Best of Wilmington Book 2012 by Wilmington Media

The Results From the Port City’s Official Reader’s Poll GOODS & SERVICES ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FOOD & BEVERAGE HUMANITARIAN

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F O T S E B 2012

N O T G N I M WIL * All Best Of coverage was written by Shea Carver, Bethany Turner, Kaitlin Willow and Brooke Kavit, and printed in encore magazine’s February and March editions, when encore first announced the Best Of winners.

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draws a lot of attention—not just to the area’s alternative weekly or its winners, but to readers who love to indulge their favorites. It leads to conversations about what it means to be recognized among the community as top-notch. These talks are great to have; they keep us aware of what we expect among our ever-evolving business-scape. The Best Ofs also indulge our acknowledgement toward support of local businesses, which puts money directly back into our own economy. The most important aspect of encore’s Best Of is the camaraderie it brings out of us all. The gratitude for reaching success wears well on everyone’s faces. We couldn’t be prouder to be a part of Wilmington on all fronts: arts, business, media, humanities and everything in between. Moreover, we

love that our readers don’t mind expressing their love for it either. We often get calls asking for information on the inner workings of Best Of. To clarify, allow us to map out our ground rules: • Ballots are collected through an online voting system from December through January. • encore employees never determine the winners (despite what many assume or accuse); the readers of encore determine the outcome, plain and simple! We do not choose our advertisers to win. It kind of goes against our cause to do Best Of, which generates consumer traffic to businesses and places throughout the entire community, as well as to us. • encore reserves the right to secure all voting information, including percentages and amount of votes. With over 130 categories and weekly deadlines, we do not divulge numbers— not because we have something to hide but be-

cause 10 people run this paper and, well, time is of the essence to produce it weekly. • Only one ballot per e-mail address is allowed to vote. When canceled e-mail addresses attempt to be used, guess what? We see it. It’s never confirmed. It doesn’t count. We do not use voter’s e-mail addresses for solicitation of encore or Wilmington Media products, nor do we share the addresses. • Voters must fill out at least 25 categories to have their votes counted; we monitor this, too. • We accept that businesses campaign; though, we discourage any bribery for votes. We also secure the right to disqualify votes we feel were misrepresented or falsified in any way. Though we are not the NC Board of Elections, we try our best to plays fairly! Now, on with the show! Welcome the 2012 class of encore’s annual Best Of Reader’s Poll.

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2012 Best of Wilmington

Goods & Services Print Shop

What’s that? Business cards? Brochures? Coasters? Pens? Vinyl footballs? Somebody’s upstarting a business and in need of multiple services to help market their new venture? Look no further than to Dock Street Printing, yet again stamping our Best Print Shop category in its seventh year and with much customer support. The experts at Dock Street have been servicing Wilmington folks since 1973, when then-owners Nelda and Charlie Illick were associated with a national printing company. In 1993 they went independent, and in 2001 sold the company to Bill Goodwyn and Cindy Meyers, each of whom were department managers. Since, Goodwyn and Meyers have focused on their local appeal tenfold. “We can usually turn business cards around in 24 to 28 hours—ya hear that, Visaprint shoppers?” Meyers asks. “Keep it local! No shipping charges!” By employing people who help them stick to their tried-and-true motto, “Treat others as you wish to be treated,” the personal customer service, flexibility toward needs and budgets, as well as expanding their options evermore keeps them the top of the crop. “Just being nice to someone and going the extra mile” makes a big difference, according to Meyers. “We’ve had requests from businesses downtown to start shredding documents; so we’re adding that [to our services] as well.” Dock Street accepts electronic files for convenience and they offer fast, affordable digital color, too. Their expedience keeps happy returns. “We love seeing smiles and happy faces,” Meyers says. Scanning into second place is All Ways Graphics and FedEx Kinko’s Office and Print.

Place to Buy Musical Instruments

Drum roll, please… Introducing for the ninth time on encore’s annual Best Of Reader’s Poll, the one, the only, the historically dependable and fine-tuned offerings of…Finkelstein’s Music! Having served Wilmington for 106 years, and still doing so with every bit of integrity and dedication imaginable, Finkelstein’s has evolved a lot in its century-plus existence. What once started as a general store, selling a plethora of items, from cutlery to silver, jewelry to clocks, clothing to music, has evolved into today’s corner-front staple on downtown’s Market and Front streets. When stepping inside, folks will be greeted by Bobby Hamelburg, who has been running the place since marrying into the Finkelstein family. Hamelburg

carries forth their promise to serve customers honestly and exceed their expectations always. “We remain devoted to the customer’s individual attention,” he states. “We have a love of music and people.” Selling everything from the best in drum kits to top-notch guitars and organs, to DJ equipment, musical needs are always met with careful attention. In fact, they’re home to variable products and suppliers, including Fender, Martin, Mackie and JBL, among others. Hamelburg stays abreast of current trends, too, especially taking notice of platforms and tweaks when it comes to the best in entertainment. “Our biggest item globally is in the field of electronics with Apple’s iPods, iPhones and iPads,” he says. “This has changed the DJ and PA mixers so they can accommodate using them.” The same can be said of musicians looking

OPENING NUMBER: Brandi Laney, Val Watkins, Jef Pollock and Sandy Vaughan open the encore Best Of awards party, held in February at City Stage/Level 5, downtown, with a parody from “The Sound of Music,” winner of Best Theatre Production. Photo by Shea Carver

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to add USB in/outs to guitars and amps. “It has changed the way people can record and write music,” Hamelburg notes. What doesn’t change in the midst of this industry evolution is Hamelburg’s promise to lay the foundation to keep Finkelstein’s at the top of its game for another 100 years. We’ll riff to that! Other stores marching to their own beat on our poll are Music Loft and Modern Music.

Spa

Nothing soothing, relaxing, indulging and refreshing can come better than a day at the spa. Every lady—and most men with a lick of sense—will attest to the satisfaction of clean pores, perfectly manicured nails and looseas-a-goose joints. In Wilmington, ladies and gents head over to Ki Spa for their pampering pleasures. Over nine years now, Stefanie Smith, Ki Spa president, has been leading the helm in offering the best to customers. “Our philosophy is simple,” she says. “We place our focus on using organic, health-conscious products, and pure aromatherapy in our treatments and [selling them in] our retail shop.” They combine the products with proper techniques meant to wholly treat body wellness. The community continuously responds to their successful treatments as well, from numerous massages and facials to wraps and pedis and manis. An oasis of peace awaits everyone. “Our staff is consistently updated and educated on new treatments to further the wellness and health of our clients,” Smith says. What this entails for 2012 is an addition of ecofriendly items, too. “We continue to research the very best in chemical-free productions,” she explains. “In addition, we will also introduce more new and exciting organic skin treatments, as well as new services that take healthy to the next level.” Folks can follow Ki Spa’s constant evolution on Facebook and on their website, www.kispasalon.com, where they are always updating their specials. As of late they’ve added “Tension Tamer,” a unique massage which focuses on stressed muscles of the back, neck and shoulders. “We use organic arnica pain-relief gel and steeped towel compresses,” Smith says. “Our clients love it!” Other spas making their way onto the poll include Head to Toe and Tanglez.

Shoe Store

Women—we can be such bizzare creatures sometimes. However, the sooner a man understands what makes us tick, the easier life will be for him. So, fellas, listen up. One word—it’s all ya gotta know: shoes. Pretty simple, eh?

HOSTS WITH THE MOST: Helping host the awards were funny men Steven Marcinowski and Colton DeMonte of Nutt House Improv. Photo by Shea Carver

All it takes is a little bit of research, but not much: size, style and brand preferences, all of which are easy to learn. Just ask her. A woman’s face lights up when speaking of shoes. And when mentioning local boutique Monkee’s, she’s likely to beam glitter out of her eyeballs. Located in Lumina Station, Monkee’s carries some of the most whimsical, fanciful, sexy and bodacious footwear in town. They have wedges, high heels, flats, kitten heels and so much more in brands to adore, from Stuart Weitzman to Salvatore Ferragamo to Alice + Olivia. “I’ve always had a passion for fashion,” owner Deedee Shaw says of her 16-year-old boutique. “After my work with Armani, I realized I wanted to start my own boutique.” As of late, Monkee’s has seen an update inside, thanks to the help of local interior designer Sherry Black. It’s more grand and luscious, just as its products, from some of fashion’s most revered names: Nanette Lepore, Tom Ford, Diane Von Furstenberg and Michael Kors among them. That Shaw and company seek the best keeps the clientele ever more loyal. “Our customer service is always our top priority,” Shaw promises, “and we strive to provide a welcoming and helpful shopping experience.” By staying abreast of the latest styles, Monkee’s offers in-season wares for every type of dresser. 2012 will see colorblocking and bright colors, just in time for summer! Don’t miss out on their latest inventory by logging onto www. monkeeswilmington.com, or follow their social media sites. “We’ve relied more heavily lately on our website, Facebook and Pinterest accounts,”

Shaw says. “Winning makes me feel appreciated, and I certainly share it with my employees who really make the store what it is.” Second and third in the dressing room are Shoe Shak and Cape Fear Footwear.

Hotel

Just ask Karen Morganti, assistant general manager of Hilton Wilmington Riverside, why she believes it’s the best hotel in Wilmington, and she’ll tell you their qualification has a lot to do with training and tradition. She notes the lodging has become a landmark in the downtown area—a part of its northern skyline, really. As well, the managing company, MHI/Chesapeake Hospitality, harbors virtues to mark any business. Founded in 1957 when Edgar Sims Jr. bought his first hotel, the company is now operated by his sons, who have owned Hilton Wilmington Riverside since 1971. “Fairness, integrity, respect, community involvement—our company was founded on these core values, and I believe they are still the cornerstones of our successes,” Morganti asserts. “I believe as a hotel we are good stewards of the community of Wilmington, and to our industry in general. We strive to provide each person that walks through our doors an exceptional guest experience.” Overlooking the scenic Cape Fear River, it doesn’t hurt that the hotel possesses one of the most recognized names in the business. Hilton is known for being top of the class in service and amenities. In 2012 the Wilmington Riverside plans to revamp its business center and breakfast line-up, and dedicate new highspeed Internet access throughout the building. Morganti notes the economic climate isn’t the best, yet the Wilmington Riverside has been able to push through the down times.

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She says she thrives on the controlled chaos of the hospitality industry and enjoys that no two days are ever alike. “Like most businesses, we have had to do more with less yet still provide the same, if not a better experience,” Morganti explains. “Our staff has done an exceptional job by taking on more responsibility and going above and beyond; we truly have a fantastic team. To know people still appreciate and value us is the highest honor we could receive.” Other hotels making the list are Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort and Blockade Runner.

Massage Therapist

As a child, Mary Beth Redman, a masseuse for Tanglez Salon, suffered from severe migraines. Doctors tried an assortment of medications, which either failed to work or caused more problems than they relieved. Running out of options, her mother took her to see a massage therapist who incorporated craniosacral therapy into her sessions. Over time, Redman’s migraines were less frequent and less painful. Since, she’s been interested in the benefits of massage therapy; although, it was her sister, Susan, who urged her to pursue it as a career. “I don’t believe in a ‘cookie-cutter’ mas-

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOYS! Local musiciand and actor Zack Hanner and funnyman business owner Jef Pollock (The Scoop, downtown Wilmington) were two of encore’s Best Of hosts during the 2012 awards party! Photo by Shea Carver

sage,” Redman, who graduated with a bachelor’s in biology from UNCW this year, explains. “When a person decides to get a massage, they do so for their own unique

reason. Therefore, their massage should be tailored to meet that unique reason. Pain can come in many different forms and can truly change a person’s life.” A professional in the field now for five years, her passion isn’t waning. She’s more dedicated than ever to work through a client’s discomfort and improve her services. Redman believes her science degree will enhance her knowledge base in bodywork therapy. As well, she’ll unveil a couple’s massage workshop this summer. “It will be centered on simple, easy-tolearn Swedish massage techniques and is intended to help couples share in the relaxing and therapeutic benefits of massage with each other.” Today, helping people with all levels of pain provides her the most joy. “People can define success and happiness in many different ways,” she says. “If you’re truly passionate about what you’re doing and love what you’re a part of, then success and happiness will follow. To aid in the health and wellness of others is a grand reward in itself.” Second place goes to Briana Wallace of Sito Chiropractic, and third goes to Gretchen Rivas of Relax! Massage Therapy.

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Bathrooms

Built from what was once a nightclub, Mickey Ratz—a far cry from the gorgeous interior it is today—Aubriana’s is renowned for its atmosphere as much as its delectable eats. Guests are enveloped by warmth as they dine amidst rustic exposed brick, dim lighting and wood accents. Outside, folks will find as inviting a spot on the patio, with an overhead arbor offering a bit of shade, large umbrellas in Mediterranean colors, and plants that creep over the side of the wall, where red shutters face backward and in to the tables. To award a venue best bathrooms speaks volumes about the quality of the company. It proves that the place not only offers a desirable atmosphere, but that cleanliness and attention to detail are top priorities. It’s an exhibit of what we cannot see as guests in a restaurant—the most important part of the building—the kitchen. It’s an affirmation that beyond silver swinging doors are employees who take pride in the appearance of their place of employment, as well as their work all around. Thus, when patrons visits Aubriana’s, they will rest assured that the service and experience will be some of the best (smelly soaps

and lotions are offered as skin pick-me-ups). Then they can truly enjoy the upscale dining, whether they chose the veal chop saltimbocca or the crab and spinach potato gnocchi alla vodka—because when it’s all said and done, it’s all about the food (which is even more of an amazing aspect to Aubriana’s). Second place goes to The Fortunate Glass, and third goes to Fox and Hound.

Moving Company

I am the queen of moving—or, at least in my own mind I am. From birth through high school, my family relocated from house to house, almost yearly. So, the moving that I do is more efficient rather than, say, high quality (I’ve been known to pull a drawer and its belongings from a chest, set it in a box, tape the box shut, and call it a day). On the other end of the spectrum, I wrote fragile on everything, even if it wasn’t. I was paranoid that my little brother would be less careful with a box marked under my name. To this day, I still write fragile (and now, if it’s really fragile, I write “VIP,” very important package!). I just can’t trust anyone else with my stuff. That’s why the world needs good moving companies: to do the job that friends are too

MUSIC AND STUFF: Best-Of host Val Watkins happily accepts the award for her family business Soapbox Laundro-Lounge, which took home Best Music Venue and Laundromat. Photo by Shea Carver

lazy to do, and to do it right when our own families can’t. In Wilmington folks look to Two Men and a Truck, the “movers who care.” Founded around Lansing, Michigan, by two high school kids and their pick-up truck (the stick-men logo was drawn by their mom to put in the community weekly!), the company

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now boasts 1,300 trucks and thousands of dedicated professionals. From family homes to large offices, they can help anyone get from point A to point B. What’s great about Two Men and a Truck, which is operated here in Wilmington by Frank Baker, is that the business is there for people even before they become customers. Folks don’t have to call a number and wait on the line, or have someone come out to their home for an estimate. They can just log on to www.twomenandatruck.com and find the moving calculator to sort out costs. As well, the homepage offers tips that folks don’t often think about (even moving queens like me). Those on the move also look to Move Makers and Coastal Carrier.

Consignment/Vintage Shop (Clothes)

Here’s the thing: I have had multiple, great experiences consigning my clothes to Fairy Circle. First and foremost, they have been super to work with, from customer friendliness, to quick and efficient service, to down-right engaging in conversation. Once a year, I do a closet sweep, and Fairy Circle has become

the new home for my clothes. In return, I’ve received a stipend anywhere from $100 to $150. And off I go to replenish my closet again. Racking up eight wins since they started the business nine years ago, Stephanie Denning aspired to own her own shop so she could bring her daughter to work. Along with her husband, Justin, they settled on the second-hand boutique model because of Stephanie’s thrill for bargain hunting. “I’ve always loved second-hand stores,”

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she says. Thus, she took up her passion and formed a business philosophy: “Nothing’s work unless you’d rather be doing something else.” When opening Fairy Circle, Stephanie located a small shop off Wrightsville Avenue and began with modest offerings and high quality. She always kept designer wear, something which is still a primary selling point today at her two larger locations on South College Road and in Monkey Junction. “Designer purses and jeans are always popular,” she shares, “and we keep a great selection, [among] everchanging inventory.” After opening the Monkey Junction location just a year ago, the Dennings have already had to double its size. Their popularity continues growing, and they’re even keeping their eyes peeled for location number three. Stephanie says, “It is always great to hear people say how much they love the store and tell their friends to shop with us.” encore readers clearly are among them. Third and fourth alike belong to Bargain Box and The Wonder Shop.

Book Store

She was headed to Israel to take a job as an international journalist; her parents wanted her at home in Wilmington. So when Mr. Daughtry of Daughtry’s Old Books approached them, saying, “I want your daughter to buy my bookstore,” they listened. Better yet, the family convinced her to do so. In the end, it worked out for everyone involved, as Gwenyfar Rohler, owner and operator of Old Books on Front St., certainly makes bookworms’ lives better, among readers of encore, thanks to her weekly Live Local columns and theatre reviews. “The book store was founded in 1982 by Mr. Daughtry,” Rohler explains. “Our family began shopping there that year. We are now celebrating our 30th year in business!” In honor of the milestone, they’re having special 30-percent-off sales on various genres monthly. Rohler keeps her store the talk of the town, through her many book clubs, from local authors to environmental to banned books. More over, she personally connects with every person who walks through the Old Books’ door. “There are few things as incredible to me as the exchange of ideas and informa-

BOOKED FOR GREATNESS: Gwenyfar Rohler and her employee Seth Parham of Old Books on Front St. happily accept another win for Best Local Bookstore. Photo by Courtney Bridgers

tion,” she says, speaking of the interaction often bourne of exploration that reading allows. “One of the Academy-nominated shorts this year is ‘The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore,’” Rohler explains. “While we were sitting in Thalian watching it, Jock [Brandis] leaned over

and whispered in my ear, ‘It’s a film about you.’ It really is exactly how I feel: Given the chance to resurrect an old classic by putting it in the hands of someone new. Even better, when someone walks in and says, ‘I just really started reading—can you help me find something good?’”

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Always quick to remember a name and offer a hug, along with her famous last-spoken pick-me-ups—“Think happy thoughts!”—the independent bookstore owner puts extreme value on the customer and return of community participation. Thus, last year alone, she threw celebrations for many greats, including a Mary Shelley Birthday Party, Banned Books Week and a Bloomsday celebration, honoring the one and only James Joyce. It brought out supporters of all ages and interests. “It means a lot when people come in and tap the award on the front desk, then break into a grin: ‘Awesome! I voted for you!’” she mouths. “After 14 years we were the first independent bookstore to win this category. I think that when the public realized this, it made a small but real impact on how people thought about chain and independent bookstores.” She’s constantly expanding sections, from art to local authors and local history, along with taking special orders and selling new books, as well as Dover Thrift Editions, allowing folks frugal buys on all the classics. Rohler’s also launching New Books on Front, a publishing house which just released an anthology of poems, “Testing the Waters.” Essentially, Old Books is a store straight from a Norman Rockwell painting: A place where a community gathers, pontificates and shares in each other the same joy the book in their hand cradles. Other stores worthy of a few page-turners include Pomegranate Books and Two Sisters Bookery.

Tattoo Parlor

There is ink and there is ink. The ballpoint to the page is as important here as the needle is to one’s skin. Imagery runs symbolic of a person’s life journey, a hopeful motto or inspiration. When we speak of ink, encore readers fancy the new digs of Artfuel Inc. for their skin art as much as the fine artistic creations otherwise displayed. Operating in Wilmington since 2006, Artfuel Inc. moved a few blocks over to a larger home off Wrightsville Avenue last November—a place that used to be a 1950s grocer. Today, Sarah Peacock and her man-in-command, Dave Tollefson, have transformed and renovated the place into a home where they “successfully remain self-employed through tattooing and creating art.” The studio is a haven to skin-art enthusiasts because the staff truly inhabits the artist mentality. Plus, Artfuel is a staple among Wilmington galleries, hosting exhibits frequently, exposing genres of all styles. “We shall continue our quarterly art shows,” Peacock tells encore, “and now that we have a larger space, we can show-

DOGGONE WINNIN’: The ladies from the Dog Club of Wilmington excitedly throw shirts and gear to the audience, accepting their win for Best Place to Board a Pet. Photo by Shea Carver

case local bands alongside local artists. Makes for a good time!” All of their shows are interactive, too, whether getting to hobnob with local greats like Candy Pegram (whose work is now on display at Artfuel, along with Tammy Haraga and Raelyn Oliver, and Charlotte photographer Reid Bramhall) or musicians like No Dollar Shoes. Extreme dedication is paid to every person who visits—whether someone is getting a new tat or approaching them about showing their own art work. “We really focus on good customer service and consistent work,” Peacock says. “We like to keep a very relaxed atmosphere so our clients are comfortable. [We] stay humble from realizing, [we] are only as good as [our] clientele!” Which simply means, they’re the b-e-s-t! Other tattoo parlors inking their way onto the poll are Jade Monkey and Hardwire.

Place for Alternative Medicine

Modern medicine can be as much a baffling experience as a helpful one. Just like the many medicines we can be treated with to fix sinuses or cholesterol, there are alternative rem-

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edies many stand behind which have the same effects. McKay Healing Arts is here to help folks find better and supplemental ways to improve their health across various platforms. McKay has been operating in Wilmington for 11 years now, healing the community and approaching the mind-body-spirit tableau in a less stringent, boxed-in form. “In our field, most practitioners are independent business owners who have a strong desire to help others achieve balance and well-being (health) through the most natural means possible,” co-owner Debra Collins says. “Many people come to us after they have exhausted traditional approaches to illness or pain.” McKay Healing Arts services various clientele, whether they are having fertility issues, are in need of acupuncture or massage, want to experiment with herbs and even hypnotherapy. By focusing on the body’s most innate way of healing, Collins and owner Leon McKay are putting control back into the patient’s hands. “At McKay Healing Arts, we work as an integrated team,” Collins says. “We rely on each other’s knowledge and skill to create a high rate of success for our clients who take advantage of our complementary disciplines.”

By thinking with their hearts and feeling with their heads—a motto the company stands by—the practitioners here take notice of what locals want. Thus, winning the coveted “e” annually means the community is giving their stamp of approval, which means the world to Collins and McKay. “They are the people we serve!” Collins states. “We increasingly work with clients who are under the care of local M.D.’s, and [we] have more direct referrals from them now than in the past, but we are far from the mark on being recognized as legitimate adjuncts to treatment, let alone working together to achieve results. We continue to encourage clients to let their doctors know that they are using our services and inform them of the results they are having.” In upcoming months, McKay and company hope to offer Saturday acupuncture and put emphasis on their Garden Studio space for educational workshops and programs. They’ve also found success in Saturday massage hours, along with their weekly, inexpensive acupuncture sessions to help alleviate moderate pain and stress relief; better yet, no appointment is necessary. They’re building upon that “Urgent Care” model, where clients are serviced immediately if suffering from acute pain. Other businesses ranking on our poll are Tidal Creek, with a tie for third going to Infinity Acupuncture and Insight Family Health Care.

Local Garden Store

Their dream was to get out of snowy New England and embrace the mild climate of Zone 8, with fertile ground welcoming zinnias and hydrangeas in happy azure. Tom Ericson and Allen Sabin opened The Transplanted Garden 13 years ago; today they’re one of the hottest gardening centers in our area, offering some of the most gorgeous plants and herbs, along with bountiful fertilizers, gardening tools, decorations and so much more. “It is so nice to know all the hard work over the past dozen years has paid off,” Ericson says of his 2012 win. By focusing on new items trending in the garden sector, they’re able to keep clients new and old equally satisfied. “We provide as many unique options as possible,” Ericson notes, admitting to cutting back on higher-priced accessories as of late. “We also assist customers in their decisionmaking process.” The Transplanted Garden stocks their nursery year-round with varieties of plants perfect for our region. Ericson, once a landscape designer in Connecticut, and Allen, once a department-store buyer and gift-store owner, are combining their talents to secure the best

of both worlds into a passion for beauty and design. They’re available for workshops and educational events, and they give the best advice to locals looking to create a natural world of fulfillment. Folks can also log on to their website, www.transplantedgarden.com, for information on garden insects and disease, plant profiles and even design tips. Digging into second is Plant Place and third is Lou’s Flower Patch. —Shea Carver

Jeweler

When a hometown musician makes it big, touring cities across the nation, we celebrate his success. The same goes for our local businesses which are able to market themselves in national retail. REEDS Jewelers, a jewelry store with shops in 18 states, was founded by William and Roberta Zimmer in 1946 right in downtown Wilmington. Even though the Zimmers expanded to Baltimore, Memphis and Honolulu, REEDS is still family-owned and operated. Their son Alan became the president and CEO of the company in 1985, ensuring that his parents’ practices of personalized, friendly service remain a value for every employee. “Understanding that the trust and loyalty of their customers was their most valuable asset, the Zimmer family has carefully grown REEDS Jewelers into one of the largest jewelry store chains in the country,” Mitch Cahn, the director of marketing and business development, says. “At REEDS the customer is always right and always treated like family.” Yet, it’s not just the welcoming atmosphere of this jeweler that attracts buyers. Alan Zimmer seeks out the best quality diamonds, gemstones and metals. “Our products are unique, high quality, and we carry the most luxurious brands like David Yurman, Tacori and Rolex,” Cahn shares. “Pandora Jewelry is the nation’s

number-one jewelry brand. REEDS has the largest assortment and is the only jeweler in town that carries Pandora. REEDS is always adding new merchandise and designers.” Those in the market for sparkling jewels also shop at Perry’s Emporium and Snowden’s.

