Results are finally in for the Best of Bergen 2025 poll, and (201) readers have made their choices known. From food and shopping to health and beauty services, as well as places to go and things to do, the annual poll celebrates the local favorites across 142 different categories. This marks the nineteenth edition of the (201) Magazine poll, which engages the community through two rounds of voting over eight weeks to determine who rises above the competition.
The first round of voting began on October 7, 2024, allowing readers to nominate their favorite services and venues. This step concluded on October 31, 2024. After tallying the votes, the top seven nominations from each category made it to the second round, which kicked off on December 9, 2024, and ran until January 10, 2025. Each voter was permitted one vote per category, per person, per round. This year’s competition was fierce, as the nominations covered every possible aspect of life and leisure, representing the varied tastes and preferences of Bergen’s residents.
Readers engaged deeply with the polling process, passionately supporting their favorite local businesses. The categories included Food & Drink, Health & Beauty, and Shopping & Services, reflecting what Bergen has to offer. The voting system is part of the Official Community Choice Awards, conducted through the USA Today Network, which spans over 100 regions nationwide. This unique format empowers readers to highlight the best businesses corresponding to their personal experiences.
By participating, winners can proudly claim the distinction of being the "Best of Bergen"—a title representing both community support and recognition of excellence. Winning this poll not only honors the local businesses, but also reinforces the importance of community engagement and loyalty, as the community collectively voices its preferences.
This process and the resultant list highlight not just the variety of options available but also the dedication of both the businesses and their patrons. The poll serves as both a celebration of what Bergen offers and as guidance for residents and visitors seeking stellar services and experiences. Every nomination and final placement gives insight not only to favorites but also shapes local trends.
Those interested can see how businesses have ranked across various categories by checking out the results published by (201) Magazine. Participants can also learn more about the Official Community Choice Awards on the dedicated website, helping not only to recognize local talent but also to encourage new consumers to experience the best services available.
Winners are listed according to their finishing order within the rankings of each category, and the result is not just data, but a heartening reflection of what makes living and spending time in Bergen so worthwhile. It’s all about knowing where to go for what you need and supporting local businesses as they strive to provide the best possible service.
With numerous contenders battling it out across several categories, the winners will find themselves with increased visibility and customer footfall—both significant boosts for any local establishment. After all the votes are cast and tallied, the celebration begins, showcasing the very best of what Bergen has to offer.
This year's results allow readers to act on their preferences by visiting the winners, knowing they have the quality endorsement of their community behind them. For anyone new to the area or seeking fresh experiences, this is the definitive guide to the best of Bergen, determined directly by those who know it best—its residents.