New restaurants popped up all over the Chippewa Valley this year. However, because the Chippewa Valley has guac a soft spot for Mexican food, Silly Serrano Mexican Restaurant (329 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire) takes first place. QUESO LOVERS UNITE! Olson’s Ice Cream (80 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire) creamed the competition with its new spot in downtown Eau Claire. In addition, let’s not forget about Wisco’s (1920 S. Hastings Way, Eau Claire); readers love the Bloody Marys and burgers at this sports pub! – Natalie Rosenkranz