BEST DRUMMER

Oakie Morris

You won’t find a more likeable candidate for best drummer in Springfield nor will you find one more likely to keep the beat in the pocket, the band moving and the dancers hopping. Oakie famously retired from fulltime drumming not long ago, but old(er) drummers don’t quit, they just keep keeping time. He still grabs the sticks for Ultraviolet or his new band, Scrapyard, and joins in when asked to beat the skins for other groups on occasion, including F5 this past August during the Illinois State Fair (his wife, Janet, is a lead singer in the band). Oakie started drumming as a youngster and has played nearly every weekend since with everyone in town. The guy even has a burger named after him at the Sunrise Cafe. Now that’s the best!

FInalists: Scott Mundstock, Brandon Drew, Patrick Miller, Eric Austin, Pete Jeffers, Darin Holthaus

BEST BASS PLAYER

Eric Tinsley

So we finally wised up and added a category for the most important band member, at least that’s what these keepers of the bottom end and masters of the groove feel, anyway. With any one of the finalists a likely contender for the bass crown, Eric Tinsley fingered the highest level of the lowest sound makers. A sought-after bandmate, known as a profoundly good fellow to go along with his funky feel, he’s generally found in more than one project at a time, laying down the bass for the band to follow in various combos. Eric currently plays with After Sunset, a classic cover band based in Springfield, recently sat in with Off the Wall and played with several other popular groups around town during his couple decades of raising the bar by lowering the pitch. How low can you go? Pretty high, we’d say, if you’re considered the best bass player in town.

Finalists: Jeff Cunningham, Keith Voegele, Bruce Williams, Chris Warren, Chris Harris

BEST BLUES BAND or ARTIST

Hipbone Sam

A consistent winner in the blues band category, along with others in the music section, singing the blues is only one of the many talents on display at a Hipbone Sam show. A consummate entertainer, known for his “lemme hear you say, yeah!” shouts and interactive bongo participation with the crowd, Kevin Hawkins, aka Hipbone Sam, delivers classic rock and original tunes, along with a steady dose of backbone blues. Backed by a tightknit group of stellar musicians, including Rick Mari (lead guitar, keyboards, vocals), Rob Ross (drums, vocals), Mark Riefler (bass, vocals) and the latest addition to the band, Zack Fedor (harmonica, guitar, vocals), the boys in the band play local, regional and wherever shows on a steady basis. With tunes on AMI Rowe Entertainment and TouchTunes Digital Jukeboxes in the U.S., Canada and on military bases worldwide, the reach of the Hipbone goes far and wide, and that’s why he’s considered the best of the rest.

Finalists: Brooke Thomas & the Blue Suns, Mary Jo Curry, Hurricane Ruth, Back Pack Jones

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE OPEN SEATING

Boondocks

2909 N Dirksen Pkwy

www.boondockspub.com

From top name, contemporary country music artists, to classic acts of rock and country, the folks at Boondocks bring in the best, and audiences around here appreciate that fact. They aren’t a bit shy about showing strong support of local bands as opening acts and hosting benefits for those in need. The building, central Illinois’ largest live music venue, once housed a late-night dance club, but now bands rule the stage and live music flows through the space on a regular basis. Basically a standing-only venue with limited table seats, the general admission openness allows fans to get up close and personal, and that can be fun and exciting. In 2016, the owners proudly accepted the prestigious Nightclub of the Year award from the Academy of Country Music, so our readers aren’t the only ones thinking Boondocks is the best.

Finalists: Curve Inn, Blue Grouch Pub, Black Sheep Cafe, Bar None, The Alamo

BEST ART STUDIO/GALLERY

Springfield Art Association Collective

(formerly Prairie Art Alliance) 420 South 6th Street (Hoogland Center for the Arts), 544-2787 It appears the recent coming together of the Springfield Art Association with the Prairie Art Alliance created a bigger and better group for artists to join and our readers believed the combination to be the best gallery space in town. The PAA started in 1979 as a support group for female artists called the Women’s Art Alliance, then opened to all genders in 1995 as the Prairie Art Alliance and soon opened a shop and studio on the grounds of the SAA. The group moved into a new space on the lobby floor of the Hoogland Center for the Arts in 2004. In January of 2016 the merging (or “re-merging” perhaps) of the PAA with the SAA to form the Collective began with the intention to “inspire a new era of collaboration and foster a unified spirit among the artists of Springfield” and certainly is off to a delightful and supportive start in doing so. Art on, all.

Finalists: Studio on 6th, The Pharmacy, The Blue Door, Christy!Studios, The Studio, DEMO Project

BEST JAZZ GROUP or ARTIST

Brooke Thomas & the Blue Suns

Not particularly known as a jazz artist, those smooth and sultry vocal stylings of Brooke surely brought the votes out for her in this category. More of a pop and blues artist, she can get jazzy with her singing ways, and apparently that’s what swayed our readers. The Blue Suns, led by Mike Burnett, can make a note turn wherever and whenever, putting Ms. Thomas into any category of popular music she feels like vocalizing at the moment. From beginnings as a non-live, performance vocalist, Brooke has grown into an emotive live performer, playing several times a month and doing original songs as well as familiar covers. What is the best in Brooke, however, comes through her winning personality and generous character, and that brings out the best in us all.

