The Island’s business community gathered Wednesday evening at Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs for the annual Best of the Vineyard awards celebration, hosted by Martha’s Vineyard Magazine. The event brought together business owners, employees, and community members to recognize the people and organizations that residents and visitors alike consider the best the Island has to offer.
This year’s contest drew impressive participation, with more than 64,000 votes cast across 100 categories. The awards recognize excellence in everything from dining and entertainment to shopping, lodging and professional services.
Comedian Charlie Nadler returned for his third year as master of ceremonies, announcing the winners with his trademark humor.
In addition to presenting the 100 designated awards, he entertained attendees with several tongue-in-cheek honors, including Best Thing About Nantucket.
“There’s nothing here,” he joked, tossing the envelope aside.
The awards highlighted both longtime favorites and emerging businesses. Familiar winners included ArtCliff Diner for Best Breakfast, Basics Clothing Company for Best Children’s Clothing, and Caleen’s Day Spa for Best Mani/Pedi. 7a Foods continued its remarkable streak, earning Best Breakfast Sandwich for the tenth consecutive year, while CB Stark Jewelers extended an even longer run, winning Best Jeweler every year since the awards were established in 1996.
Several newer honorees also earned recognition. Black Joy Kitchen was named Best New Restaurant, while Oso took home Best New Store/Business. Tomahawk Charters earned its first Best Fishing Charter award, and The @ttic received its first Best of the Vineyard honor for Best Cocktails.
Other winners included Vineyard Decorators for Best Furniture/Home Goods Store and the Granary Gallery for Best Art Gallery. Millers Pro led the pack with eight awards across its building, landscape, roofing and siding, and pools and spa divisions.
For many recipients, the awards serve as validation of the dedication and effort invested in their work. Addressing the crowd before the ceremony, Vineyard Gazette Media Group publisher Monica Brady-Myerov emphasized the significance of the recognition.
“Winning Best of the Vineyard has a lasting effect,” she said. “Many Islanders and tourists make their decisions based on your votes.”
Although the evening focused on friendly competition, it also underscored the strength and camaraderie of the Island business community.
"The fact that we have such a variety of wonderful restaurants, stores, and services to choose from makes us all winners," said Martha's Vineyard Magazine editor Vanessa Czarnecki.
For a complete list of winners and runners-up, pick up a copy of the July issue of Martha’s Vineyard Magazine.
