As another marker on the Tri-Valley’s continued path toward normalcy, the Pleasanton Weekly is proud to unveil this year’s Readers’ Choice winners, welcoming the popular community contest back after taking a one-year hiatus due to pandemic impacts in 2020.
Honoring the best of the best that Pleasanton has to offer, the 2021 Readers’ Choice competition received tens of thousands of votes from people across the Tri-Valley — and even a few former residents as far away as New York and Canada — in online balloting this spring as Weekly readers revealed which local businesses, professionals and places were their favorites in commercial and lifestyles categories that run the gamut.
“We didn’t feel it was appropriate to have the contest last year with the onset of the pandemic,” said Gina Channell Wilcox, Pleasanton Weekly publisher and Readers’ Choice coordinator. “I can tell by the number of votes and voters this year that our readers missed the competition.”
“We had to put a couple categories on hiatus in the year’s contest,” Wilcox said. “Best Place for Live Music, Best Place to People Watch and Best Public Event just weren’t going to work this year. However, since families have been stay-cationing in their backyard, and updating and upgrading their homes and yards, we added a few categories for home improvement, like Best Pool Maintenance and Best Home Improvement Contractor. Those new categories received quite a few votes.”
“We hope to keep the new categories and bring back others in next year’s contest,” she added.
The 2021 winners are located all over the city (and a few just beyond). Many are open on Main Street or around downtown, while others are sprinkled across shopping centers or commercial areas across Pleasanton. Some are well-recognized names with long ties to the Tri-Valley, but still some others managed to build burgeoning brands in spite of the coronavirus pandemic.
This year’s group of Readers’ Choice Hall of Fame members are Primrose Bakery (Best Bakery/Dessert), Pleasanton Family Dentist (Best Dental Office), Pleasanton Ridge (Best Kept Secret Treasure of Pleasanton), Outer Visions Landscape Design (Best Landscaping Service), Western Garden Nursery (Best Nursery/Garden Center), Jue’s Taekwon-Do (Best Martial Arts Studio), Schlicher Orthodontics (Best Orthodontist), Fabulous Properties (Best Real Estate Team), Nonni’s Bistro (Best Sunday Brunch), Blossom Vegan Restaurant (Best Vegetarian Cuisine) and Pleasanton Veterinary Hospital (Best Veterinarian).
They were honored for their previous record of five consecutive victories, and of course we didn’t count the 2020 hiatus against their streaks. As new Hall of Famers, they were ineligible to compete in their categories this year.
Four businesses earned their fifth straight win in this year’s contest. So the 2022-23 Hall of Fame elite will be Bob’s Giant Burgers (Best Burger), Cosmo’s Barbershop (Best Barbershop), Lokanta (Best Mediterranean Restaurant) and Savior Plumbing (Best Plumber).
Other intriguing highlights from the 2021 results included a rare tie, with Forest Chiropractic Office and Spinal Health Chiropractic receiving the exact same number of votes for Best Chiropractic Office.
The most votes cast were in the Food and Drink categories of Best Pizza, Best American Food, Best Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt and Best Burger. Best Local Winery also garnered a significant number of votes.
The full list of new categories introduced this year consisted of Best Granite & Tile Supplier, Best Home Improvement Contractor, Best House Painter, Best Pool Construction & Remodeling, Best Pool Maintenance, Best Preschool/Daycare, Best Private School and Best Residential Concrete Contractor.
To learn more about those new awards, and all of our winners and Hall of Famers, sit back and enjoy our 2021 Readers’ Choice section.
2021 Hall of Fame
Primrose Bakery — Best Bakery/Dessert. This downtown Pleasanton favorite is being inducted into the Readers’ Choice Hall of Fame after winning its fifth consecutive award in this category in 2019. Primrose Bakery’s tasty treats continue to be the toast of the town, from their wedding cakes, pastries, cookies and more.
Pleasanton Family Dentist — Best Dental Office. Led by Dr. Sara Soleimani, the team at Pleasanton Family Dentist always works hard to ensure “your smile is our top priority.” Located on Cedarwood Lane, this dental office offers high-quality services that run the gamut, including regular cleanings, restorative treatments, teeth emergencies and cosmetic procedures.