Chiropractor

“The world right now is in such desperate need for help when it comes to staying healthy, but too many people seem to be stuck in the old belief system that healthcare is only important when a person finally becomes sick or injured,” Dr. Brian Heer of Sito Chiropractic explains. “That was the main impetus for starting this clinic: to build a place where people could strive to boost their heath before they become sick.” The doctors are testaments to their own beliefs. At Sito Chiropractic they witness everyday the effects their care has on patients— both those who are dealing with pain and those who are seeking preventative measures. “Chiropractic [care] is the exact opposite of traditional drug-based medicine. It is a proactive form of care designed to protect the nervous system from damage, which of course has a huge impact on our ability to stay healthy,” Dr. Heer shares. “It is hard not to be passionate about chiropractic [treatment] when you see how it directly impacts the lives of suffering people, but it is the effects of the chiropractic lifestyle on ‘already healthy’ people that amazes us day-in and day-out.” Excited that they can help change their patients’ lives, the Sito team seeks to aid and comfort as many people as possible. Dr. Heer says they offer the lowest rates on spinal decompression therapy simply because so many people require it to halt the degeneration of their spines, and charging the least means they can help the most clients.

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Dentist

NEWBIES ON THE SCENE: Best Denist goes to the dapper and smokin’ hot crew of Bozart Family Dentistry—a first-time winner on encore’s Best Of poll. Photo by Courtney Bridgers

“The net effect is that our practice continues to grow,” the doctor says. “More people get the type of results they are looking for, and less people wind up getting surgery or living on painkillers. It’s a win-win situation!” With their motto, to serve for the sake of serving, they also want to educate their patients to help them make smarter decisions. Thus, Sito holds monthly health talks on the most common ailments in relation to chiropractic care. “We present the facts of each patient’s individual case and give them options and allow them to choose what’s right for their condition,” Dr. Heer explains. “We know that when you give people what they want, but at the same time refocus them on what they truly need to stay healthy, they respect you more and have the confidence to refer their friends and family members. We are delivering on the promise to raise the health of our entire community, one spine at a time.” For chiropractic care, Wilmington patients also turn to Graybar Chriopractic and Friedman Chiropractic.

Mortgage Company

As a full-service, local mortgage banker with in-house capabilities, such as processing, underwriting, closing and funding of a new home, Alpha Mortgage takes the reins and steers into first on our poll! Founded in 1983 with only three employees—and the goal to help folks become homeowners— today the company has 34 corporate associates and three affiliated corporations,

with offices from Wilmington to Lake Norman to Blowing Rock, North Carolina. As well, this year brings the celebration of Alpha Mortgage’s latest branch opening in New Bern to serve more clients in eastern Carolina and the addition of an in-house credit repair department—something that has become a growing need in our economic climate. “In the past year we have expanded to assist clients with less-than-perfect credit, allowing them to purchase a home,” Alpha’s, marketing director, Joey Milam, explains. Alpha Mortgage offers a long list of special deals and programs, such as their best-rate guarantee, same-day approval plans and 10day closings. They even can accommodate self-employed borrowers who are creditworthy but cannot show traditional income to qualify elsewhere (just ask for a “No Income” loan), and they specialize statewide in superjumbo loans up to $5 million. Plus, a slew of educational tools are available on their website, www.alphamortgage. com, for current and prospective homeowners, like credit scoring information, a mortgage calculator and a glossary (so the banker-speak isn’t so undecipherable). “We definitely believe that customer satisfaction is of the utmost importance in a successful business,” Milam says. “Winning [this] category is wonderful. It definitely shows us we are on the right track and are serving Wilmington to the best of our ability.” Second place in mortgage companies goes to Wells Fargo, while Cunningham and Company takes third.

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It seems odd that one would compare a dentist’s office to the beach, but it’s precisely what people encounter upon first entering Bozart Family Dentistry. The waiting room is welcoming—a term not often associated with healthcare—with its beach cottage-like atmosphere, complete with brown wicker furniture and Carolina blue sky-colored walls atop cream beadboard, and even a calming aquarium to view. This unlikely pairing—a warm and relaxing ambience in a dentist’s office—is kind of how Dr. Albert Bozart practices his medicine. With a Bachelor of Arts and Doctorate of Dental Surgery from UNC Chapel Hill, this Carolina native knows it’s providing the unexpected that makes a business. He believes the textbooks he studied in college did not answer every question, for they don’t acknowledge the patient’s time or financial constraints, personal desires or fear. Thus, he and the other doctors in his practice, Dr. Lauren Francis and Dr. Philip Bald, focus on offering comprehensive dentistry— presenting every available choice and giving explanations of each option, so that their patients can make educated decisions about their dental care. And, ultimately, providing clients with the proper information earns their trust, which in turn allows the dentists to form respected relationships with patients to give personalized care. Dr. Stephen Edgerton of Edgerton and Fisher, and Cory Williams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry also tend to the teeth of our town.

Hair Salon

They always say that women with curly hair want straight, and chicks with straight locks want curly—but what it boils down to is that we really just need someone knowledgeable to shape our ‘dos into something that looks great regardless of what we were born with. The stylists at Bangz Hair Salon and Day Spa do just that. Opened by Frank Potter and Linwood Gainey, Bangz runs day-in and day-out by a dedicated crew of men and women, all educated in the latest styles and color treatments with classes from Redken, Wella and more. From Japanese straightening to keratin treatments, the designers can tame any wild fro, or put a pumped-up perm in a coiffure that otherwise falls flat. Can we get an amen, sister? Aside from great hair, a lady’s (or gentleman’s) look is never complete without the proper manicure, pedicure and facial, all of which can be found at Bangz on 43rd Street. Offering microdermabrasion and chemical peels, the salon’s skin artists can give a bright,

ROCKIN’ THE WIN: Best of hosts Changing Channels, pose at Best Record Store, Gravity Records, in honor of their 2012 “e” award.

youthful look to aging faces and even clear up troublesome skin. While we’re at it, better not forget the massage! Second place in hair salon goes to Tangles, and third to Ashley Cahn of KeBu Salon. — Bethany Turner

Record/CD Store

When life throws lemons, listen to music. It’s the only way to maintain a modicum of sanity in this overly techy world, which seemingly wants to take down quality of sound with it.

Just ask those guys at Gravity Records who have poured their hearts and souls into maintaining a community record store since 2004. “The difference in sound quality between an LP and a CD and a MP3 is astounding,” owner Matthew Keen says of today’s obsession with iTunes and other music download sites. “People get so into the latest HD TV and superior video quality, but they don’t seem to care about the quality of their audio.” Keen and his cronies continue to march forth in their cause, turning on folks to the beauty of vinyl with their massive collection, along with the usual suspects of used CDs, DVDs, cassettes and turntables. Should the needle hit the record a little too hard, they offer services and repairs for retro musicturners, too. “There are plenty of stores nationwide that have much larger and better selections than we do,” Keen admits, “but we are typically knowledgeable and care more than just about any other store out there.” They pride themselves as an outlet for the latest on music news and happenings, and they’re a huge proponent of supporting local business as much as possible. Quite simply, these fellas love what they do. They love the ones their with, too. Keen, recently engaged and soon-to-be stepdad, runs the shop with

We’ll treat your pet like one of our own! Porters Neck Veterinary Hospital A Full-Service Small Animal Hospital

voting encore r o f u o y k n a Th n” BE20ST12OF a i r a n i r e t Ve WILMINGTON us “Best & 2012 1 1 0 2 , 0 201 Family owned and operated since 1999 8129 Market St. 686-6297 Mon.-Fri 8am-6pm • Sat. 8am-12pm

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EoU’s eccentricity appeals to ladies and gentlemen (yep, they carry wares for the fellas, too!) who fancy the obscure, the tongue-in-cheek and down-right awesomeness. (They even dressed our lady hosts at the Best-Of-Party.) Though their business motto is “learn to love uncertainty,” the EoU team tailors every customer experience to the hilt with exciting, energetic appeal. The only thing uncertain about a purchase here will be exactly which to make. Other women’s clothing boutiques coming in second and third are Hallelu and Island Passage respectively.

Men’s Clothing

LIVING ON THE EDGE! The cool cats from Edge of Urge pulled out the big guns and happily accepted their award for Best Women’s Clothing at the party on February 10th at Level 5/City Stage. Photo by Shea Carver

his store manager, Eric Parson, father, husband and encore DJ at the 2012 party. Passion keeps them ever-evolving. “We have a few tricks up or sleeves for 2012,” Keen says. “We will be stocking much more vinyl, [and] we will keep in a constant supply of great refurbished turntables. We will be stocking cassettes, including new cassettes from labels like Burger Records and Crash Symbols. We will be having bigger and better sales than we ever have, offering deeper discounts than ever before.” Most impressively, they’re continuing their run at hosting in-store concerts with great upand-coming artists, among a host of already big names. Gravity is the community’s music haven where all genres of sounds are up for discussion, review and celebration. Second and third places go to Best Buy and Yellow Dog Discs respectively.

Women’s Clothing

Ten years ago Jessie Wililams made a commitment to herself to find her passion and follow it through to the depths of her business savviness. Today, she owns and operates Wilmington’s funkiest, coolest, most hip and fun clothing store in downtown Wilmington: Edge of Urge. What makes her boutique stand

out among a sea of other shopping havens is the fact that she seeks designers to showcase regularly, including many local talents, which makes her shop become more of an artistic collective. Every designer, employee and customer manifest unique style as a common interest. “Edge of Urge has become a family of likeminded creatives,” she tells encore, “with unending desire to share their craft. It feels amazing to see our community truly appreciate the talent. That is a motivator like no other.” On the local front, the fashionista houses her own designs of handmade dresses, bathing suits and earrings, which have taken Wilmington by storm (feathers galore from their build-an-earring bar). Also showcased is leather accessory designer Ruby Assata, metal-smith jewelry-maker Jessie Yeager of the I Like It Here Club, as well as knit koozies by Freaker USA and more. However, EoU carries widely popular brand names for whom many flock to, from Jeffrey Campbell’s insanely hot shoe designs to MinkPink’s vintage-inspired dresses. “Our customers and their changing needs are and always have been our inspiration,” Williams notes. “We search high and low, hand-selecting our inventory with our customers in mind.”

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Dapper men are a turn-on. Look at those sleek-looking threads. Yeah, those pants are fitting nice, boyeee! That hat—wow, staright-up dope, yo! Sophisticated, hip and always trendy, Bloke Men’s Apparel scores Best Men’s Clothing for two years running now. (We must thank them for dressing our wonderful male hosts at the Best Of Party!) Owned and operated by Michael Vinson, passion for quality clothing and personal style kept his dream alive of owning a casual and contemporary male boutique. When he opened a few years ago, customers proved his vision worthy of success. “We have grown alongside our customers and feel that we have begun to spread our roots,” Vinson says of his second year in business. “We have been thrilled to offer guys a place to shop comfortably for unique styles on a modest budget.” Bloke offers classics among aesthetically stylish looks, blending funky accents with modern lines from brands like Big Star Jeans, Bed Stu Shoes, French Connection and beyond. They’re also selling wares that have a green footprint on our daily lives. “From wooden watches and sunglasses, to no-water-used denim and organic cotton tees, we see no reason to not promote products that either give back to charities or to Mother Earth,” Vinson says. “With no sacrifice of style, we have sought out lines that keep a philanthropic tone to their business structure.” Changing with customers’ wants and needs is important to the Bloke staff, which is why Vinson and company remain humbled by a win they feel mirrors an active community. “encore readers have a huge voice in Wilmington,” he says. “It has really helped Bloke to create a name for itself. Buying and shopping local is a shared value amongst a large portion of our community, and we couldn’t agree with that more.” Belk placed second while Edge of Urge came in third in men’s clothing options.

Children’s Clothing

Once Upon a Child has been serving Wilmington families for 18 years now. Owners Sharon and Terry Talbott still find it as fascinating today as it was then, because, even through waxing and waning economic impacts, one thing always stands true: People will keep having babies. “We were looking for a sustainable business that would have a wide customer base while performing a needed service,” Sharon notes of their decision to open the franchise. “We chose this business because we knew people would never stop having kids—that kids would never stop outgrowing their stuff before its useful life was up.” Of course, that folks can secure a good deal at Once Upon a Child, as well as a few extra bucks should they choose to sell their items here, makes the store stronger in its dedicated following. All in all, great savings can always be found at up to 70 percent off through a large inventory of clothes, accessories, toys, books, and even household baby items and gear. With a strong dedication toward serving others, the passion the Talbotts continue harboring for familial security and happiness carries forth. The same can be said about their employees, some of whom come full circle within their work environment. “It is cool to have some of our current employees who started out as infant customers,” Sharon notes. “We care about our customers and our employees immensely.” Once Upon a Child is open seven days a week, and currently they are offering a special just in time for spring cleaning. They give $5 in Baby Bucks for every $30 of items they buy from customers. That means more money and great savings to restock and revive every kid’s closet and toy chest. Froggy Pond and Gap Kids rank second and third on our 2012 poll.

Place to Buy a New Car

Wreckx-N-Effect said it best: “All I wanna do is a zoom-zoom-zoom and a boom-boom!” Wilmingtonians know where the zoom-zoom and boom-boom rides high on consecutive wins: the one, the only Stevenson Automotive Group. These cats have buckled in 12 years now on encore’s Best Of poll. Businesses like this don’t become so popular without zooming the right people. Business Development Manager Peggy Roberts still smiles in excitement upon every win, too—as does the big man behind the wheel, Mr. Pat Kobballa. His word holds true with every buy: “If it has our name on it you have our word on it!”

LIKE FAMILY: Stevenson Automotive Group has swept the best of awards for 12 years now, taking Best Place to Buy a New Car in 2012. Photo by Brooke Kavit.

“We try to exceed our client’s expectation,” Roberts tells encore. That is something they’re doing right, too, considering their 29-year reign in the automotive industry. Their success comes from their willingness to provide the best at all times. “You have to be able to meet the wants and needs of your clients for a fair price and quality customer service,” Roberts notes. “Budgets are tight, and you have to meet those abilities as well.” Stevenson Automotive sells numerous brands, all worthy of value. From Honda to KIA, Acura to Suzuki, Mazda to Toyota, they run premier dealerships not only in Wilmington but all over the region, from Jacksonville to Goldsboro. “We are very excited about our new 2012 product line,” Roberts notes, “which includes several new body-style changes for both Honda and Acura.” With a lifetime warranty guaranteed to give customers peace of mind and a stamp of approval from Kobballa himself, new cars and used cars alike are found at one of many local dealerships. Visit them online at www.stevensonauto.com. Runners-up include Toyota of Wilmington and Bob King Automotive.

Gift Shop

When folks shop for gifts, they like options, usually. One place in town which specializes in choices galore—handmade, nonetheless—is Blue Moon Gift Shops. Housing over 100 artisans, retailers and entrepreneurs, Blue Moon is multiple shops in one, as they secure vendors throughout the year in individual boutiques, where everything from jewelry to hand-blown glass, paintings to clothing, photography to food, children’s wares to garden accessories are sold.

“The Blue Moon concept was new to Wilmington 12 years ago,” owner Mary Ann Masucci says of her venture. “There was nothing else like it. We saw it as a diamond-in-therough concept and were passionate to make it a destination.” They continue their passion by producing quality and quantity. In fact, their price points are far reasonable and the items for sale are often made by locals. Many favorites include Angela’s Pepper-Pickled Foods, Mitzy Jonkheer’s jewelry, Ivey Hayes’ art work, Old School Wood Works, among others. “This year we are excited to be celebrating our 10-year anniversary,” Masucci says. “We are always striving to bring our customers a better Blue Moon.” They love what they do and go far and wide to maintain their goals to provide a community of artistic expression the best in gift choices. Birthdays, holidays, baby showers, bridal gifts, Mother’s and Father’s days—Blue Moon has shoppers covered. They offer free gift-wrapping, too. “We feel honored our customers go out of their way to for us every year,” Masucci says of the shop’s four-year consecutive award. “We are always humbled and very appreciative.” Ranking gift shops elsewhere in town are Dragonflies in second place and Planet in third.

Health Food Shop

Wilmington’s only grocer co-op serves as the town’s all-natural haven of organic and healthy options in shopping. Tidal Creek Co-op is working on their 30-year beloved dedication to the port city, with members coming in at 3,000-plus strong, helping to support a true community collective of wants and needs.

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details like soft-cloth tunnel wash, machine and hand-towel dry, inside window wash, tire gloss and fragrant interior sprays, the choices never wane. Plus, they use Drive Pur, a program using environmentally friendly water-based solutions so the car interior maintains a non-harmful, invisible coating to protect surfaces from unwanted buildup, like bacteria, molds and germs. “We continue to train and focus on providing excellent service to every customer,” Gsell adds. In 2012 happy drivers will await their ride in remodeled lobbies throughout Cruiser’s locations. They have added free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and new seating areas. “Customers also told us they wanted to pay for their wash when they received their wash ticket,” Gsell explains. “So, we now have an efficient onestop system in place.” Mr. Sudsy scrubs in second, while Buff Masters is third. —Shea Carver

Personal Trainer CRUISING INTO FIRST: The Cruiser’s Car Wash crew thanks everyone for their continuous support at the Best Of awards party. Photo by Shea Carver

“Wilmington citizens own and benefit from our consumer cooperative,” Chrsitina McKenzie, marketing and member services manager, says. “It allows us to continue offering high-quality, healthy, natural products at a competitive price.” They put healthy and morally righteous values on items they carry. “At this time when product and food safety is a critical concern to consumers, we believe it’s our responsibility to provide the community with clean foods, and support producers with ethical production standards,” McKenzie states. Thus, folks can find more than free-range chicken here; they’ll also find eco-friendly face washes and supplements, along with products steering clear of animal testing. Plus, their intensely long list of vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free and hormonefree products specialize toward customers with dietary restrictions. McKenzie and the Tidal Creek crew continually stay abreast of better, healthful trends in the industry. “We have responded to owner demand by providing organic, local, fresh, fairly-traded, GMO-free, and other sustainable products,” she says. By listening to customers and continuing to push the boundaries of hard-to-find items made available as needed, the co-op grows every year. 2012 welcomes a recently expanded kitchen, so more services and offerings are given to the consumer in the form

of freshly prepared, organic foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner. “Tidal Creek customers have the option to invest equity in our cooperative,” McKenzie emphasizes, “which, along with great savings, gives them an opportunity to shape the growth of their store and suggest the products they want on their shelves.” Lovey’s and Carolina Farmin’ fill the second and third spots in our poll.

Car Wash

It’s a fact: Beach-town dwellers and car owners get to deal with environmental circumstances which may impede a vehicle’s cleanliness more than necessary. Salt air and sandy shores keep us washing and vacuuming frequently— and finding lots of spare change (for those rising downtown parking rates, nonetheless!) between seats and under mats. Thankfully, the folks over at Cruiser’s Car Wash allow us to keep our wheels spic-’n’span without raisin-esque hands and sweaty brows. Serving Wilmington for more than a dozen years, Clayton Gsell, owner and operator, and his staff offer a full-range of service options for low-riders, high-riders, smart cars and, well, gas-guzzling tanks. “We understand that a customer’s vehicle represents significant investment, so we enjoy getting to know our customers,” Gsell says. “We are careful and thorough with our work.” From a la carte services, like shampooing seats or clay-bar compounding, to full on

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“Even as a kid, I loved working out,” LaMaine Williams of Lumina Fitness says. “I’m thinking a ‘Rocky’ movie may have made an impression on me.” Known for training local newscaster, WECT star Frances Weller, Williams was born to get physical. In his college years, he jumped from job to job trying to find something that was a good fit for him. “After about three people asking, ‘Why don’t you be a personal trainer?’ ” he recalls. “It finally hit me. That’s the perfect job for me. Twelve years later I’m still learning and loving what I do. God gave me fitness to share with others. Once somebody told me they started doing push-ups after they saw my commercial—that’s what I want to hear and see.” Williams hits the gym hard every time he’s there, treating each training session like its the first, and he’s trying to impress a new client. His number-one business rule is to take care of his current trainees. “I’d rather have the same clients forever than to have new people coming in every week,” he declares. Seemingly, he has a number-two rule, which is to expand his knowledge. Williams hasn’t stuck to the same routine since he started years ago. Instead, he researches and masters the latest in exercise moves, like planche push-ups, where the entire body is held off the floor by hands alone. “I strive to be the best personal trainer in town by outworking everybody else,” he says. “This is after-hours, coming up with new challenges for myself. Tackling new projects forces me to learn more about how the body works.” Wilmington also likes to get in shape with Steven Schmitter of Port City Sports Performance and Amy McCauley of Gold’s Gym.

Surf Shop

Since 1976, just as the shortboard revolution was cresting in American surfing, Sweetwater Surf Shop has been Wilmington’s goto store for gear, apparel, boards and more. According to co-owners Danielle and Shana Bourgeois, the most important thing to the family-owned surf shop is creating and maintaining relationships with the folks who shop there. “Our local customers are like family to us,” Danielle says. That’s not to say tourists aren’t welcome down at Sweetwater, which is located on Wrightsville Beach at 10 N. Lumina Ave. They offer surf lessons to those who are just starting out, and ding repair services to those who shred hard. In addition to the 300 surfboards Sweetwater keeps in stock yearround, the shop also boasts skateboards from many makers, including Element, Birdhouse and Gravity. Sweetwater can even fill the needs of beach-goers who want to zoom down a snow-covered mountain. Yep, they’ve got snowboards, boots, bindings and toasty outerwear, including anti-fog goggles from the best names in optics. Something new to Sweetwater this year is a larger space dedicated to the increased demand for stand-up paddleboards. “We carry three brands: Ian Balding paddleboards, Surftech and Global Surf Industries,” Danielle notes. It rounds out Sweetwater’s philosophy to be the best. “We constantly strive to offer ‘the right product at the right time for the right price,’ and to make the customer feel better when they leave the store than when they walked in.” Second place in surf shops is Bert’s, while Surf City receives the honors of third.

Tanning Salon

Fred Knopp started Tropical Tans on a whim rather than as a career. It was the first tanning salon in town, yet today it is the most popular of many. With two locations serving locals and catering to UNCW students, business easily flocks to Tropical Tans by word of mouth. “In 1988 indoor tanning was still in its infancy but was growing quickly,” Knopp details. “In the beginning we were just going to use this as a stepping stone for a larger business opportunity, but things change and the tanning industry was challenging and enjoyable. So, 24 years later, here we are—and we still strive to be the best in our industry.” Tropical Tans is known for great customer service. Knopp keeps himself and his staff up-to-date on the latest trends, and makes sure they can give the best advice to customers for not only their bronzed skin but

STRENGTH IN WINS: LaMaine Williams once again takes the Best Personal Trainer category by storm and thanks his colleagues from Lumina Fitness for their continuous support. Photo by Shea Carver

also their safety. His business runs on just a few important pillars: consistency in customer service, paying specific attention to equipment maintenance and new technology upgrades, and keeping the fairest price possible. The team at Tropical Tans seems to be always one step ahead of the game. “Sunless tanning has become very popular,” Knopp says. “We continue incorporating our traditional tanning with the latest in sunless technology as this part of the industry grows, and we try to update our equipment as soon as the latest changes occur.” Offering packages to meet any tanner’s needs, be they long-term unlimited or just a few sessions before spring break, Tropical Tans has their customers covered. They boast state-of-the-art 15- and 30-minute beds, standup booths and Mystic tanning. Plus, Knopp’s friendly golden retriever, Sandy, is usually there to greet guests and cheer up their day. Folks in Wilmington also enjoy tanning at Ultratan and Saule Tanning.

Veterinarian

Pets truly are a part of our families. They love us without asking questions; without judging; without conditions. They need us to feed and care for them. They need us to keep them healthy and safe. With these things in

mind, a veterinarian should be someone we trust. Their knowledge allows our animals to live happily with us for years. And when things go wrong, we place our friends in the hands of our vets. Porters Neck Veterinary Hospital has been the trusted caretaker of Wilmington animals since 1999, and this year celebrates its third Best Of win. As a small, family-owned office, they are able to work compassionately—making choices that are in the best interest of the animal. “We started our own business so that we could practice medicine by our own rules and make decisions that felt right to us,” Dr. Sharon Harris, who co-owns the hospital with her husband, says. “We are passionate about our business because we believe it is an honor to be trusted with the care of people’s pets. We treat each pet to the best of our ability so that we can sleep at night.” Dr. Harris says that, unfortunately, the biggest trend in the veterinary field is that corporations are taking over all aspects of the business. Yet, Porters Neck Veterinary Hospital sticks to its guns by setting high standards and holding on to values. “If you stay true to yourself, you will build solid relationships with those that share your way of thinking,” she says. “Whether it’s our clients, our staff or our patients—we are all family.”

