There’s nothing quite like walking into your favorite restaurant and instantly, you are greeted with the warm smiles of your favorite servers and staff. Cat at Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse in Eau Claire (4751 Owen Ayres Ct) embodies this truth better than anyone, as the reader poll indicates. Betty at Houligans Steak & Seafood Pub in downtown Eau Claire (415 S Barstow St.) continues to serve longtime regulars and visitors a personalized experience with each dining adventure. Finally, let’s give some love to Jacob Green at Helix Wine, Craft Bar & Cafe in Altoona (1444 Front Porch Pl) for their excellent expertise in seasonal cocktail and drink offerings, among many other talents. —Evelyn Nelson