AY's Best
For seven years, we've asked AY readers to nominate the business, venues and individuals who provide the finest services and prodcuts. The readers have spoken, and here are the resuts.

Caterer
Simply the Best
This local catering company has been growing in leaps and bounds since its beginning in 1987. They cater events from simple office lunches to upscale events and weddings. They are known for their creative and delicious spreads. (501) 955-2020 or simplythebestcatering.com.

Family Restaurant
Dixie Café
There’s nothing like a good Southern meal, and with a name like Dixie, you know this place delivers. Standards, such as chicken and dumplings. (501) 224-3728 or dixiecafe.com.

Lunch Spot
Trio’s
This restaurant is perfect for taking a break in the middle of the day. Enjoy the weather while you dine alfresco and don’t forget to indulge in the award-winning strawberry shortcake. (501) 221-3330 or triosrestaurant.com.

New Restaurant
Bill Valentine’s Ballpark Restaurant
This upscale Italian bistro is enjoying its second season at Dickey-Stephens Park. Dine inside the 1920s-style restaurant or on the beautiful patio overlooking the ball field and the Little Rock skyline. (501) 324-2255 or travs.com/dickey/billval.

Steak House
Sonny Williams’ Steak Room
The home of “no skinny steaks” is once again your favorite, and no wonder! This Riverfront restaurant maintains an elegant atmosphere and serves quality beef cuts. (501) 324-2999 or sonnywilliamssteakroom.com.

Brunch
Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa
The buffet at this historic hotel is a feast for the eyes as well as the appetite. Fresh fruits and vegetables, a variety of entrees, breads and desserts are all well prepared. (800) 643-1502 or arlingtonhotel.com.

Wine List
Ferneau
With a list of more than 250 wines, it is obvious why Ferneau was chosen by our readers as one of the very best. (501) 603-9208 or ferneaurestaurant.com.

Outdoor Dining
Capers
There is nothing more relaxing than outdoor dining on a cool spring evening. Sample from an array of creative dishes at the restaurant. (501) 868-7600 or capersrestaurant.com.

Coffee Shop
Starbucks Coffee
Starbucks has something to offer all coffee lovers. With their lounge-like settings, delicious pastries and multiple locations, this national chain has become increasingly popular among Arkansans. Starbucks.com.

Charity
Arkansas Children’s Hospital
ACH is the state’s leading healthcare facility for children. Give to the children through a monetary gift; volunteer; donate items; or donate time and resources. (501) 364-1100 or archildren.org.

Charity Event
Komen Race for the Cure
This fun and healthy event brings women and men together to show their support for breast cancer awareness. Find out how you can get involved. (501) 202-4399 or komenarkansas.org.

Golf Course
Greystone Country Club
This Cabot-based country club is home to two of the most beautiful 18-hole, championship golf courses along the Natural State Golf Trail. (501) 941-4444 or greystonedevelopment.com.

Entertainment Venue
Alltel Arena
Alltel Arena is THE place for live entertainment in central Arkansas. Great seating, parking and stadium food vendors top off the experience.  (501) 975-9000 or alltelarena.com.

Casino
Grand Casino Tunica
Grand gaming, a Par 72 golf course and a 16,000 square-foot spa/salon facility are just a few of the many reasons this resort is a favorite among AY’s readers. (800) 39GRAND or harrahs.com.

Museum
Arkansas Arts Center
For many years, the Arkansas Arts Center has been a source of appreciation and education, and the center continues this tradition with great exhibits and events. (501) 372-4000 or arkarts.com.

Art Gallery
Blue Moon Gallery
Artists, such as Randall Good, a love of art and friendly, attentive customer service are all part of the charm of Blue Moon. (501) 318-2787 or bluemoonartgallery.com.


(See the May 2008 issue for more category results as well as the runners-up)