Business & Tech
Worcester Names First Legacy Business Award Winners
The city has named the first 24 businesses selected for its new Legacy Business program.
WORCESTER, MA — Worcester has named the first 24 businesses selected for the city’s new Legacy Business program.
City Manager Eric Batista announced the inaugural selections Thursday after the city received 309 nominations covering 62 eligible businesses. The winners were scored in partnership with the Museum of Worcester, Preservation Worcester and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The selected businesses have operated in Worcester for an average of 70 years, with many run by multiple generations of the same families, according to the city. Worcester will honor the 2026 Legacy Business class at an award ceremony later this summer.
“Each of these businesses are iconic establishments that represent the best of Worcester,” Batista said in a statement. “I want to congratulate all of them on their longevity and ingenuity, which has allowed them to stay in business for generations.”
The inaugural Legacy Business selections are:
Sneakerama, 12 Lake Ave.; Addie Lee's Soul Food, 596 Main St.; Maria's Kitchen, 826 Main St.; Jo Ann Warren Studio, 997 Millbury St.; Moynagh's Tavern Inc., 25 Exchange St.; Boulevard Diner, 155 Shrewsbury St.; Ralphs Chadwick Square Diner, 148 Grove St.; Kenmore Diner, 250 Franklin St.; Central Shoe Repair, 37 Mechanic St.; Da-Lat Restaurant, 425 Park Ave.; True Value Hardware, 113 Hamilton St.; Bonardi's Formalwear, 179 Highland St.; Parkway Diner, 148 Shrewsbury St.; Carlitos Barbershop, 925 Main St.; That’s Entertainment, 244 Park Ave.; Ed Hyder's Mediterranean Marketplace, 408 Pleasant St.; George's Coney Island, 158 Southbridge St.; CC Lowell, 455 Pleasant St.; Jerrys Tastee Freeze, 2 Inverness Ave.; Enchanted Fireside, 728 W. Boylston St.; Dodge Park LLC dba Dodge Park Rest Home, 101 Randolph Road; Lou Roc's Diner, 1074 W. Boylston St.; Miss Worcester Diner, 300 Southbridge St.; and Marvin’s Corner Lunch, 131 Lamartine St.
The city noted that Boulevard Diner, Ralphs Chadwick Square Diner, Kenmore Diner, Parkway Diner and Miss Worcester Diner were produced by the Worcester Lunch Car Company.
Eric Butler, executive director of the Museum of Worcester, said the businesses represent a key part of the city’s history.
“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,” Butler said in a statement.
Karen Pelletier, executive vice president of the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, said the businesses have helped shape the city’s economy and character.
“Strong communities are built on strong local businesses,” Pelletier said in a statement. “These Legacy Business Award recipients have helped shape Worcester's character, strengthened our economy, and served generations of residents.”
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