Vote for Lemont's Business of the Year
We received seven nominations for our inaugural Business of the Year honor. Now it's time to vote for a winner. Voting runs through Friday, Dec. 30, at 5 p.m.
Editor's Note: As of 5 p.m. Friday, the winner of the Business of the Year poll was Jimbo's Pizza. The poll was supposed to be shut down after that time but was inadvertently left open (causing a slew of last-minute votes for Turnabout). We regret any confusion and thank everyone for their participation.
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We asked you for your nominations, and you came through. Now it’s time to vote for Lemont Patch’s Business of the Year.
We have seven nominees for this inaugural honor, all of whom were suggested by members of the community. Below, you’ll find our poll, where you can vote for the business you think is most deserving of the award. Voting will remain open through 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30, with the winner announced the following week here on Patch.
Thanks very much for taking the time to vote. And now, your nominees for the Lemont Patch Business of the Year:
Chipain's
Business Type/Service: Grocery
Address: 1100 State St.
Description: Everyone who has lived in Lemont over the past two decades knows Chipain's. This unique grocery store was here long before other national chain grocery stores and is known for its personable employees and long-time customers. Chipain's managers say that its dedicated following is due not only to the fact that the grocery store offers some products customers can't find elsewhere, but also because the workers have a good one-on-one relationship with shoppers.
What You Said: "They do quite a bit for the community. They recycle plastic bags, the service is great and they are willing to help the customer get products needed ... They have donated to different organizations, and have a donation basket for the local food pantry there year-round."
Jeffrey LaMorte Salon and Day Spa
Business Type/Service: Hair salon and spa services
Address: 1243 State St.
Description: You will find no attitude at this high-style, but friendly-feeling salon and spa. Leather chairs, dark-wood furnishings and deep-red accents create an elegant and relaxing setting. This is Jeffrey LaMorte's third salon and spa (Frankfort and Orland Park are other locations). Services offered include hair care, skin care and massage.
What You Said: "They are always so willing to donate items for fundraisers. They have even had several fundraisers for families in our community ... They have really embraced the community by being so generous with their time and services."
Jimbo's Pizza
Business Type/Service: Pizza
Address: 12267 Walker Road
Description: Jimbo's Pizza opened in 1998 and has been a local favorite ever since. It's famous for its "Lemontster," the largest pizza in town, but also offers sandwiches, appetizers and catering.
What You Said: "The pizza is delicious and the workers are friendly and helpful. This is the best food for the price! Lemont is better off because of Jimbo's"
"(Jimbo's is) always giving back to the community especially to the schools."
"They are awesome as they provide the best gluten-free pizza ever! There are not many choices in the area, but even if there were I would only eat Jimbo's ... They have a nomination for a deserving person to get a free pizza! What a great way to pay back helpful neighbors, help out a sick friend, etc."
Pawz and Klawz Pet Salon
Business Type/Service: Pet grooming
Address: 447 Talcott Ave.
Description: Pawz and Klawz is a full-service pet salon located at in downtown Lemont's Talcott Square. They also carry toys and clothing.
What You Said: "I found a stray and starving dog in Lemont, and brought it to many places that deal with animals to see if anyone recognized the dog. Not only did Ginger look the dog over for me, but she cleaned him up and continues to groom him for me free of cost because I saved him ... They get our pet owners and pets together online and meetings at the dog park. I think anyone with a pet in Lemont has been involved with this business in a positive way!"
Starbucks
Business Type/Service: Coffee
Address: 1251 State St.
Description: Located on State Street, Starbucks has drive-through service and outdoor patio seating. It offers a wide variety of drinks, specializing in espresso, coffee and tea. Starbucks also has baked goods, snacks, hot breakfast items, sandwiches and yogurt. It also has free Wi-Fi service available for customers.
What You Said: "Best service in town ... Services Lemonters day and eve."
Sweetwater Deli
Business Type/Service: Deli/Grocery
Address: 316 Canal St.
Description: Sweetwater Deli is a family-owned market and delicatessen that serves a broad selection of fresh, high quality products, including breads, produce, giardeniera, oils, sauces and more. Sweetwater is also stocked with an assortment of luncheon meats, soups and salads.
What You Said: "Best new business by far in Lemont ... It actually draws customers!"
Turnabout Pizza
Business Type/Service: Pizza
Address: 1000 Main St.
Description: A local favorite, Turnabout Pizza offers five sizes of delicious pizza plus some sandwiches. Turnabout is well known for its unique twisted crust—stop by and try some for yourself. The friendly staff will be happy to help you.
What You Said: "Their pizza is awesome—great flavor, friendly people ... It's been there for many, many years."
Marie Markowski
4:18 pm on Monday, December 26, 2011
I'm originally from Chicago-can I vote twice? You have 2 of my very favorite places and I feel terrible having to choose one over the other!
Barbara Buschman
10:31 pm on Monday, December 26, 2011
Not only is Chipains customer service excellent, they help out all organizations all year long.
Don Mueggenborg
7:49 am on Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Chipains is the only grocer in Lemont that regularly donates to the Lemont Open Pantries and has a place for t;he public to donate food to the pantries..
Jorg Manteno
8:40 am on Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Great point!
Greg Alan
11:28 am on Tuesday, December 27, 2011
I've lived in Lemont 40+ years. Only recently have moved out...but I'd have to say, it would be between Chipain's and Turnabout Pizza. About the ONLY businesses listed, that have stayed open in Lemont, for ANY length of time!! Chipain's has always donated toward the community...and Turnabout, because they are a GREAT Family business, and have been successful for so many years!
bob ognar
1:20 pm on Tuesday, December 27, 2011
what about NICK'S ?
Lemontster
7:49 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Such a shame they've changed the burger . . .
Lemontster
8:34 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Really 4 cheeseburgers to go for $40?
Ray
2:45 pm on Tuesday, December 27, 2011
I can't decide between Ordman's Park & Shop, Totura's, or Wally's Bakery.
Lee Ristow
7:57 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Mmmmm, Wally's Bakery. I really miss Wally and the girls.
Lemontster
7:58 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
How do you not include The Strand in your quandary?
Ann Paul
9:08 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Sure miss Totura's polish sausage!
Lemontster
9:48 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
re: Ann Paul . . . . Totura's Polish Sausage was a staple for Holiday meals!!
Ann Paul
9:58 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Ray! Did we forget Aldona's clothing and shoe stores? Remember Forzley's? Ben Franklin? Now I am really aging myself here.
Ray
10:03 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Wow! OK, then we also have to add Fritz's Restaurant, H&M Sporting Goods, The Clip Joint, and Feeb's!
Ann Paul
10:09 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
@Ray, good ones! How about Wend's and The Beaten Path and Ed James Chevrolet!
Ann Paul
10:12 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
@ Ray, I know this is way off topic of this article, but I am having too much darn fun here. How could I forget Dog 'n Suds?????
Lemontster
7:48 am on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Nick's is no longer the Nick's Lemont has known over the years! Much sadness!!
Lemont4Life
3:32 pm on Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Sad to not see Tom's Place in the running. :(