbers

BANK (LOCAL)
• Bank of Stockton
• F&M Bank
• BAC Community Bank

CAR WASH
• Kelly’s Express Carwash
• Canapes Car Wash
• Prime Shine Car Wash

CREDIT UNION
• Financial Center Credit Union
• Golden 1 Credit Union
• Premier Community Credit Union

CATERER
• Angelina’s Spaghetti House
• Smokin’ Yankees BBQ
• Country Catering

DOG GROOMER
• Sycamore Lane Kennels
• Diamond in the Ruff Pet Spa
• Canine Culture

DOG TRAINER
• Bone-a-Fide Dog Training
• Sycamore Lane Kennels
• Canine Culture

DRY CLEANERS
• Parkwoods Cleaners
• Guild Cleaners
• Woodlake Cleaners

FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
• Fritz Chin Photography
• Mary Gillespie Photography
• Heather Jean Photography

FINANCIAL PLANNING COMPANY
• The Salvetti Group
• Tina Wells Lee & Associates
• Levy, Daniel & McGee
• Wealth Managment Group

FLORIST
• Silveria’s Flowers & Gifts
• Charter Way Florist
• Belle’s Lodi Flower Shop

INSURANCE AGENT (INDIVIDUAL)
• George Azevedo Jr., State Farm (Stockton)
• Jon Rader, State Farm (Lodi)
• Ryan Turner, Farmers Insurance

LAW FIRM
• Neumiller & Beardslee
• Shore, McKinley,
Conger & Jolley
• Hakeem Ellis & Marengo

PET BOARDING
• Sycamore Lane Kennels
• Canine Culture
• The Dog House

PET SPA
• Diamond in the Ruff Pet Spa
• Spa 4 Paws
• Carter’s Pet Mart

REAL ESTATE FIRM
• Grupe Real Estate
• PMZ Real Estate
• Keller Williams Realty Lodi

SENIOR ASSISTED LIVING
• O’Connor Woods
• Rio las Palmas (tie 2nd)
• The Commons at Union Ranch (tie 2rd)
• Astoria Senior Living Communities

TATTOO STUDIO
• Emerald Tattoo
• Union Tattoo & Piercing
• Hard Luck Tattoo

VETERINARY CLINIC
• Sierra Veterinary Clinic
• Walker Veterinary Hospital
• Jules Veterinary Center

BEST OF WEDDING

WHO NEEDS A PINTEREST BOARD WHEN YOU HAVE LOCAL INSIGHT?

BEST Wedding Cake
The wedding cake is one of the most important elements of any wedding day. But what do you care about more-flavor or style? Don’t choose! At Frosted Flour, decadent flavors such as salted caramel, totally coconut, and chocolate banana cream taste as good as the cakes look. Fizz Bakery specializes in custom cakes, and offers free tastings to brides. Choose a 5-tier masterpiece for your big day in the flavor of your choice. Or, go to downtown Tracy’s gem, SweetArts where the wedding cakes are to die for! Decorate them in ruffled, ombre frosting, fresh flowers, or not at all (the naked cake style is in!)

BEST FORMAL WEAR/ TUXEDO
Eyes may be on bride, but the groom needs to look snazzy too. Tuxedos of Lodi, conveniently located in downtown Lodi, offers a little of everything for grooms, groomsmen, fathers of the bride, and even wedding guests. If you’re in Stockton, Formal Connection is our readers’ top pick for tuxes, suits, and other formal wear. Also in Lodi, The Elizabeth Bridal is a one-stop shop for wedding garments, selling bridal gowns, tuxes, and plenty of dresses and suits for the rest of the wedding party, helping brides get everything done in one location!

