West Reading is getting it right and I think it’s to be learned from. They have made so many changes in the last several years and they continue to grow roots and evolve with all the diversity, food options, stores, and festivals. Yet I constantly hear someone say they can’t find any good places to visit or to eat in Berks County. West Reading has so much to offer in just a four to a five-block radius. I invite you to take a stroll through West Reading and enjoy all the diversity.
First, let’s talk about the diversity of the food. West Reading has restaurants that include food from Greece, Middle East, Japan, Korea, American Traditional, Pennsylvania Dutch-inspired foods, Middle East Fusion, Italy, China, Jamaica, France, Latin Countries, and even burgers with doughnut buns, ice creams, coffees and all this is within walking distance of each other.
Did I also mention hundreds of craft beers, cheeses, and every Sunday fresh & local items at the West Reading Farmers Market? Combine this with all the festivals going on this summer and fall and we have plenty to do without leaving Berks, plus we are helping grow our local economy and securing jobs. Also it’s not just about eating “On the Ave” there are barber shops, salons, jewelers, a water store, an art gallery, boutiques, graphic designers, even a floor showroom, spas, pastries, other shops, and much more.
The diversity in W. Reading has grown so much that we are proud to say that Comalli Taqueria, Curl Texture Bar, and Mendez Flooring are a few of about 15 Latino-owned businesses just in the West Reading area. In the past 10 years in the US, Latino-owned businesses have grown quickly. However, our focus this month is not on Hispanic Heritage but yet the diversity that exists in West Reading in general.
We also talk to restaurateur Adam Cocuzza who offers diversity via his four locations on the Ave. Another business owner who is also using his roots to serve great Mexican cuisine with his new age taqueria is Erick Arizmendi owner of Comalli Taqueria. He has had great success despite the fact that he is slightly “off the Ave”. If you ask me, he demonstrates that while the location is key it’s not always important. If you use fresh ingredients, stay true to the authenticity of the food or your product, and have great customer service, then you too can be successful anywhere you choose to park your business.
Rosa J. Parra, Palo Magazine
