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The Definitive List: 2025 Best Of Lawrence Winners Revealed—The Top 25 Businesses You Must Visit

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The votes are in, and the people of Lawrence, Kansas, have spoken! As of late December 2025, the highly anticipated official results for the "Best of Lawrence 2025" Community's Choice Awards have been finalized and celebrated, shining a spotlight on the businesses and people that make Douglas County unique. This annual event, proudly presented by the Lawrence Journal-World and Sunflower Publishing, is the ultimate local guide, reflecting the collective favorites of the community across dining, retail, services, and entertainment.

The 2025 competition saw a massive turnout, with local residents passionately nominating and voting for their most beloved establishments. The winners were officially unveiled at the celebratory Winners Bash on September 3rd, 2025, at Abe & Jake's Landing, cementing the status of these businesses as the absolute best in the city. From groundbreaking new restaurants to essential service providers, here is the deep dive into the top winners and finalists that define the Lawrence, KS, landscape right now.

The Culinary Champions: Best of Lawrence 2025 Food & Dining Winners

The Food & Dining categories are always the most fiercely contested in the Best of Lawrence awards, and 2025 was no exception. Local favorites and exciting newcomers battled for the top spots, proving that the Lawrence culinary scene is vibrant, diverse, and constantly evolving. The results highlight a mix of established downtown staples and innovative new concepts.

Modern American Cuisine and Overall Excellence

In a major win that speaks to its innovative menu and community support, Sandwich Bowl claimed the top spot for Modern American Cuisine. This victory underscores the city's appreciation for elevated, yet approachable, dining experiences. The competition in this category was incredibly tough, featuring several long-standing Lawrence institutions:

  • 1st Place: Sandwich Bowl
  • 2nd Place: 715 Restaurant
  • 3rd Place: Merchants Pub & Plate
  • 4th Place: Free State Brewing Company

Adding to the excitement, Fork and Tumbler made a significant impact, securing the 1st Place award for Best New Restaurant, and also placing an impressive 2nd for Overall Restaurant. This rapid ascent signals Fork and Tumbler as a must-try destination for food enthusiasts in the region, showcasing a strong start for the business.

A Taste of Asia and Local Pub Favorites

Lawrence’s rich international cuisine scene was well-represented, especially in the Asian Food (Non-Chinese) category. The results showcase the community's favorite spots for authentic and delicious global flavors:

  • 1st Place: Encore Asian Bistro
  • 2nd Place: Zen Zero
  • 3rd Place: India Palace
  • 4th Place: Lucky Seb's

For those seeking classic pub fare, Rbar proved its dominance in the bar and nightlife scene, winning the award for Best Wings. Furthermore, the talent behind the bar was recognized, with Helina from Rbar taking home the title of Best Bartender. These wins confirm Rbar's status as a top spot for casual dining and a great night out in Lawrence.

Essential Services & Retail: The Top-Voted Businesses

The Best of Lawrence awards extend far beyond dining, recognizing the critical role that local service providers and retail shops play in the community's daily life. The 2025 results highlight businesses dedicated to quality, sustainability, and customer excellence in Douglas County.

Leading the Charge in Green Energy and Home Services

In a nod to the growing importance of sustainability in the Lawrence community, Good Energy Solutions secured a remarkable dual victory. The company was awarded first-place honors for both Best Electrician and Best Green Energy Provider in the 2025 awards. This recognition highlights their commitment to reliable service and eco-friendly home solutions, making them a trusted name for residential and commercial customers.

The Services category also featured a strong showing in the beauty and wellness space. While the full category winners are extensive, businesses like The Vanity Vault Beauty Bar LLC, Winked by Rosa, and Hello Beautiful Salon were among the top finalists and nominees, demonstrating the high level of personal care and beauty services available in the city.

Community and Retail Highlights

The retail landscape in Lawrence is a blend of unique boutiques and essential stores. While specific retail winners are numerous, the overall spirit of the awards celebrates the unique, independent businesses that line Massachusetts Street and the surrounding areas. The competition highlights the importance of shopping local and supporting the entrepreneurs who give Lawrence its distinct character.

Beyond the formal awards, the Lawrence community also celebrated the contributions of key individuals in the arts. The 2025 Phoenix Award winners, while a separate event, add topical authority to the city's cultural scene, recognizing individuals like Rachael Lackey (Advocate for Indigenous Artists and Makers) and artist Mark Cowardin (Exceptional Artistic Achievement). These accolades demonstrate the city's deep-seated commitment to its arts and culture.

How the Best of Lawrence 2025 Awards Impact the Community

The Best of Lawrence awards are more than just a popularity contest; they are a vital economic and cultural engine for the city. The voting period, which ran from June 1st to June 7th, 2025, saw thousands of votes cast, directly engaging the Lawrence population in celebrating local success.

Winning a "Best of Lawrence" title provides a significant boost to local businesses, driving new customer traffic and reinforcing brand loyalty. For example, the recognition of smaller, specialized spots like Cleo and Leo on Elm Street, a popular coffee shop and destination near the Lawrence Levee Trail, helps to spread awareness beyond the downtown core.

The annual event, culminating in the September Winners Bash, serves as a powerful networking opportunity, bringing together over 800 people, including business owners, community leaders, and enthusiastic residents. This collective celebration fosters a strong sense of community pride and encourages continued excellence among Lawrence's entrepreneurs.

Whether you're a long-time resident or a visitor exploring the area, the 2025 Best of Lawrence winners list is your essential guide to experiencing the absolute best of what Lawrence, Kansas, has to offer. From the top-rated Asian cuisine at Encore Asian Bistro to the sustainable excellence of Good Energy Solutions, these businesses are the heartbeat of the city.

The Definitive List: 2025 Best of Lawrence Winners Revealed—The Top 25 Businesses You Must Visit
best of lawrence 2025
best of lawrence 2025

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