Worcester Announces Inaugural Legacy Business Award Selections

WORCESTER, Mass. - City Manager Eric D. Batista announced Thursday selections for the municipality's first annual Legacy Business program.

"Each of these businesses are iconic establishments that represent the best of Worcester," said City Manager Eric D. Batista. "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."

These 24 businesses, listed below, help define the fabric of our neighborhoods, provide jobs and services, and embody the spirit of the city.

• 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 Rd.
• Lou Roc's Diner, 1074 W. Boylston St.
• Miss Worcester Diner*, 300 Southbridge St.
• Marvin's Corner Lunch, 131 Lamartine St.

*Indicates a Worcester Lunch Car Company produced diner

The municipality received 309 nominations for a total of 62 eligible businesses. Nominations were scored in partnership with the Museum of Worcester, Preservation Worcester, and Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. The 24 businesses selected have been in operation for an average of 70 years here in the city, many of them as intergenerational, family operated businesses. The City of Worcester will honor this inaugural class of 2026 Legacy Businesses at an award ceremony later this summer.

"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," said Eric Butler, Executive Director, Museum of Worcester. "It is impossible to talk about Worcester history without the recognition and mention of the businesses on this list."

"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," said Karen Pelletier, Executive Vice President, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. "We are happy to see them recognized for their lasting contributions to our city."

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