BEST WEDDING CATERER
San Joaquin County is overflowing with popular restaurants, so it’s no surprise the wedding catering here is top notch. Angelina’s Restaurant is a favorite for local brides. They provide everything from the appetizers to the dessert. Serve guests overflowing bowls of pasta, prime rib, chicken marsala, and more. Every menu is customizable to fit your tastes! Smokin’ Yankee’s BBQ caters to fans of high-end barbecue food with trays filled to the brim with bacon and mushroom brussel sprouts and bacon-wrapped meatballs. Brookside Country Club is more than a catering company; it’s a venue. When you book an event here, have peace of mind that the food will be as tasteful as the surroundings.

BEST WEDDING DRESS/BRIDAL SHOP
Few details are more important than what the bride will wear on her big day. Put your trust into Sheryl Giles Bridal Couture. Since 2016, Sheryl has been fulfilling her purpose by helping brides select the perfect garments for the entire wedding party. One of the best perks of purchasing a dress from Sheryl is her attention to detail. Sheryl offers embroidery to include special sentiments on bridal gowns. The Elizabeth Bridal is another favorite, offering a full-range of formal wear, including casual dresses and elegant gowns. David’s Bridal has a big reputation for offering gorgeous wedding attire at an affordable price! San Joaquin County brides need not travel far-there is a location in Modesto.

BEST WEDDING DJ
The DJ is responsible for the vibe of every wedding they perform. From the music they choose, to the style of emceeing, brides want to pick a disc jockey they can trust. Local brides have chosen Elite Entertainment as the best of the best. The company is dedicated to creating the best day for clients with custom music selection, ceremony services, and reception-only packages. Marquis Entertainment provides a special touch to every event, taking into consideration the bride’s personal taste. Plus, the company has everything you need to add karaoke to the party-sounds like fun to us! Book through Art of Sound for more than just DJ services. The company also sells photo booth rentals, up-lighting, monogram projections, and more.

BEST Wedding Flowers
Whether vibrant greenery finished with baby’s breath is your style, or you want a blooming, colorful bouquet to walk down the aisle with, area florists can make your wedding day dreams come true. Charter Way Florist has taken the title of “best” this year. The family-owned business gets its blooms directly from growers, ensuring freshness and quality. At Huckleberry Blooms you’ll find more than the namesake flower. The boutique florist has florals for every event along the way from wedding showers to big-day bouquets. At Silveria’s Flowers & Gifts, brides can grab more than the flowers needed for their wedding day. The specialty gift shop also sells decorative goods to help finish floral arrangements and more.

BEST Wedding Limo
Ride away in style! Whether you are driving from ceremony to reception, or catching an airplane off to your honeymoon, do it the right way! Vintage Limousine Service is more than your typical limo. Splurge on the bridal package, complete with champagne and a “just married” sign fixed to the back of that vintage ride! Aurora Limousine Service has a few options for rides to and from the altar, including black and white limos in varying sizes. Have a big wedding party? Luxor Coach Limousine has a ride for that! The Manteca-based business’s fleet is filled with stretch escalades, hummers, traditional Lincoln stretch limousines, and party buses! If you are interested in finding out more about a limousine service, you can visit a site similar to https://www.elitelimoct.com/norwalk-limo-service/ so you can get a good idea of what you’re looking for in a limo service for your wedding.

BEST WEDDING MAKEUP ARTIST
Brides are going nuts over Shandi Alegre Hunt, the mastermind behind Rogue Artistry. In San Joaquin County, Shandi is the one-stop shop for wedding day makeup, brow artistry (including microblading), and lash extensions. Start your beauty journey ahead of the big day with other services at Hi Pretty Beauty Services. The Lodi shop offers facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, waxing, makeup, and more. Tiffany Gomez, owner of Salon Serendipity, has curated a talented team of cosmetologists to make every bride’s dream a reality with an all-inclusive hair and makeup package.

