BEST HAMBURGER

Krekel’s

2121 North Grand Ave., 525-4952

You can’t miss Krekel’s – just look for the rooster. But it’s burgers that are Krekel’s claim to fame – fresh, never frozen, smashed onto a sizzling hot griddle and served with a toasted bun that’s been hit with butter. These gems are the highest form of burger in the city, according to our readers. Reasonably priced and available in a single, double or triple, they pair well with Krekel’s handmade shakes and delicious fries. Just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it can’t be the perfect meal. We love Krekel’s for understanding that. Runners-up: Burger Bar, Red Robin

BEST PIZZA

Gabatoni’s

300 East Laurel St., 528-9629

Everyone has their favorite pizza, but Springfield’s consensus on the best pizza goes to Gabatoni’s for another year. From the pictures on the wall of dogs playing poker to the fact that it always seems crowded, Gabatoni’s has character – after all, it’s been serving up pizza for more than 60 years. But character won’t get you far if you can’t deliver good pizza. And Gabatoni’s has that down. Don’t be afraid to order the cracker-thin crust “well done” – they won’t burn it and it comes with a nice bite. Not sure where to start? Go with the EBA (everything but anchovies) and order a size larger than you think. Gabatoni’s tastes pretty good at breakfast too. Runners-up: DiCarlo’s Pizza, Antonio’s Pizza

BEST SUSHI

Happy Sushi

846 South Grand Ave., 528-9799

Happy Sushi is a tiny “hole in the wall” that’s inspired some fierce loyalty. There can’t be but four tables in the place, and ambience is a word best left out of any description of Happy Sushi. But people stream in and out all day long. That’s because of Hiro’s wonderful sushi. Portion sizes are generous for the price, and Hiro adds a nice garnish that adds to the presentation. Come to Happy Sushi more than a few times, and it’s virtually guaranteed that Hiro will remember you. Great sushi and service – that’s why Springfield’s voted Happy Sushi number one this year. Runners-up: Osaka Japanese Restaurant, Mimosa

BEST PLACE TO EAT SOLO

The Feed Store

516 East Adams St., 528-3355

Dining alone at a restaurant can be unsettling. Maybe it’s because we think everyone’s staring at us. Who knows? But we do know Springfield feels most comfortable dining solo at The Feed Store. It’s hard to feel alone while standing in the usually long but fast-moving line to order. And since The Feed Store’s usually quite busy, you don’t stand out as much while dining alone at a two-top table. Thankfully, The Feed Store has been serving up some delicious soups and sandwiches to Springfield for many years, and we have no reason to believe that won’t continue. Runners-up: Café Moxo, Counter at Charlie Parker’s Diner

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Chesapeake Seafood House

3045 East Clear Lake Ave., 522-5220

You don’t usually think of Springfield as a seafood kind of town, but Chesapeake Seafood House has been bucking that notion for years. Headquartered in an 1850s mansion, Chesapeake’s menu is just as classic. They have oysters on the half shell, chowder, shrimp and fish. If you’re feeling extravagant or wanting to impress that special someone, try one of Chesapeake’s surf and turf combos and dig into the impressive wine menu. Not into seafood? No worries, there are plenty of steaks and pastas to please pretty much any palate. And don’t forget to visit the website to print out some coupons and see the daily specials. Runners-up: Carter’s Fish Market, Old Luxemburg Inn

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Bella Milano

4525 Wabash Ave., 547-0011

Headed by this year’s winner of the Best Chef award, Bella Milano continues to put out Springfield’s favorite Italian food. Most diners get hooked by the addictively good homemade salad dressing, which we note most diners sopping up with Bella’s tasty bread. Whether you opt for pizza, pasta or a more traditional dish like Chicken Marsala, Bella won’t disappoint. In the mood for something different? Try the Boursin Cheese filet, served with a to-die-for cream cheese potato cake. Runners-up: Saputo’s, Gabatoni’s

BEST STEAKHOUSE

Alexander’s Steak House

620 North Bruns Lane, 793-0440

You have to like a place that places its wares under glass right at the front door – that’s someone who is proud of their food. And so it is with Alexander’s, where you can pick out the exact steak you want from the fridges lining the entrance way. You can cook it yourself over Alexander’s large grill, or have the staff prepare it exactly to your liking. Don’t forget to grab a slab of Texas Toast and make sure to swing by one of Springfield’s best salad bars. It’s all good, and Springfield knows it. Runners-up: Texas Roadhouse, Old Luxemburg Inn

BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH

Julia’s Kitchen and Lounge

107 West Cook St., 670-1972

Located in the Vinegar Hill mall, Julia’s Kitchen and Lounge tops the list of Sunday brunch spots in Springfield. With classics like Eggs Benedict, Biscuits and Gravy and Stuffed French Toast, it’s not surprising. The décor is eclectic and the staff is kind and attentive. Julia’s gives you the sense of being in a Southern coastal restaurant – the Mason jar glasses add just the right touch, as do dishes like Shrimp and Grits. Feeling less than perfect from the night before? Don’t worry, there’s bar service – Julia’s Kitchen has you covered. Runners-up: Boone’s Saloon, American Harvest Eatery