The voters have spoken!
Thousands of readers took the time to tell us what they find best about the North Shore and Chicago. This year, over 90,000 verified votes were cast in over 11 categories in our annual Best of 2014 awards, and we couldn’t be prouder you responded in such numbers.
Here are our reader’s picks for the Best of 2014 in Dining:
PIZZA
The scent of their wood-fire, oven-baked pizzas will transport you to Napoli. Inventive seasonal and locally focused toppings provide big flavor.
FINE DINING
Mark Grosz’ fish mecca never disappoints. A recent facelift brought the décor up to par with the French- influenced food.
MEXICAN/LATIN
Frontera Grill/Topolobampo (Chicago)
Rick Bayless blazed the trail for fine Mexican cuisine in America. All we can do is follow—and eat. A lot.
The tequila selection here is deep, and the margaritas are damn tasty.
Latin-American fusion food at its best.
GOURMET MARKET
Whether you’re grabbing a quick sandwich or bringing in dinner and dessert for 30, they have you covered.
NEIGHBORHOOD GEM
Evanstonians have flocked to this special and seasonal Italian place for years. Time for you to learn why!
Nick’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill (Runner-Up)
COFFEE (TIE)
If you desire a perfect espresso, look no further. Peet’s nails it every time, and the service is terrific.
The owners, all musicians, love coffee and music. No wonder their freshly roasted java rocks!
BARBECUE 
Our readers know “it’s the sauce!” that makes Hecky’s the go-to barbecue source on the North Shore.
DELI
It’s all about tradition at this family-owned favorite. Fresh rye bread doesn’t get any better than this.
WINE STORE
Serving the North Shore since 1936, this venerated Skokie shop knows their grapes.
GROCERY STORE
They’ve made a splash with new stores in Northfield, Glenview and Park Ridge.
SPLURGE RESTAURANT
You agree that Grant Achatz’ inventive cuisine is worth every penny.
ASIAN
Perennially packed from the get go, the spice doesn’t quit at this Evanston hot spot.
ITALIAN
Recently renovated, this gorgeous longtime favorite deserves every accolade. Astounding.
JUICE BAR
Mariano’s, True Juice (Editor’s Pick)
Everyone’s juicing these days, and Mariano’s and True Juice are doing it right, with über-fresh ingredients and lots of great options. Green juice, anyone?
ICE CREAM
Even Al Capone knew that Homer’s was the best. So you’ll try their famous Fresh Peach and the Cappuccino Chip if you know what’s good for you. Capisce?
BAKERIES
As lovely as they are delicious. The Banana with Chocolate Ganache is a big winner!
Plying Evanston with doughnuts, pastries, tarts and cakes since 1938.
From cookies to wedding cakes, the Tarts do it all.
Every ingredient is carefully chosen for these crusty, hand-forged loaves. And the Almond Croissants… très bon!
BRUNCH
There’s nothing subtle about the size of this brunch. Both service and presentation are beautiful.
Walker Bros. Original Pancake House (North Shore)
They’ll humor you with an egg-white omelet, but what you really want is the Apple Cinnamon Pancake as big as your head.
BURGER
They’ve captured your votes—and your stomachs—for the past three years. Worth every calorie.
STEAK HOUSE
One thing for sure: We never tire of red meat. It might not be what the doctor ordered, but eating it brings a primal thrill. Pete Miller’s and Gibson’s excel in the genre, and we keep going back for more.
COCKTAIL BAR
A speakeasy with real heart. Owner/mixologist Cody Modeer is a libation wizard.
See and be seen at this Winnetka wine and cocktail bar. Great summer patio, too.
NEW RESTAURANT
South Evanston’s Howard Street is hopping with the opening of this brewpub.