BEST WEDDING SUPPLY RENTALS
Your big day is going to be FABULOUS! Step into the showroom of Giuffra’s Party Rentals to choose linens, chairs, tables, silverware, dance floors, and more. Every item is handpicked to make your décor pop, and brides can peruse the online catalog for wedding inspo! At Stockton Supplies, guests can pick up balloons, custom ribbons, party favors, and more-basically all the extras you need to throw a killer bash, plus party rentals. In Lodi, Bella Festa has more than equipment. The one-stop-shop also offers planning services to brides who need a little help organizing the details.

BEST WEDDING PLANNER
Ditch the wedding stress! Hand the reigns over to an area professional before you have a bridal meltdown. Magical Moments was voted best of the best in San Joaquin County for the company’s personalized planning. Bring the team at Goodstock Productions in early so they can help with the entire event. The Northern California-based planners (they’ll travel just about anywhere you ask) help with budgeting, timelines, securing vendors, floor plans, guest lists, and more! The adorably named So Eventful is based in Healdsburg, but the planners will travel. The comprehensive planning services include location and venue scouting, plus custom packages so you only pay for what you need.

BEST PHOTO BOOTH
Make memories that will last a lifetime! Photo booths provide a fun activity for wedding guests, and also a take home favor they can appreciate. The Original Selfie Booth has been voted San Joaquin County’s favorite! Choose from countless templates in different sizes and stamp it with your wedding date and names for the ultimate souvenir. Picture Me Entertainment, based out of Stockton, brings a similar service to local brides. Photo booths are just a small piece of what Ro-Sham-Bo offers. Rent a booth, and then peruse other services to fill out your big day.

BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
If anyone knows how to capture your love in a photo, it’s Richard and Shawna Briggs, the husband-wife team behind Briggs Photography. After all, photography is what brought the lovebirds together! Jon and Jess of Jon and Jess Photography are a close second, another husband-wife team who make their living capturing special moments between other couples. The Lodi-based couple has an extensive portfolio published online to give brides inspiration, and show off their talents! Every wedding season, Amanda Collins of Amanda Collins Photography brings a team of professionals along to make bride’s dreams come true with her romantic style of photography.

BEST INDOOR VENUE
San Joaquin County is filled with indoor locations every bride will drool over. In the heart of Lodi, Wine & Roses is a spectacular choice for any affair, with on-site lodging, food, and more. Every turn offers a new scene, each better than the last, and the on-site spa provides pampering for the bridal party at an additional cost. Brookside Country Club is another local favorite, with both indoor and outdoor options for saying “I Do.” Looking for something different? Marry your best friend next to the San Joaquin River. The Stockton Golf & Country Club has indoor venue options to host up to 400 guests.

BEST Outdoor Venue
In beautiful San Joaquin County where warm weather and sunny days are aplenty, couples can say “I Do” outdoors most days of the year. Perform nuptials under the blooming vines at Wine & Roses during springtime, transport guests to an Italian villa in summertime at Viaggio Estate & Winery, or celebrate your love under the brightly hued trees transforming to fall foliage at Oak Farm Vineyards. Whatever outdoor oasis you have in mind, there is a venue for that right here in the Valley.

BEST Wedding Rings Jeweler
Some wedding details only last for a day, but the sparkle? Well, that’s there for a lifetime. Step into Gary J. Long Jeweler’s for help picking out the perfect gem to represent your love. At Danz Jewelers, grooms-to-be can design their own ring settings and hand-select the gems to finish them off. For three generations, Peck’s Jewelers has been a San Joaquin favorite. Stop in to the accredited gem lab to learn more about the special stones Jeff Fields brings to the store.