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Folks can expect convenient yet familiar customer service from Porters Neck. On their website, www.portersneckvet.com, clients can make boarding and appointment reservations, e-mail their vet to connect directly, or order medicines from the online pharmacy, which offers e-mail reminders and free shipping. “We still, however, refuse to have computers answer our phones and will never make this ‘upgrade,’” Dr. Harris affirms. The vets at Porters Neck are keeping up with the latest medicine. Currently, they’re following the prospect of treating osteoarthritis with autologous stem cell therapy, as well as watching the price to make sure such care is affordable to their clients. Additionally, they offer wellrounded service with new programs at the office all the time, such as the free puppy kindergarten held every other Saturday. Aimed at early socialization and strengthening the bond between puppies and their new owners, the workshop also allows dogs to become familiar with the hospital and excited to visit, as each class begins with 10 minutes of free play. It’s managed by a trained behavior counselor and overseen by staff vets. Class topics are available on the office’s Facebook page.

Second place for vets goes to Wilmington Animal Healthcare, and third goes to Port City Animal Hospital.

Place to Buy a Used Car

Lately, I’ve been thinking of trading in my old Ford Mustang for a roomier, more reliable vehicle. These thoughts mostly manifest themselves as I curse my car and complain about squeaks, leaks and peeling paint. My boyfriend always recommends one location to find my next car, and it just so happens that encore readers echo his endorsement: Auto Wholesale. Owner Paul Tracy and his brother Dan opened the lot in October 2002, although he’s been in the business for the last 23 years. “It’s my love of cars that makes me passionate,” he says. “We strive so hard to do all the right things, so [winning] gives us a great sense of pride and accomplishment that all our efforts pay off and do go noticed. We hope to continue to do all the right things.” For Tracy, doing “all the right things” means helping folks find their perfect vehicle in an honest manner—no gimmicks allowed! Each member of the Auto Wholesale team is out to offer personal, individualized service and private attention.

“Our goal is to have the cleanest cars at the best prices, and make the buying process easy and enjoyable,” he notes. It boils down to Tracy’s honorable motto: “Work hard and smart, and take care of your customers.” Runners-up honors go to Stevenson Automotive Group and Bruce Cavenaugh’s Automart.

Shopping Plaza

I’ve worked in Mayfaire Town Center for nearly four years now, and I’m always baffled by the amount of traffic the shopping area receives (good luck finding parking by the cinema on Saturday night), though given its diverse offerings and brand names, I shouldn’t be surprised! From a bookstore and ice-cream shop to wine and gourmet stores, home decor and clothing—heck, even appliances, crafts, a gym and a bridal shop—Mayfaire provides Wilmington one special experience. No matter the time of day, there’s something to do in Mayfaire. It’s a center where folks can get their morning coffee, hit a few of the stores, stop for lunch, continue shopping, enjoy a fine dinner, see a movie, then top the night off with a couple of drinks. There are the lucky few who can do this every day—the tenants of Mayfaire’s Townview

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Apartments who reside atop the shops. “The Mayfaire ownership in 1999 saw the need to create a ‘work, live, play’ community, and committed to building a mixed-use project for Wilmington,” managing partner Hyman Brody explains of the area’s conception. For 2012, despite the economy, Brody says there are several national brands considering a location in Mayfaire. The most recent upgrade is an IMAX screen addition in the movie theatre. It will make its debut in July with “Dark Knight Rises.” Even more exciting are the plans for a Phase III expansion in the future, which would pop up by the movie theater (more parking, perhaps?). “Mayfaire continues to tweak its merchandise mix and bring the people of eastern North Caraolina new retail concepts not covered in every market,” Brody details. “This is our eighth year winning this award. It’s very special and a validation that people like what is here.” Other fine shopping plazas in Wilmington include Lumina Station and Independence Mall.

Adult Store

There’s good news for lovers everywhere: It’s no longer naughty to be naughty! Judging by the growing success of Adam and Eve, even in a down economy, sex sells and more

people are buying than ever before. “Our novelty sales have been growing quite fast due to the mainstream acceptance of adult-themed business,” owner Jason Hoke says. Adam and Eve began in 1971, when the president of the company, Phil Harvey, began selling sex toys via snail mail. Harvey introduced thousands of people to the realm outside the missionary position. Fast forward to 2006, when Hoke promoted himself from sales rep to owner of several southeastern North Carolina Adam and Eve stores. “We’ve expanded from two stores to 10 in the past six years,” the owner says. “We’re thrilled to be accepted as a positive member of the Wilmington business district.” And why slow down? (Unless that’s the preferred motion of the ocean, of course). Hoke says he’s already planning to open four additional stores in North and South Carolina soon. Such quick growth and acceptance of Adam and Eve should be attributed to their knowledgeable staff and great customer service. Those who shop there know they’re getting the best advice for any purchase. From filling bachelorette-party gift bags to picking out

cuffs and chains for the hard-core sex style, Adam and Eve caters to all naughty needs. The sexy and sophisticated also shop Priscilla McCall’s and Spyces.

Real Estate Agency

Covering New Hanover, Pender, Brunswick and Onslow counties—and now including Raleigh and Fayetteville—Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage seeks to give their clients cutting-edge technology, the most knowledgeable support staff, and great customer service overall. Though Sea Coast Realty began in Wilmington in 1988 and joined Coldwell Banker in 1993, the company’s recent merger with Coldwell Banker Advantage in the piedmont allows a greater marketing area. “With over 600 real estate agents in the family, our internal reach for prospective home buyers is huge,” Tim Milam notes. “As president of the company, I feel our goal is to help customers realize the American dream by purchasing a home, in many cases for the first time.” Milam says technology is on the forefront of every realtor’s mind. On the Sea Coast Advantage website, clients will find specially designed tools, such as the ability to compare

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properties that also offers multi-point driving directions, making visiting these homes offline even easier. Folks can even save properties and be notified with open houses, new listings and price-change alerts. “Every year we continue to employ higher-tech methods of reaching and servicing our clients, and this will no doubt continue into 2012,” Milam affirms. Also in 2012 is Sea Coast Advantage’s partnership with Coldwell Banker Previews, a database for global real estate. “Several of our realtors recently joined together to begin offering specialized service to high-end luxury homes utilizing the 75-year-old internationally recognized leader,” the president confirms. Despite the addition of cross-continental real estate, Sea Coast Advantage still keeps their priorities in southeastern North Carolina. “We are very humbled and grateful to everyone in Wilmington for choosing us the best of the best several years in a row now,” Milam divulges. “It goes to show that we are obviously providing the level of service that our clients demand.” Second place for real estate agencies is awarded to Intracoastal Realty and Century 21 Sweyer and Associates.

Consignment for Home Decor and Antiques

If I had to think of one place to get a gift certificate for my mom, or her best friend, or any woman they work with, or myself… I’d choose The Ivy Cottage. Opened by the motherdaughter team of Sam Dunn and Kelaine Vargas in 1998, it’s now the home of three amazing stores on Market Street, all housing what the duo calls “distinguished consignments.” What folks will find in The Ivy Cottage… Well, what won’t folks find in The Ivy Cottage? They’ve got gorgeous, detailed, hand-crafted antique furniture, delicate lace linens, fine china and glassware, paintings, figurines, rugs. The list is nearly endless. If it will look good in a home, it’s probably at The Ivy Cottage. The best part about this Best Of is what’s in store is always changing as people consign more items. And as new items join the three cottages, the price lowers on that ottoman or chandelier. The price tags tempt the inner shopper—three dates offer different costs. It’s lowered by 15% after 45 days and again after 90 days during the 120-day consignment period. If it’s really popular, one better buy it at the high, early price—before someone else does. If one is willing to take a chance, she can

22 ENCORE BEST OF WILMINGTON 2012 | www.encorepub.com

wait a few weeks until the price lowers, but it’s risky! It’s gambling for antique aficionados, but it’s definitely fun and certainly worth a look inside. Shoppers also venture to Home Again and Flea Body’s for home decor consignment, and for antiques they look to Cape Fear Antique and Flea Body’s.

Gym

They say it takes two weeks to develop a routine, like a new diet or exercise plan. Yet it’s been my personal experience that the psychologists who determined this may not have factored in what I like to call “the soccer-mom disease.” I can barely keep my regular routine “normal” with every wrench life throws in my gears—random errands, chores and work that needs immediate attention. With all this, the gym may be first on my list of want-to-dos, but it’s the first to get taken off my list of will-dos.” Seemingly, Gold’s Gym is more receptive to the current lifestyle of wonder-men and -women who need to include exercise amidst their already hectic days. The staff have physical education down pat, and their faces exude the excitement they feel being able to work in an environment they truly enjoy. The owner, Mike Valentino, has been in the business

since the age of 18. “For 31 years now, I have worked in gyms/health clubs,” he says. “By introducing exercise, better nutrition and wellness, [we] have helped thousands of people be better off in all aspects of their lives.” In 2012, Gold’s Gym will be adding cardio equipment to supplement the growing client base, as well as introducing more program offerings to ensure members have choices and motivation to achieve their fitness goals. Their 90-day challenge gives folks much more than two weeks to get used to working out—and they’ll see results! Despite industry advances, Gold’s knows that it takes more than a quick-fix diet pill or ab machine to achieve ideal health. “I believe the key to business and many other aspirations in life is to always stick to the basics first and foremost,” Valentino asserts. “Ultimately, [short cuts] are short-lived, and returning to the basics is what will truly provide success. With that said, there is always value in continuing to evaluate what you are doing and strive toward improvements. We will always be looking for additional programming, equipment and staff education to provide our members continued value and success.” Port City people also get pumped at Planet Fitness and O2 Fitness.

Place to Board a Pet

While driving in Castle Hayne, my boyfriend and I unexpectedly stumbled upon the location for Dog Club of Wilmington (1940 N. County Dr.). Immediately I remarked, “Oh, that’s where it is!” We noted the gigantic building as a possible place to board Dixie and Dakota during our next trip. Though he has a large, fenced-in backyard and a vet living next door (thankfully) who is willing to care for them while we’re gone, we still know they miss play time with us. Cue Dog Club, where the staff has a combined experience of over 25 years, even though it’s only been open since November 2007. Owner Dyana Scholz was raised an animal-lover: She rode and trained horses, and adored her family pets. In early 2003, she helped a friend open a doggie day care in Charlotte. “When the timing was right for me to open my own, it was the easiest and most natural step for me to take,” she says. “I wanted to open a facility that was designed for dog owners like me—not a lot of money to waste, but people who want to give their dogs the best care possible through socialization and exercise.” She showcases this in Dog Club’s regularly affordable rates, and by offering existing clients bonuses throughout the year to express her appreciation. Plus, new clients can get one free trial of day care. With 12,000 square feet of inside play

area and overnight, climate-controlled sleep stations, plus 15,000 square feet of fencedin backyard, there’s plenty of room for everybody at Dog Club. Still, the pups are separated based on their size, age and even their play styles. Worried moms and dads (though they shouldn’t be) can check on their furry kids via the live indoor and outdoor web cams on Dog Club’s site. And when parents are back in town, dogs can still hang out with Scholz and her crew at various events. In May, Dog Club is hosting the first annual Battleship Splash—a dock-diving competition complete with animal-related vendors and an adoption corner. Full details on the day care and boarding spot can be found online at www.dogclubwilmington.com. Paw Beach is another favorite of local pet owners, as well as Atlantic Animal Hospital.

Apartment Complex

There’s a running joke amongst the lucky few who reside on Wrightsville Beach, that once they’re across the drawbridge, they rarely want to leave for any reason. And why would they? Great views and savory seafood dining await no matter the time of year, all in one place. The same goes for folks who live in The Reserve at Mayfaire apartments, as they fall into the “live, work, play” agenda of Wilmington’s best shopping center. They’re in walking distance of a gym, grocery store, tanning bed, banks, several restaurants and tons of upscale retail stores, which is by far more than any other apartment complex can claim. Not to mention, their living spaces are quite luxurious with nine-foot ceilings, walk-in closets and classic French doors. It’s enough to make one say, “ooh la la.” Aside from glorious inner features, The Reserve at Mayfaire also boasts some extraordinary amenities, like the 20-seat large-screen movie theater and a gourmet java and juice bar, as well as the junior olympic-size swimming pool and its 10,000 square-foot deck. Of course, floor plans and fitness centers can only go so far. What truly sets The Reserve apart is its attention to detail on the personal side. “[We] strive to offer the best customer service possible,” assistant community manager Cary Farris Green explains. “We are always looking for new ideas and ways to serve our residents, [because they] always come first.” (Though it doesn’t hurt being two miles from Wrightsville Beach!) Other fine rental communities are Avalon and The Keys at 17th Street.

Place to Buy Gas

“Diesel, self-serve, Fix-a-Flat, jumper cables, 5% cash back…” The Discover credit

card commercials are ridiculously catchy— I’ve been randomly singing about gas stations for months! Though, the customers of GOGAS most likely sing its praises yearround, and especially in December and January, when the encore Best Of readers’ poll takes place online. Thousands of voters chimed in, and it’s true this year just as all the rest: GOGAS is simply the best. For the most notable reason, it’s usually the cheapest fuel in town. I can remember, even as a kid who was years away from her license, that my parents and most adults around me would head to GOGAS first and foremost. They trusted they would receive the best possible deal and friendliest check-out service. We can thank the locals in charge, K.E. Austin Corporation, for that. Not to mention, in 1994 the corporation was awarded an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, a high esteem indeed. The company was judged upon a commitment to work in good faith by the BBB, and that they garner the “e” award from readers each year, even through 2012, is proof of such. Pulling into second place is Costco, and filling up third is Hess.

Motorcycle Shop

In every field, when times are tumultuous, the survivors who truly believe in their businesses will do everything in their power to keep them afloat. In the case of Britt Motorsports, it means changing their outlook entirely. Scott Britt’s family moved to Wilmington in 1973, and his father opened Britt Motorsports three years later. “I cannot imagine working in anything other than the motorcycle industry,” he says. “I have always said I am the poster child for [the saying], ‘Find a job you love and you will never work a day in your life.’ We live and breathe motorcycles. We are very involved in the industry in many ways, we understand [it], and maintain a positive relationship with our customer base.” Despite the success of a 36-year franchised dealership, Britt still felt the pressure of a worsening financial system. He decided that, in order to maintain his father’s legacy, he had to be willing to alter anything and everything about it as the world around him changed. Answering demands, he has made the mechanics Britt Motorsports is known for available to all. “We have opened our dealership to all makes of motorcycles for service work,” he notes. “The consumer needs are greater than ever before; our staff is trained to be aware of every customer trend. Our focus is to become the largest used motorcycle outlet that we can be. We now sell all brands of pre-

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Hangers is able to provide an effective, environmentally safe replacement. Not to mention, it eliminates the need for a drying cycle—so heat damage, fading and stain-setting are things of the past. It’s the world’s first CO2-based dry cleaner, and it’s only available at Hangers Williams Cleaners. Other places cleaning up the rankings are $2.50 Cleaners and Liberty’s Cleaners — Bethany Turner

Golf Course

It’s no secret that Landfall is among the most beautifully landscaped, elegant, and freHOLE IN ONE! Country Club of Landfall scores again in Best Golf! quented areas of Wilmington. Jeff Mack, director of golf maintenance, and Sara Bush, PGA head golf The houses are luxurious, the shopping is excellent, professional, pose with the coveted “e.” Courtesy photo. and Wilmingtonians have agreed: The golf is the best. The Counowned motorcycles.” Today, Britt Motorsports is 100 percent a try Club of Landfall is so revered, in fact, pre-owned outlet, and the heir to the biking that there is sometimes a waiting list to throne knows that spreading the word about become a member. Limits are imposed on the membership this change is imperative to finding growth in numbers so that there is never overcrowding. 2012. He is humbled and grateful for the support his family and crew have received from With 45 holes and two gorgeous courses, the public despite the unstable circumstanc- Landfall’s goal is to make sure golf remains es. “In today’s market with the negative at- a relaxing pastime—rather than making folks mosphere, it is great to show we have been wait in line for the next hole. Membership is offered to men, women, acknowledged by our peers and the commuand children of all ages, and professional nity,” he says. “We made a grand presentastaff members are always available for intion to our staff [after] winning the award last struction and guidance for those just startyear. It meant a lot to them as well.” Second place in motorcycle shops goes ing out. Regular matches, private instructo Harley Davidson, while third is a tie be- tion, and group classes are just some of the tween Shaw MotorSports and Honda Suzuki added perks. The club, which is open all 12 months of the year, hosts celebrity tournaof Wilmington. ments, college championships, and various charity golf events. Dry Cleaner Runners up in the golf category were The With seven locations all across WilmingWilmington Municipal Golf Course and Echo ton, from South 17th Street to Military Cutoff Farms Golf & Country Club, respectively. Road and on Wrightsville Avenue, Hangers Williams Cleaners offer the most convenient, cost-effective and safe dry cleaning in town. Open Monday through Saturday, though they’re closed on Sundays, each location also has 24-hour drop boxes. Plus, at the same rate as over-the-counter dry cleaning, Hangers Williams provides home and office pick-up and delivery. How’s that for service! The new Hangers Micare system utilizes liquid carbon dioxide as its cleaning solvent, which is the biggest innovation the industry has seen in more than 50 years. Instead of using harsh chemicals such as perchloroethylene that traditional dry cleaning does,

Dog Groomer

Trying to bathe your dog at home can be a traumatic experience. Yes, dogs hate getting sprayed by a freezing cold hose or being trapped in a slippery tub; but if you’re the one attempting to get your pup clean, you might end up being more scarred in the process. In my experience with washing dogs, I’ve been scratched, snapped at, and covered in more water and dog shampoo than my family pet. It takes a real expert to make this process quick and painless for both

parties. The groomers at Ali’s K9 Clips have perfected this routine. They will even come to your house, whenever is convenient for you, to pick up your pooch and wash him/her in their fully equipped van. Each dog is personally handled in a safe, comfortable, and worry-free environment. The staff has plenty of experience with old, young and terrified dogs, so they know how to make the process as smooth as possible in any situation. Owner Alison Krieger (Ali) is a member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America, in addition to being a dog-lover. She has worked with dogs of all different breeds and ages, and truly loves the work she does. Wilmington dog owners also trust their pets in the hands of staff at Paw Beach Pet Resort and PetSmart. —Shea Carver

Florist

At Julia’s Florist, floral design is more than a job; it’s sculpting compassionate architecture. From the staple of soft red roses to the bold look of spiky florals like the Bird of Paradise, there is no end to the possibility of arrangements. And understanding flowers are sent for the most delicate of reasons—love, laud and loss— the artists at Julia’s form every bouquet with care. Though Julia’s is a local name, open since 1989, they make sharing bouquets with loved ones very easy. No matter the need, folks can order online or by phone— or, of course, stop by and visit. They seek to get to know their customers, to the point that they will record every client’s special occasions and send reminders ahead of time, so anniversaries are never forgotten again. Even new customers can call and give Julia’s their list, or register online at www.juliasflorist.com. Another great benefit of being a Julia’s Florist client is Lucky Stems, a sort of lottery for flower recipients. Attached to every delivered bouquet or gift is a Lucky Stems card with a code printed on it. If the code, once redeemed online, is indeed lucky, the holder of it could win more flowers! Plus, those who bought the flowers earn rewards points, which translate to cash that can be spent at the florist. With reminders, giveaways and rewards, what more could any person ask for when shopping for a florist? Those searching for the perfect bouquet also buy from Moxie Floral Design and Fiore Fine Flowers. —Bethany Turner

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Arts & Entertainment Karaoke

We welcome new poll-toppers to our 2012 Best Of, Browncoat Pub and Theatre, as they have churned out rip-roaring good times over the past two years. It was then that they introduced karaoke to their mix of offerings. “We’ve been in business now for almost five years,” owner and artistic director Richard Davis says of the local theater, which regularly churns out plays of all varieties, from locally penned to worldwide premieres as seen of their Leonard Melfi series. “We only began offering karaoke seven nights a week in the last 18 or 24 months. It was a big risk to devote so much time and so many resources to one venture, but we’ve always been willing to roll the dice at the Browncoat.” They’ve reached tons of success, too, thanks to a team of excellent “KJs,” including Greg Jeager, Charlie Grasse, Matthew Brothers, Shane Bates and Susan Auten. “Each one is an accomplished performer in his or her own right,” Davis notes, “and understands how to work with the crowd to make each night the most fun it can be.” Browncoat has upped their catalogue of music after receiving such high praise for their ongoing sing-a-thons. Plus, they’ve invested in new equipment, so everyone’s 15 minutes is worthy of an encore. Those who would rather spectate won’t feel pressure to turn on their performing faces, either. “Browncoat’s a place where people who love the arts can come to relax and have fun in a laid back atmosphere,” Davis assures. “The crowds watching get into the show as much as the people on stage singing. It’s a very fun and supportive atmosphere. That’s what makes our karaoke experience special.” Other stages across town calling voices from around are Katy’s and Fox and Hound.

Art Gallery

I can attest to Bottega Art Bar and Gallery being one of our city’s very best! Aside from offering so much in the way of art and love, they also keep city slickers happily quenched of their fine-wine-and-beer thirsts. “[Everyone] gets a chance to be a part of something at Bottega,” Perotto has told encore. It’s true! Bottega opens itself to the whole community: to UNCW (and all other) college students every third Thursday as part of their “Atlantis With Love” poetry reading, to art enthusiasts every fourth Friday as part of Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, offering new exhibitions and meet-and-greets with the artists, to Starving Artist and Open Paint night on Tuesdays, to Wednesday’s free weekly wine tastings.

They circulate new exhibitions on the constant as well. Currently, through Opening Friday, May 25th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. is a show featuring new abstract paintings from Wilmington artist Ryan Lewis. With thick, bright and chaotic brushstrokes, Lewis attempts to interpret not only emotion but sound as well. His canvases utilize paints, inks, cassette tapes and reel tape, too. A film studies graduate, Lewis says his inspiration was late-night visits from wise owls— their hooting kept him awake and led him to this art. This will be Lewis’ first large-scale solo exhibit, seen only at 208 N. Front St. — Shea Carver

Bowling Alley

When a bowling alley is more than just that, it’s hard to even compare other venues. In the

KINGS OF KARAOKE: Newbies to our Best Of Poll, Browncoat Pub and Theatre reign local kings of karaoke according to our readers. They welcome singers seven nights a week! Courtesy of Richard Davis

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case of Ten Pin Alley, which is housed in the Museum same building as Break Time pool hall, Break Cameron Art Museum is a hub of enlightTime Grille and Lucky Strike Lounge, it’s enment on so many other levels outside of no wonder they’re voted the best. There’s mere art. They hold concerts frequently, much to enjoy in the large building in Maramong poetry jams and slams, alongside ketplace Mall, whether folks fancy bowling, classes and workshops, with people from billiards, or just kicking back with friends. all walks of life, local and afar. They’re an Opened in 1999, Ten Pin Alley maintains extension of what’s so great about Wilming24 lanes and operates from 11 a.m. to 2 ton’s art scene: variance. And they’ve been a.m. every day of the week, when folks can around for 50 years to prove its impact on rent by the game or hour. Leagues run from southeastern NC. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, Once located in an old warehouse bethough there’s usually space for everyone fore moving to St. John’s Museum of Art to play. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, folks and then to its permanent space at Indecan buy a game and get another for free afpendence Boulevard and 17th Street Exter 6 p.m. Wednesdays offer an all-you-cantension, in 2012 it’s celebrating 10 years bowl from 9 p.m. to close for a mere $8, and at its current home. In doing so, they have Saturday hosts the ever-popular black-light a lot of newbies to welcome, including phenom, cosmic bowling. their newest director, Anne Brennan, and The experienced staff of REV-olution Pro new director of development, Bo Dean, Shop within Ten Pin cater to all bowling as well as an eatery slated to open in needs, from assisting in purchases of brand March, Johnnie’s Cafe (which will be run new equipment to repairing older goods. by Best Catering and Gourmet Store rePlus, youngsters will enjoy the arcade room built just for them, complete with several ANNIE, GET YOUR AWARD! Cameron Art Museum’s cipients, Pine Valley Market). “With a projected opening on March Skee-Ball games, where they can earn tick- new, lively director, Anne Brennan, thanks encore and waves 31st, in tandem with the opening installation ets redeemable for prizes at the counter. her card as an “Alex Pompliano Fan Club” member (encore arts of Rise Up Wilmington community ladder One of the more appealing aspects of correspondant). Photo by Courtney Bridgers project, the museum again responds to the Ten Pin is that, with Break Time Grille, bowlrequests from the region,” Kim Kelly, comers get more than the typical “bar food” of nachos and popcorn. Rather, the folks in the and earned 15 battle stars. During her munications manager, says. CAM offers so much more than superior kitchen take pride in their eats—which is why time in the war, Battleship NC sank an exhibitions; they embark on programs for enemy ship, implemented nine shore bomall soups are made daily, and the pizza dough all folks, like Kids at CAM, which creates a bardments, destroyed over 24 opposing is crafted from scratch. Patrons can enjoy chili and a baked potato, a shrimp burger or even aircraft, and traveled over 300,000 miles. familial experience of artwork creation. They a generous platter of fish and chips. Yet, sa- She was dedicated on April 29th, 1962, as schedule classes in The Museum School, voring all this doesn’t mean they’ll pay more our state’s memorial to Carolina WWII vet- which is seeing enrollment growth everyday. to play. When the party gets too wild, Ten Pin erans, including the 10,000 we lost during They also have a program called “Connections,” which reaches out to elders in the takes a stand for safety, too—those who take the war. community. In 2012, Battleship NC will host many a taxi home will get a free game of bowling (or “It provides those with Alzheimer’s or deof its famed events, such as the Easter pool at Break Time Billiards). Other alleys rolling onto our list are Cardinal Egg Carnival on April 6th from 10 a.m. to mentia and their caregivers a chance to expe2 p.m., and Battleship Alive and Battleship rience our exhibitions one-on-one with museLanes and Thunder Alley. 101, held certain Saturdays May through um docents and now a hands-on art making September and December 1st, where folks experience has been added to enhance this Local Attraction “It says a lot that a 70-year-old broad can be can witness live demonstrations of histori- successful program,” Kelly explains. Upcoming on February 25th is the seventh voted the best, year after year!” Kim Sincox, cal events and daily life for sailors. As well, the museum services director for this year’s Battleship NORTH CAROLINA hosts life- annual Civil War Living History weekend. winner, exclaimed as she accepted the award long learning programs, such as the March Festivities include a ghost walk, so folks will for local attraction at our party held Febru- 17th event, Power Plant Program, in which better understand life then and what soldiers ary 10th. Although she’ll turn 71 on April 9th, adults can discover its Navy engineering: faced on a daily basis. They’ll also grasp the magnitude of service the United States ColBattleship NORTH CAROLINA is still quite boilers, turbines, generators and more. ored Troops had during the war. Overall, Battleship NC is not only a the looker. She commands the attention of “The live Civil War ghost walk dramatizes all Cape Fear visitors, beckoning their views landmark and a testament to our country from bridges and docks. She is the siren of and military’s rich history, but she’s also a vignettes of those who walked the grounds tool for furthering education and enriching during Civil War times,” Kelly illustrates, our river. Celebrating over 50 years in her current our economy, as she attracts more than “giving participants an up-close experience berth facing downtown Wilmington, Battle- 250,000 visitors every year. It’s true— of their stories.” While the museum continues to grow, its ship NC possesses a proud history. She was she’s one spectacular broad. patrons and supporters blossom with it. Folks Voters deemed the beach and Atlantic the first of 10 battleships to join the American fleet in World War II, when she took part Ocean, as well as Airlie Gardens, other looking to help can volunteer at the museum, and do what Kelly says is the most important in every major naval offensive in the Pacific great attractions for our area. www.encorepub.com | ENCORE BEST OF WILMINGTON 2012 |

WECT WINS AGAIN! The fun-loving reporters and anchors of the newscast, including Best Newscaster, Frances Weller, accepted the award with smiles and gratitude. Photo by Shea Carver

aspect of their business: “Care about the people you are trying to reach.” By collaborating with other museums, locals, artists and organizations throughout the community, CAM continues flourishing. It’s an artistic expression unto itself, a representation of Wilmington’s appreciation for cultural enrichment. Cape Fear Museum and Children’s Museum of Wilmington stack up second and third.

