BEST PLACE FOR A FAST, CHEAP LUNCH
Chadito’s 3030 S. Sixth Street, 529-8226 In an economy where companies are laying off workers and reducing salaries, money matters. And, time is valuable. With a few dollars and very little time to spare, head to Chadito’s for a quick meal. Lunch specials include your choice of two hard tacos, a sancho, beef and bean burrito, taco burger, or a cup of chili, and a drink. Upgrade to a dinner special by adding beans and chips, lettuce and tomato salad, and apple strips. Among Chadito’s most popular dishes is its fish taco — breaded tilapia, fried golden brown and placed on a soft shell. While best known for its Mexican dishes, Chadito’s menu also includes hot dogs, burgers, salads and ice cream.

In addition to the small store in Southern View, owner Chad Reese plans to open a new establishment in November inside Chatham’s Shell gas station on Route 4.

A mere eight votes separates Chadito’s from our second place winner, Xochimilco. With three Springfield locations, Xochimilco offers 18 lunch specials. All — with the exception of the fajitas — cost $5.49. Even on a busy day, Xochimilco will deliver your meal piping hot in no time.
Runner-up: Xochimilco

BEST PIZZA
Bernie & Betty’s 1101 S. Spring St., 528-1821 Three words: Pizza Guy Special. It’s what one friendly waitress says Bernie & Betty’s does best. The neighborhood restaurant starts with its famous original thin crust, adds just the right amount of red sauce and spreads a thick layer of sausage, ham, pepperoni, onion, mushrooms, green peppers and mozzarella. Pair the pie with the garlic cheese bread appetizer (you better be hungry, it’s an entire loaf!), and you’ve got a winning combination. Bernie & Betty’s also features the Pizza Guy Favorite, the vegetarian and the ultra cheese specials — on thin crust or San Francisco sourdough — along with sandwiches, pastas and horseshoes.
Runner-up: Gabatoni’s