Pleasanton Ridge — Best Kept Secret Treasure of Pleasanton. Everybody knows and loves the Pleasanton Ridge, right? This local park with public trails for hiking, biking and leisurely strolls is a recreational treasure for the whole region — plus its scenic beauty in many ways defines Pleasanton. In addition to its Hall of Fame status, the Ridge also won another regular category below.
Outer Visions Landscape Design — Best Landscaping Service. Our readers’ top choice for landscaping services in Pleasanton for the past five contests, Outer Visions Landscape Design strives to be the smart-money and eco-conscious landscaper to add beauty and value to properties across Pleasanton.
Western Garden Nursery — Best Nursery/Garden Center. A carryover from the 2019 Hall of Fame class, Western Garden Nursery on Vineyard Avenue continues to be a popular destination for people looking for plants, garden accessories, eco-friendly garden materials and more.
Jue’s Taekwon-Do — Best Martial Arts Studio. With classes for all ages and experience levels in their studio in the Oak Hills Shopping Center on Sunol Boulevard, Jue’s Taekwon-Do instructors emphasize discipline and mental strength as they help students grow their martial arts skills.
Schlicher Orthodontics — Best Orthodontist. A go-to for children and adults in need of orthodontic services, the team at Schlicher Orthodontics is led by Dr. William Schlicher out of their state-of-the-art facility on Stoneridge Drive and inspired each and every day by “how happy our patients are with their new smiles.”
Fabulous Properties — Best Real Estate Team. 2019 marked the fifth consecutive win for Fabulous Properties, but sadly it was also the last year awarding a key member of the team, as Donna Garrison passed away from cancer in early 2020. Her sister and longtime professional partner Susan Schall continues to lead the Fabulous Properties Team at Venture Sotheby’s International Realty with great success.
Nonni’s Bistro — Best Sunday Brunch. Downtown staple Nonni’s Bistro is adding a Hall of Fame award to their Readers’ Choice collection (which this year also includes an honor in a “Food & Drink” category below). Those looking for a tasty and fulfilling brunch in a great atmosphere know to turn to Nonni’s every Sunday morning.
Blossom Vegan — Best Vegetarian Cuisine. Always a favorite of local residents looking for a delicious plant-based meal, Blossom Vegan on Pimlico Drive enters the Hall of Fame on the strength of their flavorful Asian-style dishes pleasing to vegan and non-vegan diners alike.
Pleasanton Veterinary Hospital — Best Veterinarian. Pleasanton Veterinary Hospital on Hopyard Road has been the top choice for years for readers in need of preventative or wellness care for their beloved pets, providing exceptional medical treatment in an intimate and state-of-the-art environment.
Food & Drink
SideTrack Bar + Grill — Best American Food Restaurant. New on the list in 2021 is SideTrack Bar + Grill, a burgeoning favorite in downtown Pleasanton on West Angela Street, located next to the weekly farmers market. SideTrack is known for their handcrafted burgers with certified American Wagyu beef as well as a selection of local craft beers and fine wines.
The Jelly Donut — Best Bakery/Dessert. The local neighborhood favorite for children and adults alike, The Jelly Donut on Hopyard Road takes the win this year for Best Bakery/Dessert for their wide selection of fresh and delicious donuts that melt in your mouth.
Buckhorn Grill — Best BBQ. Back on the list is Buckhorn Grill with readers lauding their quality Californian barbecue. A great place to stop by when visiting the Stoneridge Shopping Center, Buckhorn Grill provides a unique dining experience with their signature tri-tip platters among other barbecue favorites.
Bob’s Giant Burgers — Best Burger. Bob’s Giant Burgers wins yet again for the fifth year in a row as the Best Burger in town. The family-owned business continues to be committed to making customers happy with their impressive burgers and milkshakes made with fresh ingredients.
Pleasanton Catering Company — Best Caterer. Pleasanton Catering Company goes above and beyond to bring the utmost quality of one of the most important aspects of any event: the food. Their professional service and well-executed presentation ensures the best experience for guests, whether it is a simple luncheon or a large wedding.
Andy & Yu’s — Best Chinese Restaurant. Winning Best Chinese Restaurant for a third time is Andy & Yu’s, serving fine Chinese cuisine and award-winning wine selection in downtown Pleasanton. Owner and executive chief Andy Tsang, who has been cooking since the age of 12, said he is dedicated to serving the community with an exceptional range of delicious dishes.