Newscaster & Newscast

May 31st will ring in a celebration for a woman deserving of praise! Frances Weller will meet her 30-year mark at Wilmington’s Best Newscast station, WECT. Yes, she has progressed through three decades of journalistic excellence, as has the station she calls home. “As a news team, I think our viewers respect and appreciate the fact that we are the news team they can trust,” Weller notes. “If there’s breaking news, you can count on us to have it. You can also count on us to be fair and accurate; we never take a position on a story—just report the facts.” It doesn’t mean she doesn’t get starry-eyed over certain instances. Her most memorable moments come from interviewing then Presi-

dent Elect Barack Obama, and former First Lady Laura Bush. “As journalists, we always want to get the big interview,” she says. “Both marked a significant moment in my career. I’m not really a political person, but in both of those instances, I felt truly honored to interview such important people.” By remaining in constant communication, the reporters and news anchors of the station are in momentous interaction with the citizens and all major players of the communities they reach. Creative Services Director David Toma finds the job would be much more difficult without everyone playing their role in the village. “Trust is not only important to our viewers but to the folks [from whom] we get the critical information,” he says, “law enforcement, the district attorneys, city and county managers, school officials and so on. We have earned the reputation with these people who are on the front lines every day.” Though constantly mired by technological changes, i.e. the advent of the Internet, it makes the job challenging but also everevolving and interesting. WECT utilizes their lengthy website, smartphone app and other platforms to supplement their airtime.

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“I believe social media is helping us reach the non-traditional TV news viewer and letting them know how important it is to have a working knowledge of what is happening in your community,” Scott Saxton, news director, says. According to a Nielsen ratings report from November 2011, people are still tuning in. “In almost every newscast, [WECT] out-delivers the nearest competition three to one in total household,” Toma reports. Though love for on-air personalities often plays a role in readers’ votes, Weller associates being an anchor with going beyond reading words. “A good newscaster is a communicator—a storyteller,” she says. “Anyone can read a teleprompter. It’s how you deliver the content that separates good reporters from great ones. I try to focus everyday on talking to our viewers versus reading to them. I like to think I’m talking to family and friends.” Scrolling into second is WWAY, while FOX 26, WECT’s sister station also owned by Raycom Media, placed third. Jon Evans and Bob Townsend, both of the Raycom Media group, were second and third in the newscaster category.

Theatre Production & Theatre Company

“So long, farewell/auf Wiedersehen, good night/I hate to go/and leave this pretty sight…” Audiences were thrilled by Thalian Association’s roster of 2011 plays—so much so, the finale of last year came with a classic which everyone has sung along to in some form or another over the course of their lives: “The Sound of Music.” The hills certainly came alive, and music reigned supreme as adults and children flocked to the stage in this family-fun classic. Featuring a strong cast, including newcomers Katie Sawhill and Stuart Pike who played lead roles Maria and Captain von Trapp, among their sweet, adorable children, played by Molly Lankford, J.J. Nieman, Kiera O’Reilly, Bradley Barefoot, Ashley Lauren Ochs, Samantha Woodard and Matalin Bloomfield, audiences were able to see supreme talent breathe life into this worldwide popular tale. “[We love] taking risks and not playing it safe,” Tom Briggs, artistic director of Thalian, says of his choices in production and who he chooses to help make them possible. “We have trusted our audience to follow us into the unknown, and sure enough that’s just what they’ve done.” More so, they have found much to adore in Thalian Association’s constant promise to bring show-stopping productions to town. From their amazing costume and set design, to music direction, and superb casting to a rousing love for live, local theatre, it maintains the essence of an artistically engaged and enlivened city. “In the past six seasons we have presented 18 Wilmington premieres and our 19th, ‘The Drowsy Chaperone,’ opens next month,” Briggs continues. “Our audience really enjoys shows they haven’t had the opportunity to see before, and these premieres are bringing new audiences into the theater.” From last year’s roustabout good-time found in productions like “All Shook Up,” as well as in the American foray of our varied history and past in “Ragtime,” the 2012-13 season promises as much excitement. Briggs plans to announce the bill soon. “There will be lots of surprises,” he states. “More premieres and some classics as well.” Exacting his sentiments is a promise to continue pushing the best out of local thespians and to please the community at large. In fact, that’s Briggs’ number-one thought in running the theatre company. “Everything we do, we do for our audience,” he says. “Their support and this tremendous acknowledgement

means the world to us.” Second place in Best Theatre Production of 2011 goes to “Cannibal: The Musical!” from Guerilla Theatre and “Hairspray” from Opera House Theatre Company. Other local companies taking second and third include Opera House Theatre Company and City Stage.

It’s true that music affects us in every emotional and mental aspect—it’s why commercials often employ fun or empowering tunes to encourage their positive imprint on our minds. Musicians know that major keys sound happy and minor keys have a somber appeal, and they use this to their advantage. Athletes pump the theme from “Rocky” during workouts, and lovers turn on the baby-making music of Usher when the lights go down. Music surrounds us, and it’s likely we all have a certain soundtrack to our lives. Tapping into this, club DJs seek out only the sickest new beats from up-and-coming artists to keep their crowd moving, and it’s an art to have a fully stocked dance floor throughout the night. (My middle-school dances were always the most awkward when “Angel” by Shaggy came on—should we have moved fast or slow? No one knew, so we just split down the middle—oh, so graceless and embarrassing!) Wilmington is lucky to call DJ Battle its own. He masters the art of spinning for the dance floor and always plays for the people. “It’s less about me,” he says. “I let them dictate the direction the party goes in. If people respond to hip-hop, I play hip-hop. If it’s dance music, oldschool or reggae, then I can do that. I can play to all different crowds.” He proves as much is true by doing college nights at Brikhouse (previous Rox location) every Thursday, then catering to the sophisticated crowd at The Dirty Martini on Saturday nights. He spins to a mix of folks at Fibber McGee’s on Sundays and Wednesdays, not to mention his private events booked throughout the week. In 2012, DJ Battle is upping his game to include his own mixes in the club. “I’m doing more studio work now than ever before,” he excitedly says. “I plan on releasing remixes and original music by the summer. I’ve already worked with some big names and great people. I once heard Russell Simmons say that he’s ‘never satisfied with any level of success.’ I always try to keep learning my craft.” Second place for DJs is Dane Britt, and third is DJ Time.

Comedy Troupe

My mama always said, “Love a man who can make you laugh.” In Wilmington’s case, we have six and some change who gave up their boring book club and fear of public speak-

PUT THE NEEDLE ON THE RECORD: DJ Battle churns out tunes that packs dance floors across the port city weekly, from downtown to Wrightsville Beach. Photo by Courtney Bridgers

ing in exchange for raucous fun and entertainment. The Nutt House Improv Troupe rolls in the laughter on our 2012 poll as Best Comedy Troupe, and a few members even helped host the encore awards party on February 10th at City Stage/Level 5. “Colton DeMonte is the bearded funny man with great characters,” Steve Marcinowski, “great for moral support,” says of his companion host. “Mike Henninger is karaoke master and Casanova. Caylan McKay was an affirmative-action hire; he is the numbers guy. Jon Ripley is foreign accent master, and Dave DiMuro is a musical genius.” Adding new members, too, Nutt House keep Wednesday nights a rip-roaring good time at their home, Nutt Street Comedy Room, located in the basement of the Soapbox. For a mere two bucks, folks are treated to an improv act not-so-easily forgotten. “As an audience member, you can expect tons of laughs, no-holds-barred jokes about anything and everything offensive, and our signature awkward ending.” The audience is also utilized during Nutt House’s many skits, as they’re pin-pointed for suggestion to help move the acts along. Marcinowski says, “We make everything up on the spot and need your help to create the best show possible.” In the end laughter is the best medicine

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and will keep Wilmingtonians falling hard for the fellas over again. And who wouldn’t love someone that keeps laughter at their core of existence? “We love the energy shared between the audience and the performer,” Marcinowski claims. “We love breaking tension with a wall of laughter.” And they’ll continue doing so throughout many hopeful years to come. 2012 will have them devising more hilarity, along with multimedia projects, short films and video sketches and possibly even adding a few more funny people to the mix. “We love laughing; it is therapeutic,” Marcinowski states. “Making people laugh is even better.” We couldn’t agree more! Other troupes topping our poll are the folks over at Pineapple-Shaped Lamps and Peepshow Cabaret.

Writer

“Pecans are not cheap, my hons. In fact, in the South, the street value of shelled pecans, just before holiday baking season, is roughly that of crack cocaine. Do not confuse the two. It is almost impossible to make a decent crack cocaine tassie, I am told.” Such are the musings of Southern belle (or crude, honest and extremely hilarious writer) Celia Rivenbark, from her book “You Can’t Drink All Day if You Don’t Start in the Morning.” Rivenbark had quite a good year in 2011. Her sixth book to-date, “You Don’t Sweat Much for a Fat Girl,” came out in August and was the first of her works to land on the New York Times Best Sellers List. To this, we raise our glasses of sweet tea to cheers the slut! (What? Naturally, we mean “Southern Lady Up To Something”!) Rivenbark is also the writer of a syndicated weekly column for the Sunday StarNews and in several other publications, from Sacramento to California to upstate New York. Penning humor comes natural to Rivenbark, as she’s also embarking on her seventh book, to be released in spring 2013—an etiquette book with a working title, “That’s Not a Salad Fork, You Stupid Bitch!” “I love the part where you search for a joke, and it just shows up in your head right when you need it,” Rivenbark says. “It’s always a wonderful relief and a great surprise.” As well, the ability to work both in essay books and columns (and she’s got a dark novel in progress, too!) has allowed her to stretch as a writer. “I like the freedom of writing books because I can get away with a lot more,” she says. “I’m pretty much a potty-mouth in real life, but the column has to be sanitized for a

SURF’S UP, MOON DOGGIE: Joe Cheshire wins Best Filmmaker for his numerous surf documentaries, including “Beyond the Barrier.” Courtesy photo

broad audience. That said, I like writing the column because it teaches me how to self-edit. I’ve learned how to say exactly what I want to say, and it really forces you to cut out the fat.” Other talented local writers include Zach McKeown and Gwenyfar Rohler.

Independent Film

If there’s one thing people in Wilmington are passionate about, it’s got to be fantastic film. After all, we live in the Hollywood of the south so we know all about fine cinema. This year “The Watchers” thrilled audiences and left a lasting impact on everyone in the port city after its fall premiere at the Browncoat Pub and Theatre. “It’s kind of like ‘Game of Thrones’ meets ‘Ghostbusters,’” says Brandon Ewers, one of the project’s creators. The plot centers around four strangers, all of questionable character, who come together for a job and end up getting caught in a battle for the end of the world. “These are the four worst guys you could think of to get stuck in a battle between good and evil,” Ewers explains. It’s a horror comedy that had locals laughing out loud in their seats and leaving the lights on at night after the went to bed. The masterminds behind the scenes are filmmaking partners and childhood best friends Brandon Ewers and Joshua Lowry. The pair has been making movies together since they were 10-years-old and moved to Wilmington

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over a decade ago to pursue their big screen dreams. The dynamic duo handle everything as a team, with Lowry acting as their resident techie, lighting expert and sound engineer, while Ewers focuses on the scripts. Though, they’re always in favor of sharing ideas and collaborating. “We push each other to make each other better,” Ewers detailed to encore just before “The Watchers” premiere in September. Ewers and Lowry have produced a number of films like “Confession,” “The Montclair Crew,” “ICN” and “Willow Creek,” as well as acclaimed (though short-lived) television show “Let’s Find Out,” filmed at local hotspot Reel Café. They’ve had so much support from the Wilmington community and were honored to take home top prize for independent film this year. “Our friends in Wilmington are beyond dedicated and supportive. I’m very happy and very proud,” Ewers details. Second and third places go to “11:11” and “Angry White Man.”

Arcade/Game Room & Pool Hall

When we talk about something locally owned and operated, we mean those in charge of our region’s businesses who put a lot of thought and sweat into making what they offer a truly great option for their customers. Often, they become involved in the community outside of profit margins, too. Blue Post and its owners, Barbara Weetman, Gil Johnson

and Harper Peterson, embody the concept of local operation. The trio built the innards of the bar/arcade/ pool hall/totally awesome hang-out from the ground up 13 years ago, using recycled wood and old doors for the bar face (before being green was “the thing to do”). Peterson owned Water Street Restaurant at the time, and Weetman, also a local actress, tended bar for years in New Orleans and L.A. “We all enjoy this kind of business,” Weetman explains. “It’s fun, always different, and always a challenge to succeed.” Most importantly, the owners and staff choose just what goes into Blue Post—and it’s always been that way, from air-hockey games and Pac-Man, to the many pool tables housed throughout the place, including regulation tables. “We pick our own music for the jukebox, decide what games to put in, and we treat each other like family—dysfunctional sometimes—but it works,” Weetman quips. “I think people enjoy Blue Post because there is a kicked-back vibe with a lot of things to do.” The folks behind the bar are the sort of people a guest can make friends with rather quickly, and most of them have worked there for years. Aside from a keen eye for vintage video games, they stay up to date with trends in the booze business, too. Originally Blue Post served beer only but committed to serving liquor a few years back. “It’s been a good change,” Weetman says. “And we are always on the lookout for new micro-brews. With 14 taps and around 60 in the bottle, we love to try new stuff.” Second place in arcade/game rooms goes to Jungle Rapids, with third being awarded to Ten Pin Alley. For billiards, folks also look to Breaktime and Orton’s Pool Room.

Theater Venue

By the end of 2012, Thalian Hall will have hosted over 400 events! From theatre shows, to concerts, stand-up acts to charitable galas, films and more, the historic site is a major artery in the heart of Wilmington’s arts and culture. Built in 1858, Thalian first served as City Hall offices and a concert venue, evolving over the years into a host of many sectors of performance art. Appropriately titled after the Greek muse of comedy, Thalia, today it is run by the nonprofit, Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts. “The root of our passion is about preserving the illustrious history of this building and growing the arts community in Wilmington and the Cape Fear region,” Gary Tucker, marketing director, says. Its hypnotic beauty has multiplied since its 2009 renovations, which include exhibits aligning its halls, along with roomier seating and a

Gregory in March and the Adam Grove Quiz Show in April. To secure a membership or buy tickets to any events, visit www.thalianhall.com for a full calendar of events. Other favorite venues go to City Stage in second place and Browncoat Pub and Theatre in third.

Tour

HAHAHAHAHAHA! Those funny fellas from Nutt House Improv scored Best Comedy Troupe for 2012! Thanks to Steve Marcinowski and Colton DeMonte (both featured far right) for helping host our 2012 awards ceremony at City Stage on February 10th. Photo by Shea Carver

gorgeous, sparkly chandelier, Alice (named after the now-deceased Alice Waters, one of Wilmington’s most fervent arts supporters). “The recent renovation was a trying time for our organization,” Tucker admits, noting the encore win adds to the confirmation of their good intentions. “It’s good to know we came out of it with a product that the community loves.” Ran from select employees and a host of volunteers, patrons buy memberships to Thalian, which in return secures their involvement in ground-breaking performances while feeling especially pleased with NC’s official theater. “We like for the patrons to feel a sense of ownership and pride in the building,” Tucker notes. “We build this feeling by educating our patrons on the building’s history and importance in the community, allowing the public the opportunity to become ‘friends’ of Thalian Hall, and by communicating with our patrons in a way that emphasizes their importance in its future.” This use of marketing and communications ensures everyone who’s a “friend” understands its success is driven as much by the patronage as the talent. Thalian employees are also inherently aware of the swift changes in membership on a daily basis. “We have made a concerted effort to bring in shows that appeal to a younger audience,” Tucker says of future arts supporters. “We use more electronic and social media tools to communicate with them.” Slated for 2012 includes all Opera House Theatre Company’s performances, from the upcoming “The Producers” to “Lend Me a Tenor” in the spring, along with Thalian Hall’s Main Attraction Series, which will see the likes of Ladysmith Black Mambazo next week on the 21st, “Funniest Man in America” James

To journey through the dark, seedy, gruesome alleys of our port city’s past, folks need not look any further than the Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington. Run by John and Kim Hirchak and a handful of talented guides—with an average of seven years experience—this tour shares the spookiest stories from the days when downtown Wilmington was not a charming shopping district or bustling cultural destination but a critical shipping port. Characters like bar wenches, politicians and even those buried alive (like the famed Samuel Joselyn who haunts the grounds of a local cemetery to this day, encountered by Ghost Walk guests) command the attention of eager listeners. “The setting is spectacular, because downtown Wilmington can be both beautiful and eerie at the same time,” owner John Hirchak says. It’s just one of the many reasons he loves being a part of Ghost Walk, aside from being able to keep the waning art of professional storytelling alive. “We care about the small details. We know which side of each street we need to walk down in order to give our guests the best and most interesting view of Wilmington.” The cost to embark upon the Ghost Walk— which was named one of the Top 5 Ghost Walks in America by USA Today and Top 10 Tours in America by TripAdvisor—remains the same since its first day in 1999. The walk itself is ever-evolving, though. Within the last few years, Hirchak and his guides have been able to determine the most frightening realms of our city thanks to eye-witness accounts from the people who live and work in these places, and the most recent occurrences from actual guests on the tour. “This year, our guests will visit only the most powerful, scary and actively haunted locations,” he says. The Black Cat Shoppe on 8 Market St. is the home for Ghost Walk and the company’s other tours. “Guests can buy tickets, gift certificates, tour memorabilia and other zany, unusual things,” Hirchak notes. It’s also where they hang their numerous Best-Of wins. “[The Best Of] award is like baseball’s MVP award, or an Oscar, in that it’s the people who are in the know (voters) who bestow the award. It is incredibly moving to know that the people in our community feel we are the best tour in Wilmington. Of all our awards, the encore

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Best Of is the only one we have hanging in our store because it is the one we are most proud of.” Runners-up for Best Tour are the Haunted Pub Crawl (also from the Hirchaks) in second place and the Springbrook Farms Horsedrawn Carriage Tours in third.

Radio Station

From 106.7FM to its current home at 98.3, The Penguin has more than doubled its listener base since the recent change in broadcast bands. Reaching further across southeastern North Carolina, DJ Beau Gunn is eager for the station to continue growing. “It is nice to know that we can share all the positive vibes of the Penguin with a larger audience.” It was great news during their last Best Of win to hear about the broadcast change. This win brings long-awaited news with it, too: “The biggest thing we have in store for 2012 is that we are finally going to start streaming,” Gunn excitedly announces. “This is something we have been wanting to bring our listeners for several years now, and thankfully our new parent company, Hometown Wilmington Media, is supporting this initiative.” Thus, folks will be able to listen to The Penguin’s exclusive brand of music online, even when they’re outside of the listening area. Af-

ter all, its the music that makes The Penguin the undisputed best. “I feel that the majority of radio has lost its magic and mystique,” Gunn describes. “Our listeners are constantly engaging with us, reminding us how appreciative they are to have such a unique radio station. That in turn keeps us passionate about delivering truly unique music to the airwaves.” On air, folks can catch Gunn and The Penguin’s female counterpart, Kim Czornij. It’s their goal, and the satisfaction of their lives, to share interesting new bands and solo artists with their fan base. “Kim and I are very fortunate that we are not tethered to a repetitive playlist,” Gunn says. “We strive to give our listeners a true-to-form unscripted radio show each and every day. We know people want a radio station that reflects their many tastes in music, so that’s what we give them. We also have an extraordinary passion for the music. If we are playing a song or an artist, it is because we truly believe in them.” Port City residents also jam with Z107.5 and get educated with WHQR 91.3.

Radio Personality

With a voice recognized by those who appreciate fresh, sophisticated audio, Beau Gunn from The Penguin 98.3 celebrates yet another win as Best Radio Personality. Gunn’s

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heart and soul are invested in Penguin, as this radio station provided the birth and the nurture of his career. “I was fortunate to be able to intern with the coolest radio station of all time,” he says. “From there, I was at the right place at the right time. When management was looking to take The Penguin in another direction, they gave me the gig.” Since, Gunn has taken the lead and certainly directed The Penguin in the right route. It is now the go-to station to catch talented singer/songwriters and an array of alternative, folk, rock ‘n’ roll and experimental jams. Really, the DJs just play what folks want to hear, and they don’t stick to Billboard ratings or acts that might appear on “TRL.” “I love [The Penguin’s] spontaneity,” Gunn admits. “We cover so many different genres of music; it’s like one big sonic gumbo. I love not knowing what song is going to come up next, but having faith that it will be a good one.” Humbled, the DJ says he shares this win with everyone at Hometown Wilmington Media, including DJ Kim Czornij, The Penguin sponsors and its listeners. “We are all in it together,” Gunn notes. “So in essence, we all recognize each other for having great taste in music.” Gunn can be caught spinning from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. every weekday, or out and about at

local Penguin-sponsored concerts, like the upcoming The Dirty Guv’nahs show at Soapbox Laundro-Lounge on March 16th and the Drive-by Truckers event with Megafaun at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater on April 20th. Entertaining DJs also include Foz from Z107.5 and Kim from The Penguin 98.3.

Morning Radio Show

black police officer in Elon, and wound up at the paper mill in Riegelwood. It was here that his rheumatoid arthritis began—thrashing its way to contort his fingers and hands. Hayes, though, was not the type of person to be suppressed. Rather, he thrived through therapy and realized that it was the arthritis which led him back to his art, allowing him to leave the odd jobs behind and submerge himself in his painting. Today, his Southern-inspired works have been showcased in Washington, D.C., Boston and New York City. We are lucky enough to claim Hayes as our own. Painting his way into second is Gabriel Lehman, as Marie Hibbard’s photography snapshots into third place.

