Businesses Of The Year: New City's Best

NEW CITY, NY — It's been a tough year for Hudson Valley businesses. The coronavirus pandemic presented enormous challenges for most, from the stay-home orders in the spring to restrictions and other hurdles from fall into winter.

To recognize all their efforts, Patch asked readers to nominate Local Businesses of the Year, whether it was the restaurant that made special accommodations for takeout, the shop that opened early, the pizzeria that went out of its way to deliver, the hardware store owner that offered invaluable advice or something else.

We have received many responses. Here are the nominations Patch has received so far in New City:

Christine Knorr Psychotherapy Associates, New City. Knorr, who has been providing pro bono and reduced fee counseling, said the pandemic "has set off a mental health crisis that has affected teens, young adults, and those with eating disorders disproportionately."

The Place, New City. "What set them apart is how they treated their customers and the upbeat attitude they constantly displayed," said Jill King. "Even if you had never been to their restaurant in the past they treated you as if you were a long time friend and made the extra effort to get to know their new customers and treat them like family."

City Line Diner, New City. This nomination made us nostalgic for the days before the coronavirus. "Very comfortable eating there. It's like eating at home. No rushing you out the door. Very Good Service and Host. I highly recommend this place," said Charles Samoylo.

Caked Up Cafe, New City. "Local family made good!" said the nominators.

River Court On Main Restaurant, New City, received several nominations. "Throughout this pandemic, we ordered curbside pickup and were delighted with the warmth of the food and how promptly it was delivered outside to us," said Maureen and Tommy Landers. "They have certainly tried their best for the community during this pandemic and I wish them good luck through it all."

Clean Image Dry Cleaning, New City. "The new owner took a dying business with low volume and poor customer service and turned it around. When COVID arrived he did all he could to retain his employees and stay open. While he is still not nearly at full capacity he is operating and keeping customers satisfied. Recent equipment repairs set him back so it’s important for customers to keep supporting him as he supported us," said customer John Stech.

16 Handles, New City. "16 Handles went above and beyond to remain open when customers were not allowed in-store. From their cleaning/safety protocols to online ordering for curbside pickup they adapted and moved quickly so their loyal customers could still enjoy their favorite treats. They remained open even when it probably wasn't cost-effective for them to do so, so as not to disappoint their customers," said nominator Anna Houlihan.

DeCicco Family Markets, New City. "This family-owned supermarket truly came to our rescue during the worst part of the Spring lockdown!" said customer Eva R. Steen. "They quickly put into place a system for customers to place orders by email as well as offering efficient curbside pick-up. After completing an online form, they retained customers' credit card information in a secure manner further streamlining the process. Every interaction with their employees has been, and continues to be, kind and incredibly helpful. This local business is absolutely an asset to our community and should be recognized as such!"

Nails by Johanna, New City. "They make sure you are safe and spread apart. The stations are all individual and protected. They are so accommodating with appointments and go the extra mile to make sure you are comfortable," said Stacey Torma.

New City Neighbors Magazine. "This magazine is all upbeat sharing the positives of the New City community even in light of all the world chaos and political upheaval. It is the public place where neighbors bond and find what they have in common," said Laura Ferran, who works there.

Steve's Prime Meats and Catering, Congers. "Through the pandemic, the owner and staff continued to provide personal service to his customers, abiding by the state pandemic rules, but got product in and handled all the demands in a prompt and kind manner," said Mary Ann Alianiello.

Michael Rothstein Dentistry, New City. Among other things, Dr. Rothstein is running a 'Support Local Businesses' contest in his office by raffling off gift cards he is buying from local businesses. Reopening after the shutdown, the practice hired back more employees in order to help with the economy.

You can nominate any local business you feel should be recognized.