Finalists: Jane Hartman Trio, Frank Trompeter, Frank Parker, Juke House

BEST CLUB DJ

DJ Evo

What makes the best DJ? Most folks consider seamless song mergers with intermittent banter plus heavy beats and mixes of familiar and new tunes all set to keep the dance floor hopping and the good times rolling. Formerly the DJ at some of our best dance nightclubs, including Marly’s Pub, Lucid, Club Station House and others, DJ Evo brings a little edge to the party and it looks like our readers appreciate the bad boy, fun times that Mr. Sean Layton, aka DJ Evo, brings to the club table. Currently he’s not listed in our Pub Crawl as DJing a regular spot, but be sure he’s out there somewhere, lurking in the shadows, ready to dial up the beats and crank up the bass to get bodies jerkin’ and twerkin’ on the dance floors of the capital city.

Finalists: Mikee Connolly, Ryan Bandy, DOPEBOYNEXTDOOR, Annatomic Holliday, Yatti Ely

BEST COUNTRY BAND

Lick Creek

Voted best new band in town in our BoS of 2014, two short years later, Lick Creek is on top of the always competitive country band pile. Country rockin’ bandmates Brandon Drew (drums), Matthew Wedel (bass), Wesley Ingram (lead guitar), Ryan King (lead guitar, banjo, mandolin), Lance Stone (lead vocals) and Maddie Brown (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), played their first show in December of 2013 and continue to bring the “philosophy that it’s not just how well you play a song but what kind of energy you put into a performance” to every show they do. Influenced by classic rock and country, the spin from Lick Creek began with covers. Recently they’ve let loose a five-song EP being marketed to radio stations as they intermix the songs into regular show setlists. The band feels like family and maybe that’s why they seem best to us.

Finalists: New City Road, Wolf Crick Boys, Tennessee Borderline, Copper Canyon

BEST HIGH SCHOOL THEATER PRODUCTION

Beauty and the Beast, Springfield High School

BEST HIGH SCHOOL THEATER PERFORMANCE - FEMALE LEAD

Stella Cole, Belle, Beauty and the Beast, Springfield High School

BEST HIGH SCHOOL THEATER PERFORMANCE - MALE LEAD

Jacob Woodard, Beast, Beauty and the Beast, Springfield High School Looks like a clean sweep for SHS in the theater category as the modern Disney version of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast as told Broadway style, brought down the house. Stella Cole as Belle has been on stage a good deal of her young life and recently performed in a Hoogland production of Godspell. Jacob Woodard is no stranger to performance as well. SHS alum Craig Williams, II directed the musical, supported by Christie Lazarides (assistant director), Damien Kaplan (musical director), Morgan Kaplan (choreographer), Mark Gifford (vocal director) and Kim Carter Parker (producer). Nearly 50 SHS students participated in this stunning and vibrant production that came out best in the stiff, local competition of high school theater.

Finalist Production: Footloose, Sacred Heart-Griffin; Into the Woods, Glenwood High School, Once Upon a Mattress, Rochester High School Finalist Female Lead: Hannah Hogan, Princess Winnifred, Once Upon a Mattress, Rochester High School Finalists Male Lead: Noah Schlosser, Gaston, Beauty and the Beast, Springfield High School; Justin Brandson, Ryan, High School Musical, Pleasant Plains High School

BEST HIP-HOP VENUE

Bar None

Hip-hop still feels like an underground happening in this town, but Bar None and Torch Tuesdays are doing the best they can to bring the dance/rap combo music to the forefront. Local first-timers, regional artists and national touring acts find their way to the corner stage at the popular downtown watering hole every Tuesday, keeping the beat and the words flowing into the night and out into the streets. The nightclub also features live roots rock bands on Fridays, an acoustic open mic every Wednesday and dance music late night on Saturdays, making it not only the best hiphop venue around, but a good spot for many styles of music ’most every night of the week.

Finalists: Lucid Bar and Nightclub, Black Sheep Cafe, Wet Bar

BEST COVER MUSIC BAND (any genre)

Captain Geech and the Shrimp Shack Shooters

This bunch is going into the BoS hall of fame sometime soon, as they continue being the winning band in this category, year after year. With the inimitable J Bird himself leading the pack, aided by a sweet Coors Light sponsorship through Robert “Chick” Fritz Distributing, Inc., fellow Geechers or SSSers, if you prefer, Peter, Majeeda, Marc, Buster and Joker, along with Kerry Ginder on sound, keep the show moving, the crowd hopping and the gigs coming. They pile aboard the official CG & the SSS bus when it’s time to head out, making a good circuit around the region. From headlining beer tents at the Illinois State Fair and county fairs to bopping the boogie at festivals from Keokuk to Quincy, Decatur to Dallas City, Springfield to Jacksonville, the mighty Geech machine keeps rolling on, making all in its way dance, party and have a heckuva good time.

