BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Xochimilco

2941 West Iles Ave., 546-3116 3210 Northfield Dr., 544-9206

There are plenty of Mexican restaurants in Springfield, but Xochimilco wins this category once again. We’re hearing whispers of a dynasty. So what is it that fosters such loyalty? We hear about Xochimilco’s fresh ingredients and authentic recipes like Chilaquiles. And the Carnitas (seasoned, slow-roasted pork chunks served with rice, beans and tortillas) manage to pack in an intensity of flavor that’s reminiscent of trips South of the border. Our readers say it’s the consistently excellent quality of the dishes and service that have earned their business. And that’s very high praise indeed. Runners-up: Casa Real, AZ-T-CA Mexican Grill

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT BEST VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

Little Saigon 1531 Wabash Ave., 726-9633

Although you can quibble that Little Saigon technically isn’t a Chinese restaurant (although there are plenty of traditional offerings like General Tso Chicken), Illinois Times readers think there’s no argument that Little Saigon has Springfield’s best Chinese and Vietnamese food. Little Saigon offers up some seriously good Thai and Vietnamese food – like the several varieties of the Vietnamese soup called Pho (not to be missed) or the Bun (noodles, grilled meat and a heavenly combination of heat, acid and sweetness). Don’t forget to wash it down with one of their many varieties of freezes or some ice cold Thai or Vietnamese beer. Runners-up Best Chinese Restaurant: Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet, China Star Runners-up Best Vietnamese Restaurant: Mimosa, Mekong

BEST CHEF

Lennie Ferrigno, Bella Milano

4525 Wabash Ave., 547-0011

Chef Lennie Ferrigno of Bella Milano is this year’s best chef in Springfield. Lennie grew up in the business, so he knows what it takes to succeed – which includes working many long hours. When asked why he thought Springfield voted him a finalist in this category, he gave a very humble answer – he made sure that we knew he wouldn’t be where he is without his staff, who have played such a big role in his success and that of Bella Milano. He also attributes his passion for food, dedication and desire to make people happy. He knows a lot of great chefs in the Springfield area and wants to give a “shout out” to all of them to let them know they are appreciated. And he wanted to be sure to thank all those who voted for him. Nice touch, Lennie, and congrats. Runners-up: Jordan Coffey from American Harvest Eatery, Michael Higgins from Maldaner’s

BEST VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

American Harvest Eatery 3241 West Iles Ave., 546-8300

One might be tempted to think of Asianthemed restaurants as logical candidates for vegetarian-friendly offerings, but Springfield thinks a bit out of the box on this one. We like the choice. American Harvest prides itself on its farm-to-table ethos, so you know its produce will be top notch. American Harvest takes simple fruits and vegetables and elevates them. A dish like radishes, herb butter, honey Dijon vinaigrette, sea salt and grilled bread manages to take the humble radish and transform it into a complete dish. So, too, with the eggplant, tomato, fennel, feta and pine nut gremolata fettuccini. We’re glad Springfield awarded American Harvest, as it is proof that protein doesn’t have to be the main focus of a dish. Runners-up: Gateway to India, Engrained Brewing Co.

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Cooper’s StrEatside

Locations vary, call 415-3852

Food trucks are relatively new to Springfield, and Illinois Times readers apparently thought it was about time – voting with their feet to give Cooper’s StrEatside the nod as Springfield’s Best Food Truck. Justin Cooper, StrEatside’s owner, has come a long way from kitchen manager at his frat house 10 years ago, which included attending the Le Cordon Bleu culinary school. Perhaps you’ve seen StrEatside’s impressive rig on Wednesdays at the OId Capitol Farmers Market. If you have, no doubt you’ve noticed the steady stream of customers lined up for some of Cooper’s lunch specialties like the Steak Chimi Tacos (flank steak topped with pico and chimichurri), Bistro Burger Sliders or the Z Chips (flash fried to perfection, ask for some garlic to kick it up a notch). Runners-up: Chadito’s, Dew Chilli Parlor

BEST LATE-NIGHT EATS

Steak ’n Shake

3184 South Dirksen Parkway, 529-5823 1580 Wabash Ave., 787-0392 4211 Conestoga Dr., 698-9439

Looking for a place to grab some food after a late night out? Steak ’n Shake has what you are looking for. They have a wide variety of options that will suit everyone’s cravings. If you are looking for a good burger and fries late at night, you are in luck. Be sure to order your fries “well done” if you want them extra crispy. We recommend it. They are even better with a side of cheese. And if you’re feeling extra decadent, you can add a milkshake to round it out. In the mood for some breakfast instead? Steak ’n Shake has that too. The Wabash location offers breakfast from midnight to 6 a.m. as part of its up-allnight menu.

Runners-up: Star 66 Café, Dublin Pub

BEST PLACE FOR A DATE

Coopers Hawk Winery

2501 Wabash Ave., 321-9100

Coopers Hawk offers the perfect setting for a date night. They have intimate seating and low-level lighting that sets the mood. Start your date off right, tasting some of their wines as you walk in the door at their winetasting bar. If wine isn’t your thing, they have a wide array of drinks that are sure to satisfy all. Coopers Hawk offers a wide expanse of menu items that can get you through any date – ranging from sandwiches and burgers for the more informal, to pastas and steaks for dates you really want to impress. Make sure to try the Mexican Drunken Shrimp. It’s bacon-wrapped shrimp served with tequila lime butter sauce on top of a bed of guacamole. One word: delicious. Runners-up: Bella Milano, American Harvest Eatery