BEST OF 2019 WEDDING WINNERS

WEDDING CAKES
• Frosted Flower
• Fizz Bakery
• Sweetarts

FORMAL WEAR/ TUXEDO
• Tuxedos of Lodi
• Formal Connection
• The Elizabeth

WEDDING CATERER
• Angelina’s Restaurant
• Smokin’ Yankee’s BBQ Catering
• Brookside Country Club

WEDDING DJ
• Elite Entertainment
• Marquis Entertainment
• Art of Sound

WEDDING DRESS / BRIDAL SHOP
• Sheryl Giles Bridal Couture
• Elizabeth’s Bridal Shop
• David’s Bridal

WEDDING FLOWERS
• Charter Way Florist
• Huckleberry Blooms
• Silveria’s Flowers & Gifts

WEDDING LIMO
• Vintage Limo
• Aurora Limo
• Luxor Coach Limousine

WEDDING MAKEUP ARTIST
• Shandi Alegre Hunt
• Hi Pretty Beauty Services
• Tiffany Gomez Bridal Hair & Makeup

WEDDING SUPPLY RENTAL
• Giuffra’s Party Rentals
• Stockton Supplies
• Bella Festa

WEDDING PLANNER
• Magical Moments
• Goodstock Productions
• So Eventful

PHOTO BOOTH
• The Original Selfie Booth
• Picture Me Entertainment
• Ro-Sham-Bo

PHOTOGRAPHER
• Briggs Photography
• Jon and Jess Photography
• Amanda Collins Photography

WEDDING RINGS JEWELER
• Gary J Long Jewelers
• Danz Jewelers
• Peck’s Jewelers

VENUE (INDOORS)
• Wine and Roses
• Brookside Country Club
• Stockton Golf and Country Club

WEDDING VENUE (OUTDOORS)
• Wine and Roses
• Viaggio Estate & Winery
• Oak Farm Vineyards

BEST OF PARENTING

WHETHER IT’S YOUR FIRST OR THIRD, TRUSTED RECOMMENDATIONS RULE.

BEST After School Program
If your child needs enrichment after school, turn to one of San Joaquin County’s premier spots. Throughout the region, clubs work with local schools to make quality programming accessible. YMCA of San Joaquin County ranks high as a cool place for kids to chill in the afternoons. The Boys & Girls Club of Tracy focuses on community-centric programming to simultaneously support kids and the growing city. At West Valley Christian Academy, a partnership with Tracy Community Church combines worship with physical, mental, emotional, and social development. In Manteca, Give Every Child a Chance features a line-up of after school programming ranging from tech-centric programs to all-subject tutoring.

Best Charter School
Is education on your brain? Give your kid a head start at one of these three charter schools. Health Careers Academy in Stockton focuses on prepping students for careers in the medical field, giving kids the ability to start their career path early. Looking for a challenge? Stockton Collegiate International ranked #8 on the state list of most challenging high schools, and #76 in the nation. At Aspire Apex Academy, also in Stockton, the SUSD charter school is focused on preparing kids for secondary education. Here, the school supports the community while simultaneously training students to become successful college students.

BEST CHILDREN’S
BALLET Get ready to DANCE! Kids throughout San Joaquin County are twirling into dance studios to learn the basics-and beyond. Take advantage of carefully curated dance instruction from a true professional instructor at Unique Visions Dance Company in Stockton, where prima ballerinas can perform and compete. At Stockton Ballet School the focus is on competition teams and introductory to advanced classes in ballet and other disciplines (like tap and jazz). Live in Tracy? No sweat! Stop into En Pointe Dance Studio, which employs high-level instructors to teach kids all they need to know about ballet.

BEST CHILD CARE
Feeling comfortable with who watches your child is important for parents. So, if you need childcare, where will your brood go? Throughout the county there are several choices for different ages and levels. West Valley Christian Academy, for example, offers a spiritual setting for Tracy’s youngest learners. If you live in Lodi, Creative Child Care is Hutchins Street’s own daycare center. Lastly, Merryhill Preschool in Stockton serves the community with an age-appropriate introduction into early education.

BEST INDOOR FAMILY FUN
Get the whole family together for a day of fun. At SkyZone, Stockton kids-and adults-of all ages can jump on wall-to-wall trampolines, play a friendly game of dodgeball, or try to complete one of many challenge courses. Zap Zone (also in Stockton) has areas for laser tag, billiards, darts, and bounce houses, plus a full snack bar. For the younger crowd, Mommy & Me Stockton offers a long list of programs for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and the adults who love spending time with them.

