Dear Readers:

Southern California is as diverse and varied as its people. And when it comes to places to eat, things to do and even necessities including dentists, plumbers and home repair, there is no shortage of great options!

How do you decide where to go and what to do? There are numerous apps and websites which give insights and suggestions, but what do L.A. Times readers, like yourself, prefer?

Earlier this year, we began with asking our readers and viewers to nominate their favorite businesses in five regions throughout the Southland: Orange County, South Bay/Long Beach/South Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley/Ventura, San Gabriel Valley/Inland Empire and Westside/Downtown. These regional winners for each category were announced on Sunday, August 1.

We then asked our readers and viewers to vote once again to determine the overall ‘bests’ in each category for the entire Southland. Each regional ‘best’ was entered in the final run-off, and the ones that garnered the most votes from our readers were designated ‘Best of the Southland.’ Those that received the next highest number of votes were recognized as ‘Popular.’

So, when you’re out and about, look for the L.A. Times “Best of the Southland” and “Popular in the Southland” decals in their windows or on their doors, and you can be assured that those businesses have gone above and beyond to earn this coveted recognition.

It is with great pride that we share these results with you now for our first annual “Best of the Southland” readers’ choice poll.

Enjoy!

L.A. Times Advertising