Best Chinese: PF Chang's
PF Chang's is the perfect middle ground for someone looking to explore the exotic and try something new while staying within the comfort zone of Western-friendly food. The warm ambiance and enticing aromas of delicious Chinese spices lure diners into eating at this classy, yet wallet-friendly restaurant. Expect a bit of a wait, but excellent service and a delicious meal. Interesting spins on common food are chili oil and vinegar instead of salt and pepper and Asian marinated New York strip. As a corporate chain, PF Chang's has perfected casual upscale dining with a twist. www.pfchangs.com, 49 W. Maryland St. #226; 317-974-5747 and 8601 Keystone Crossing, 815-8773
Second: Forbidden City
Third: Yen Ching

Best Indian: India Garden
Let the succulent aromas and sumptuous flavors of India arouse your taste buds and awaken your palate. India Garden is a culinary adventure worth taking for those looking to expand their horizons through culture and flavor. Navigating the menu is easy with thorough descriptions of the exotic samplings, the only hard part is deciding on which mouth-watering dish to try. Tandoori ovens and Northern Indian spices make the dishes burst with flavor and melt with tenderness. Make sure to include a mango lassi in your order; the tropical frozen drink is a delicious staple of Indian tradition. www.indiagardenindy.com, 830 Broad Ripple Ave., 253-6060 and 207 N. Delaware St., 634-6060
Second: Shalimar
Third: Passage to India

Best Italian: Mama Carolla's Old Italian
Walking into Mama Carolla's is a passageway to old Italy. The warm wood interior encases diners in a cozy, friendly atmosphere, while the delicately lit dining garden is enchanting. Both outdoor and indoor seating in this smoke-free eatery is charming. The diverse, authentic menu is pleasantly complimented by a glass of house wine, all of which will be served speedily. Once delivered, Mama Carolla's portions and palate burst with savory Italian flavors like garlic and parmaggiano reggiano, and every entrée comes with a side soup or salad. Mama Carolla's makes for a delightful date or get together. www.mamacarollas.com, 1031 E. 54th St., 259-9412
Second: Iaria's
Third: Milano Inn

Best Japanese: Sakura Japanese Restaurant
At Sakura, the clientele is as diverse as the succulent Japanese cuisine. An Indy favorite for 20 years, Sakura offers a varied assortment of elegantly crafted sushi, tempura, noodles and other Japanese classics. With 29 different kinds of sushi rolls, there is something for everyone, from classics like the California Roll to Sakura originals like the Rock 'n' Roll. Here, the food, environment and staff are authentic and earnest; Sakura is a true culinary adventure. To add some fun to your meal, order some Japanese beer or warm sake. Make sure to make reservations, as there is often a short wait. www.indysakura.com, 7201 N. Keystone Ave., 259-4171
Second: Naked Chopstix
Third: Mikado

Best Thai: Thai Café
Thai Café is an excellent option for authentic -- and spicy! -- Thai food, including plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The menu offers classics like Satay and Thom Yum, as well as originals like Yum Tofu Salad. Diners can make food as spicy or mild as they want with their choice of spice number, but be careful, as the spice really packs a punch! Cap off the night with a delicious cup of Thai Tea after dinner. Go in for warm, friendly service, or order takeout for a cozy night at home.
www.indythaicafe.com, 1041 Broad Ripple Ave., 722-1008
Second: Sawasdee Thai
Third: Thai Smile

Best Mexican/Spanish: La Hacienda
Known for its authentic Mexican food for cheap, you can't go wrong with La Hacienda. The large portions go great with a pitcher of Texas Margaritas, made strong with that traditional citrus kick. Lunch specials and Happy Hour offer great deals for those looking for a lighter meal or a round of drinks. Sit inside to enjoy playful murals, or outside to enjoy the weather. With multiple locations, it's easy to find a convenient and local setting, all of which cater to a family-oriented crowd. Check out the Web site for regular coupons. www.lahaciendaindy.com, 6825 Graham Road, 317-577-2689; 3874 Lafayette Road, 317-290-0755; and 6429 E. Washington St., 357-8084
Second: Adobo
Third: BARcelona Tapas