BEST CHILDREN’S THEATER
Bring out the natural performer in your little drama king or queen. KUDOS Children’s Theatre Company in Stockton goes beyond the creative to teach children critical thinking, social skills, and life skills with opportunities to perform in the intimate 74-seat theatre. Also in Stockton, the well-known Stockton Civic Theatre has opened its doors to youth performers to instill a love of singing, dancing, and acting at a young age. Lodi’s Changing Faces Theatre Company uses Instagram to keep up with the community. Follow them @changing_faces_theater to learn more about upcoming shows and auditions for community kids.

BEST CHILDREN’S DANCE STUDIO
Dance like everyone is watching. Local studios are instilling a love of dance and, in some cases, competition, in local youth. Unique Visions Dance Company has built a stellar reputation in the community for being the best, offering classes in ballet, hip-hop, jazz, and more. At Elevate Dance Company in Stockton, students learn lyrical, contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop with opportunities to join the studio’s competition team. Dancers in Tracy can study many disciplines at Powerhouse Dance Academy, plus tumbling.

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING
Keep your kiddos looking fly! Our region is brimming with hip clothing stores made with kids in mind. Sassy Pants Children’s Boutique has long been known as a tasteful spot for buying seasonal duds while newcomer Willow Tree Children’s Boutique has burst onto the scene with a store full of colorful clothes, baby gifts, and toys. If you’re looking to be eco-friendly, stop into Once Upon a Child in Tracy for recycled goods collected from local mamas.

BEST GYMNASTICS
You’ll flip for this! At Gymstars Gymnastics in Stockton, kids can level up from introductory gymnastics and tumbling classes to competitive artistic courses and all-star cheerleading, starting at 9 months old. In Lodi, Impact Sports focuses on non-competitive development with a 9,000-square foot play center that features classes for members and drop-in days for non-members. In Tracy, Royal Gymnastics & Sport Academy is geared toward skill-based gymnastics for boys and girls, including the popular NinjaZone sport developed for boys age 3-12.

BEST BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOT
Come one, come all, to the greatest birthday party of all! The perfect party spot is available without traveling far. Get sky high at SkyZone, an indoor trampoline and challenge park that encourages friends and families to get fit while having fun. For younger kids, Gingerbugs is the perfect place to celebrate! Ask about personalized party packages to make your kid’s party stand out. Zaps Zone has a little bit of everything-from bounce houses to laser tag, an arcade to billiards-to entertain kids of all ages. At Mommy & Me Stockton, families can rent rooms to fill as they please, making custom birthday parties in beautiful spaces.

BEST Martial Arts School
It’s more than self-defense. Martial arts has long been linked to self-discipline and confidence, and with dojos throughout the region, kids can earn colorful belts in just about any discipline there is. Asking yourself what BJJ is? Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is currently trending, and at Inside BJJ Academy kids can practice the sport alongside parents. Similarly, Stockton Jiu-Jitsu Academy offers courses for kids and adults, with a focus on anti-bullying and self-defense. Learn something different at Tibons Goju-Ryu Fighting Arts, where the specialty is a hard and soft style of karate-a combination of Japanese straight-line fighting and Chinese kempo.

BEST Music School
Get ready to rock! Your little one can be a one-man band with lessons in guitar, bass, drums, violin, cello, flute, clarinet, saxophone, and voice at B Sharp School of Music in Lodi. In Tracy, Main Street Music-which also offers repairs and rentals-is best known for its lessons in several disciplines with a tuition-based schedule that includes weekly instruction from educated instructors. At Stockton School of Music, university-trained musicians teach private lessons to kids of all ages, plus preschool music and rhythm classes, and host a minimum of two recitals each year to give students a chance to perform.