The Press — Best Deli/Sandwich. An artisan cafe that specializes in handcrafted paninis, toastinis and other baked goods, The Press wins for a consecutive third year as the Best Deli/Sandwich. Their commitment to using fresh and local ingredients continues to uphold their dedication to “nourish your body and mind.”
Bob’s Giant Burgers — Best French Fries. Not only is Bob’s Giant Burgers recognized for their burgers, but also for their french fries as they win their second title of 2021 — Best French Fries. Their tasty selection of fries, including chili cheese fries, garlic fries and sweet potato fries, has caught the attention of many readers.
Meadowlark Dairy — Best Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt. A previous Hall of Fame inductee and consistent winner of the Best Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt category, the iconic drive-thru Meadowlark Dairy in downtown Pleasanton has won the hearts of the readers once again with their flavorful soft serve swirls.
India Garden — Best Indian Restaurant. Winning the title of the Best Indian Restaurant continuously since the introduction of the category in the Readers’ Choice contest, India Garden is dedicated to serving a contemporary yet traditional taste of Indian cuisine. Readers enjoy their welcoming atmosphere that encourages anyone to try their different flavors, aromas and textures.
De La Torre’s Trattoria — Best Italian Restaurant. With their trattoria classics, De La Torre’s Trattoria is recognized for the fourth year as the Best Italian Restaurant. The neighborhood hidden gem serves classic Italian dishes, including various pastas, lasagnas, salads and pizzas, all made with locally produced ingredients.
Lokanta — Best Mediterranean Restaurant. Taking the title of Best Mediterranean Restaurant for the fifth year in a row, Lokanta continues to be a downtown favorite with their California-style Mediterranean cuisine. Their combination of Turkish, Greek and Mediterranean dishes made with local organic produce aims to ensure a new and refreshing dining experience.
Rancho Grande Taqueria — Best Mexican Restaurant. Known for serving traditional Mexican favorites of tortas, enchiladas and burritos, Rancho Grande Taqueria is the newest winner of Best Mexican Restaurant. The family-owned restaurant focuses on bringing authentic Mexican food to the community and also caters for events.
Gay 90’s Pizza & Pasta — Best Pizza. Established in 1959, Gay 90’s Pizza & Pasta was the first pizza parlor in Pleasanton. Today, they are known for their sourdough pizzas made from scratch and also serve other Italian dishes such as spaghetti and soup. The restaurant decorations with historical memorabilia and knickknacks create a cozy atmosphere and a rustic vibe.
Strizzi’s — Best Seafood Restaurant. The old-style Italian restaurant, highlighting its wood-fired grilled fresh fish fillets, has captured the tastes of readers again, as the past Hall of Fame member has taken the the title of Best Seafood Restaurant once again. Strizzi’s in downtown invites diners to a classy dining experience with their weekly seafood specials and fine wine.
Gene’s Fine Foods — Best Specialty Food Store. For the fourth consecutive year, Gene’s Fine Foods has won Readers’ Choice as the Best Specialty Food Store. Founded in 1952, the family-owned grocery store is committed to delivering the highest quality selection of products to its customers.
Bill’s Cafe — Best Sunday Brunch. With their classic breakfast and lunch specialties, Bill’s Cafe in Hopyard Village creates a warm and friendly environment for their customers. Their hearty brunch includes sandwiches, salads, baked goods, homemade soups, fresh squeezed orange juice, and much more.
Sozo Sushi — Best Sushi/Japanese Restaurant. A repeat winner of Best Sushi/Japanese Restaurant, Sozo Sushi has consistently served Japanese favorites including a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi specials, bento boxes and udon. Check them out on Hopyard Road off Valley Avenue.
New Thai Bistro — Best Thai Restaurant. Winning Readers’ Choice as Best Thai Restaurant for the fourth straight time is New Thai Bistro. Its authentic Thai food with exquisite presentation, an abundance of options and fresh ingredients has impressed readers yet again.
Nonni’s Bistro — Best Vegetarian Cuisine. Nonni’s Bistro wins its seventh award at Readers’ Choice, being previously recognized as Best Main Street Restaurant and Best Sunday Brunch. Serving modern European cuisine, Nonni’s is known for its made from scratch breakfast pot with potatoes, sauteed onions, spinach, cheddar cheese and eggs.