Finalists: The Shenanigans, Lick Creek, The Mix, Take 10

BEST AMERICANA/FOLK BAND BEST ORIGINAL BAND (any genre)

The Deep Hollow

What can you say about this talented trio other than they deserve all the credit and attention they’ve been getting lately. Elizabeth Eckert, Dave Littrell and Micah Walk, all respected solo artists (just look at other Best of category winners) found magic when they combined talents a few years ago. Between the songwriting, the harmonies, the musicianship, the look and the hard work of practice, promotion and booking, The Deep Hollow is our standard bearer for the original, acoustic-based sound so popular these days around the country and in town. Still riding the crest of a well-made, original record that reached #3 on the Folk/DJ charts and the accolades of receiving a national award in songwriting from American Songwriter magazine, surely the best is yet to come for these three marvelous music makers.

Finalists: Americana/Folk Band: Tom Irwin’s Hayburners, The Blue Gs, Ben Bedford, Western Empire Finalists Original Band (any genre): NIL8, Tom Irwin’s Hayburners, Looming, Owen & Dooley Present, Enamel

BEST GUITARIST

Dave Littrell

Not only is Dave voted in as the best guitarist, he may just be the busiest as well, which likely explains a lot. You can hear him as one third of The Deep Hollow, our winners of the Americana/Folk Band and Original Band categories, where he sings and plays acoustic guitar, among other instruments. For his prowess on electric guitar, check out his prog-rock, jam-band, The Station, that Dave cofounded in 1999 and took out on the road for nearly a decade. He then fronted the Dave Littrell Band and released a solo acoustic project in 2011. If you want more proof-oftalent, take a listen to his guitar work in The Shenanigans, one of the area’s top pop-rock cover bands. But most of all Dave is likely to be best known for being the best dad and family man, which may the best thing of all.

Finalists: Howard Freitag, Owen Irwin, Jeff Kornfeld, Robert Reynolds, Eric Carter, Michael Webb, Tony Dyer

BEST SINGER-SONGWRITER - FEMALE

Elizabeth Eckert

A third of The Deep Hollow, Elizabeth continues her domination of this category as the group pretty much swept the awards in all respective categories. She started performing out at age 5, made a good run at “American Idol,” then a few years ago joined up with Dave Littrell and Micah Walk to form The Deep Hollow, performing live shows and co-writing material for the trio’s debut CD. She also sings with the Shenanigans, one of the area’s top cover bands, and likely grabs inspiration from the current hits of the day and classic covers to add spice to the more folksy songwriting associated with TDH. Wherever the creative juices flow from and however they make music happen, our readers consider her to be the best female around at writing songs and singing them.

Finalists: Brooke Thomas, Mary Jo Curry, Hurricane Ruth LaMaster, Sarah Sgro, Amy Benton

BEST SINGER-SONGWRITER - MALE

Micah Walk

From youthful times in his hometown of Girard to those first weekly gigs in Springfield, on through the Micah Walk Band days and the solo experience, straight into the exciting, current time with The Deep Hollow, Micah has consistently produced good songs on a regular basis. His easygoing manner masks the strong determination of a creative soul, bent on grasping the universal truths and bending them into songs. And he can also sling out a singable melody, which helps a lot in writing a song that sticks around long enough to become memorable. A good look at the finalists shows a hefty bunch of crafty male singer-songwriters hanging out in Springfield, including Deep Hollow bandmate Dave Littrell, but Micah walks to the finish line voted the best by our readers.

FInalists: Dave Littrell, Tom Irwin, Devin Hayes, Josh Catalano, Ben Bedford

BEST PUNK BAND

NIL8

What can you say about the Brothers Williams that’s not been said? The boys started NIL8 as teenagers in Mrs. Williams’ basement during the 1980s, then watched and participated as the band went through a growth spurt of touring and recording in the 1990s. In the last few decades, Jeff and Bruce saw the band settle into one of the most popular and intergenerational bands in town as they slowed the performance rate, but the crowds kept coming. Different musicians have covered the drums and lead guitar during various points in the band’s legacy, with Damon Soper (lead guitar, high vocals) and Wes Salinger (drums) at those spots for the last several years. High-energy shows with self-deprecating humor and intense musicianship keep the audiences in awe of the continuing power of NIL8 being at their best.

Finalists: The Timmys, It’s a Livin’ Thing, PRYSS

BEST ROCK/POP BAND

Off The Wall

Just ask any of the Wallers, those special and dedicated fans of Off the Wall, what makes these guys so well respected and highly appreciated as the best rock/pop band in town. Since there’s plenty of fans at every show, you shouldn’t have any trouble, but we think they will say it’s a combination of the musicianship, choice of songs, personalities of the players and the lifelong dedication of each musician to the craft of learning popular rock songs and playing them well. The person that embodied that spirit more than anyone left us in June of 2016 when bassist/vocalist and founding Off the Wall member Rusty Koehler passed away suddenly. Others have filled in for Rusty, but no one can replace him. We think Off the Wall, the Wallers and all concerned heartily and fondly give this award to Rusty and his musical spirit, which indeed was the best of the best.