Best Greek/Mediterranean: Santorini Greek Kitchen
Let Santorini take you to a world of sumptuous flavors, exotic pairings and exciting entertainment. Located in the eclectic Fountain Square area, Santorini offers a menu as diverse as its clientele. Attentive servers guide diners through the authentic menu and may even suggest a Keo beer or two. Belly dancers perform on Friday and Saturday nights, so make reservations as the tables fill up fast. Settle down for a long meal because the portions are enormous, leaving even the biggest appetite fully satisfied. No smoking and a full bar makes for a great night out for friends, partners or families. www.greekkitchen.dine.com, 1417 Prospect St., 917-1117
Second: Sam's Gyro's
Third: Hellas Cafe

Best seafood: Oceanaire
The key to excellent seafood is freshness, which is why Oceanaire has been named as Indianapolis' best seafood restaurant. Oceanaire ships its seafood in from all over the world, guaranteeing both freshness and variety. The classic décor adds to the atmosphere, and the mixture of tables and booths provides a great setting for groups of any size. The oyster bar is also a great touch. Executive Chef Ryan Nelson should also be commended for his efforts towards sustainability and ecologically responsible food practices. www.theoceanaire.com, 30 S. Meridian St., Suite 100, 955-2277

Best steak: St. Elmo Steakhouse
Indianapolis' first steakhouse has also been chosen as its best time and time again by NUVO readers. St. Elmo has thrived over a century for a reason. The cuts are prepared in traditional style, delivering fantastic meals to patrons. The menu doesn't necessarily offer anything new or different, but it doesn't need to. Classic steakhouse food served in the old saloon atmosphere works just fine. www.stelmos.com, 127 S. Illinois St., 635-0636
Second: Fogo de Chao
Third:Mo's Steakhouse

Best BBQ: GT's
Southern Bar-B-Que flavors aren't too hard to find, right here in Indy. G.T. South's Ribhouse delivers all the goods, with enormous amounts of food at great prices. From hickory smoked baby back ribs to the pulled pork, the tender meat melts in your mouth. Even better, everything is doused in their stellar homemade sauces. For a little kick, try the hot BBQ sauce. Don't forget to take a bottle home either. www.gtsouths.com, 5711 E. 71st St. (multiple locations), 849-6997
Second: King Ribs
Third: Squealers

Best hamburger: 96th Street Steakburgers
While the menu is small and simple, 96th Street Steakburgers do deliver the best hamburger in the area. Just a few options await patrons, but they are all guaranteed to be delicious. For those who are still watching their carbs, the burgers can still be enjoyed "Lettuce Wrap" style. Although the best choice is upgrading your sandwich to a "Monster." Here, the same great burger is served on a mustard-grilled bun with a pile of grilled onions atop it. www.96thstreetsteakburgers.com, 4715 E. 96th St., 844-6351
Second: Boogie Burger
Third: Red Key tavern

Best pizza: Bazbeaux
Bazbeaux Pizza certainly offers great, classic pizza. However, what makes Bazbeaux so enjoyable is the variety of options. Patrons can pour over a massive list of ingredients and craft their own masterpiece, or skip the work and choose one of the restaurant's creations. Favorites include the Basilica, which drops tomato sauce for pesto, adds black olives and sun-dried tomatoes, and finishes off with feta cheese. It doesn't get any better than enjoying one of these beasts on the outside deck in Broad Ripple. www.bazbeaux.com, 811 E. Westfield Blvd. (multiple locations), 255-5711
Second: Jockamo
Third: Gusto

Best wings: Buffalo Wild Wings
Great wings are really about the sauce, which is why Buffalo Wild Wings has captured the title of best wings. The secret is their huge variety of sauces. They give patrons the choice of 14, ranging from the mild sweet barbeque, to the absurdly hot "Blazin'" sauce. Along the way, the "Spicy Garlic" and "Mango Habanero" sauces provide different flavors with plenty of kick. In addition to the wings, BW3's is always a reliable location to enjoy a beer and a bevy of sports. www.buffalowildwings.com, 6235 N. Guilford, 257-2999
Second: Just Wingin' it
Third: Ale Emporium

