It’s hard to believe it, but it’s almost Besties season again! The Capital Region’s longest running “best of” awards are back, and we need you to help determine which local people and businesses topped the upstate New York charts in 2025.
Voting is now open for more than 200 categories spanning People & Places (think: best home builder, concert venue, boutique, and morning news team) and Food & Drink (everything from best new restaurant to best hot dog). Cast your vote in at least 20 categories (one ballot per email will be accepted), and be entered to win a $50 Capital Region restaurant gift card—a new winner will be chosen every week!
Voting is open through November 30. After that, we’ll dutifully tally the results—it’s a lot of work when it’s all write-ins!—and announce the winners in our 2026 spring and summer issues. There’s only one way to make sure your favorite local spots make it in: Vote, vote, vote!
Click here to make your voice heard in the 2026 Bestie Awards.
