Lunenburg's Trattoria della Nonna was selected best place to take clients for dinner and Bridgewater's Wildwood Cafe the best place to lunch in the magazine's seventh annual readers' poll.

 "The industrial heart of Nova Scotia's South Shore has never been mistaken for a centre of culinary delights, but Aaron Brown, 37, and Maria Gallardo, 39, are quickly changing that notion with the Wildwood Cafe," said part of the Best of the East issue.

 "Opened just a year ago, in February of 2009, by Victoria, B.C., native Brown and Gallardo, who is originally from Mexico, the breakfast-and-lunch spot is quickly cultivating a loyal clientele eager for Gallardo's wizardry with Mexican-infused dishes, Brown's deft barista touch and the friendly, familial vibe of the place.

 "The couple packed up their life in Calgary in 2008 after falling in love with the LaHave River and deciding that the area was not only in dire need of a good eatery but also would be better suited to their philosophy of using organic ingredients from local suppliers."

 Mr. Brown said they were also impressed with the town's commitment to sustainability, its acceptance of small business, and the number of local businesses that were happy to provide assistance, most notably Boulangerie la Vendeenne, Pete's Frootique, Quest Coffee and Cakes Etc.

 "The move has paid off, as the packed lunchtime tables six days a week attest," said the article.

 Meanwhile, the article called Trattoria della Nonna a labour of love from chef Terry Vassallo - formerly of Halifax restaurants Seven and The Five Fishermen - and sommelier Simone Mombourquette, along with business partners Susan and Guenther Reibling.

 "Trattoria della Nonna is quickly making its mark on Lunenburg's burgeoning dining scene. Vassallo's mouth-watering northern Italian-inspired dishes and Mombourquette's impressive wine selections are reason enough to visit. For larger dinner meetings or intimateevents, the restaurant's cozy Cantina downstairs is the perfect spot to entertain clients."

 The magazine also mentioned the Reiblings' neighbouring businesses - the Mariner King Inn and Cilantro the Cooks Shop.

 "Which, apart from selling every kitchen gadget you could possibly need, offers culinary classes that will teach you to prepare meals almost as delectable as Vassallo's."

 To see the most recent edition of Progress Magazine, check on-line at http://www.progressmedia.ca/progress-magazine.