Finalists: Fun DMC, The Mix, After Sunset, Looming

BEST LIVE THEATER PERFORMANCE-FEMALE LEAD

Sophie Lanser, Ariel, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, The Muni

BEST THEATER PRODUCTION

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, The Muni

This production of Disney’s Little Mermaid is a first for The Muni, often a home to wonderful repeats of popular musicals of our time. The animated 1989 Disney film, based on the story by Hans Christian Andersen, became a musical on Broadway in 2008, then had some professional tweaking in 2012 before finding its way to The Muni stage and Sophie Lanser’s inspiring presentation of the Disney heroine, Ariel. Directed by Craig Williams II, his staff took creative license and used the flying mechanisms on stage to simulate performers floating through water. Sophie, who last appeared at The Muni in All Shook Up, is an industrial engineering major at the University of Illinois Urbana- Champaign. It took some getting used to, pretending to be floating while flying, but she managed well enough to become the best to our readers. How Williams II and his fabulous crew presented the staging was nothing short of the best.

Finalists Female Lead: Anna Bussing, Billie Bendix, Nice Work if You Can Get It, The Muni; Tiffany Williams, Deloris Van Cartier, Sister Act, The Legacy Theatre; Lori Ann McCabe, Ursula, The Little Mermaid, The Muni; Meredith Vogel-Thomas, Mrs. Lovett, Sweeney Todd, The Muni FInalists Theater Production: Sister Act, The Legacy Theatre; Godspell, Hoogland Center for the Arts; Nice Work if You Can Get It, The Muni; Hello Dolly, Theatre in the Park; Love is Eternal, Edwards Place

Winners please come by our office to pick up your certificate

BEST VISUAL ARTIST

Felicia Olin

Does it feel like not very long ago Springfield was void of a visual artist scene supported by the public? Nowadays galleries abound and artists show works at a rate that was unheard of a decade ago. We say thank goodness for that and thank goodness for the brilliant work of Felicia Olin and the scene that helped expose her art to us. Her iconic, sensitive, sorrow-eyed faces of wisdom and longing that adorn a good deal of her paintings seem to be a part of our community culture, a solid thing that appeared as if it were always there. Raised in the capital city, she lives near the Lincoln home with her artist husband, Jim, and continues to work as a painter. She recently took off on a wandering tangent of forming collages, while not knowing, but always wondering, where her art would take her. Fortunately, we get to come along for the ride.

Finalists: Jeff Cartis Williams, Brandy Fletcher, Kevin Veara, Troy Freeman

More winners online at www.illinoistimes.com

BEST LIVE THEATER PERFORMANCE-MALE LEAD

Jim Leach, Horace Vandergelder, Hello

Dolly, Theater in the Park

When you take an iconic community media figure and put him in an iconic role in a wellloved and revered musical from the golden years of theater, we think that’s one of the best things that could happen and so did our readers. Jim Leach, known to everyone with ears in earshot of a radio as one of Springfield’s most respected and listened to radio show hosts and commentators, has always had a taste for the stage and singing. He’s expressed a real interest in performing at the multilevel outdoor stage at Theater in the Park and has appeared in other productions there in the New Salem State Park venue. Perhaps his joy of theater combined with his attraction to the special space led readers to choose Jim as better than the rest, to be the very best among the fine group of actors nominated.

Finalists: Ryan Fisher, Prince Eric, The Little Mermaid, The Muni; Ralph Shank, Frank, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Hoogland Center for the Arts; Anthony Glover, Eddie Souther, Sister Act, The Legacy Theatre; Albert Capati, Jon, Tick, Tick... Boom!, Springfield Theatre Centre

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE TICKETED SEATING

UIS Sangamon Auditorium

Public Affairs Center - 1 University Plaza, 206-6160

One of the most lovely designed and acoustically sound venues just about anywhere, the Sangamon Auditorium, on the campus of University of Illinois Springfield, is indeed a crown jewel of our community. The 2,018- seat performing arts center and concert hall was built in 1981 and through the years has seen a cavalcade of stars, thousands of theater productions and countless shows of all kinds roll across the well-worn stage. Home to our illustrious Illinois Symphony Orchestra, the hall hosts several concerts of symphony productions annually. The venue also books shows specifically designed for grade-school kids and offers the space for a few specific community productions. Director Bob Vaughn, a hometown fellow, uses a lifetime of experience in the field to find popular and well-planned shows, keeping the best ticketed venue in town headed for continued success.

Finalists: Prairie Capital Convention Center, Hoogland Center for the Arts, Illinois State Fair Grandstand, The Legacy Theatre

BEST OPEN MIC

Curve Inn

Many things go into hosting a successful and long-running open mic and most of that revolves around having a host with the most. The Curve Inn gives us a pair in Sam Draper and Kortney Leatherwood, on stage every Tuesday night from 6:30 to 9:30, from April through October, in the Curve’s lusciously designed beer garden. That means you also get to be mixed by Ric “Skippy” Major, the award-winning soundman camped at the Curve, plus use a backline to play through and professional stage lighting to top off your openmic performance. No wonder folks think Sam and Kortney have a good thing going. If you can’t wait until next year, try one of our finalists’ open mics held indoors year round, then make sure you get to the best at the Curve Inn in the spring.