BEST Children’s Photographer
Your little ones won’t stay little for long. Treasure the moments with mementos you can hold for a lifetime-from photographers who know just how important family is. In Stockton Sweet Sisters Photography specializes in family portraits, newborn shots, birthday photos, and more. In Lodi, a husband-wife team runs Jon and Jess Photography, and they have four kids of their own who have been their growing models for 20 years! Heather Jean at Heather Jean Photography knows how to capture life’s most special moments. The wedding and engagement photographer also offers family packages. Call to book!

BEST PRESCHOOL
Give your child the best start. Preschools like Central Methodist Nursery School, Growing Tree Preschool, and Snell’s Pre-Kindergarten School (all in Stockton) offer kids the chance to start their educational careers off on the right foot. Learn more about the schools’ individual philosophies and how they teach social skills, early education, and more by scheduling a tour.

BEST Private School
Private schools are able to provide a different education experience than public schools, which are more-heavily regulated by district and state standards. Some of the area’s premier institutions promise educations above and beyond, allowing kids to attend a high-level institution at every stage of development. St. Mary’s High School is a crowd favorite in Stockton, while Presentation School provides private education for middle-schoolers. At Cathedral of the Annunciation School of Stockton, the focus is on teaching early education skills while also instilling a love of Christ in preschoolers.

BEST Summer Day Camp
Kids have a bad habit of sliding backward developmentally when out of school for the summer. The best way to keep minds- and bodies-sharp is to enroll kids in summer camps. Luckily, there is no shortage of brilliant camps in the county. Quail Lakes Baptist Church has day camps available for kids age three through grade eight. Every week, the camp offers lessons in bible study as well as fun crafts, trips, challenges, and more. For those interested in pursuing their passion for dance, En Pointe Dance Studio holds all-day camps focused on movement and more. YMCA of San Joaquin County camps are a good way to find balance, with a little bit of everything-from sports to inventing-offered onsite during themed camp weeks.

BEST OF 2019 PARENTING WINNERS

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
• YMCA
• Boys & Girls Club of Tracy
• West Valley Christian Academy (tie 3rd)
• Give Every Child a Chance (tie 3rd)

BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOT
• SkyZone
• Gingerbugs
• Zaps Zone (tie 3rd)
• Mommy & Me Stockton (tie 3rd)

CHARTER SCHOOL
• Health Careers Academy
• Stockton Collegiate International
• Aspire Apex Academy

CHILD CARE
• West Valley Christian Academy
• Creative Child Care
• Discovery Child Care (tie 3rd)
• Merryhill Preschool (tie 3rd)

CHILDREN’S BALLET
• Unique Visions Dance Company
• Stockton Ballet School
• En Pointe Dance Studio

CHILDREN’S THEATER
• KUDOS Children’s Theatre Company
• Stockton Civic theater
• Changing Faces Theater Company

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING
• Sassy Pants
• Willow Tree Children’s Boutique
• Once Upon A Child Tracy

CHILDREN’S DANCE STUDIO
• Unique Visions Dance Company
• Elevate Dance Company
• Powerhouse Dance Academy

GYMNASTICS
• Gymstars Gymnastics
• Impact Sports
• Royal Gymnastics & Sport Academy

INDOOR FAMILY FUN
• Skyzone
• Mommy & Me Stockton
• Zap Zone

MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL
• Inside BJJ Academy
• Stockton Jiu Jitsu Academy
• Tibon’s Goju Ryu Fighting Arts

MUSIC SCHOOL
• B Sharp School of Music
• Main Street Music
• Stockton School of Music

PHOTOGRAPHER (CHILDREN’S)
• Sweet Sisters Photography
• Jon and Jess Photography
• Heather Jean Photography

PRESCHOOL
• Central Methodist Nursery School
• Growing Tree Preschool
• Snell’s Pre-Kindergarten School

PRIVATE SCHOOL
• St. Mary’s High School
• Presentation School
• Cathedral of the Annunciation School