Just for Fun
Jazz N Taps Dance Studio — Best Dance School. Over the past two decades, Jazz N Taps has grown to accommodate more than 300 students learning different styles including tap, jazz, ballet and modern. Their commitment to making dance a fun experience and a memorable part in children’s development has inspired the community, earning them yet another Readers’ Choice award.
Firehouse Arts Center — Best Kept Secret Treasure of Pleasanton. After being closed for more than a year due to the pandemic, the Firehouse Arts Center has reopened and will continue to accommodate performances in music, poetry, theater, comedy and film — live and in-person. The city-operated venue downtown includes a theater, fine arts gallery and classroom space to promote entertainment and recreational participation in the arts.
Wente Vineyards — Best Local Winery. Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is the country’s oldest continuously operated family-owned winery. With a combination of traditional and contemporary winemaking techniques, Wente is recognized as a premier wine destination in the Livermore Valley with their wine tasting, as well as dining, concerts and championship golf.
Pleasanton Ridge — Best Place to Take Your Dog. A three-time winner of Best Place to Take Your Dog, Pleasanton Ridge is a spectacular site for dog walking. Its oak covered ridge, miles of trail and canyon views are not only suitable for dog walking but for hikers and bicyclists alike.
Clover Creek — Best Place to Buy a Gift. Downtown Pleasanton’s own Clover Creek wins Best Place to Buy a Gift with its abundance of home decorations and specialty gifts. The Main Street shop (also recognized as Best Home Furnishings) continues to be a popular destination, especially during holiday seasons.
Porky’s Pizza Palace — Best Sports Bar. A previous recipient of Best Pizza, Porky’s Pizza Palace wins Best Sports Bar this year. Their friendly-family atmosphere with authentic hand-tossed pizza, video games and craft-brewed beer on tap make it the perfect place for sports fans and friends to enjoy an evening.
At Home
S&G Carpet — Best Carpet/Flooring. With their vast selection of flooring and efficient installation services, S&G Carpet wins Best Carpet/Flooring again. Their showrooms along with thousands of take-home samples have helped readers choose the perfect flooring for their space.
Spotless — Best Carpet Cleaning. Since 2002, Spotless has provided the community with floor cleaning services that exceed expectations. Their commitment to using environmentally friendly and safe cleaning methods along with dedication to maximizing customer satisfaction has really stood out to our readers, who picked them as Pleasanton’s best.
Bay Home & Window — Best Closet Systems. Specializing in custom interior shutters, custom closets and built-in furniture systems, Bay Home & Window is dedicated to providing customers with the most suitable designs for their storage needs. With renowned designers and installation professionals, our readers know they deliver products with the utmost quality.
All Natural Stone — Best Granite & Tile Supplier. Serving the Bay Area for over a decade, All Natural Stone provides a wide selection of fine tile and stone slabs that transform and personalize spaces. Their ability to accommodate any style and preferences has earned them Best Granite & Tile Supplier at Readers’ Choice — one of the new categories this year.
Richard’s Heating & Air — Best Heating/AC Service. Previous Hall of Fame inductee, Richard’s Heating & Air is back for yet another win as Best Heating/AC Service. With their motto “We rather repair than replace,” they are committed to providing customers with top-notch air conditioning and heating system maintenance.
Clover Creek — Best Home Furnishings. A Readers’ Choice favorite (with two wins this year), Clover Creek wins Best Home Furnishings for the third year in a row. Their variety of home decorations and recommendations from staff are sure to help anyone find their style.
JLH Construction and Design — Best Home Improvement Contractor. JLH Construction and Design strives for excellence as they employ the best modern technologies along with quality practices to achieve “perfectionism in construction.” Their services include full construction, remodeling, restoration and property improvement.
Virtue Painting Company — Best House Painters. With a philosophy of reimagining homes through colors, Virtue Painting Company makes dreams a reality with their expertise and creativity. Their dedication to longevity, aesthetics and distinction have allowed them to be recognized as Best House Painters.
