Worcester honors 24 iconic local businesses

Toni Caushi

Worcester Telegram & Gazette USA TODAY NETWORK

WORCESTER – The city has selected 24 businesses for the first edition of an annual award honoring longtime establishments in Worcester.

The Legacy Business Award was awarded to businesses that the city said, in a statement, “help define the fabric of our neighborhoods, provide jobs and services, and embody the spirit of the city.”

Released June 18, the list included about a dozen food establishments, as well as clothing stores and workshops, all of which have been in business for about 70 years.

While the city received 309 nominations, 62 of the businesses were deemed eligible for the award, the city said in a statement.

The nominations were scored in partnership with the Museum of Worcester, Preservation Worcester and Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, the city said.

A ceremony will be held for the businesses at an award ceremony later

this summer, the city added.

“Each of these businesses are iconic establishments that represent the best of Worcester,” said City Manager Eric D. Batista, in a statement. “I want to congratulate all of them on their longevity and ingenuity, which has allowed them to stay in business for generations.

“If there is a business on this list that you’ve never frequented, I encourage you to seek them out. Small businesses are the backbone our community.”

Here’s the full list of the 24 businesses:

● Sneakerama, 12 Lake Ave. ● Addie Lee’s Soul Food, 596 Main St.

● Maria’s Kitchen, 826 Main St. ● Jo Ann Warren Studio, 997 Millbury St.

● Moynagh’s Tavern, 25 Exchange St.

● Boulevard Diner, 155 Shrewsbury St.

● Ralphs Chadwick Square Diner, 148 Grove St.

● Kenmore Diner, 250 Franklin St. ● Central Shoe Repair, 37 Mechanic St.

● Da-Lat Restaurant, 425 Park Ave. ● True Value Hardware, 113 Hamilton St.

● Bonardi’s Formalwear, 179 Highland

St.

● Parkway Diner, 148 Shrewsbury St.

● Carlitos Barbershop, 925 Main St. ● That’s Entertainment, 244 Park Ave.

● Ed Hyder’s Mediterranean Marketplace, 408 Pleasant St.

● George’s Coney Island, 158 Southbridge St.

● C.C. Lowell, 455 Pleasant St. ● Jerrys Tastee Freeze, 2 Inverness Ave.

● Enchanted Fireside, 728 West Boylston St.

● Dodge Park Rest Home, 101 Randolph Road

● Lou Roc’s Diner, 1074 West Boylston St.

● Miss Worcester Diner, 300 Southbridge St.

● Marvin’s Corner Lunch, 131 Lamartine St.

he Legacy Business Award was awarded to businesses that the city said, in a statement, “help define the fabric of our neighborhoods, provide jobs and services, and embody the spirit of the city.”

The Boulevard Diner is among 24 businesses selected to receive a Legacy Business Award from the City of Worcester.

RICK CINCLAIR/TELEGRAM & GAZETTE