This year is perhaps the last year to catch the Foz in the Morning Show with Foz and Jocelyn on Z107.5, as they are in the final year of their contract. Still, folks can expect the most lively radio show in town to keep 2012 more than interesting. Not wanting to reveal any future tricks the twosome has up its sleeve, their recent interviews with “Jersey Shore” stars Snooki, JWoww and Thing to Happen to Deena, Ashley Fink from “Glee,” ILM and Christopher “Big Black” Boykin I can’t harp on this enough: The of the MTV show “Ridiculousness,” past few years have been rough on are signs Foz and Jocelyn will keep everyone regardless of their career the pop culture hits coming. choice. Carpentry, media, retail—no Foz, originally interested in financial matter the business, we’ve all witplanning, got his start in the biz after nessed the saddening effects of the hearing a radio commercial for broad- COLORFULLY RICH: Ivey Hayes captures a multitude of subjects, indown economy. Still, there are shincasting college. Hosting a morning cluding his colorfully rich jazz musicians. Hayes takes the 2012 Best Artist ing moments in our recent history show in Champagne, Illinois, he got award, making it his second win on our poll. Courtesy photo which instill a bit of hope and faith. a call from this Wilmington station to The best thing to happen in Wilmingcome DJ by the beach. Only 48 hours later, he ton last year was one such twinkling occasion: create only landscapes—so that their work became one half of the port city’s most poputhe October announcement that “Iron Man 3” lar radio show. His co-host, Jocelyn, graduat- can only be appreciated by a certain few. Ivey would be filmed in Hollywood East. Hayes does it all, and his art is loved by many. ed from UNCW’s Communications Studies Across the state folks rejoiced in the news. Born and raised in rural Pender County, department and began working for the now Governor Bev Perdue claimed it would creHayes will paint anything, from joyous sea defunct Surf 98.3. As Foz says, she worked ate hundreds of jobs for local filmmakers and her way up to mornings with the best. “We life to introspective human portraits, agriconstruction workers as production goes on at culture to architecture. There are only a few have a work marriage,” he jokes. “We fight, EUE/Screen Gems Studios. The facility on N. traits which tie his artwork together: color, laugh, trust and inspire one another. We are 23rd Street boasts a massive 150,000 sq. ft. shape and energy. He paints what he wants also besties!” column-free studio stage space. The 50-acre To this fun-loving duo, being recognized to do or be—a musician, a dancer, a flower, complex houses 10 sound stages and two a child praising God—and he does so with by Wilmingtonians as the best morning show special-effect water tanks (one of the selling bold, rich pigments. He incorporates both lu“feels like a delicious hot tottie on a cold winpoints for “Journey 2: The Mysterious Island,” minosity and shading, brushing life into his ter night—awesome!” To show their gratitude, another film with local contributions). Overcharacters, and geometric pieces of the imthey’ll continue offering belly laughs, fun music all, Hollywood East has a great history, but it age which brand his art as his own. and good advice for the rest of the year, comseems we’ve been garnering major notoriety in As a child, along with his brother, Phillip, plete with celeb gossip with PJ from LA, weekthe past couple years. “The Hunger Games,” Hayes picked trays upon trays of blueberries ly hair and make-up tips from Blush Hause of another blockbuster, filmed a bit here just last to make money for his family—memories which Beaute, and more. They can be heard from 6 year (and in Charlotte and Asheville). The indusinspire his farm-life works such as “Pecan Picka.m. to 10 a.m. Monday through Friday. try isn’t slowing down as “Iron Man 3” picks up Wilmington locals wake up with The Craig ers” and “Harvest Past.” For play, he formed the pace, rumored to begin filming this spring. sketches with pencil, moving him to pursue art and Sheila Show on Sunny 104.5 and The Local crew members, catering compain college. Hayes earned a BA from NC Central Morning Disaster with Bryan and Jim on nies and the like are feeling a boost, as University (where his work is currently hanging 103.7 The Bone. in an exhibit through April) and his MFA from paychecks will begin rolling in shortly. The UNC Greensboro in 1975. Like many creative- financial benefit will be huge on our area, as Artist There are artists who stick to a certain type minded people, Hayes struggled with ways to restaurants, lumber companies, paint stores, hotels, and antique and fabric stores will all of theme or look—some portray only still life, make a living from his love of art. see huge revenue increases directly from He tried out the U.S. Army, was the first some paint only dark or morbid images, some www.encorepub.com | ENCORE BEST OF WILMINGTON 2012 |

the production. Aside from the folks who will travel here from the other Hollywood, “Iron Man 3” will bring in tons of tourists, too (we say “thank you” for filming during summer). As we know, the tourism from this movie will continue for years to come. Though it is our state’s 25-percent film tax incentive that inevitably drives producers here, we are well aware of the high quality work our local crew base provides. So, another thank you to all of them, for being so talented, dedicated and professional that we are dubbed “Hollywood East.” The port city also shined when the Downtown Toy Company and the Wilmington Convention Center opened last year.

Dance Club

We at encore are definitely two things: supporters of local goods and self-professed foodies. We also enjoy beer, wine and fine spirits. A lot. Thus, Pravda/Sputnik offers our many muses, with the largest vodka selection in the city. We dig the fact that we can find house-infused vodka and cocktails at each of these hip little bars. Now, when we say little, we mean that in an endearing sense, not literal. Truthfully, Pravda and its upstairs sister nightclub,

Sputnik, boast two lengthy high-volume bars. Sputnik, along with its amazing views, houses a 700 sq. ft. dance floor for all the techno-infused bumpin’ and grindin’ our hearts can stand. Not to mention there are professional light shows on both floors and 30-to-35,000-watt sound systems in each bar, all to amp up the party vibe. Though if we tire from dancing among the fog machines and careening bodies, there’s seating, too. In Pravda, the Soviet-themed, dark red interior invites guests to relax in intimate booths, just as if they were spies for Lenin (whose mug is the focal point of the bar). Warm mood lighting gives the club a very retro-chic feel. Yet, in Sputnik, the tables are custom lit to put the focus on the beverage—fittingly, as bottle service is a must. No one can sit for long though. With everything Pravda and Sputnik have to offer, the dance floor is a powerful siren. Other clubs ranking on the poll include Level 5 and Ibiza.

Live Music Venue & Laundromat

It’s a concept that owner Brent Watkins says he bounced around during college after his mom stopped doing his laundry: combin-

ing a laundromat and a bar. Beer would be served, and life would be … grand. Well, that is if he could pay the rent. “One day shortly after long-standing Bessie’s had closed its doors, we decided to book a band,” Watkins says. “Now, what we realized was that a bunch of people came to said show and bought a bunch of beer. Actually, it was the most beer ever sold in one night at that point, and two or three people even did laundry, too. So we decided to follow the insane path of booking bands and kinda put the laundro-café idea on the back burner.” Ten years later, the Soapbox Laundro Lounge is still going strong as they celebrate a decade of business worth every sud of detergent and all bucketfuls of blood, sweat and tears. Though the past few years have tested them during such dire economic impacts, it’s also allowed them the opportunity to expand. They’ve opened Nutt Street Comedy Room in the basement and have had great success in coddling the funnybone of Wilmington. “We have also tried to improve and invest into the space as whole and slowly upgrade its many facilities,” Watkins says. They’ve continued booking live acts on both stages, of local, regional, national and international caliber. Their mission is to remain

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HE LIKES IT WHEN YOU CALL HIM BIG PAPPA... (At least he should!) Zach Pappas scored encore’s Best Thespian award on our 2012 poll. Pappas stars in comedy troupe Pineapple-Shaped Lamps and performs in local theatre productions across town. Don’t miss him weekly as part of “Thursday Night Live” at Browncoat Pub and Theatre. Courtesy photo.

open “to support any music genre and treat all bands with high regards, while providing topnotch sound.” “Winning this award is really awesome,” Watkins admits of their consecutive eighthyear win. “We just hope that our continued commitment to great live entertainment of all sizes and types will help keep us in the eye of many.” Brooklyn Arts Center and Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre ring in second and third for music venues, while Carolina Coin Laundry and King’s fold in laundromat votes as well.

Thespian

Wilmington contains one deep, talented pool of actors thanks to a flourishing theatre scene. Comparatively speaking—we’re pointing to you, Charlotte, Raleigh, Asheville, Greensboro—the productions held in our own port city annually smash surrounding, larger cities and truly breed talent across all spectrums. Whether a method-acting dramatist, a cut-loose comedian or a powerhouse vocalist of a leading lady, a great actor or actress can be found within minutes of the next opening act. In 2012 the person securing the “Bestie”

goes to no one other than Zach Pappas. Known currently for his hilarious participation in Pineapple Shaped Lamps “Thursday Night Live,” currently in its fourth season, Pappas takes pride in writing, acting and producing the original comedy at Browncoat Pub and Theatre. Yet, he also keeps the roles generating among other shows locally. “We’ve also put on two full-length shows: ‘Dr. Horrible’s Sing-a-long Blog,’ [in] which I played Dr. Horrible,” he explains, “and ‘Cannibal! The Musical,’ which won the Audience Favorite award at the [StarNews’] Wilmington Theatre Awards [in January].” Clearly, he’s no stranger to recognition. And who would be shy when making the world their stage? Pappas was bitten by the acting bug, actually, early on. He wrote his first play in middle school, “The Strangers.” “It was about aliens posing as high school girls,” he explains. In high school, he loved “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” and attempted improv before eventually taking theatre arts. Since, he’s dedicated his studies at UNCW to theatre, including performing in numerous department productions, such as “Arcadia,” “Scapino!” and “The Book of Liz.” “What captivates me most about theatre is pretty cliché,” Pappas admits, “and I hate to quote Shakespeare and sound pretentious, but I was captivated by the concept of ‘holding the mirror up to nature.’ Humanity, for all its flaws, is fascinating. Nothing gives me a bigger thrill than seeing real, human, honest characters on stage.” Among some of his own specifics in assuring authenticity with roles, he lets go of himself completely and becomes the character wholly. “When an actor’s performance is honest, true, and, most of all, human, that is great acting.” Pappas says. “And that is what I strive for.” Other thespians polling in 2012 are Jason Hatfield and Rebecca Goudarzi.

Blog

She makes no apologies for who she is, and she loves making people laugh. Just a few short months ago, she had no idea what the heck a blog was. “All of my friends would tell me they thought my Facebook posts were quite funny,” Deb Church, writer for Just Keepin’ It Real, Folks, says. After listening to her friends’ advice and researching the worldwide blogosphere, Keepin’ It Real was born. “I find that blogging is an excellent way to spread joy through my warped and wacky sense of humor,” she admits of her numerous daily posts. Whether discussing prostitutes in birthday suits, or her role as president of her kid’s middle school PTA, a smile is always the

end-result on the reader’s face. “The purpose of my blog has always been to spread joy, so I don’t attempt to tackle tough or sensitive issues,” Church clarifies. “I also write with a slightly redneck style ‘cause I fancy myself as one, and I make no apologies for that.” She also fancies herself the grittier side of other Southern charmers, at least according to friends who compare her wit to Celia Rivenbark (yet another dame topping encore’s 2012 Best Of poll, in the writer category nonetheless). “I consider that a huge compliment, even though Celia is much more of a refined Southern lady than I will evah [sic] be,” she claims. A straight shooter—”I always call a spade a spade!”—there is no beating around the bush with Church. She’s in it to, well, keep it real! But it doesn’t mean she’s not dedicated to bettering her writing and outposts daily. In fact, she’s more than connected nowadays among other bloggers, often reading The Bloggess, Jennsylvania and Simple Dude in a Complex World frequently. “I enjoy reading published authors,” she says. “It helps improve my own writing style.” She also frequents posts from Wilmington’s very own Bo Dean’s Blog (winner of 2011 Best Blog, according to encore readers) and I Love Your Crazy by Shannon Darrough. Other blogs topping the encore reader’s poll include Port City Foodies and Bo Dean’s Blog.

Filmmaker

“My family had an old VHS video camera when I was a kid,” Joe Cheshire tells encore. “We documented everything. From an early age, I loved story telling. I have literally had a movie camera in my hands my entire life.” In the other hand often was his surfboard. Again, thanks to his father, Cheshire was pushed into the waves in youth, spending summers on Nags Head in his family beach home. “One day I just stood up on a boogie board and the rest is history,” he tells. His two passions conjoined easily as Cheshire began filming on a Hi8 camcorder with his friends’ help one summer. Knowing absolutely nothing about editing or postproduction, Cheshire winged it. In the end, it worked, and “The Dirty South” was born of due diligence. “I learned a lot about the whole movie production business as well as marketing and selling a product,” he says. “I sold the film all over the East Coast by myself. It ended up being hard work, but I saw an opportunity and ran with it. A few years and films later, you could walk into surf shops all over the world and find a movie with my name on it.”

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38 ENCORE BEST OF WILMINGTON 2012 | www.encorepub.com

To date, Cheshire has made six independent films and produced 10. His last one, “Beyond The Barrier,” is a surf documentary of which the North Carolinian is proud. “Instead of just seeing a couple quick lifestyle clips and surfing, there are interviews throughout the movie, [which] tell a story and add depth to the movie,” he says. In fact, it won Eastern Surf Magazine’s Movie of the Year. It’s quite a feat for someone who never went to film school or studied it while at UNCW, from where he graduated in 1999 with a BA in history. His education came from sheer desire and a willingness to learn along the way. “I have been lucky to meet filmmakers from all over the world who have been nice enough to share their knowledge with me,” Cheshire says. “Filmmaking is a never-ending learning process.” Today, his runs his own production company, Digital Wunderland Inc., doing HD video marketing for real estate agencies in southeastern NC. He’s also currently wrapping up a documentary about one of NC’s most revered beach music bands, The Embers. “It is directed by best-selling author Bill Benners,” Cheshire says. “I am also producing a new East Coast surf film. It is a documentary about surfing on the Outer Banks. I have been gathering footage for a few years now and expect a 2012 release.” Expanding his brand is on the horizon. Though dedicated to surfing (“Chris Malloy is my favorite filmmaker. He makes beautiful 16mm surf films. He is self-taught and loves surfing and filmmaking like myself”), Cheshire hopes to move toward weddings in the near future. “It’s the most special day of someone’s life and being able to tell their story would be extremely gratifying to me.” Others reeling in a few votes are Adam Gilbert and tied for third, Brandon Ewers and Rob Hill.

Website

It can’t be denied: Wilmington has tons of offerings, each and every week. We know this; we’re in the business of making sure readers are fully aware, too. Another local media outlet ensuring active citizens get the most of their community is CapeFearPassport.com, also known as EnjoyWilmington.com, which has secured our 2012 Best Website award. Owned and operated by Paul Lawler, the website is, in Lawler’s words, “a thank-you to Wilmington for being so cool.” Its top tabs list “where to stay,” “what to do” and “where to eat” among its offerings, as well as a service directory so folks can find all the hottest shopping places, tours, bars and other local businesses working toward making our city rack up its cool points.

SHAPED AS THE BEST: L Shape Lot score another Best Band/Performer award from our reader’s poll. The team is planning a successful year of touring ahead. Photo by Shea Carver

“It’s the most comprehensive of the event sites,” Lawler notes, “and it’s of an amazing variety, from the arts to music to sports to learning to everything else.” From summer camps to weekly theatre openings, concerts to Hammerhead games, it is all listed with one goal in mind: to enjoy Wilmington. In fact, it’s just that simple when it came to changing the Passport’s website name, according to Lawler. “Enjoy Wilmington is what everyone should do,” he states simply. “It is much clearer about the purpose of the website.” In the coming year, Lawler plans to update the site with even more must-have info for the masses. His reach will widen, as will their entertainment choices. “I’ll keep adding new features and services to meet customer needs,” he promises. Now featuring a blog, with more descriptive information, he also hopes to add better search tools and reaching its audience via web, Facebook and by newsletter. “The encore award is really great!” Lawler confirms. “It means the customers like what they see when they use EnjoyWilmington. com. encore let the people decide and I appreciate the answer.” Other websites our voters like to frequent are yours truly, encorepub.com, and starnewsonline.com. — Shea Carver

Band/Performer

Last year in Floyd, Virginia, 36 bands took part in the Under the Radar Series at FloydFest 10, a competition that seeks out the best in lesser-known acts to pin them with the likes of national names at next year’s festival. The crowd gets to vote for the top group, with over 15,000 audience members each day for

three days—that’s a lot of countin’ and a lot of winning-over for the musicians to do. Wilmington’s very own high-energy bluegrass band, L Shape Lot, ventured to FloydFest 10, vying for a spot on the main stage in 2012—and they won! Composed of Eric Miller (acoustic guitar, vocals), Alex Lanier (electric, acoustic guitar, vocals), Rick Williams (sixstring electric bass, upright bass, vocals) and John Kovalski (drums, vocals), this homegrown band will rub elbows and hobnob with the best of ‘em. Headlining acts at FloydFest 11 include Michael Franti, Alison Krauss, Bruce Hornsby and Matisyahu, just to name a few. “That is definitely top of the list for 2011—and probably 2012, too,” Miller muses. Though they’ll be taking off to play in the big leagues come July, they’ll still be looking to break into uncharted touring territory in Georgia and Tennessee this year. Searching for new fans, L Shape Lot released its third CD in April The full band no longer books regular weekly gigs about town these days, but Miller and Lanier can be found picking acoustically at Sweet and Savory every Thursday (under the name Fried Lot), and the boys are excited about playing their annual show at Airlie Gardens on May 4th. “It is always an honor to be recognized, and it means so much to have our local community think of us,” Miller shares. “Wilmington is our home base and always will be. We are grateful.” Bibis Ellison takes second for local performer, and there’s an unheard-of three-way tie for third: Mike Blair and the Stonewalls, All Tore Up, and Machine Gun.

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Thank you encore readers for voting Chili’s “Best Ribs” and “Best Chain Restaurant!” 40 ENCORE BEST OF WILMINGTON 2012 | www.encorepub.com

Chili’s Grill & Bar Restaurant 819 South College Road • (910) 313-1477

www.chilis.com

Mon - Thu: 11:00 AM-11:00 PM Fri - Sat: 11:00 AM-12:00 AM Sun : 11:00 AM-11:00 PM

2012 Best of Wilmington

Food & Beverage Catering & Gourmet Store

Their 10th year in business is coming with a lot of updates and betterment already. Pine Valley Market recently renovated their cozy, neighborhood café to become more open and user-friendy. Shortly after, they announced the opening of Johnnie’s Cafe in the Cameron Art Museum (coming in March). Improvement and growth stems from their desire to find happiness in food—something head chef and owner Christi Ferretti says comes from childhood. “Some of my best memories throughout life are around a dinner table,” she notes. “My friends remember my house as the place to come for good food. No matter the time of day or what meal had just been put away, the counter was covered with a smorgasbord within minutes of the doorbell ringing. I am happiest when I am feeding people.” Her co-owner Kathy Webb and their partner Smokey Masters, among a dedicated staff of culinary masterminds, ensure Pine Valley continues surpassing expectations on every front. Whether cutting the freshest meats in their butcher shop, serving quick, delicious lunches from their cafe’s kitchen, or providing locally shelved goods and a wide selection of quality wines, they better their services because of the community they love. “These past few years have not been easy,” Ferretti notes of our nation’s and city’s economic hardship, “and I think our entire staff has come to realize just how important each and every customer is to the success of our business. Our personalized attention to our customers makes them feel as though they are coming home when they enter our shop.” Ferretti and company energetically make time to become friends with people who trek through their doors, treating each as if a part of their culinary family. And the

family keeps expanding as their Best Of wins rack up year after year, ever since their first one scored in 2004. “This recognition is one that we believe speaks louder than any advertising,” Ferretti says, “because it is dependent on customer satisfaction. I think that in today’s economic climate especially, it is imperative that people recognize and acknowledge locally owned businesses.” Proponents of pairing with local vendors, PVM will build upon a devoted clientele daily. Likewise, they expect the same of Johnnie’s Cafe. “We are looking to source a great deal of products locally and to change that menu seasonally,” Ferretti admits of this new venture.

Other catering businesses of recognition are Middle of the Island and Bon Appetit, while gourmet store nods also go to World Market and Temptations.

Delicatessen, Lunch & Sub/ Sandwich Shop

Chop’s Deli has taken Wilmington by storm. Point blank. In fact, when Brad Corpening and his staff attended the awards ceremony on February 10th at City Stage, almost everyone in the audience went crazy in applause at the mention of Chop’s numerous wins. Dedication was made clear to those who had never heard of the famed lunch spot. Corpening and his co-owner Chris Graham started Chop’s two years ago in downtown

WINNING ENTREPRENEURS: Kathy Webb and Christi Feretti of Pine Valley Market take home two more wins for Best Catering and Best Gourmet Shop. Photo courtesy of Pine Valley Market

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“Voted

BEST BUFFET, SOUL FOOD and FAMILY RESTAURANT

Miss your Mama’s cookin’ come home to Casey’s!

by encore readers”

WEEKLY SPECIALS WENESDAY Meatloaf: 11am-9pm Chicken Gizzards & Chicken Livers: 11am-4pm Carved Ham: 4pm-9pm THURSDAY Brunswick Stew: 11am-4pm Baked Spaghetti: 11am-4pm Hamburger Steak: 4pm-9pm Deviled Crab: 4pm-9pm SERVING SQUASH CASSEROLE FRIDAY BBQ Pork Ribs w/red sauce: 11am-4pm Fried Shrimp: 4pm-9pm Deviled Crab: 4pm-9pm Carved Roast Beef: 4pm-9pm SATURDAY Hot Wings, Fried Pork Chops, Hamburger Steak: 11am-4pm Fried Shrimp: 4pm-9pm Deviled Crab: 4pm-9pm Carved Roast Beef: 4pm-9pm SUNDAY Turkey, Ham, Roast Beef, BBQ Chicken, Dressing, Ovenbaked Cornbread, Homemade Biscuits

Over 20 Homestyle Vegetables and Fresh cooked Eastern North Carolina BBQ Pork cooked daily

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Fried Chicken, Baked Chicken, Chicken & Pastry, Catfish, Whiting, Clam Strips, Fat Back, Crinkle Fries, Pig’s Feet, Chitlins, Rutabagas, Green Beans, Mac-N-Cheese, Sweet Potato Soufflé, Cabbage, Boiled Potatoes, Corn, Field Peas, Turnips, Collards, Baked Beans, Green Peas, Lima Beans, Rice, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Coleslaw, Potato Salad, Pan Fried Okra, Rolls, Hushpuppies, Apple, Blueberry & Peach Cobbler, Cherry Cheesecake, Banana Pudding and Ice Cream encore

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CLOSED MONDAY & TUESDAY

Wilmington. Lines began snaking out the door within a month, and return customers began spreading their praise. Just a few months ago, Chop’s opened a second location in Monkey Junction. Their strengths are becoming abundantly clear to the rest of the Wilmington population: These guys know how to make a sandwich. And a mean cup of soup. And a salad if one should choose. The simplicity of pastrami and Swiss on rye with brown mustard can be had, or signature Chop’s items will titillate as well. Many adore their gourmet remakes of mere turkey (Plymouth: oven-gold, smoked turkey breast, havarti cheese, thinly sliced granny smith apples, and chop’s deli cranberry relish, on multigrain) or roast beef (Bordeaux: rare roast beef, French brie, red onion and mushroom gravy on french baguette). Their soups are always zingers, whether indulging on a classic like New England clam chowder or something fancier like maple-glazed chicken and blue cheese. Open Monday through Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the restaurant owners not only have great food and products—eco-friendly ones at that, as their serve ware is compostable and made through Eco-Products—they often remember their customers on a first-name basis. It’s part of their business model: Take the customer’s name when he or she orders and put it in the memory bank thereafter; and if they forget upon a second or third visit (which is rare), their genuine sincerity makes up for it, followed by one delicious sandwich! Other delis ranking our poll are A Taste of Italy and Long Island Eatery, while lunch stops also worth a bite are Sweet and Savory and Midtown. Deli and sub/sandwich shops include Jersey Mike’s and Subway. —Shea Carver

Ice Cream

The anticipation and excitement that follows being asked, “How about Kilwin’s?” is only second to the wonder that ensues when passing through the wooden doors. Caramels, candies and dozens of chunky, nutty fudges fill shelves on the walls. The scents of chocolate and waffle cones waft on their own. Kilwin’s employees greet guests with smiles, offering morsels of their 32 ice cream flavors. From rocky road to mint chocolate chip, Kilwin’s original ice creams are all made with farm fresh milk and cream. Mixed, pasteurized and homogenized at the original Kilwin’s kitchen in Michigan, the ice cream is then cooled in old-style double barrel freezers to -20 degrees. Lemon sorbetto, french silk and cashew toffee are shipped to each store, including the Wilmington location on Front Street, only in Kilwin’s trucks. The process ensures the quality of every tub of old-fashioned vanilla is the same as

MAN OF TOWN: Chop’s Deli owner Brad Corpening was a top winner on this year’s poll, scoring three wins for Best Delicatessen, Sub/Sandwich Shop and Lunch Spot. Photo by Courtney Bridgers

it was in 1985 when the Kilwins first incorporated ice cream into their candy shop. Despite the homey, antique feel of Kilwin’s, the company manages to keep up with current trends. In the down economy, every business is feeling the grip of tight wallets, just like the families who patronize them. The popularity of coupons and deals is ever increasing in order to drive folks into all types of stores. Thus, Kilwin’s recently introduced its own rewards program: My Kilwin’s Club. Members receive discounts, early announcements of brand new products, and seasonal and special offers. Anyone can visit www.kilwins.com/my-kilwinsclub to register and make themselves in-theknow on Wilmington’s best ice cream. The ice cream (or frozen yogurt, as the case may be) is also decadently tasty at Fuzzy Peach and Boombalatti’s.