R&S Landscaping & Maintenance — Best Landscaping Service. A new Readers’ Choice winner, R&S Landscaping & Maintenance focuses on a variety of services including irrigation repair, tree work, landscape lighting and lawn spraying. They take pride in their work in making neighborhood lawns beautiful and pristine.
Western Star Nursery — Best Nursery/Garden Center. Western Star Nursery, a wholesale nursery providing quality plant and landscaping material, is back with their second win as Best Nursery/Garden Center. Offering ornamental shrubs and perennials to drought tolerant plants, readers know Western Star Nursery is the go-to place for any plant needs.
Patriot Pest Management — Best Pest Control. For the second year in a row, Patriot Pest Management has impressed readers with their exceptional service in pest control. The family-owned business is willing to take on any pest problems for both homes and businesses to ensure the health and safety of the community.
Savior Plumbing — Best Plumber. Savior Plumbing is yet again recognized as Best Plumber, with their fifth consecutive award in Readers’ Choice. Striving to deliver efficient services at fair prices, Savior Plumbing said they are ready to fix any plumbing problem, whether it be repairing leaking pipes or repairing gas lines.
Adams Pool Solutions — Best Pool Construction. Starting in 1954, Adams Pool Solutions has had experience building and renovating swimming pools for decades. With meticulous attention to detail and planning as well as utilizing the best materials and artisans, Adams Pool Solutions aims to set the standard for residential and commercial pools.
Pool Time — Best Pool Maintenance. Taking care of the most difficult aspects of owning a pool, Pool Time said they clean and maintain your pools so that you don’t have to. Their services ensure that the pool has proper water chemistry and is bug-free, allowing for the best swimming experience. And our readers have taken note.
Brian Keller Concrete Construction — Best Residential Concrete Contractor. Serving the community for more than 35 years, Brian Keller Concrete Construction has provided services in concretes, patios, driveways, masonry, firepits and landscaping. Their attention to detail and licensed professional contractors have earned them Best Residential Concrete Contractor title — a new award this year.
Element Roofing — Best Roofer. Whether preparing for the winter or sprucing up the appearance of a house, Element Roofing is ready to do the job with their reliable and efficient roofing services supported by safety standards and modern techniques. Delivering timely repairs, initial inspections and reliable cost estimates, they are dedicated to providing the best service to neighborhood homes.
Window-ology — Best Window Treatments. Experts in window covering technology and fashion, motorization and automation, Window-ology has gotten “Window coverings down to a science.” From blinds and shutters to drapery and shades, Window-ology enhances the functionality of any home with increased control over light, privacy, insulation and more.
Health & Beauty
Eastern Medical — Best Acupuncture. A Readers’ Choice favorite, Eastern Medical continues to dominate the contest as Best Acupuncture. The previous Hall of Fame recipient works to heal and prevent illnesses with all natural methods even during difficult times.
Cosmo’s Barber Shop — Best Barbershop. Receiving its fifth win as Best Barbershop, the longstanding barbershop continues to be a local favorite and a convenient go-to location for haircuts and styling. In Pleasanton for over 40 years, Cosmo’s Barber Shop has brought personalized cuts and quality service to the community.
Forest Chiropractic Office — Best Chiropractic Office (Tie). Practicing since 1975, owner Dr. Thomas Forest specializes in a precise and effective chiropractic technique called the Blair Upper Cervical technique. With their expertise, Forest Chiropractic Office can help with back and neck pain, headaches, numbness, asthma and more.
Spinal Health Chiropractic — Best Chiropractic Office (Tie). From back pain to muscular tightness, Dr. Ryan Spuller from Spinal Health Chiropractic can help relieve and achieve health goals. With the latest technology of nonsurgical spinal decompression, digital x-rays, class IV laser therapy, their chiropractic treatment is specialized and effective.
Girlfriends — Best Clothing Store. Back-to-back winner of Best Clothing Store is Main Street favorite Girlfriends Boutique. With an array of high-fashion and unique clothing, as well as exceptional recommendations from staff, customers are bound to find their perfect outfit.
The Image Salon & Day Spa — Best Day Spa. The double winner this year, including for Best Day Spa, The Image Salon & Day Spa has been recognized for the relaxing spa experience they deliver. With a mission of providing the best customer service in a clean and friendly environment, readers know this is the place to go to enjoy facial, body and add-on spa treatments.
