Sure, you could just hit the bars for drinks, but at these establishments that would mean passing up some of the best eats around. The undisputed champ in this category is Girolamo’s Court’n House (113 W. Grand Ave., Eau Claire), an 11-time winner and home to legendary juicy burgers. Another downtown favorite is The District Pub & Grill (101 Graham Ave., Eau Claire) where you can wash down your burger or sandwich with one of 30 tap beers. Returning to the rankings after a two-year absence is Ray’s Place (838 Water St, Eau Claire) which has been serving up its famous hot beefs and Spanish stew for decades. –Tom Giffey