Finalists: Blue Grouch Pub, Bar None, Weebles Bar & Grill, George Ranks

BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL

SOHO

Downtown Springfield

Well it sure is nice to have so many music festivals to choose from when not too many years ago hardly any such events graced our city streets. SOHO was among the first to start the trend and definitely began without public funds or sponsorships, or hardly any private cash for that matter. Always considered a benefit cause where the bands and volunteers donate time to raise money for charities, the event has given thousands upon thousands of dollars, all gathered in the name of fun, to area charitable organizations. In doing so, many bands and musicians received an opportunity to play on a big stage in front of big crowds, to the point where SOHO organizers turn away many more bands than they can host. Every year the event gets a little larger with more stages and artists. They recently added a 5K run plus other events to help SOHO become the best fest that can be.

Finalists: Old Capitol Blues & BBQ, Downhome Music, Beer & Art Festival, Clayville Music Festival, Dumb Fest

BEST PAINT NIGHT EVENT

Springfield Art Association, “Canvas & Cocktails”

Condell Studio, 700 North 4th St.

When it comes to Paint Night, our readers know how to pick them, but it wasn’t easy. In a hard-fought battle, showing the intense loyalty of each separate location and host, the Springfield Art Association won victory with its Canvas & Cocktails event. Held on Friday evenings with hosts Sam Brown and Cinda Sausaman from 7 to 9:30, you can bring your own wine, cheese and desserts (these items are highly recommended), then work on a themed project, designed to be completed that night, as you paint your masterpiece from an inspirational photo, aided by the knowledgeable instructors. The SAA provides the art supplies so you can concentrate on the painting (and the wine) while having some Friday night fun the best way you can.

Finalists: It’s Scrapicated; Picasso on the Prairie; Paint Out Social, Sarah Dufner; Painted Love by Lindsay Pat; Christy Freeman’s at The Blue Door

BEST BURGER

Krekel’s Custard and Hamburgers

2121 North Grand Avenue, 525-4952 Not sure where to find Krekel’s – just look for the chicken. But it’s the beef burgers that have been Krekel’s claim to fame since 1949 – fresh, never frozen, smashed onto a sizzling hot griddle and served with a toasted bun that’s been hit with butter. 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 and for having seven locations in central Illinois.

Finalists: The Burger Bar; Five Guy’s Burgers & Fries; Red Robin Gourmet Burgers; Arlington’s

BEST BAKERY

Incredibly Delicious Bakery and Cafe

925 S Seventh Street, 528-8548

Winning again this year, Incredibly Delicious provides Springfield with delicious cakes, pastries and bread. We love the aroma of freshly baked bread, especially when dining al fresco in the patio area around the everchanging landscaping at the Weber House.

Yes, that’s right – Incredibly Delicious also serves lunch. But Springfield is most impressed with the output of their talented bakers. Try the “all butter” handmade croissants (available in plain, raspberry, chocolate and almond cream) that melt in your mouth or their tarts. Illinois Times’ readers are also impressed with the handmade, stone-baked breads made with unbleached non-GMO wheat.

Finalists: Pease’s at Bunn Gourmet; Hy- Vee; Specialty Cakes; Cocoa Blue Chocolates

BEST CHILI

The Chili Parlor

820 South Ninth Street, 523-4989

Although it’s changed hands since winning “best of” recognition last year, little has changed at the Chili Parlor. And that’s something we’re thankful for because the Parlor serves up some seriously good chili (with one “I”). Readers appreciate that they can customize their orders in terms of their own standards for heat, oil and beans. Eat a bowl of the Firebrand (the spiciest version) and get your name memorialized on the wall. We dare you to try to eat multiple bowls in an attempt to break the current record. And don’t forget to try the chili burger, chili dog or the tamales. We hope that the Parlor has another 70 years of success.

Finalists: Dew Chilli Parlor; Steak ’n Shake; Cook’s Spice Rack and Chili; The Dublin Pub

BEST BREAKFAST

Charlie Parker’s Diner

100 North Street, 241-2104

Charlie Parker’s Diner, featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” and in a slew of regional and national print publications, wins again this year for Springfield’s Best Breakfast. Charlie Parker’s has just about perfected the diner breakfast while keeping costs reasonable. Maybe that’s why it won the Hometown Breakfast Battle between 135 restaurants from across the country. And as to ambience, where else can you dine in a Quonset hut formerly used as a maintenance shed and a bait shop? Don’t forget kids 3 and under eat free with an adult.

Finalists: Le Peep; DJ’s Café; Hamburger Dan’s Sunrise Café; Sgt. Peppers Café

BEST CHEAP DRINK COLDEST CHEAP BEER

Curve Inn 3219 S. Sixth Street, 529-5806

With its large beer garden and eclectic menu of live music, there’s more to the Curve than cold and cheap beer. But, if that’s what motivates you, the Curve Inn should be your preferred destination. Whether on tap or in bottles, the Curve has you covered. Looking beyond beer? Don’t forget “Sunday Fundays” during the NFL season with free food and $2.50 bloodys and $1 domestic drafts. Readers like $.25 wing night on Mondays and $1.25 burgers on Tuesday. Looking to stretch your dollar and have some fun? The Curve Inn is your place.