Seafood & Chef

Though our own Keith Rhodes did not bring home the title “Top Chef” from the hit TV show’s ninth season, he’s still Wilmington’s Best Chef! Besides, we believe earning the love of locals is just as tough as gratifying the super-foodie judges—after all,

we beach natives know our seafood. In 2006, Rhodes founded the restaurant that’s earning him Best Seafood as well, Catch. The café in its original downtown location was limited to 22 seats, but the reception was overwhelming. Since opening, it’s relocated to Market Street just shy of Gordon Road, and can now tend to 100 people. Catch caters to diners looking for delectable dishes, intriguing plating and a relaxing, nautical atmosphere. In the eatery, Rhodes serves up cuisine that melds low-country fare with hints of Asian tastes, such as the “Angry Lobster”: a Maine-bred crustacean weighing over a full pound, wokseared in sweet chili whiskey glaze with white truffles, foie gras and served on fried sticky rice. It’s a concept that runs over into his newest restaurant. “We have recently launched Phun Seafood Bar, our Asian tapas concept,” Rhodes explains. Phun focuses on Thai and Vietnamese street-style food, with a menu that changes weekly. Fittingly, it serves bubble tea, the beverage craze that originated in Taiwan in the 1980s. The best way to keep up with Phun’s offerings is to check its Facebook page, Phun Seafood Bar, where Rhodes posts his special of the day—from fresh pulled-pork summer rolls to crispy duck pho with scallions, bamboo, shiitake mushrooms, fresh ginger and Thai basil in fragrant spiced broth. In addition to Phun, Rhodes and his wife and partner, Angela, will soon be launching TackleBox, a food-truck version of Catch, and Roots, their vegetarian concept. “We wanted to bring multiple culinary destinations to Wilmington,” Rhodes says. “We pride ourselves in using the freshest ingredients and tested techniques in preparing our foods. It feels awesome to be embraced by the community.” The seafood at Hieronymus and Bluewater Grill is also satisfying to our readers. Second place for chefs goes to Jacob Hilbert of Manna, and third is awarded to Smokey Masters of Pine Valley Market.

Breakfast & Diner

The idea of a downtown diner in 2012 evokes images of exactly what Dixie Grill offers: vintage style, an extensive bar, a trendfocused menu and a ridiculously cool staff. Dixie by no means travels out of its way to be so vogue; yet it’s this laid-back attitude which keeps folks coming back for more. Think the Maker’s Mark commercial: “It is what it isn’t.” Tea is served in plastic “Coca-Cola”-branded cups; coffee comes hot in white ceramic mugs. Nostalgia for Southern, American, sim-

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plistic dining is what owner Brian Mayberry was feeling when he bought The Dixie Grill in 1999, resurrecting it from past ventures. The café once harbored a pool hall and even became a white-linen eatery. It seems Dixie works best in its current lifestyle choice, complete with a painting of bacon and toast dancing away from a fork (sorry about the unlucky egg). Searching Dixie Grill online, one will find numerous blog reviews: “Grits, and Everything Else” from Pasture Pilot, “Dining with Dondero: The Dixie Grill” from Me So Hungry, amongst others. The diner’s biggest claim to fame, however, is its number four spot on Southern Living’s top 10 list of best breakfasts in North Carolina (Wilmington locals disagree with the list, coincidentally, placing Dixie Grill in its more deserved spot: number one). The writer does accurately attribute Mayberry’s menu as throwing “some Southernstyle curves,” which probably alludes to its inclusion of a black bean burger on the lunch side, or for breakfast, the “Dixie Benedict” featuring scrambled eggs and a fried green tomato, instead of the standard poached eggs and ham. Overall, the diner offers food, atmosphere and service that are all seemingly simple, yet unique. That’s what makes Dixie stand out above the rest.

Other breakfast spots include Causeway Café and Sweet and Savory. Diners making our list of runners up are Nick’s Diner and College Road Diner.

Martini

There is something to be said about a man who is not afraid to wield the delicate, yshaped glass that is solely reserved for martinis—who sips from it with agile boldness. At times it seems the martini is meant for women alone, yet the iconic Manhattan drink employs the warmth and spice of whiskey, and a vodka or gin martini is little more than the alcohol itself. As well, aren’t some of the most famous martini drinkers men? George Burns, Jackie Gleason, James Bond… Whether a purist—adding an olive, lemon twist, or nothing else—or a brave downer of a mixologist’s creative concoctions, The Dirty Martini has offerings to quench anyone’s thirst. Located in the swanky shopping center, Lumina Station, this bar is sophisticated, stylish and modern. After work, a blend from one of Dirty’s bartenders can take the edge off a brutal day, and for a night out on the town, it provides a haven for entertainment. The menu boasts over 20 different mix-

44 ENCORE BEST OF WILMINGTON 2012 | www.encorepub.com

tures, with enticing titles like “Sweet Seduction” (Bacardi dragon berry rum, cranberry juice, sour mix and lemon-lime soda), “Elite French” (Belvedere vodka, Grand Marnier, Chambord, pineapple juice), and “Better than Sex” (Godiva chocolate liqueur, whipped cream-flavored vodka, Captain Morgan rum and Bailey’s Irish cream in a chocolate-lined glass). Plus, on Friday and Saturday nights, Dirty lays claim to DJ Battle, voted Wilmington’s best again on the 2012 encore poll. So, we say, affix the best James Bond accent and go “shaken not stirred.” Other reputable martini bars to visit are Caprice Bistro and TreBenzios.

Wine List

When people talk about The Fortunate Glass, they don’t typically mention the wine right off—though the bar and small plates eatery boasts over 350 bottles from around the globe. The wine is seemingly a given perk, and folks don’t always speak of the extensive craft beer list, either. For those who have ventured inside the small venue, what they recognize first (and remark about later) is the gorgeous setting. A mountainous three-dimensional wall sculpture, created by an owner’s father, depicts a mermaid with long, flowing blonde hair and a sea-foam green tail that fans toward

the bar. She greets all guests, her glass being filled with red wine by a stout Cupid-like angel. Opened in autumn 2010, by Celeste Glass and Denise Fortuna (clever nomenclature, right?), The Fortunate Glass has raked in Best Wine List since. “Denise and I have a shared passion for wine,” Glass admits. “During our friendship, we have had the opportunity to travel and experience wonderful food and wine. We thought it would be nice to own a bar that reflects our tastes.” Last year, along with acquiring their first Best Of win, the duo earned a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, and were recognized for offering affordable pricing. It’s simple to find a glass of wine for any palate or wallet; yet don’t be alarmed to encounter bottles with several hundred dollar tags. The diversity, though, is part of what makes The Fortunate Glass so special. As enthusiasts, the owners seek to educate their guests on all of their options. They offer free weekly wine tastings on Tuesdays, and monthly pairings with focuses, such as on bubbles, or with area vendors like Coastal Cupcakes. “Our customers are becoming more knowledgeable about wine and are becoming more curious,” Glass notes. “The Fortunate Glass

want to perch inside this spot with a divine glass of cabernet sauvignon while rain hammers the Cape Fear?). Pairing such an inviting, romantic atmosphere with 50 wines by the glass, 30 bottles of craft beer, and decadent tapas, it’s no wonder Wilmington is enamored with The Fortunate Glass. Second place for wine lists is Deluxe, while third goes to Circa 1922.

Panini

POURING ANOTHER WIN: Celeste Glass acccepts the second win for her business The Fortunate Glass, Best Wine List 2012. Photo by Shea Carver

likes to introduce obscure varietals to our customers to further enhance their knowledge.” Adding to the elegant ambiance, seating is intimate, especially within two redwood nooks, separated by a wine cabinet. Tables allow patrons to sip within the window, looking out upon Front Street—especially good for a gorgeous spring day (although, who wouldn’t

Nestled within the quaint Hotel Tarrymore in downtown Wilmington is Press 102, a restaurant named for the dish which earns its Best Of win. As well, “press” refers to the establishment’s French press coffees, and to the fruits and herbs which are pressed for their juices, used in original cocktails. The eatery is expansive—the outdoor patio alone seats 65 guests. The rich leather chairs, paired with the upholstered church pews lining the wall, give the bar a suave and cosmopolitan feel, beckoning friends to enjoy a mimosa with brunch or a glass of fine wine. Recently given new hardwood floors, and often a host to Susan Savia’s songwriter showcases, Press’ veranda ballroom is a gorgeous formal event space.

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Shop Organic. Shop Fresh. Shop Local. Shop Lovey’s! Your Local Health Food Grocery & Cafe • Organic Grocery • Organic Produce y l w e n r u o • Supplements Enjoy ! e f a c • Hair and Skin Care Products d e d an p x e • Hot and Cold Salad Bar • Deli Case & Juice Bar The largest selection of gluten-free groceries • Fresh Baked Goodies • Freshly Made To-Go Meals

You’ll love it at Lovey’s! LOVEY’S NATURAL FOODS AND CAFE 1319 Military Cutoff Road 2012 Suite H Landfall Shopping Center WILMINGTON 2012 | www.encorepub.com 46 ENCORE BEST OF WILMINGTON (910) 509-0331 encore

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Yet, it is Press 102’s menu that invites customers the most. The owner was reared in the South, yet spent 30 years traveling abroad. Thus, the restaurant naturally developed a menu that embraces all flavors. The chicken and waffles panino (the singular of panini) gives a worldly twist on a home-style favorite: a quintessential buttermilk-battered fried chicken breast melds with fontina cheese between two Belgian waffles, while on the side awaits a horseradish mustard sauce and espressoinfused syrup. A farmers field panino entices vegetarians: fire-roasted peppers, artichokes, baby arugula and crumbled bleu cheese on multi-grain bread. The Caprese panino offers fresh Mediterranean stilo: buffalo mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, sweet basil, olive oil and balsamic vinegar on a French baguette. With over 15 different panini varieties to choose from, there is surely a sandwich to sate any palate. Second place goes to Panera, while Chop’s Deli takes home third. —Bethany Turner

Barbecue

When speaking in ‘ques in the South, it’s imperative to understand the holy topic’s contested hotness. Some folks like it chopped, others pulled; some prefer the western side of the state’s sweeter, vinegar-style sauce; others prefer the eastern’s spicy style. But what everyone in Wilmington does agree upon is Jackson’s Big Oak’s superior quality of swine, which keeps us licking our lips on a monthly (weekly, daily, hourly) basis. Just a year ago, the Jackson family sold their quarter-century-old eatery to the Sawmill Restaurant folks, Michael and Hunter Davis, and Seth Franklin. In their first year, the fellas have given the space a facelift and a new website (www.jacksonsbigoak.com), but have remained true to the Jackson classics and quality fare. “We use a secret recipe that’s been used consistently for over 25 years,” Hunter Davis told encore last year of the famed barbecue. “People know when they come to Jackson’s, they’re leaving happy.” The Davis family patronized the restaurant long before owning it. Thus, they understand the community’s love for its classic country flair. Jackson’s serves classic Eastern Carolina BBQ pork plates, served with homemade sides, like mac ‘n’ cheese and succulent Brunswick Stew. They also do ribs and amazing fried chicken, along with daily specials, like chicken ‘n’ pastry. For folks who crave the food but don’t want to fuss with the sit-down, dine-in experience, Jackson’s naturally does take-out and they cater.

TRIPLE SCORE: Jackie Hoover officially celebrates Indochine’s sweep of awards, including Best Thai/Vietnamese, Best Restaurant (overall) and Best Atmosphere. Photo by Shea Carver

Other barbecue tempting local palates includes Smithfield’s Chicken ‘n Bar-B-Q and Casey’s Buffet and BBQ.

Thai/Vietnamese, Restaurant (Overall) & Atmosphere

Indochine is celebrating 10 years in Wilmington in 2012. And there are no signs of slowing down! Serving some of the most delicious Asian cuisine, while surrounded by a jungle-like oasis, filled with tropical plants, flowers and oriental carpentry to adore, owner Solange Thompson is a restaurateur to admire locally. She has built the eatery into a hotspot not just for food but with regalia indicative of her homeland, as she shares an authentic experience to everyone who walks through its ornate, specialty carved doors. Every inch of her building is adorned with art work from Thaliand and Vietnam, along with sculptures and decor indigenous to the area. That it has taken Best Atmosphere numerous years running in encore’s Best Of poll is no surprise. It also continues top-

ping the categories Best Thai and Best Restaurant (Overall). One bite from any of their decadent entrées will prove why: fresh ingredients fill some of their best offerings, from Pho Bac or Pho Ga (a yummy noodle soup not to be overlooked!) to their Vietnamese wraps, to sushi, curries, a lenthy vegetarian menu (including Vietnamese crepes) and house specialties worthy of many returns! With a parking lot constantly overflowingwith customers at Wayne Road and Market Street, regulars have made Indochine a second home. The friendly staff treats everyone like family, and goes out of their way to meet their everyone—whether in the form of dietary restrictions or by simply making suggestions on the menu. “I remind myself and my staff to be grateful for the business we receive,” Thompson told encore last year. “As long as you do the job with passion and sincerity, success will follow.” Other restaurants taking Best Atmosphere are Crow Hill and Bluewater Grill. Best Restaurant (Overall) nods also go to Manna and Circa 1922. Best Thai runners up include Big Thai and Thai Spice.

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Burrito

Their sign says it all: “2012: The Year of the Burrito!” To be honest, every year is the year of the burrito when Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn is involved. From their super huge Double Bypass, to their exotic flair, Thai Me Up, to the vegetarian likes of the Tree Hugger, Flaming Amy’s is a burrito-barn boutique, so to speak. Whether ordering from their gourmet-like choices or building one’s own, a gargantuous bite will be had every time. These ‘ritos are freaking huge! Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn keeps a loyal fanbase because of its variety. They keep it simple with beef and beans, or spice it up with Jerk chicken and tofu, or appeal to pescatarians with fried or grilled seafood. The styles are endless. “We keep a close eye on the restaurant,” owner Jay Muxworthy (whose wife is the famous Amy) told encore last year. “We make sure quality does not slip just because costs may rise.” He and his crew also continue going beyond the ordinary to create a brand that’s memorably delicious. Of their offerings are the famous salsa bar. Pinapple-jalapeño, wasabi-ginger, peach, tomatillo or their regular tomato-based titillate the tastebuds every time.

Muxworthy’s Operation Salsa Drop is another reason to love his dedication to community. He sends salsa to troops who are serving our nation overseas. Their famous pineapplejalapeño (“Shock ‘N’ Awesome”), flaming hot salsa (“Fire in the Hole!”), and traditional tomato (“TARFU”) come in 12-ounce jars and are sold for $4.50 each. The proceeds get put back into the operation of production and distribution. Check out www.flamingamysburritobarn.com and www.operationsalsadrop.org for all Flaming news updates. Burrito-eaters also flock to K-38 Baja Grill and Moe’s.

Bar (overall)

Satellite Bar and Lounge speaks to peoples’ desires to be cozy while socializing and throwing back a few brews. Going on its third year in business and second Best Of win, bar owner Dusty Ricks and his partner Carol Anne Cutshall searched high and low for a place with unique appeal. Once they came across an old building on Greenfield Street, they saw a burgeoning opportunity to be leaders in turning around an area of town in need of renovation. Today it sits across the street from the newly reconstructed S. Front Street Apartments. “We wanted a place where everyone

from any age range or walk of life could feel comfortable,” Ricks says. “We both enjoy designing spaces and reusing found material for new purposes.” When gutting the space, they took old wood to make a gorgeous bar, which spans the entire length of the building. They also antiquated the walls and added vintage furniture and fixtures for a pop of throwback appeal. “Our attention to detail is always in the forefront of our business motto,” Rick assures, “and I would like to believe our patrons recognize this.” Seemingly, they do. Satellite isn’t just the local yokel watering hole, they offer free music most weekends (that’s right: free!) and their back lawn often operates as a makeshift cinema, wherein the projector often highlights everything from rock ‘n’ roll flicks to cartoons on their family days. “We are constantly looking for ways to improve our service to our community,” Ricks explains. 2012 will bring many other fun stuffs to Satellite’s roster of excitement. But don’t expect anything to trendy to take over; that’s just not Ricks’ style. “We don’t like no stinkin’ trends,” he spouts. “We do what we want and maybe that is the best trend of all…set the pace and see what happens!”

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www.ptsgrille.com

Winner of “Best Burger” &“Best Fries”

2420 S. 17th St. 910.794.4544 Across from New Hanover Medical Center 4544 Fountain Dr. 910.392.2293 Where it all started, across from UNCW 1437 Military Cutoff 910.256.8850 Close to Mayfaire & Wrightsville Beach 5916 Monkey Junction 910.791.9969 Right past Monkey Junction 8116 Market St #110 910.686.6550 Beside the ABC store in Porter’s Neck 1035 Grandiflora Dr. 910.399.6808 Located at Magnolia Greens in Leland

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SPICY GREATNESS: The deliciousness that is Tandoori Bites scores Best Indian for its second consecutive year! Photo by Bethany Turner

People also flock to the downtown’s Blue Post and Cape Fear Wine and Beer as fave drinking spots in town.

Bartender

Over at Cape Fear Wine and Beer, one’s love for frothy hops and barley can be sated in the most mindful of ways. Cape Fear specializes in serving brews of all kinds, from lambics to IPAs, stouts to lagers and everything in between. They also have connoisseurs for bartenders who love showcasing beer knowledge and offering suggestions to patrons who seem overwhelmed or just in limbo by the massive inventory. One such lady to turn to is Megan Loux, who takes the crown for Best Bartender on our 2012 poll. “The world of beer and wine has become a lifelong passion of mine and a source of happiness,” Loux notes. “There is so much more to beer than just bottles and labels, and so much being done to further expand the concept and methodology behind brewing.” Thus, when new releases or seasonals come out, Loux finds herself in the midst of heightened glory. There’s so much to love, she can barely contain herself. “It makes me want to shoot off a confetti gun every time I wake up,” she excites. Being a part of everyone’s bar experience, while at times can be daunting, keeps Loux’s outlook at a high. Her interactions maintain a high success rate when she can suggest a flavor that goes over well on the patron’s palate. “When I can offer someone a beer they

were initially doubtful of or just downright hated before because it wasn’t what they wanted, and then they get ‘it’—it being the feeling of ‘what else have I been missing out on?’—“it’s great,” she admits. In fact, she’s made a game of it upon seeing loyal patrons. “If something new comes in, I’ll try it and immediately think of customers who will lose their Pop Tarts over how fantastic it is.” Her barkeeping suits Cape Fear appropriately as she believes in their ability to push beyond normal expectations of beer drinking. No one will find the normal (generic) brands here. What they will find is a solid dedication to finding world-class, hand-crafted beer and wine. “The craft beer world is fueled by innovation,” Loux explains, “and Cape Fear is a damn good representation of that. From an extremely rare cask ale to a sporadic renovation, the bar itself is always progressing.” Included in coming months will be specilty cask ales, rotating drafts and new releases, among rare important and beers just hard to come by. All served with a classic Loux smile! Other bartenders encore readers adore are Joel Finsel of Manna and Mandy Marcum of 22 North.

Indian

Since TJ and Samrin Singh opened Tandoori Bites over a year ago, they’ve received praise from the culinary community. Not only have diners become hooked by their extensive menu of fine Indian cuisine, they’ve become addicted to it. So much so the couple

has extended its demand. Buffets aren’t just relegated to lunch now; diners can enjoy it on Wednesday evenings, too. Where the real specialties lie are from ordering off Tandoori’s lengthy menu, featuring classic favorites like chicken masala and shrimp vindaloo, among lots of delicious vegetarian dishes and meat-eater favorites, too, à la lamb, chicken or even goat. “All of our chefs are from India,” TJ told encore last year. Hence, folks can expect the most authentic dining experience even if situated among the Western world. Their homemade paneer (cheese) and naan are enough to demand many returns. Not a stranger to the industry, the Singhs moved from Raleigh, where they ran Taj Indian Cuisine. The more laid-back pace of Wilmington hasn’t slowed them down. Tandoori Bites participated in encore’s restaurant week too. Their attention to food comes from the heart. “I started cooking because of my grandmother,” TJ said. “I love this business.” Other Indian flavors voted among the best are India Mahal and Curry Valley.

Fine Dining

Manna offers so much in the way of fine cuisine, fine experiences and fine memories. Just ask anyone where they should go as a culinary treat, and likely this restaurant, tucked in the heart of downtown at 123 Princess Street, will be one of the first suggested. In its infant 15 months of business, its culinary team, including Chef Jacob Hilbert and business partner Billy Mellon—who reunited a few years after working together at Tango du Chat—focus on making their work fun, inviting and unforgettable. Seemingly, gastronomes and regular food lovers alike are taking notice. “It’s nice [winning the award] because we didn’t spend any time thinking about it or telling people to vote for us,” Mellon admits. “Honestly, we really feel good about this one because it seems ‘legit.’ I recall feeling the same way when I was a server at Port Land Grille and we continuallly won this category—it was like ‘the public has voted and they are honestly saying we’re pretty darned good.’” It’s not hard to convince folks of the truth when it’s so naturally obvious. The new American cuisine at Manna isn’t simply divine, but along with the restaurant’s weekly offerings, it’s keeping them top of mind. They do “Wines”days on Wednesday, and offer a tasting of four flavors and one full pour for only $7. Thursdays are theme nights, allowing the chef to traverse across the world and present tapas of varied styles. They also hold numerous specialty events, like the chef face-off School of Fire last fall and numerous wine dinners, such as March 14th’s Spanish foray, which explored classic wines from Spain.

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LARGEST TEQUILA SELECTION IN WILMINGTON!

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On your way to Wrightsville Beach 1437 Military Cuttoff Rd. 910-256-2229

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“We try very hard to make every effort obvious,” Mellon says—“not just the food or the service or the space vying for what is important. We focus on balancing the three and adding a little personality into the mix so that the guests feel like we always put our best foot forward.” One taste from their ever-evolving, fresh and locally sourced menu will prove decadence need not be stuffy or overblown. From their “Beet Box Salad” (roasted beet and goat cheese terrine, field greens, orange supremes, pistachios, red wine, and ginger vinaigrette) to their decadent “Time for a Grouper Hug?” (grouper meuniere, smashed turnips, caramelized local pac choi, olive oil, blood orange beurre blanc), to their delightful ice cream sampler for dessert, everything from beginning to end feels uniquely refined—and that’s because it is. Other fine dining eateries ranking our poll include Port Land Grille and Circa 1922.

Mexican

For truly authentic Mexican cuisine, complete with bold spices and quintessential salt-rimmed margaritas, Wilmingtonians need look no further than El Cerro Grande. Although the restaurant ventured into the United States—specifically the port city—in 1991, El Cerro began in the small Mexican community of Degollado, Jalisco. Since its inception in Wilmington, it has expanded to about 15 eateries along the North and South Carolina coast. Among these are the UNCW, Monkey Junction and Military Cutoff Rd. locations here in town. At El Cerro, the options range from vegetarian to seafood, enwrapped in tacos, burritos, enchiladas and more. From carne asada to mole ranchero, the entrées are served with rice, beans or guacamole salad prepared just as the pioneering owners in Mexico would have them. Perhaps the majority of locals’ favor the thick white queso into which tortilla chips are decadently dipped. Any meal at El Cerro is delicious when it begins with this creamy concoction. HAPPINESS IS A WARM WIN: Hostess Sandy Vaughan passes the mic El Cerro has become one of the top placto restaurateur Billy Mellon, who thanks readers for his Best Fine Dining win for es to share a birthday dinner with friends— Manna; this is Manna’s first win on encore’s Best Of poll. Photo by Shea Carver during most meals diners encounter the sombrero-laden, drum-wielding, zesty and tables of diners. They give kids crayons and energetic waitstaff who greet a birthday boy Family Restaurant I worked in the restaurant industry for years; games to play on the back of their menus. or girl with mariachi flare. What such fun says I know the drill on both sides of the fence “As guests are leaving, they can also take about El Cerro Grande is that it is a restaurant in which folks of any ethnicity can experience when it comes to waiting on families. Often a balloon for their child,” Dunmire notes. While Red Robin includes the kids in quality Mexican fare while reveling in the enterwaitstaff with whom I worked would bemoan messy families whose kids spilled drinks and the dining experience, the real gem is the tainment of a night out, complete with some of threw food everywhere but into their mouths, staff’s willingness to know their clientele. the most friendly staff in town. Second place in Mexican restaurants is La or made the dining room their personal play- They enjoy connecting with customers no Costa, while third goes to K-38/Tower 7. ground. Yet, families appreciated when we matter age or size. “I have amazing team would be especially understanding of the challenges that come with a mother and father trying to enjoy dinner outside of the house with three kids under the age of 10. My fix was always simple: Treat the muchkins with as much respect as the parents, including them in conversation, playing and joking around with them when necessary and simply engaging them. Likely, there wouldn’t be too bad of a mess to pick up after (and the tip would improve, too). At Red Robin in Mayfaire, their entire staff is well-trained on how to deal with families on every occasion, and their menu is one of the lengthiest for pint-sized customers, too. It’s no wonder they keep tabulating awards year after year as Best Family Restaurant. “We offer a kids’ menu for guests 10 and younger with nine entrees and six side options, including healthier sides like apple slices, broccoli and baby carrots,” Brian Dunmire, general manager, says. However, they also know how to entertain their customers; hence avoiding alternative options like hide-n-go-seek among

members that are like a family,” Dunmire states. “They know that when our guests choose to dine at Red Robin they in turn treat them like family.” Red Robin rewards customers, too. Just last year, the Red Robin Red Royalty program started, offering incentives like free birthday burgers to registered diners. It’s just one special part of being in their family of players. “In 2012, we will offer some new menu items and limited-time offers throughout the year,” Dunmire notes outside of their already stacked menu of burgers, sandwiches, wraps, entrées and salads. “Our Red Royalty program will be offering even more surprises and delightful awards to our guests.” Sign up now, and say it with me: “Redddd Ro-bin. Yummmm.” Families also appreciate the service and food from Casey’s Buffet and BBQ and Golden Corral. — Shea Carver

Fast Food

As a past employee of this chain for three years, I can attest that it is the best—not only offering up their satisfying staple, the original chicken sandwich, but also one of the best companies for which to work: Chick-fil-A. It was my first job and, as such, taught me great lessons like superior customer service (it’s “my pleasure,” after all). Today when I need a good meal quick, I know I can hit the Chickfil-A drive-thru in nearly no time flat; plus I’ll be greeted by a friendly, smiling face and will leave with crispy waffle fries and juicy chicken that I know was always fresh, and breaded and fried just before I came to the drive-thru window. Everyone who eats at Chick-fil-A knows they’re closed on Sundays (and isn’t that the day we want Chick-fil-A the most!), and most people know it’s because the founder, S. Truett Cathy, believed his employees should be able to save the day for worship or to spend time with family and friends. It’s been this way

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since he started Chick-fil-A under the name Dwarf Grill in 1946 in Atlanta, Georgia. Yet most folks don’t know that Chick-fil-A truly goes the extra mile for their employees, even beyond giving everyone a day off. Cathy’s non-profit, the WinShape Foundation, provides $1,000 scholarships to each team member who works a certain number of hours, and up to $32,000 for eligible students to attend Berry College in Georgia. As well, the foundation branches out to offer camps for kids, retreats for marriage and leadership, and a safe home for children who are victims of abuse, addiction or worse. So, patronizing Chick-fil-A is not only buying a tasty lunch—it’s funding some pretty amazing community contributions, too. Quick eaters in Wilmington also like CookOut and McDonald’s.