SUMMER DAY CAMP
• Quail Lakes Baptist Church
• En Pointe Dance Studio
• YMCA of San Joaquin County

BEST OF HOME

BEST ANTIQUE STORE
If the very thought of a room full of vintage antiques and shabby chic décor makes your heart pitter-patter, then Secondhand Rose is sure to meet your fancy! With over 70 dealers and two floors full of collectibles to peruse, it’s no wonder they were voted best. If you’re looking for a hidden gem, Treasure Trove Antiques in Stockton is full of them! They’ve got it all-from antiques and collectibles to consignment items and liquidation services. For gently used furniture, antiques and other household items, New and Again Consignment Furniture Gallery is your one-stop antique furniture shop.

BEST AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING
Ever have your air conditioner stop working in the heat of summer? Talk about a sticky situation! Lovotti Air is the local hero in Air Conditioning predicaments. Honest, up front service provided by professional AC installation technicians is what they’re known best for around here. Speaking of summer, wouldn’t it be nice to save on those nasty energy bills and not have to sweat to death? Rod Johnson Air Conditioning offers free equipment upgrade estimates, and will even contact PG&E on your behalf. Now that’s service! Not sure what’s wrong with your unit? The experts at Queirolo’s Heating & Air can find and fix the problem, big or small.

BEST Bathroom Remodeling
What’s more exciting than remodeling your bathroom? If you’ve ever done a bathroom remodel, you can probably list a few things off the top of your head. At Classic Design Interiors, they do the hard work for you! Featuring a beautiful showroom with everything you’ll need to redesign your space, they make home improvement effortless. For creative solutions and an expert design team at your service, visit HT Home Design. At Mazzera’s Remodeling Center, it’s all about building client trust and lifelong relationships. Trevizo Tile & Stone keeps it in the family, and has earned a reputation for treating your home remodel with the kind of respect and care deserved.

BEST HOME BUILDER
When it comes to building homes, these guys really know what they’re doing! With over 25 years of experience, FCB Homes has earned a reputation for building homes that have it all. Luxury is no stranger to the beautiful designs of Caresco Homes. Locally known for their high quality standards and workmanship, it’s no surprise that these homes are built by professionals who take pride in their work. With over 50 years of industry experience, the Grupe team has mastered the art of building homes that are both up to date and able stand the test of time. These builders continue to offer San Joaquin the best of the best!

BEST SOLAR COMPANY
Who wants to pay an energy bill when there’s a better option? Voted best in the county, Rod Johnson Air Conditioning offers customers solar panel and new air conditioner bundle options, and the best service in town. SunPower by the Solar Quote guarantees customers the highest quality solar panels for the best price. BTA Solar is the local solar company that goes the extra mile to show Stocktonian’s the positive affect solar will have for them on a case-by-case basis.

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER
Sprucing up a space may be just what the doctor ordered. Vibrant colors and fun patterns bring life to a room. CR Porter has been a local decoration haven for many years, and continues to offer customers everything needed to revamp a space. Taking your space from boring to breathtaking is what Kathleen Jennison does best at KTJ Design Co.! This expert designer’s eye for style has earned her a reputation as a local favorite. HT Home Design is the place to go to find both the inventory you’re looking for and help you need to redesign your space all in one place-talk about convenience!

BEST Flooring
There are so many factors that go into choosing the perfect flooring-Is it pet friendly? Will it stand the test of time? The expert’s at Pinnell’s Flooring can answer these questions and help you find the perfect flooring for your lifestyle and budget. Better Flooring Outlet in Stockton has been offering locals a wide variety of flooring options for over 15 years. With local roots, they know how to best serve San Joaquin. Don’t have time to go to a flooring store? Let a Carpetland professional come to you. With free in-home flooring estimates and financing options available, they’re all about making the process easy.