Finalists – Best Cheap Drink: The Blue Grouch Pub; Boones Saloon; The Dublin Pub; Weebles Bar & Grill Finalists – Coldest Cheap Beer: The Blue Grouch Pub; Floyd’s Thirst Parlor; Weebles Bar & Grill; The Burger Bar; The Dublin Pub; George Rank’s

BEST BBQ

Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill

2660 S. Dirksen Parkway, 528-6410

Along with pizza and chili, Springfield loves to debate who has the best BBQ. This year, the award goes to Smokey Bones. Whether it’s St. Louis-style ribs or Texas-style beef brisket, all of Smokey Bones’ BBQ is smoked on-site over 18-inch hickory logs. And all the “Q” is served with a variety of distinct sauces sure to please the most finicky eater. Make sure to sop up the excess with some of their delicious garlic bread. In the mood for something else? Smokey Bones has you covered with a variety of more traditional items.

Finalists: McCormick’s Smokehouse Restaurant; Hickory River Smokehouse; Twyford BBQ; Clay’s Popeye’s BBQ

BEST DONUTS

Mel-O-Cream

217 E. Laurel Street, 544-4644

1953 W. Monroe Street, 546-4651

525 E. North Grand Avenue, 528-2303

3010 S. Sixth Street, 529-7708

Mel-O-Cream, one of Springfield’s best known establishments, has been producing delicious donuts for 80 years here in the capital city. Whether you like cake donuts, old-fashioned donuts or cream-filled donuts, Mel-O-Cream has something for you. The cream-filled donuts are particularly delicious with a perfect balance of sweet, but yet not too sweet, cream filling. The earlier you get there the better, as they tend to sell out of the most popular donuts. Newcomers have arrived in Springfield to try to steal the spotlight away, but our readers have clearly declared Mel-O-Cream simply the best.

Finalists: Krispy Kreme Doughnuts; Dunkin’ Donuts; Casey’s General Store; Schnucks Bakery

BEST COFFEE HOUSE

Grab-A-Java

1702 South Sixth Street, 523-5282

We remember when coffee choices were as simple as cream and sugar. But no matter the choices, Springfield knows that the only thing that counts in the morning is taste and flavor. And that’s why Garb-A-Java gets the nod for another year. Its dedication to the craft of brewing the perfect cup has earned it our readers’ respect – not just for its many varieties, but also because of the ease its drive-through offers. You’re virtually guaranteed to find your preferred brew (or Chai, tea, smoothie or freeze) here. Need something more? Make sure to pick up some freshly baked scones, muffins or cookies to help get you moving in the morning.

Finalists: Wm. Van’s Coffee House; Bunn Gourmet; Custom Cup Coffee; Café Andiamo

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Cooper’s StrEatside

Locations Vary, call 415-3852

Despite some resistance from brick-andmortar restaurants, food trucks have made an impact on Springfield’s dining scene. For the second year, Illinois Times’ readers gave the nod to Cooper’s StrEatside as Springfield’s Best Food Truck. It’s not surprising, given that its owner trained at the legendary Le Cordon Bleu culinary school. While we’re fans of the Bahn Mi Pork Sandwich (marinated grilled pork chop, pickled carrots, cucumber, cilantro and spicy mayo), our readers are particularly fond of the Breakfast Taco and the Fresh Cut Fries (add some garlic for an extra pop, but be sure to bring your breath mints). Judging from the lines every time we see the truck pop up all over Springfield, we’re betting on its continued success.

Finalists: Chadito’s Mexican American Grill; Twyford BBQ; Gilly’s BBQ; Brighter Life Foods-Farm Kitchen

BEST GYROS

Gyros Stop

2907 South MacArthur Blvd, 698-6463

2345 West Monroe, 546-3442

4127 Wabash, 546-8830

Gyros Stop wins this category for a stunning eighth year. With a huge array of options (including a deep-fried gyro), Gyros Stop is the place to go when you’re hankering for some Greek comfort food. But there’s plenty more than gyros here, like the classic Greek souvlaki (shish-ka-bob), spinach pie, falafel and even burgers and horseshoes. If you’re inclined for something a bit lighter, then opt for one of their many salads. No matter what you get, make sure to ask for a side of tzatziki, a Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce. Gyros Stop has about perfected the dish.

Finalists: Yanni’s Gyros; Zach’s Wraps; Chi Town’s Finest

BEST HORSESHOE

D’Arcy’s Pint

661 West Stanford Avenue, 492-8800

Springfield’s culinary claim to fame is the Horseshoe, and the standard by which all others are judged is D’Arcy’s. For yet another year, it’s garnered the city’s “best of” award. Ask your friends where they’d take an outof-town visitor for their first horseshoe, and D’Arcys is almost always the first name that you hear. But don’t forget the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich (available grilled if you’re feeling healthy) – generously sized and wellseasoned, this is pub food at its best. Weather permitting, diners can enjoy socializing in the outdoor beer garden. For the history buffs, D’Arcy’s has repurposed the ice cream counter from the former Sugar Bowl from yesteryear. Nicely done.

