BEST PLACE TO EAT AFTER 10 P.M. & BEST HANGOVER FOOD Steak ’n Shake 1580 Wabash Ave., 787-0392 • 4211 Conestoga Dr., 698-9439 3186 S. Dirksen Pkwy., 529-5823 • 2465 N. Dirksen Pkwy., 492-5925 Judging by the number of nominees, it’s clear that Springfield is not short on late night restaurants. But an overwhelming majority of voters declare that one of Steak ’n Shake’s four locations is the best place for curing those late night munchies. Though the restaurant doesn’t have the fastest service, the steakburgers – cooked-to-order – are made with fresh, Angus beef. And the freshly cut fries are distinguishably thin. The restaurant also serves chili, chicken tenders, a variety of salads, patty melts, and chicken, turkey and grilled cheese sandwiches, as well as hot dogs, a variety of breakfast foods, and much more. There is surely something that appeals to everyone. And, might we add, you have not had the full Steak ’n Shake experience until you’ve had one of their thick, creamy shakes. Now, there was a time when we would have said that the meals are pricey, but just like its competitors Steak ’n Shake has affordable combo meals for “under” $4, and half-price drinks now include 2 to 4 a.m.

Not knocking the food at Steak ’n Shake because there is none finer for the market, but the choice in this category most likely was mistaken for best food before a hangover. We reached this conclusion by observing the late-night crowd that stumbles into the black-n-white-all-night restaurant after the bars are closed and thinking it would be easy to confuse and hard to distinguish if food consumed while intoxicated came before or after the hangover. No need to overthink this one because the classic Steak ’n Shake cuisine works well before, during or after anything, including a hangover. Any longtime resident of Springfield can hardly let this category slide by without mentioning those long-gone, all-night legendary eateries from the past, such as Mr. Ted’s, the Georgian, Steak ’n’ Eggs and others now faded into our collective hung-over memories.

BEST BUFFET Golden Corral 1038 LeJune Dr., 585-6830 With back-to-back wins, it’s clear that IT voters endorse Golden Corral as the best buffet in town. The restaurant’s huge spread of food guarantees that each member of your party will find something that suits their taste buds. But you’ll be pleased to know that Golden Corral is not only focused on serving tasty dishes. The restaurant is just as committed to giving back to the community. For the past decade, Golden Corrals across the country have paid homage to the men and women who have risked their lives to protect the nation. The Annual Military Appreciation Dinner provides free dinners to active duty, retirees, National Guards, reserves, and vets. So, military folks, mark your calendars. This year’s event takes place on Nov. 15.

BEST COFFEE SHOP Starbucks 3200 E. Clearlake Ave., 525-7759 • 731 Adlai Stevenson Dr., 753-2978 2003 Monroe St., 793-2193 • 3412 Freedom Dr., 787-0764 With six locations throughout the city, it’s not surprising that Starbucks reigns supreme among voters. Each morning, hundreds of caffeine addicts flock to the coffee shop, often waiting in line for their “fix.” Whether you fancy espressos, latte, cappuccino, or one of their specialty coffees, voters attest that Starbucks has the best cup of java in town, not to mention pastries to go along with your coffee. Hoping to further dominate the market, earlier this month the national chain introduced its “Starbucks Via Ready Brew,” instant flavored coffees that can be added to a cup of water or milk. While instant coffee is normally not our preference, we decided to give it a try. With four flavors to choose from – vanilla, mocha, caramel, and cinnamon spice – we decided on caramel. Surprisingly, the result was a flavorful brew. But, like all things Starbucks, the Ready Brew (which comes in handy when time is not on your side), is a bit pricey, costing $7 for a package of six. Those interested in trying the instant coffee can save a buck through the end of October.