BEST Kitchen Remodeling
Nothing get’s a person more excited about cooking than a brand new kitchen! Classic Design Interiors of Lodi offers everything you need to create the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of-from flooring to cabinetry, countertops to lighting, and more. Trevizo Tile & Stone is Lodi’s expert in hard surfaces. When they are finished with a space, it is no less than a work of art. Delta Plastics offers quality, durable pieces, too. It is the place to go create your dream custom countertop and cabinets.

BEST Custom Blinds
Explore the many window treatment options available at Discovery Shutters & Shadings. Whether you are searching for the perfect privacy solution, or simply can’t decide what color and finish would look best in your space, they’ve got the answer for you. Budget Blinds knows how to transform a space, offering the latest styles and innovative fabrics, as well as free in-home design consultations. At Classic Design Interiors, they can take your place from drab to fab, with window treatments that are both fashionable and functional. Why not have the best of both worlds?

BEST GARDEN/OUTDOOR STORE
Summer sunshine has a way of drawing us outdoors, and what better way to make the most of the season than sprucing up the patio? For the loveliest outdoor furniture and garden ornamentation around, visit With Garden Flair. For summer vegetable plants as well as organic potting soils and fertilizers, check out In Season Market & Nursery. And even if you don’t have a green thumb, word on the street is the local honey and homemade jam sold in store is well worth stopping by. It’s no secret that Delta Tree Farms in Lodi is a gardener’s haven, selling the happiest and healthiest plants around.

BEST FURNITURE STORE
Purchasing high-quality pieces of furniture that can be enjoyed for many years to come actually ends up being more affordable than having to replace cheaper pieces of furniture every few years. Thorton House Furniture in Lodi offers high-quality furniture pieces and decor that can be enjoyed for generations. For customizable pieces, 209 Furniture is the local place to go. They individually build the furniture pieces, so customers have the option to modify standard sofas and sectionals to their preference. With selections from multiple manufacturers at a wide range of prices, Home Styles Furniture in Stockton offers customers the convenience of variety all under one roof.

BEST OF 2019 HOME WINNERS

AIR CONDITION / HEATING
• Lovotti Air
• Rod Johnson Air Conditioning
• Queirolo’s Heating & AC

ANTIQUES STORE
• Secondhand Rose
• Treasure Trove
• New and Again Consignment

BATH REMODELING
• Classic Design Interiors
• HT Home Design
• Mazzera’s Remodeling Center (tie 3rd)
• Trevizo Tile & Stone (tie 3rd)

CUSTOM BLINDS
• Discovery Shutters & Shadings
• Budget Blinds
• Classic Design Interiors

FLOORING SHOP
• Pinnell’s Flooring
• Better Flooring Outlet
• Carpetland

FURNITURE STORE
• Thornton House Furniture
• 209 Furniture
• Home Styles Furniture

GARDEN / PATIO / OUTDOOR
• With Garden Flair
• In Season Market & Nursery
• Delta Tree Farm

HOME BUILDER
• FCB Homes
• Caresco Homes
• Grupe

INTERIOR DESIGNER
• CR Porter
• Kathleen Jennison @ KTJ Design Studio
• HT Home Design

KITCHEN REMODELING
• Classic Design Interiors
• Trevizo Tile & Stone
• Delta Plastics

SOLAR COMPANY
• Rod Johnson Air Conditioning
• SunPower by the Solar Quote
• BTA Solar

Courtney berolzheimer
July 1, 2019 at 2:54 pm

Did no one edit this article? Lots of business names spelled wrong. St. Basil’s not St. Bazils, F4 Fitness not 4F fitness, Canepa’s car wash, not Canapas…. just to name a couple. Many are right on the list but wrong in article.
Marlene Hnath
July 1, 2019 at 4:11 pm

Interesting and time-saving answers for services needed in our local area.
Brian Salazar
February 25, 2020 at 2:14 am

By far the best lumpia in San Joaquin county is hollie the lumpia lady’s philly cheese lumpia. She is at the Establishment on Thornton rd every wednesday!!!!

3 Comments