Finalists: The Dublin Pub; Westwoods Lodge Pub and Grill; Ritz’s Lil Fryer; Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery, Top Cats Chill & Grill

BEST ICE CREAM/FROYO

Cold Stone Creamery

124 South Sixth Street, 523-6666

Who doesn’t love frozen desserts? Especially when they come from Cold Stone. Cold Stone ice cream is churned on premises every day. For that reason and for many more, Cold Stone is the place to go, according to Springfield. Whether you feel like a scoop of ice cream with delicious toppings mixed in or the ever popular waffle cones, sundaes, smoothies or milkshakes, Cold Stone has it all and more. Have a special occasion coming up? They can do an ice cream cake for you. There really is something for everyone – including those who require gluten-free or lactose-free dishes.

Finalists: Baskin Robbins; Cherry Berry; Dairy Queen; Scoop Du Jour Ice Cream Parlor

BEST DEEP DISH PIZZA

Nancy’s Chicago Pizza

2301 W. Monroe Street, 679-0456

Deep dish pizza is relatively new to Springfield. Although a Chicago favorite, until recently we’ve had only pale imitations. Which is why Springfield has embraced Nancy’s Chicago Pizza. If you haven’t tried it yet, you are missing out. Nancy’s stuffed deep dish pizza offers the perfect ratio of bread to cheese with just the right amount of sauce to round it out. Not only is it delicious, but it is sturdy enough to dig into with your hands instead of using a knife and fork. If you are checking out Nancy’s with a group and you are the lone one that wants to try their fabulous stuffed deep dish pizza, don’t worry – Nancy’s has you covered; they sell it by the slice. In a hurry? Don’t forget to order ahead – perfection doesn’t come quickly.

Finalists: DiCarlo’s Pizza (Virden); Godfather’s Pizza; Bella Milano; Rosati’s Pizza

BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT BEST COCKTAIL MENU

Osaka Japanese Restaurant

1665 Wabash Avenue, 726-8037

For yet another year, Osaka has earned the top honors for Best Japanese Restaurant in Springfield. And, this year, it adds recognition for the Best Cocktail Menu. Perhaps it’s the hibachi table, where you might find yourself having a fried bit of goodness launched by the chef into your mouth like a trained seal. Or perhaps it’s the more traditional and restrained Japanese dishes and sushi. Or it’s the exhaustive list of exotic drinks guaranteed to help transport you to the Far East. We’re fans of the Monday Martini Special ($4) and the Wednesday Wine Special ($3). In the mood for something more exotic? Osaka’s bar tenders won’t let you down.

Finalists Best Japanese Restaurant: Happy Sushi; Mimosa; Kiku Japanese Steak & Seafood House Finalists Best Cocktail Menu: Floyd’s Thirst Parlor; Driftwood Cocktail & Eatery; American Harvest Eatery; Always After Five; Indigo

BEST SUB/SANDWICH SHOP

Head West Sub Stop

1124 West Jefferson, 793-9101

3311 Robbins Road, 726-9202

2432 Denver Road, 744-7990

1281 Toronto Road, 585-7990

530 East Capitol Avenue, 789-9101

7032 Kings Mill Court, Chatham, 670-0111

450 State Street, Rochester, 498-1182

Springfield has seen quite a few new entrants in this category. Yet, once again, Head West has come out on top. Our readers like the slightly sweet bread that holds together the generously sized sandwiches, as well as the reasonable prices. The verdict is out on whether to toast the bread or not, but Springfield’s certain that Head West is tops in this category. Head West serves up a great product in a “chill” environment. Don’t be afraid to ask for extra Italian dressing.

Finalists: Monty’s Submarines; Penn Station East Coast Subs; Jimmy John’s Sandwiches; Firehouse Subs

BEST THAI RESTAURANT

Magic Kitchen

115 North Lewis Street, 525-6975

4112 North Peoria Road, 525-2230

For yet another year, Magic Kitchen earns top honors as Springfield’s best Thai restaurant. Although our readers appreciate its BYOB policy at the Peoria Road location, it’s really the food that elevates Magic Kitchen to the top. Of course there are your classics like Pad Thai and a variety of Thai Currys. But don’t miss some of the other, lesser known, dishes like Thai noodle soup and Tua Nawk Si Kai (bean sprouts, green onions, tofu and egg served with a spicy sauce.) We like that you can custom order your level of spice for most of Magic Kitchen’s dishes. On busy nights, we also like the tailgate feel at the Peoria Road location as diners wait their turn for Springfield’s best Thai food.

Finalists: Little Saigon; Thai Kitchen; Mekong Café; Taste of Thai

BEST FINE DINING BEST WINE SELECTION BY GLASS

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant

2501 Wabash Avenue, 321-9100

Cooper’s Hawk wins again, but this year for fine dining and wine selection instead of best date venue. No matter the category, Springfield has clearly embraced Cooper’s Hawk. Whether your visit consists of lingering in the tasting room while sampling house-made wines or continues on for dinner, Cooper’s Hawk serves up quality offerings in an upscale environment. If wine isn’t your thing, there’s a full bar with a wide array of drinks to satisfy everyone. Cooper’s Hawk offers a wide expanse of menu items – ranging from sandwiches and burgers for the more informal to pastas and steaks for dates when you want to go all out. And, for the gluten-free crowd, there’s a separate menu with an unexpectedly wide array of selections.