Appetizers & Desserts

Though Circa 1922 reels in accolades for its tapas-style dining year in and year out, in February the restaurant welcomed a brand new executive chef, Andrew Karasz. He will not re-imagine the hugely popular eatery, rather he will rejuvenate the menu by incorporating a few new flavors to old favorites and by introducing his own savory specials. The historic and charming atmosphere of Circa will remain, as well as the global wine bar complete with a custom 12-bottle Cruvinet temperature-controlled system to ensure the freshness of wines by the glass. Diners can still expect regionally themed sharing platters, as Karasz is dedicated to sourcing local goods. The chef, who has worked in New York City at Union Pacific and with Wolfgang Puck at Postrio in San Francisco, will surely enhance the revered offerings that garner Circa Best Of wins annually. From the small plates of cheeses and charcuterie to the generous portions of crème brûlée or bananas foster, Circa 1922 will continue to evolve with its chef and present international, cosmopolitan tastes for all. Second place in appetizers goes to Front Street Brewery, while Bonefish Grill takes home third. Diners also delight in desserts at Apple Annie’s Bake Shop and The Little Dipper.

Pizza & Late-Night Eatery

On my 21st birthday, I was already wise enough to round my girls up for a surely raucous downtown adventure, and make sure my boyfriend was the DD. Though barely anyone can remember their 21st birthday, I still vividly remember one thing: the pizza. As I drunkdialed my beau to have him pick us up from Slice of Life at 3 a.m., I ordered two pieces of their delectable pepperoni pies—one for me and one as a well-deserved gift for our chauf-

feur. Though as he arrived and we piled in, the large slice I got for him slid halfway off the plate, ensuring its grease would run like sweat down my legs. It was by far the sexiest thing he’d ever encountered. Yet, did he eat that slice and love every second of it? Of course he did—it’s Slice! Its crunchy crust satisfies the craving for late night munchies and without a doubt has a line by 2:10 a.m., as drunk folks stagger from nearby bars and into the small pizza haven. Still, Slice isn’t just downtown and it isn’t just for the hammered. No, normal people (and, yes, even families!) can enjoy their piece of Slice for a mid-week lunch or even dinner, and they can do so on Military Cutoff Road or on the corner of 17th Street and College Road. As well, it’s not just a pizza parlor either. Folks can enjoy a quesadilla or pasta salad, a wrap or a taco. I once witnessed someone open a Slice of Life pizza box to reveal nachos piled high with chicken, tomatoes, scallions and jalapenos—needless to say, it blew my mind. And, I am determined to venture into a Slice of Life before the daily cessation of alcohol sales, just so I can give their white pizza a try (the late night menu is limited for efficiency): garlic, ricotta, fresh basil, tomatoes, mozzarella and parmesan! Hey—it’s 4 o’clock in the afternoon—do you know where your slice is? For pizza in the port city, seconds go to Mellow Mushroom and thirds to Pizzetta’s Pizzeria. Other late night menus to check out are Jimbo’s and CookOut.

Hot Dog

I hope that my fellow locals can recall, as I do, the first time they had a hot dog from Trolly Stop (my guess is that, yes, they can). My grand experience was with the Surfer Dog at the Carolina Beach location sometime around the 8th grade. Though mustard, cheese and bacon bits seemed an odd mix at first, my taste buds proved my mind wrong with the first sensuous bite. It’s been puppy love with my Surfer Dog ever since. I really enjoy introducing my out-of-town friends to Trolly Stop for their initial taste of the Cape Fear staple. For my sorority sisters, it was off to the Fountain Drive location between classes at UNCW. For days on the shore, it’s always fun to take someone inside the itty bitty Wrightsville Beach eatery. The typical reaction is confusion by the small space (it’s barely bigger than a closet, it seems!) and distrust that any cuisine coming from such a hole-in-thewall could be something to rave about. But they should know it’s the original store—Station 1—and was founded by B.C. Hedgepath in 1976. Obviously, Trolly Stop made a lasting impression on this city!

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We natives know that each of the Trolly Stop dogs are excellent, especially when washed down with fresh pink lemonade. Truly, it’s the perfect pairing during a weekend outing downtown, as that location is probably the best—quaint seating accommodates shoppers and river-viewers (plus they deliver!). Of course, the delicious little dogs probably taste just as great in Southport, Jacksonville and Boone, the other Carolina sites. Essentially, there’s nothing about Trolly Stop locals, transfers and tourists can’t enjoy, no matter the place and no matter the dog. Jeter’s All American Grille and Paul’s Place also offer dogs to bark about.

Burgers and Fries

Wilmington residents all recognize the crazy, enthused burger-flipper of the P.T.’s Old Fashioned Grille logo. Locals probably resemble the guy on the emblem when a perfectly grilled P.T. burger is set down in front of them, too. In fact, I once had a UNCW Wave driver that would stop by the Fountain Drive location almost daily just to get a side of their salty seasoned fries. Pair ‘em together, and you’ve got Wilmington’s best take on some of America’s favorite foods. It’s simple to dine at the nearly 20-year-old establishment. One might have to wait in line just to get to the order forms, but they’re quick to fill out. Amongst all the other choices—salads, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs and more— pick a burger, four or eight ounces. Fries are a must (they’re the best in Wilmington, after all!). Finish it off with some of their house-made lemonade, and the trifecta of P.T.’s Old Fashioned Grille will be out in no time flat. Take a seat on the patio or in the dining room while it’s cooking. Folks can find P.T.’s all over the place these days. Of course, there’s the original location across from UNCW, and the ever-popular establishment on 17th Street near the hospital. Those headed to the beach can stop by the Military Cutoff Drive restaurant on the way to Wrightsville, or the Monkey Junction store on the way to Carolina Beach. There’s even a P.T.’s in Porters Neck, and another in Leland. Thus, with six locations to choose from, there’s no excuse not to fill out a P.T.’s order form wherever folks hang out. Wilmingtonians also like the burgers at Five Guys and Red Robin, and the fries at McDonald’s and Five Guys.

Japanese

The restaurant that offers the best Japanese food in town—Hiro’s Japanese Steakhouse, according to encore readers—may just become the best place for Malaysian cuisine in 2012. Yes, that’s right; the eatery will be serving up culinary goods from the small neighbor

of Thailand and Indonesia soon. Diners can expect a bit of spice, amongst other flavors, to grace their new menu. “[The biggest trend] was sushi, but now I think we are seeing many ‘fusion’-style cuisines becoming very popular,” owner Mei Ling Chau explains. “We will be bringing some new ideas and new food entrées into the market.” New this year, Hiro’s will open its doors for lunch beginning in April. Chau hopes it will continue to bring in fresh faces to the restaurant year after year. “My passion really has always been about the people,” Chau, a veteran in the restaurant business, says. “I have had a chance to meet tens of thousands of people over the years. This is what drives me every day.” Working with her dad, who opened his own restaurant in Wilmington in the 1980s, began her natural progression toward a career in the industry. Seemingly, he taught her well, as Hiro’s has become a staple in this town for fine cuisine. In the current economic climate, Chau cites a few rules she abides by, which allow her to continue in her efforts of delivering the best quality at the most reasonable price. “You just really have to enjoy what you do, and believe that you are providing a level of service and value that is more than what the customer is paying for,” she notes. “It is very rewarding to have something that I have labored [over] become such a locals’ favorite over the years. I can never tell my customers thank you enough.” For Japanese, diners also enjoy Nikki’s Hibachi Steak House and Sushi Bar and Yo Sake. — Bethany Turner

Ribs & Chain Restaurant

Coming into our poll for two-years running now is the quintessential baby-back rib kings. They’re such royalty, they even have their own song. Mention “Chili’s” and “ribs” in the same sentence, and hear people immediately start singing the jingle that got their fingersuckin’ jangle off! The grill and bar is still holding strong, too, as Chili’s not only has scored encore’s Best Ribs but the secured a second win in 2012 with Best Chain Restaurant, too. Perhaps the reason the restaurant stays top of mind for many voters is because its local general manager, Rob Russell, was born to lead. “I have been in the restaurant business for 24 years,” he tells encore, “and it gets into your blood!” He couldn’t be more proud of leading the blue-ribbon team either. “Last year when we won best ribs, we saw a very positive impact,” he notes. “We started selling more ribs and a spike in guest counts that we have managed to hang on to.”

Italian

HOMETOWN CHAMPION: John Anagnost displays the Best Burger and Fries win with Wilmington’s very own burger darling, P.T.’s, who has only been beat once in 20 years on the poll. Photo by Brooke Kavit

Likely they return because of the numerous offers Chili’s churns out on a constant basis. From dinner for two for a mere $20 (one appetizer, two entrées) to their $6, $7 or $8 lunches, to their deliciously decadent top-shelf margarita promotions, there is always something to enjoy for the palate and the wallet. “We offer exciting, crave-able limited-time offers [like their new cheesesteak or blackened chicken sliders] and change our menu selections on a regular basis,” he notes. “We always find a way to give a great value without compromising quality.” Their ribs consistently make customers happy, as they’re slow smoked over pecan wood. Served in orginal BBQ sauce, Shiner Bock sauce or Memphis dry-rub, the flavor never wanes as the tender meat falls from the bone without resistance. Aside from running a tight ship of talented players and delicious food, Russell often welcomes charitable causes to help give back to the community. He has allowed Chili’s to host a plethora of events from school pancake breakfasts to Full Belly Project fund-raisers. His motto: “Treat your guests like they are your best friends, because they are!” Here, here! … “I want my baby-back, baby-back, b-b-bbaby-back ribs…” Really, it never gets old. Carrabba’s and Bonefish Grill took second and third in the chain restaurant category, while Wild Wing Café and Outback Steakhouse followed up ribs.

It’s a hotly contested category. Best Italian has flip-flopped over the many years encore’s been doing this. Yet, securing its second-year win is Osteria Cicchetti, one of the many successful eateries among the Circa 1922 Group (which has two other restaurants featured on our Best Of 2012 poll, too—so read on!). “OC,” as endearingly called by local yokels, does so much right I am not sure where to begin. I suppose we can start from the top: the meatball. Yes, they do it right. But, when coming here, may I suggest a step away from the norm? For starters, try one of their amazing cheeses or charcuterie options from their cold plates menu (the taleggio and capicola are yummola!). Of their spreads, try the artichoke and mascarpone, and if you’re in need of ruffage for the necessary veggie intake, go with their Italian insalata. Per pasta, well, everything delights, but especially their linguini and red clam sauce or linguini calabrase (chicken, broccoli rabe and sun-dried tomatoes in a white wine sauce). They have risottos, too, which provide a hearty dinner, and they do daily specials which can’t be beat. I’ve never been steered wrong from their fish of the day (if it’s trigger or monk, don’t even bother perusing the menu). What’s best about OC is not just the food, but the cozy, rustic decor, as if transported straight from an Italian countryside. From the wooden farm tables, to the mismatched plates to the carafes of wine, delivered to the table in quarter, half or full options, it’s all thoughtful. Just in case the mounds of bread and pasta aren’t filling enough, dessert can be a treat when indulging in some of the most delicious bread pudding in Wilmington. Other Italian eateries taking the cannoli are Terrazzo Trattoria and Taste of Italy.

Oysters

It’s an aphrodisiac. It’s protection to a beautifully enchanting jewel. It houses the world according to some. The oyster—a hardened shell protecting delicate, ambrosial nuggets of bliss. Add champagne. Sip, eat, repeat. Dock Street Oyster Bar has been honing their skills at providing the best of the best in seafood for years. They’ve ranked our poll for 13 wins in a row now (who says 13’s an unlucky number anyway?) thanks to their fine oyster preparation. Whether enjoyed on the half-shell on ice, steamed or grilled, they can make any hard day lighter in memory. Literally, lighter, too, as owners Steve Maillard and Louise Forbes opened the restaurant in 1999 with one goal in mind: Offer healthy seafood

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options and venture away from the de rigeur of Calabash-style seafood known across the southeast coast. “We have remained true to our roots,” Maillard says of the restaurant’s seafood specialty. “We are constantly traveling the coast and the Caribbean to bring new ideas to the plate.” In today’s dining environment, seemingly customers want more for less, according to Maillard. “It is a challenging business environment for sure,” he notes. “We have a motto that is ‘innovate or abdicate.’” The former they’ve secured for years now, remaining a staple on downtown Wilmington’s food scene. They work closely with local fishermen to bring the best shrimp and oysters to the table, whether from Stump Sound or Topsail. “We have some of the greatest resources right in our own back yard,” Maillard notes. From spicy peppered scallops to their jerkspiced “Calypso Catch of the Day,” to a blackened catch sandwich, the offerings vary. Most folks go for their steamers, which include shrimp, snow crab legs, mussels, crawfish and of course oysters. Washed down with a fresh beverage, it’s a meal made for the best! Other oyster nods go to Shuckers and Hieronymus Seafood.

Coffee

Life would be virtually impossible to live without a cup of caffeinated goodness. For many, the mornings would be impossible to bear without it: Kids wouldn’t be properly dressed and off to school. Work would be an enigmatic place of stalled progress. Brains would misfire and malfunction. Java runs so much of our lives, at least for the 150 million Americans who drink coffee daily. In Wilmington, folks head over to our very own Port City Java for their fix. Founded by Steve Schnitzler in 1995, their motto hasn’t changed: “to serve the best coffee in a great environment.” They’ve done so not only in Wilmington’s 10 locations, but across the state, East Coast and even the world, including Costa Rica and Jordan. Having received their start along downtown Wilmington’s cobblestone streets keeps them close to locals’ hearts—and they’re paying back tenfold. “We are investing $700,000 in our local cafes over a two-year period to stay Wilmington’s best coffeehouse,” Schnitzler says. Among their plans will be upgrading to Nuova Simonelli Aurelu’s espresso machines, which just so happen to be the official gear of the World Barista Championships. (Yes, they exist!) It will ensure PCJ baristas stay on top of their game with evolving knowledge. “We’ve been leading our own seminars on expectations for guest hospitality as

well as coffee roasting, tasting, beverage preparation, etc. for years,” he says. “We want to take it a step further, and give our baristas and managers the opportunity to become certified baristas with the Barista Guild.” (Yes, that also exists!) PCJ will become a SCAA Certified Laboratory, meaning the workshops and courses they host will be available to other coffee shops as well. “We seek to exceed expectations on every guest list,” Schnitzler continues. By adding more breakfast items and grab-and-go snacks, along with remodeling cafes, it’s no wonder encore reader’s sent votes for this “guild” straight to number one! Other coffee shops worth a sip are Java Dog and Starbucks.

Soul Food/Country Cookin’ & Buffet

Ask anyone in town where Southern food tastes its best, and they’ll most likely answer Casey’s. Casey’s Buffet and BBQ has been around for what feels like forever. In its most recent incarnation, it’s only been since 2005. However, prior to this, its owner, Larry Casey, ran Taste of Country. Before that, he was honing his skills at family gatherings. “It started when he was a kid, cooking with his mother and grandmother,” wife Gena says, “barbecuing pigs with his father and uncles.” Working his way across numerous slates of restaurants, from fast food to fine dining, Larry settled on his roots, going back to what became most satisfying. It’s part of Southern morale, really, where food and family go hand in hand. Thus, Casey’s is run by Larry’s entire family—daughters and wife included—and with friends. It’s part of the reason their appeal keeps attracting diners from all walks of life. To them, that’s who really matters most. “It is an amazing feeling—when you work as many hours as we do to make a restaurant successful—to be acknowledged by people who truly enjoy our establishment,” Gena notes. “The ones who say, ‘Wow, I didn’t know about [Best Of] this year, but you can bet I will be voting next year!’ is more rewarding than [being reviewed by] a food critic who may just be eating with us for an assignment.” Their menu always touts the heart and soul of the South: fried chicken, chit’lin’s, catfish, pig’s feet, mashed potatoes, mac ‘n’ cheese, beans of every variety, cobblers, banana pudding and so much more. They’re also abiding more these days by the locavore movement. “Collards this time of year [are delicious!]” Gena notes. “We try

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to use as many local products as possible.” As many eateries evolve with what’s trending, Casey’s stay homey (they still don’t have a website) but not without keeping up to par on bettering their catering services, improving take-out and call-aheads. “If you come to Casey’s and the line’s too long, and you can’t wait, then let a Casey girl fill yo’ plate!” Gena says excitedly. All of Casey’s food is available by the plate ($4.99 a pound), pint, quart or pan to accommodate diners of multiple party sizes. Closed Monday and Tuesday only, the Caseys stay true to their family and food—no wonder they continue ranking top notch in Soul Food and Buffet categories. Other buffet nominees were Golden Corral and Boca Bay, while Soul Food/Country Cookin’ included Two Fat Ladies Over a Simmering Pot and Cracker Barrel.—Shea Carver

Waitstaff

The Copper Penny is rooted in Wilmington’s downtown scene, a neighborhood destination since March 2004. It’s never a surprise when they take home the Best Waitstaff award year after year. It’s a natural win considering the motto of general manager Deede Bell is “surround yourself with good people.” Thus, the Copper Penny focuses on hiring staff that works hard to keep those beers coming, even more so now that they’re offering an extensive North Carolina-made brew list. It’s not just a familiar pub with friendly faces, though; The Copper Penny boasts a menu of bar staples such as wings and nachos, unexpected appetizers like housemade hummus and hand-made spring rolls, and a lengthy list of specially crafted sandwiches. Take the Lady Liberty’s Portabella sandwich, for instance: its mushrooms are topped with roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, provolone and a basil pesto aioli—yum! Plus, they’ve just joined up with a loyalty card app that allows you to keep your card on your smart phone—easily accessible for earning the ninth Copper Penny lunch free. Essentially, it’s about providing a wellrounded experience at The Copper Penny: staff that managers and guests can count on, local brews at great prices, and delicious foods that up the ante on traditional bar fare. “We are always honored by receiving this award and it always feels good to get a pat on the back,” Bell says. “We want to thank all our loyal patrons for making us the downtown staple that we have become.” The staff also rocks at The Little Dipper and Circa 1922. —Bethany Turner

Chinese

SERVICE EXTRAORDINAIRE: The staff from the Copper Penny gratefully accepted the Best Waitstaff award, something they’ve secured over the past few years on the Best Of poll. Photo by Shea Carver

Vegetarian

More and more people are dining healthfully, for sure. By taking on dietary specialties that include more greens than, say, reds— less meat and more veggies—Lovey’s is pulling a first-time rank this year by securing its spot on our annual poll as serving Best Vegetarian food. Appropriately so, they are the epitome of conscientious eating. The natural market and café serves 100 percent organic produce, alongside a very large organic salad bar, which keeps people lining up in their Military Cutoff location. Owned and operated for over a decade by Karen Stewart and Marie Montemurro, non-meat eaters have a hey-day here, as the shop celebrates the alternative lifestyle, which for many is a mere norm. “My interest and passion is in herbal formulas and vitamin supplements and their use alternatively to prescription drugs whenever possible,” Stewart says. “Marie has a lifelong experience in the restaurant business, as her grandmother and mother, Lovey (our namesake), both owned restaurants. Marie was literally raised in the business, [and] grew up working and cooking at her mother’s specialty gourmet restaurant in Warwick, New York.”

Wilmington’s own has a varied menu suited to many palates: veggie melts and bean burritos, Boca burgers and tofu melts, steamed veggie plates and falafel, among gluten-free and vegan items galore. Sundays welcome brunch starting at $5.95, too. New to the Lovey’s staff in 2012 is Nikki Spears—the official moniker and original restaurateur of Nikki’s Fresh Gourmet. Nikki will tempt many with her delicious baked goods among health-conscious foods she prepares daily. Lovey’s is also adding wine and beer to their stockpile, and on the last Thursday of each month, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., they will offer samples of new items, including delicious gourmet cheeses. “More demos are being scheduled, offering educational opportunities as well,” Stewart maintains. They offer beauty products, such as Gabriel Cosmetics, and their website showcases wellness tips, healthy recipes and even health calculators. “The customer’s health and wellbeing is always the most important,” Stewart notes. Lovey’s is making itself more than the local yokel veg eatery—it’s becoming the Wilmington hub for all-things healthy! Other among the ranks in Best Vegetarian cuisine include Nikki’s Fresh Gourmet and Sushi Bar, as well as Tidal Creek Co-op.

“Deep down in my heart, after 23 years in the business, I am still looking forward to going to work every morning,” Joseph Hou, owner of Szechuan 132, encore’s 2012 Best Chinese eatery, says. His infectious positive attitude and delightful dedication to customer priority, as well as employee satisfaction, makes Hou one of the most revered businessmen on the local scene. “Besides the love I have for the playing with ingredients in my little kingdom, the restaurant business fosters the opportunity for me to delight in, bond and strengthen friendships with those in the community, as well as [with] visitors,” he says. “My business also gives me a sense of challenge, excitement, independence and responsibility.” What this does for the community, in return, assures top-notch experiences at the University Landing restaurant time and time again. Hou and his staff provide the highest-quality foods among a plethora of dishes, from standard fare like Peking duck and Spicy Hunan, to carefully crafted, unexpected items like rosemary lamb, along with tempting hot egg noodle dishes like Dang Dang Mien. They also offer a “Lite and Fit” section to their menu, among Thai and Malaysian curries, Japanese fare and so much more. All dishes come with careful preparation, fresh ingredients and skilled hands. Though Hou’s ranks on our poll have been numerous over the Best Of 20-plus year reign, he’s not affected by it—only grateful. Exempt are egos from his kitchen and operation. “The Szechuan 132 team is not superior to other businesses,” he exacts. “As small business owners, we are all capable and excel in our own ways. When we come to work, our ears, minds, and hearts are all in one place—focused on the customers and not anywhere else.” In the year of the Water Dragon, much good fortune comes with promises of balance by creativity and endless growth. Hou sticks to the standards of what coddles such opportunity, from treating others wholly with respect, exceeding expectation of those he serves and working together as a team. “In our restaurant we have two big Chinese characters on the wall as a reminder of our missions,” he says. “One is joy and the other is harmony. If you can’t find joy in your work, I guarantee you can’t put 100% of your energy into it. Without harmony, you cannot build a team.” Other Chinese establishments worthy of a mention are Double Happiness in second and Chopstix in third.

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Wings

Finger-lickin’, lip-smackin’, sauce-poppin’ deliciousness. It’s in every morsel of chicken served at Buffalo Wild Wings. Celebrating 10 years in Wilmington comes yet again with win for this wingery, as they keep providing locals a multitude of variety and quality, according to Larry Alderson, franchise owner. “Our wings are spun fresh in one of our 20 signature sauces and dry,” he notes of flavors like Asian Zing, Caribbean Jerk, Parmesan Garlic and more. “Because of our great selection of flavors and different levels of ‘hotness,’ there is definitely a sauce for every taste bud.” BWW knows how to keep customers lining up the door for more, too. From Wing Tuesdays (yep, that would be $0.50 wings) to Boneless Thursdays ($0.60 wings), as well as daily drink specials, patrons always have something to eat, drink and watch on one of their many big screens. “Whether we’re getting the newest in big-screen television technology or stocking a huge selection of craft beers for the latest craft beer craze, we always accommodate and listen to what our patrons want,” Alderson continues. Next for BWW—aside from being one of the greenest spots in Wilmington, seeing as their Eastwood Road location runs off solar panels and the latest environmentally friendly kitchen technology—is their move to Jacksonville, NC. No doubt will sports and wing fans flock to the restaurant for some B-Dub’s love. “Winning acknowledgements from locals means a lot to us!” Alderson says. “Our restaurants are locally owned and operated, and though we may be a franchise of a global restaurant chain, we take pride in being involved in our local community. Thank you Wilmington!” Other wing spots worthy of a mention are Wild Wing Cafe and Carolina Ale House.

