Western Wisconsin is a no-nonsense region that values convenient and economical dining options. Still, even folks like us sometimes feel the urge to put on our fancy Carhartt jackets and dine somewhere special. For those occasions, V1 readers prefer Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse (4751 Owen Ayres Court) on Eau Claire’s south side. In second place is downtown Eau Claire’s Houligan's Steak and Seafood Pub (415 S. Barstow St.), with its dark-wood antique charm. In third is Bijou Bistro (2629 E. Clairemont Ave.), the unassuming gem near the intersection of U.S. 53 and Clairemont Avenue in Eau Claire. –Eric Rasmussen