Finalists – Best Fine Dining: Bella Milano; American Harvest Eatery; Maldaner’s; Nick & Nino’s Penthouse Steakhouse; Augie’s Front Burner Finalists – Best selection Wine by the Glass: It’s All About Wine; Danenberger Family Vineyards; Sheedy Shores Winery; American Harvest Eatery; Indigo

BEST BEER GARDEN BEST BEER SELECTION BEST OUTDOOR DINING

Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery & Eatery

500 South Sixth Street, 670-0627

With its geographic expansion to Peoria, we have no doubt that Peorians will also be awarding Obed and Isaac’s high accolades. Who else has an enclosed dog run where man’s best friend can cavort while its owner plays bocce ball and wets the proverbial whistle with craft beer brewed on premises? Need something more substantial? There’s a full menu offering tasty morsels like goat cheese stuffed dates, pierogies, a beer and whiskey burger and Cajun shrimp and andouille sausage. Our readers love the congenial atmosphere and the owners’ commitment to historic preservation.

Finalists – Best Beer Garden: Curve Inn; Boones Saloon; Crow’s Mill Pub; Weebles Bar & Grill Finalists – Best Beer Selection: Craft Beer Bar; Engrained Brewing Company; Floyd’s Thirst Parlor; Brewhaus Finalists – Best Outdoor Dining: The Dublin Pub; Papa Frank’s; Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, Maldaner’s Restaurant

Winners please come by our office to pick up your certificate

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Chesapeake Seafood House

3045 East Clear Lake Avenue, 522-5220 Once again, Chesapeake has earned Springfield’s admiration as its best seafood restaurant. Located in an 1850s mansion, its menu is a pleasing throwback to classic dishes. For the traditional crowd, there are oysters on the half shell, chowder and surf and turf. But for the more modern, there’s the Bourbon Salmon (marinated in a sweet bourbon sauce) and the tilapia. 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.

Finalists: Red Lobster; Old Luxemburg Inn; American Harvest Eatery; Indigo; Bella Milano

BEST PLACE FOR STEAK

Texas Roadhouse

2540 W. Iles Avenue, 698-5700 Craving a hot fresh steak cooked to perfection? Texas Roadhouse is your place. Texas Roadhouse has beaten out all the other competition and claimed the coveted spot for best steak in Springfield. They offer a wide variety of hand-cut steaks, suitable for everyone’s appetite. If you are feeling particularly hungry, Texas Roadhouse offers a Porterhouse T-Bone that weighs in at 23 ounces and that’s sure to satisfy your appetite. Or for the less ambitious eater, Texas Roadhouse offers a Dallas Filet that weighs in at 6 ounces. To accompany your steak, Texas Roadhouse offers delicious house-made sides. We’re fans.

Finalists: Alexander’s Steakhouse; Old Luxemburg Inn; Longhorn Steakhouse; Nick & Nino’s Penthouse Steakhouse

BEST FRIES

McDonald’s

Many Locations around Springfield If McDonald’s is known for one thing besides the Big Mac, it’s their French fries and Springfield voters agree. Although we remember the good old days when McDonald’s cooked theirs in lard, our readers think they’re still the best. If you are looking for hot, crispy, salty fries – and you don’t insist on local – then McDonald’s is the place. Not only are they delicious, but McDonald’s serves them quick too. They are conveniently located throughout Springfield, so you never have to go far to find one. McDonald’s is open late with some even open 24 hours – so you can get your fry fix anytime the urge hits. They have a drive-thru so no need to even get out of the car.

Finalists: Five Guys Burgers & Fries; Steak ’n Shake; Cooper’s StrEATside Bistro; Zach’s Wraps

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT

China Star

1899 E. Sangamon Avenue, 789-0800 Springfield is no stranger to Chinese food and voters have decided that China Star takes the “star.” China Star offers a wide variety of delicious dishes sure to please everyone’s palates. They also offer generous portions, so plan on taking some home. For those who like a little or a lot of heat to their dishes, China Star has a wide range of spicy dishes, including the classic General Tso’s Chicken and Sesame Chicken. You won’t find a bad dish in the house.

Finalists: Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet; Hunan Chinese Restaurant; Tai Pan Chinese Restaurant; Sunny China House

BEST WINERY

Danenberger Family Vineyards

12341 Irish Road, New Berlin, 488-6321

Although wineries seem to be popping up all over the place, Springfield has embraced Danenberger Family Vineyards as the best of the genre. We appreciate that their wines are made on premises. But we also appreciate the incredible facilities – pretty much the perfect place to enjoy a few glasses of Illinois’ best wine. Susan Danenberger, owner and proprietor, takes pride in her product and in making sure that all visitors feel welcomed and made at home. Going with a group? Make sure to call ahead and reserve the gazebo or the depot for a nominal fee. Trust us – it’s worth it.

Finalists: Hill Prairie Winery; Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants; Walnut Street Winery; West of Wise Winery

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Xochimilco

2941 West Iles Avenue, 546-3116

3210 Northfield Drive, 544-9206

Once again, Xochimilco wins for best Mexican restaurant. 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 o