So close and yet so far: For the first time in the history of this poll, Mona Lisa’s (428 Water St., Eau Claire) came out on top for Best Italian Food, beating readers’ previous perennial favorite, Draganetti’s Ristorante (3120 E. Clairemont Ave., Altoona), by only a handful of votes. Mona Lisa’s and its seasonally inspired menu is no stranger to the poll, having frequently won other titles, including Best Restaurant in Eau Claire. Just a few votes behind, Draganetti’s continues the family tradition of serving homemade Italian dishes such as spaghetti and meatballs, chicken parmesan, and margherita pizza. A solid third choice, Olive Garden (4920 Golf Road, Eau Claire) delivers with its Italian classics, including soup, salad, and breadsticks. — Jen Ekblad