Each year, the Watford Observer asks its readers to vote for their favourite local businesses in our annual 'Your Favourite' competition.

With summer turning to autumn and the year nearly three-quarters done, we decided it would be a good time to round up the fantastic businesses that have won so far in 2024.

1. Ocean Pearl - 'Your Favourite Fish and Chip Shop'

We kick things off with Ocean Pearl, crowned as readers favourite fish and chip shop for a second time.

Located in Garston Park Parade, the family-run business was founded in South Oxhey in 2005, before it made the move to the north of the town in 2020 during the pandemic.

Owner Serhat Sadak, 49, said “It’s great to have the community support us. We are a bit hidden and not on a high street so most of our customers are locals or regulars. 

“People come, enjoy the food and then tell their friends so word of mouth is another way of advertising for us. As well as winning this award!"

The chippy previously won the award in 2022.

2. Anytime Fitness Bushey - 'Your Favourite Gym'

After stuffing yourself at the best chippy in town, you may need to head to the gym - and there's no better place than Anytime Fitness Bushey, voted as readers favourite gym for 2024!

Based at 26-28 Aldenham Road, the gym said the award served as a testament to the “hard work, dedication, and passion” the staff bring to work, as well as reflecting its inclusivity and commitment. 

It is one of 191 Anytime Fitness locations across the UK, and offers 24/7 access to gym equipment with personal or small group training.

Colin Walker, business development manager for the Bushey branch, said: “This recognition from our community reinforces our commitment to breaking down barriers in fitness. 

“This award inspires us to continue enhancing our personalised wellness experiences, ensuring that our gym is a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to achieve their personal best.”

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3. LALA Hair Salon - 'Your Favourite Hair Salon'

Your most recent winner is LALA Hair Salon, unveiled earlier this week as the readers choice for hair care.

Based in the Asda, the  unisex salon has been a part of the community for 15 years, and six months ago it came under the ownership of two friends, Laura and Monika.

They said: “We are absolutely thrilled and honoured to have won! It’s an incredible feeling to be recognized as the favourite place for cuts, colours, and blow-dries.

“Our team is overjoyed, and it’s a testament to the hard work and passion we put into making every client feel their best."

LALA is among the highest rated hair salons in Watford according to Google Reviews with an average score of 4.9 stars based on 69 reviews.

4. Café Amici - Croxley Green - ‘Your Favourite Café’ 

Finally, Café Amici, in Baldwins Lane, Croxley Green, was voted as readers favourite café.

It has been owned and run for the last 15 years by the Sinisi family who are of Italian heritage, serving both traditional English food and Italian cuisine.

Owner and chef Donato Sinisi said: “We are extremely happy and proud to have won this award.  We are a small team of dedicated staff all living in Croxley Green. 

“We work well together and feel very appreciated by all of our loyal customers for voting for us for this award.