The diners, taverns, restaurants, repair shops and family-owned businesses that have become fixtures of Worcester life will take center stage later this summer as the city honors the inaugural recipients of its new Legacy Business Awards.
City Manager Eric D. Batista announced Thursday that 24 longtime Worcester businesses have been picked for the city’s first Legacy Business program, an initiative designed to recognize establishments that have stood the test of time while helping shape the city’s neighborhoods, economy and identity.
The businesses span a wide cross-section of Worcester life, from iconic diners and neighborhood eateries to retailers, service businesses and cultural institutions. Together, they have operated in the city for an average of 70 years, according to the announcement, with many remaining family-owned across multiple generations.
“Each of these businesses are iconic establishments that represent the best of Worcester,” Batista said in the announcement. “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.”
The inaugural class includes several of Worcester’s best-known diners, including Boulevard Diner, Parkway Diner, Miss Worcester Diner, Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner (which is far more a music venue than a diner), Kenmore Diner, Lou Roc’s Diner and Marvin’s Corner Lunch. Other honorees include George’s Coney Island, Ed Hyder’s Mediterranean Marketplace, That’s Entertainment, Sneakerama, Bonardi’s Formalwear, Central Shoe Repair, Da-Lat Restaurant, Maria’s Kitchen, Addie Lee’s Soul Food and Moynagh’s Tavern.
The city also recognized businesses ranging from Carlitos Barbershop and True Value Hardware to Jo Ann Warren Studio, Enchanted Fireside, Dodge Park Rest Home, Jerry’s Tastee Freeze and CC Lowell.
The awards program drew strong community participation. According to the announcement, the city received 309 nominations representing 62 eligible businesses. The nominations were evaluated in partnership with the Museum of Worcester, Preservation Worcester and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The program aims to recognize businesses whose impact extends beyond commerce and into the city’s history and culture.
“Much of what makes Worcester’s history so rich are the stories told through the legacies of local businesses and the individuals and families that have led them with innovative spirits and personal care for their customers and community,” Museum of Worcester Executive Director Eric Butler said in the announcement. “It is impossible to talk about Worcester history without the recognition and mention of the businesses on this list.”
Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President Karen Pelletier said the recipients reflect the role local businesses have played in shaping generations of city life.
“Strong communities are built on strong local businesses. These Legacy Business Award recipients have helped shape Worcester’s character, strengthened our economy, and served generations of residents,” Pelletier said in the announcement. “We are happy to see them recognized for their lasting contributions to our city.”
The city plans to honor the inaugural class of Legacy Businesses during an awards ceremony later this summer.
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