Mediterranean

Though a cruise through the Greek Islands beckons many for not only relaxation and culture but food—delectable, fresh and healthy cuisine—Wilmingtonians need not seek out the latest travel agent. They can find seafood, pitas and hummus prepared with Mediterranean flare in their own hometown, right on Oleander Drive in Bradley Square. There they’ll encounter Olympia, the family-owned restaurant which boasts its third Best Of win in 2012. Antoinette Voulgaris’ parents thrive in the food business—they’ve owned restaurants for over three decades, including Olympia which has been serving the port city for 18 years. “I’ve grown up in [Olympia] and love it,” she shares. “The customers, the staff—we are like a family. We have so many regulars that

ON THE WINGS OF A WIN: Adam Webb happily accepted Buffalo Wild Wings Best Wings award at the awards ceremony last Friday evening. Photo by Shea Carver

have been loyal to us over the years and hope to bring in more.” The Mediterranean diet is known for its health benefits, as it’s renowned for using a plethora of veggies from olives to mushrooms, and plenty of fish. It’s the type of fare where taste and health coincide, and that rule is no different at Olympia. Aside from having a family-friendly and comfortable atmosphere, according to Voulgaris, the restaurant also prides itself on the use of fresh, quality ingredients. From pasta creations to delights from the sea, Olympia offers an authentic trip to the Mediterranean for tastebuds, without the price tag of a global cruise! Diners also venture to Black Sea Grill and Pita Delite for Mediterranean cuisine. —Bethany Turner

Steak

A hunk of meat can be quite satisfying. Thickly tempting and juicy. Perfectly cooked a medium-rare. Accentuated by butter oozing down its seared sides. Yes, a hunk of meat can be so perfectly satisfying. Wilmingtonians prefer their cuts straight from the menu of the finest meat connoisseurs in town. And who may that be, you ask? Well, Mrs. Ruth Fertel, of course! That would

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be the original founder of Ruth’s Chris Steak House, located locally in Wilmington’s Best Hotel, Wilmington Hilton Riverside. Boy, do they do fine dining to perfection. More importantly, they know how to serve the best USDA Prime beef to every customer who walks through the doors. Broiled to a perfect 1800 degrees and simply dressed with salt, pepper and butter, no fancy-shmancy sauces top the many cuts here. Whether ordering their amazingly huge, decadently divine cowboy ribeye or the petite filet mignon, Porterhouse for two or a NY strip, no matter the preference, the raw flavor of every cut’s earthiness will beckon bite full after bite full. Of course, the folks who come without a hankering for red meat can be sated just as well. Their menu of other items extend from shrimp to chicken, lamb to lobster and other choices in between. Along with their à la carte family sides, from creamed spinach to potato au gratin, and their numerous salads (the wedge is a must-try), and a cocktail and wine menu to keep everyone’s thirsts quenched, Ruth’s Chris makes an appealing case for anyone’s hunger. Other steak houses cutting the top tier of our poll are Port City Chophouse and Outback Steakhouse.

Salad

When folks crave ruffage in its many forms—iceberg, Romaine, mixed greens, edamame, garden peas, carrots, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, broccoli, beets and so on—they turn to one place where the options are endless: Ruby Tuesday. Ruby Tuesday (RT) is well-known for their garden bar, kept perfectly chilled and brimming with fresh crispness. Everyone becomes a veggie artist here, creating a salad sensation to adore. Favorite toppings include RT’s famed homemade croutons, not to mention tons of dressing choices, in low-fat and full-flavor variety. They also offer treats on the bar not found at other stops, from pasta and potato salads to cottage cheese and fruit. Tempted by other items on the menu, the garden bar gets companions with many RT specials, such as the minis and garden bar combo. A choice of RT’s famous mini burgers, turkey burgers or their brand-new vegetarianfriendly zucchini cakes come in pairs with fries and, yep, many refills of salad. All this food can’t be beat for under $10! They also offer the combo with their chicken quesadilla, soup or with a choice of three veggie sides. Naturally their full-fledged menu has many regulars coming back for more, whether eating pasta, chicken, steaks, ribs, burgers or sandwiches. No matter the order, it always

gets a healthier dose of satisfaction thanks to the Best Salad in Wilmington: Ruby Tuesday’s garden bar. Brasserie du Soleil and Rucker Johns also top our poll in the salad category.

New Restaurant

Walking into The Kitchen, Wilmington’s favorite new restaurant located in the Forum in the old Grand Union Pub location, arouses a sense of cozy ease. The dark wood creates an air of refinement against lit candelabras and vintage mirrors. Tables consist of old sewing machines, as exposed brick adds to the denlike comfort. A bustling open kitchen showcases chefs and line cooks churning out thoughtful homey fare, all of which is taken up a notch by fastidious hands. And it’s all very delicious. Scallop and dumplings are unlike another dish in town, perfectly cooked and seasoned to a medium, paired with a corn-chowder-like sauce and dense flour nuggets of deliciousness. The charcuterie and cheese plate also rivals any other. From intense-flavored duck salami and American chorizo to homemade pâté, along with double cream blue cheese and Camembert, paired with house-made, fruity sweetmeats and apple butter, the outcome is plentiful and rewarding. Their side dishes are enough of a temptation to keep tables happily engaged over mounds of food: roasted Brussels sprouts, root vegetables, homemade mac ‘n’ cheese (with or without lobster), Creole succotash (insane good!) and the best leek bread pudding on the face of the planet. An in-house smoker makes brisket and ribs fall apart without much fork puncture, while rotisserie chickens churn and permeate the house with sinful aroma. Their nightly specials showcase some of the best local fare, too, as their menu boasts 75 percent regionally used foods, which means it’s made of the freshest quality. If the duck or fish of the day is available, don’t hesitate to order. Just leave room for dessert, as their pastry chef is a champ! His daily creations aren’t only treats of indulgence, but often they’re larger than entrées. Plan to share—and get there early. Since The Kitchen’s opening in late November, they’ve remained a packed house on most nights (they’re only open for dinner as of now at 5 p.m. and take reservations) but especially weekends. Their farm-raised, fireroasted fare deserves best new nods in town! Other new restaurant spots in 2012 include Pizzetta’s Pizzeria and Nick’s Diner.

Sushi

Nikki’s Fresh Gourmet and Sushi Bar is one of Wilmington’s most eclectic eateries. It

truly appeases all palates, from vegetarians to pescatarians to carnivores. No one will be able to walk away without finding a menu item suitable to her cravings. Yet, what most people rave over in this dining staple—with four locations to boot in Wilmington, including downtown, Independence Mall and Racine Drive, as well as their Japanese steak house, located off Miliary Cutoff—is the sushi. Owners Johnny and Andy Chen keep quality behind every roll or slice of nigiri; that’s the most important aspect to any successful sushi restaurant. With multiple deliveries weekly, securing the best, fresh tuna, salmon, eel, shrimp, yellowtail, squid, scallop, crab and more, they’re able to make artful food not only indelible to the tastebuds but also to the eyes. In fact, their sushi chefs are trained in the highest regard and pride themselves on making top-tier meals enticing to every customer. The sushi here is always appetizing and everchanging. They offer rolls wrapped in cucumber (Rainbow Naruto) or on top of a rice patty, à la sushi pizza. They also do traditional fish and rice (nigiri or chirashi), and they know how to wow customers, too. Just order the Love Boat and watch over 50 pieces of sushi sail onto the table, perfectly arranged and designed for many pictures and multiple “oohs” and “ahhhs.” Trust us, it’s all fanciful and decadent in every bite. And if for some reason, diners aren’t feeling sushi, Nikki’s lenthy menu of sandwiches and entrées for both meateaters and vegetarians will pacify to no avail. From burgers to their famed veggie wrap, to Japanese-style tempura dishes, its all beckoning new flavors. But it’s the fish that keeps them at the top of their game according to encore voters. Other sushi establishments fishing into second and third are Bento Box and YoSake. — Shea Carver

Neighborhood Bar

After the Best Of awards party on Friday, February 10th, my friends and I moseyed over to the best neighborhood bar, Duck and Dive Pub. It was packed to the door with people as music from the live acoustic rock/reggae band, The Sound Down Shore, poured out onto Dock Street. It was so packed, in fact, that the bouncer checking IDs outside the small bar had to take a headcount to make sure they weren’t over capacity! Yet even though Duck and Dive’s cup runneth over with beer drinkers, music lovers, and even a dog, I still bumped into so many familiar faces. And, unlike some other late-night spots, the bartenders were ever-friendly and eager to pour us another round. “It’s a fun business and a great way to mingle with current friends and meet new ones,” owner Todd Barber says. Barber got together with his current busi-

ness partner, Glenn, benefitting from his buddy’s knowledge of the bar business to open Duck and Dive. Today, they attribute their success to consistency, a quality everyone in the bar strives to produce. “We owe this award to our patrons and bartenders,” Barber explains. “They are the ones that bring the neighborhood feel and comfort to the Duck and Dive Pub. They speak—we listen closely, and bring in changes regularly. We are not afraid to try anything that’s legal and fun, though we try to stay low-key and cater to the locals. Great patrons, great bartenders and great music: seven days a week, 52 weeks a year.” Barber and his partner love to dabble in alternative drinks, exposing new beers and liquors to their guests. But we won’t catch anyone in Duck and Dive breaking away from the laid-back feel that has earned it this 2012 honor. “We are not really into trends, more just keeping a steady pace and providing a comfortable place for our patrons to enjoy,” Barber notes. “We are very appreciative of the positive feedback and winning this award.” Other welcoming bars with a “Cheers” vibe include The Triangle Lounge and Blue Post.

Wine/Beer Shop

Boasting over 500 different bottled beers, be they American craft or international brews, Lighthouse Beer and Wine Shop in Wrightsville Beach caters to the ale aficionados, lager lovers and everyone in between. As well, the store meets the needs of every vino votary and cigar connoisseur, too! Of those 500 beers, folks can mix and match to create personalized six-packs of bottles they’d like to try, and Lighthouse also offers one of North Carolina’s largest keg selections. They typically have around 50 kegs on-hand for the impromptu get-together, or they can special-order brews for a planned soirée. In fact, Lighthouse even caters events with their beer and wine, and can bring nonalcoholic beverages, mixers and ice, with prechilling and delivery optional. It all starts with a free consultation to be sure they’ll have all bases covered. With over 13 years in business, the Lighthouse staff samples thousands of wines yearly to bring the best in pinot noir, chardonnay, bubbles or shiraz (and every other wine imaginable!). Shoppers can also indulge in Lighthouse’s fully functional humidor to select the best cigar, from mild to full-bodied, Nicaraguan to Dominican. Folks can even look to Lighthouse for gift baskets for beer, wine or cigar enthusiasts. What most notably sets Lighthouse Beer and Wine Shop apart from other stores is its annual beer festival, which will be held this year on Randall Parkway on October 20th. Featur-

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ing over 90 breweries, this outdoor sampling party makes for a great time complete with live music (this year from Langhorn Slim), food vendors and, as always, benefiting The Carousel Center for Abused Children. Other wine/beer shops making our list are Cape Fear Wine and Beer and Wilmington Wine.

Bakery

Though they lost their patriarch over New Year’s, the Longordo family can rest assured their beloved Frank has left a legacy behind that keeps getting recognized for its greatness. Again in 2012, encore readers have voted Apple Annie’s Bake Shop the Best Bakery among the ranks of sweet stuffs, from cream-filled goodies to cakes to cookies and breads galore. Having arrived in our port city in 1984, Apple Annie’s has been family-owned for five generations. Originally from Italy, specializing in homemade pasta, the Longordos immigrated to New Jersey, opening their bake shop and putting morefocus on breads. Once Frank moved south, to serve in the Marine Corps, they became an instant success and added sweets to the roster. “We bake hundreds of different items daily,” Christine Longordo, daughter-in-law to Frank, says, “and use the best possible items in a cost-effective manner. We strive to make our products not only appealing to the eye but also delicious to taste.” And they are. Apple Annie’s loads of cannolis, Italian cookies, decadent pastries and especially cakes have remained Wilmington favorites. Their cakes alone prove masterful not just in sinful flavor but aesthetic amazement, too. In fact, it’s what most customers are vying for nowadays. “People watch baking shows on television [and] want elaborate cake designs,” Longordo says. “We are doing the best we can to accommodate this growing trend!” The bakery focuses its ties locally by offering its breads to area restaurants. Many, such as Taste of Italy, utilize the family’s secret recipe, adding an Apple Annie’s flavor beyond its bake-shop doors. With two locations open to serve customers, Kerr Avenue and Military Cutoff in Landfall Center, folks from all parts of the county can indulge in the Longordo classics. Other bakeries sweetening the category include Sweet and Savory and La Gemma. — Shea Carver

French

Though Chef Thierry Moity hails from the central provinces of France, he wants everyone to feel welcome in his authentic eatery,

SWEET WIN: The folks at Apple Annie’s, Wilmington’s Best Bakery, brought one impressive cake to the awards ceremony on the 10th at City Stage. It was as delicious as it was impressive. Photo by Kim Czornij

Caprice Bistro, where a dimly lit dining room gives off an unobtrusive café vibe and prices remain below the $20 mark (except for the Angus steak frites or filet mignon, which are barely higher than that). The proprietor’s goal is to combat the stereotype that French food must be costly and, thus, reserved for the finest diners. Rather, his attentive and knowledgeable waitstaff offer fast-paced service and generous portions of traditional French cuisine, and guests are encouraged to “come as they are.” Chef Moity has been cooking since the age of 13, and owned Cafe de Bruxelles in New York City and Patou Bistro in Charlotte with his wife, Patricia. He’s been bred to provide consistency in his savory meals, from crisp pommes frites to cassoulet-style lamb shank. A varied menu caters to most tastes, including a delectable mushroom crepe, paté mason, escargots and tomato tarte tatin. As well, the upstairs sofa lounge is trés couru (very popular). Decked in rich jewel tones and local art that alternates between various artists, the hip and casual bar is the place to go for specialty martinis and cocktails in a welcoming atmosphere. Second place for French food goes to Brasserie du Soleil, while third is awarded to Le Catalan.

Outdoor Dining

After traveling by boat to Charleston, South Carolina, via the Intracoastal Waterway, I realized that we are blessed with the most beautiful section of the ICW—barrier islands give way to ocean views, if only for moments, and the wildlife of our area flourishes along this

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stretch of water. I often tell people that if any South Carolinians think the narrow strip behind Barefoot Landing, littered with the ruins of old bridges and concrete, constitutes the majority of the ICW, they are sadly mistaken and should take a little trip up Highway 17 North to Wilmington. Then, they should follow 76 East right to Wrightsville Beach—final destination: Bluewater Grill. Perched along our gorgeous waterway is one of the area’s many pearls. The gigantic coastal building is topped by a teal roof that beckons drivers as its tip peeks from the top of the bridge. Large frond-like fans on the sprawling outdoor deck keep folks cool in the summertime (though I’m sure it’s the mojitos and cervezas which truly provide the “air conditioning”). Local bands offer up energetic melodies, from reggae to classic ‘70s dance covers. It gives “beach party” a whole new meaning: remove the pesky sand, add a few bartenders to make the drinks for you, and amplify the view (it’s not called Bluewater for nothing!). A staple for locals and tourists alike—a mustdo over and over again in the warmer months— Bluewater will unveil a completely renovated second floor this month, expanding the dining room into an open floor plan and adding a vaulted ceiling, which will surely keep folks returning in the winter, too. As well, the second floor will soon host an unobstructed window view of the Intracoastal. “LM Restaurants has operated Bluewater Grill since 2008,” Katherine Costa Goldfaden, the marketing representative for LM Restaurants says. “The outdoor dining was the primary selling point of this restaurant. You can’t beat this view!”

Indochine and Dockside also provide spectacular outdoor dining.

Take Out

After a long weekend of hustling and bustling, trying to run errands, fixing odds and ends and cleaning all about the house, sometimes cooking a meal on Sunday night can seem a bit exhausting. Especially when another work week is looming only hours away. Cue the sorting of the take-out menus: pizza, subs, Chinese. Which offers a varied enough menu to feed the picky family at minimal cost (and quick!)? The best in take-out year after year goes to Chopstix, an Asian eatery that’ll deliver, located in front of Walmart on Market Street. They’ve got fried dumplings, tofu options and pork fried rice out the yin yang. As well, folks can expect specialty items like the Dragon and Phoenix: lobster, fresh jumbo shrimp, scallops, crab, chicken and vegetables with a few sesame seeds and sweet golden sauce—the whole kit and caboodle for only $12.99. Still, most dishes are under five bucks for a pint. Plus, the place stays open ‘til 10:30 p.m. on Sunday nights, as well as on Mondays through Thursdays—which makes Chopstix super convenient, considering most restaurants close early on Sunday. On Friday and Saturday, they’re open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., ca-

tering to eaters from lunch to late-night. Taking home second and third are Cook-Out and Indochine, respectively. —Bethany Turner

Sports Bar

March: For many Wilmington residents, it signifies the beginning of beach season, the inclusion of spring break, or the time when every single professor decides to assign a paper or midterm test. For others, though, March can only signify one momentous occasion: March Madness. Let’s get one thing straight: College basketball is no joke in North Carolina. Whether a Tar Heels, Blue Devils or even Wolfpack fan, there is no better place to cheer on the team this month other than the Carolina Ale House (CAH). Its prime location, just down the street from UNC Wilmington, in midtown causes college students and locals alike to flock to this casual, upbeat sports bar for their hoops fix. With two large projection screens and 46 other TVs displaying high-definition broadcasts, every seat is sure to have a great view of all the action. “The warm hospitality and neighborly atmosphere of English pubs inspired owner, Lou Moshakos to create such a place in America,” Katherine Costa Goldfaden, marketing director, says. “As the concept has grown across the Southeast, it is the mission of CAH to re-

main the neighborhood-gathering place.” The Wilmington location boasts an impressive 38 different beers on tap—served from the main bar inside and the patio bar. Don’t worry—there are TVs outside, too. “We also run great promotions,” Goldfaden says, “like $2.50 drafts all day, every Wednesday.” The staff is always friendly and willing to root for a team right alongside of you, while serving up favorite dishes such as fried pickles, grilled wings and baby back ribs. Let’s not forget about their signature fries, which are even more fantastic when loaded with melted cheeses, bacon, jalapenos and homemade chili. Fans enjoy all the Ale House has to offer, and regulars keep coming back because of their daily specials. Every Tuesday night, parents can delight in the fact that kids meals are only 99 cents. “Service is king!” Goldfaden states. “Lou instills in every team member that service is what will keep our fans coming back. Carolina Ale House is committed to continuing a fan-friendly menu price point, quality items and generous service. To support this goal, we are opening our newest location in Jacksonville, NC. Ale yeah!” Couldn’t have said it better ourselves. Sports fanatics also like to enjoy the games at Buffalo Wild Wings and Wild Wing Café. — Shea Carver

419 South College Rd. (910) 799-1426

Thank you Wilmington for voting us

“Best Chinese Restaurant!” Our vision is to provide our customers with the most exciting dining experience while they are in our home; that we see to it that every customer in our restaurant leave with the anticipation of coming back.

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2012 Best of Wilmington

Humanitarian Humanitarian & Non-Profit

When I hear stories of people doing amazing, selfless things—like Jock Brandis traveling the world for his organization, Full Bully Project—I am not only in awe, but I am humbled. Brandis and Full Belly speak with farmers and families in Africa, Asia and South and North America to figure out how their simplified yet ground-breaking agricultural inventions can help provide more food and income to communities. And, so, I ask myself: What am I doing on a daily basis to help others? Though my mother would say, “You’re bringing awareness to everyone about these charities,” my hands aren’t really dirty with the beautiful work put into helping others live more bountiful lives. Yet, Brandis feels it is completely natural to be somebody’s hero. “It makes me feel like I am being a perfectly normal person,” he says. “I assume everyone wants to provide a better quality of life [for themselves and others].” Brandis is able to increase productivity in small villages through his creations, like the Universal Nut Sheller, for which the Peace Corps and other volunteers distribute molds (and lessons) for easy construction. According to Full Belly’s website, www.fullbellyproject.org, women in Africa spend about four billion hours shelling peanuts by hand, at a rate of a little more than two pounds an hour. Brandis’ sheller passes 120 pounds of peanuts in one hour! And he hasn’t stopped there. He’s developed a mobile, solar water pump to help farmers distribute water more effectively, two other water pumps, a pedal platform for the Universal Nut

Sheller to harness stronger force by way of human legs, a cacao sheller and a lowwater hand-washing station. Currently under development is the aflatoxin screener, a device which uses UV light to warn people of toxic fungus on their food, which will lower their immune system and increase their risk of contracting malaria or HIV. “[We are] field-testing it this summer in Guatemala in a project in partnership with Vanderbilt University,” Brandis explains. He’s also in the process of designing modular school-room furniture for use in the Philippines, so that when a disaster, such as a tropical cyclone, occurs, class-

rooms can quickly be changed to dormitories. This specific project will be featured in the pilot episode of “Replan It,” an independent television documentary series and multi-part Web series that will educate viewers on sustainable development. “In six weeks we will have a final version of the 75-minute film about Full Belly Project and what [we are] doing around the world,” he says. Folks looking to volunteer with Brandis can drop in on Saturday mornings at the Full Belly shop, the big blue building located at 1020 Chestnut Street. “We are looking for people with skills to share,” Brandis notes.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Heather Purdin (center) volunteers for numerous nonprofit organizations and performs benefit shows with her band Selah Dubb (also pictured). Courtesy photo

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Returning FALL 2012

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WINNING WANNABE: Spectator Emily Caulfield dreams of the day she secures her own win (possibly for The only think keeping the sex alive in Wilmington!” award, according to previous encore contributor Joselyn Neon). Until then, she poses with an award to feel the joy! Photo by Courtney Bridgers

Other honorable humanitarians mentioned on our poll are Bo Dean, Paul Wilkes and Tim Milan, and noteworthy nonprofits include The Salvation Army and American Red Cross.

Volunteer

So many people in our area give back annually. Naturally, this category gets a flood of nominees each and every year. However, in 2012, many folks agree it’s Heather Purdin’s selfless time and energy that deserve recognition as our Best Volunteer of the year. Purdin, who tours with her reggae band Selah Dubb in the summer, dedicates her individual time and her band’s artistic endeavors to help organizations locally and worldwide for causes close to their hearts. “Last year, we supported Project HEAL, Kunga Yoga Fund, Hope from Helen, Wrightsville Beach Longboard Association, The Buddy Pelletier Foundation, and various hurricane relief drives for our neighbors in the Outer Banks,” Purdin states.

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Also a registered yoga teacher, she uses the meditation and relaxation techniques appropriate through the exercise as a catalyst for mind-body connection. It’s something she finds important to her continued recovery from a 19-year battle with anorexia nervosa. “I have used my creativity to find places where I can contribute to society and create meaningful experiences,” Purdin notes. Her desire to give back came not only from personal trials and tribulations, but by example at the ripe age of 8. In Alabama she used to go to the soup kitchen every Christmas with her grandmother. “At first, I thought it was weird to spend part of my holiday making food for other people when I had new toys waiting for me at home,” she shares forthrightly. “Once I got to the soup kitchen, I remember looking around the room and understanding these people needed and deserved the gift of my time so they, too, could enjoy the spirit of the holidays.” Today she carries that initial impact with her through every project she starts. She has helped with expressive arts workshops and yoga classes at Open Gate (Domestic Violence Services and Shelter Inc.) and continues to volunteer with Project HEAL: Help to Eat, Accept and Live, which shapes a more healthy body image in society through helping men and women recover from eating disorders. “Earlier that year, I received a very generous partial scholarship to the Tapestry Residential Program for Eating Disorders in Brevard, NC,” she says, “so I originally contacted Project HEAL to try to raise some money to pay it forward. Our chapter has helped two more women go to Tapestry to start their own recovery journeys. In the last six months, Project HEAL has started chapters in New Jersey, Oklahoma, Massachussetts, and even California!” Leading by example, Purdin entices the community to find creative ways to donate their own time and services to the greater good of humanity. It doesn’t take money—in fact, it requires something far more valuable: compassion. “Think of your time, your social network, your skills—your passions,” she suggests. “Where can you apply your resources to your passions to make a difference? The point of service is to keep it positive. . . . It is supposed to be fun, and you are only expected to do your best. Just make sure you love what you choose to do!” Other volunteers recognized as part of encore’s 2012 Best Of Reader’s Poll include Bo Dean, Rich Walsh and Tim Milan (all tied for second), with Rose Zimmer coming in third.

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