Pleasanton Dentist Jerry Sanchez — Best Dental Office. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers, implants and bridges, restorative services, invisalign and sedation dentistry, Pleasanton Dentist Jerry Sanchez provides individualized dental care to their patients. In the past year, they have incorporated increased safety measures to support their mission of connecting to care safely.
VIP Cleaners — Best Dry Cleaner. Located in the heart of Pleasanton, VIP Cleaners provides environmentally friendly and safe dry cleaning with personalized care to customer garments and clothing. No matter if its leather, silk, suede or fur, VIP Cleaners can clean it.
Body Balance — Best Fitness Center/Gym. Body Balance provides personal fitness, nutrition and massage services suitable for anyone of any age looking to improve their overall wellness. With a passionate team delivering ongoing education, motivation and guidance in health and fitness, Body Balance on Ray Street is a new winner for Best Fitness Center/Gym.
The Image Salon & Day Spa — Best Hair Salon for Women. Winning Best Hair Salon for Women, Image Salon & Day Spa has impressed readers with their Aveda concept hair salon, with customized haircuts, corrective color, highlighting, lowlighting, hair extensions, permanent waves and more.
Hired Hands Homecare — Best Home Healthcare. Dedicated to providing security and compassionate homecare services, Hired Hands Homecare wins Best Home Health Care for a third year overall. They offer services including accompaniment, companionship, medication reminders, daily personal hygiene, hospice support and care coordination.
Kasaria Jewelers — Best Jewelry Store. Voted again as Best Jewelry Store is the downtown shop, Kasaria Jewelers. The family-owned business provides excellent craftsmanship with custom designs and repairs as well as a wide selection of loose diamonds and colored stones.
KicksUSA — Best Martial Arts Studio. With increased challenges seen especially in the past year, KicksUSA aims to not only teach students self defense and martial arts but also life skills to deal with these conflicts. The taekwondo martial arts school is adaptable in providing regular group classes or private instruction based on student needs.
Healthy Necessity Massage — Best Massage. Previously recognized Hall of Fame recipient Health Necessity Massage continues to dominate as Best Massage in Readers’ Choice. With customized massages fit to specific needs, Healthy Necessity Massage aims to also engage patients to understand the underlying cause of problems and how massage therapy helps.
MD Spa — Best Medical Spa. Winning Best Medical Spa yet again is MD Spa, which provides a combination of services in plastic surgery with med spa. Their cosmetic surgery is exceptional and transformative with the skills and expertise of Dr. Robert Gray.
Bollinger Nail Salon — Best Nail Care. A previous Hall of Fame inductee, Bollinger Nail Salon takes Best Nail Care once again. Recognized for their comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, the Pleasanton nail salon boasts a wide selection of manicure and pedicure services as well as a well-maintained and hygienic environment.
Valley Eyecare Center — Best Optometrist. Providing professional eye care in Pleasanton for over 45 years, Valley Eyecare Center doctors are committed to diagnosing, treating and managing the health of patients’ eyes with their state-of-the-art technology. Their services include cataract surgery, corneal surgery, laser vision correction, eyeglass prescriptions and contact lens services.
Gary Stafford Orthodontics — Best Orthodontist. At Gary Stafford Orthodontics, Dr. Stafford and his team provide exceptional orthodontic care services with digital radiographs and photographs, braces, wires and aligners to create the most beautiful smiles possible. The team is committed to providing a friendly yet professional environment with clear communication, attention and education to patients.
Downtown Yoga — Best Yoga/Pilates. Dedicated to helping the community realize the benefits of yoga and reclaiming well-being, Downtown Yoga provides a variety of yoga programs and classes based on level, age and other factors. With virtual trends due to the pandemic, Downtown Yoga has also changed their yoga experience with pre-recorded and livestream classes.
Services
B&S Hacienda — Best Auto Body Repair. Established in 1956, B&S Hacienda is a third-generation family-owned business that has been committed to quality repair and customer service. With services ranging from collision repair to vehicle painting, they have been recognized as Best Auto Body Repair by readers.
Precision Auto Repair — Best Auto Repair. Precision Auto Repair continues to be a readers’ favorite as the former Hall of Fame recipient wins Best Auto Repair once more. With a goal of providing the best auto repair service in town, they hire professionally trained and certified mechanics and technicians and utilize their experience in the industry to prevent dangerous malfunctions.
Summit Financial Advisors — Best Financial Planner. With their core principles of putting their clients first, Summit Financial Advisors is dedicated to building trust and implementing solutions to support clients in their financial endeavors. More than financial planning, they aim to be diligently involved in the community with many charities, organizations and educating youth on personal finances.
Alexandria’s Flowers — Best Florist. A previous Hall of Fame inductee and overall consistent Readers’ Choice favorite, Alexandria’s Flowers continues to be recognized as Best Florist. The family-owned downtown flower shop offers unique and creative floral arrangements fitting for any occasion or event.
Bill Evans-Farmers — Best Insurance Agent. With his commitment to communicating with clients about their coverage options and answering any questions, Bill Evans at Farmers Insurance is recognized as this year’s Best Insurance Agent. Clients praise him for his patience and professionalism when dealing with any issues or needs.
Diversified Mortgage Group — Best Mortgage Brokerage. Diversified Mortgage Group wins their second consecutive Readers’ Choice award this year as they have demonstrated their commitment to providing the right home loan solutions to their customers. Prioritizing customer service and building relationships, they provide step-by-step processes and information to make sure clients are informed on their loan decisions.
Shear Magic — Best Pet Groomer. Back-to-back winner of Best Pet Groomer, Shear Magic owners Cinda and Michael Freitas emphasize patience and compassion in the grooming process so that animals are happy and safe. Their understanding and care for all kinds of dogs and personalities has been commended by local dog owners.
Keelie’s Pet Sitting — Best Pet Sitting/Daycare. For their fifth overall and third consecutive Readers’ Choice award, Keelie’s Pet Sitting wins Best Pet Sitting/Daycare once again. Owner Keelie Chamberland offers a unique service of pet sitting in the comfort of their own home along with dog walking services.
Bella Luna Studios — Best Photographer. Bella Luna Studios earns yet another win for Best Photographer as its 11th win at Readers’ Choice. Specializing in family, newborn, event, political campaign and corporate photography, owner Christina Gray personally works on every shoot to deliver the best images.
Gingerbread Preschool — Best Preschool/Daycare. The first winner of the new category Best Preschool/Daycare, Gingerbread Preschool has served the Pleasanton community for more than 50 years. Their mission is to prepare children, socially and emotionally, for kindergarten with their progressive curriculum and passionate teachers.
Valley Christian School — Best Private School. With their mission to “develop young leaders,” Valley Christian School fosters leadership and academic thinking with Christian principles of compassion, humility and growth. With their teachers and coaches going above and beyond to support students in making an impact on the world, Valley Christian is the first winner in this new category.
Gina Piper-Elation Real Estate — Best Real Estate Agent. Her third consecutive year back as Best Real Estate Agent after being in Hall of Fame 2016 and 2017, Gina Piper continues to impress readers with her real estate work in the Tri-Valley region. With more than 26 years of experience, her knowledge has proven invaluable to readers in the real estate scene.
Elation Real Estate — Best Real Estate Brokerage. Owner Gina Piper followed her dream of a boutique real estate company in downtown Pleasanton by establishing Elation Real Estate. With Piper and her team’s experience and expertise, Elation Real Estate has successfully helped navigate homebuyers and sellers with their sales techniques and step-by-step guidance.
Venema Homes Team — Best Real Estate Team. Specializing in luxury home sales, Venema Homes Team has been recognized for their sales expertise and strategies as Best Real Estate Team this year. Founder Liz Venema and her team have consistently delivered successful results with their emphasis on positioning, marketing and negotiation.
Steps Tutoring and SAT/ACT Prep — Best Tutoring School. With their outstanding academic tutoring and college counseling services, Steps Tutoring and SAT/ACT Prep takes a back-to-back win as Best Tutoring School. Although their in-person classrooms were closed because of the pandemic, Steps Tutoring and SAT/ACT Prep adjusted to virtual tutoring to help students through difficult times.
Paws of Pleasanton — Best Veterinarian. Paws of Pleasanton is a family-owned veterinary care committed to providing high-quality care in a fear free environment. Their dedication toward progressive care with cutting edge technology, sustainability and compassionate efforts have won them Best Veterinarian this year.