Best wait staff: St. Elmo Steakhouse
As the oldest Indianapolis steakhouse in its original location, St. Elmo has been an Indy tradition since its origins in 1902. The attentive wait staff will help guests every step of the way from deciding which cut of meat to enjoy or which of the several thousand award-winning wines to pair with their meals. Known for the classic turn-of-the-century Chicago saloon style décor, St. Elmo is the place to come to seal a business deal, celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy the company of St. Elmo's diverse clientele. www.stelmos.com, 127 S. Illinois St., 635-0636
Second: Bazbeaux
Third: Oceanaire

Best local restaurant for the budget-conscious: Yats
Get in line as soon as you walk in to the constant party that is Yats, because chances are, it's out the door and down the block. While in line, assess the daily menu of six to 10 dishes that fluctuates depending on owner Joe Vuskovich's mood that day. At only $5.50, it's a steal. Throw in another choice for another buck. After you've decided on your dish comes the hard part, deciding which of the nine different types of hot sauce you're going to cover your plate in -- don't worry, you can soak up the extra sauce with the thick slice of bread that comes with every meal. www.yatscajuncreole.com, 659 Massachusetts Ave., 317-686-6380 and 5463 N. College Ave., 253-8817
Second: Mug 'n Bun
Third: Gusto

Best local restaurant for the late-night munchies: Peppy Grill
Open 24 hours, you can't go wrong popping into Peppy any time of day or night. Located in the Fountain Square area, a diverse crowd has been known to frequent the intimate dining room to order some classic, greasy diner food. The food is cheap and quick, but don't get too full on the thick french fries and cheeseburgers and forget about the giant slices of pie. Friendly cooks and servers make Peppy a regular haunt for the downtown crowd. Breakfast is a must, and don't forget to pop a dollar into the jukebox. 1004 Virginia Ave., 637-1158
Second: La Bamba
Third: Red Eye Cafe

Best vegetarian/vegan options: 3 Sisters Café
Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty to eat at this charming and affordable Victorian home converted into a restaurant. Known for its fresh and delicious food, 3 Sisters is making a healthy mark on the Broad Ripple area; go for a walk on the canal after your meal for an added perk. 3 Sisters is a great option for breakfast and lunch, offering great vegetarian and vegan alternatives to the classics. Plan to make a day in the Broad Ripple area as meals usually go on for a few hours. www.3sisterscafe.wp.net, 6360 Guilford Ave., 257-5556
Second: Cafe Patachou
Third: Earth House

Best local upscale restaurant: R Bistro
Chef Regina Mehallick takes special care in arranging the weekly menu in order to best incorporate seasonal, locally made produce, offering one of the largest menus in Indianapolis. The result is an imaginative and creative culinary treat. Reasonable portions and pricing leave clientele satisfied, while upscale décor makes for a sophisticated ambiance. As part of the slow food movement, Chef Regina focuses on incorporating local variety and gourmet training. With intimate dining space, it is highly recommended to make reservations at R Bistro, especially on weekends. Consult the Web site to see what seasonal offerings are available. www.rbistro.com, 888 Massachusetts Ave., 423-0312
Second: St. Elmo Steakhouse
Third: Meridian

Best new local restaurant: Earth House Café
As a collective, Earth House Café is the perfect place to stay in touch with the community and important issues. Earth House is Indiana's only 100 percent organic and fair trade coffee shop, offering coffee and tea drinks as well as organic foods on Friday nights and during events. Along with delicious food and drink, Earth House also offers classes like yoga and African drumming as well as exhibiting local artists, musicians and films. Earth House creates a community of like-minded people working together to make positive changes through art, music, creativity and communication. Check out the Web site for a great supplement. www.earthhousecollective.org, 237 East St., 636-4060
Second: Stanley's New York Deli
Third: Euphoria

Best local coffee house: Lazy Daze Coffee House
The menu at Lazy Daze Coffee House is similar to what you find at any coffee house -- coffee, tea, iced drinks, hot drinks, decaf, small, medium, large, etc. -- but what sets Lazy Daze apart is the atmosphere in which one consumes the menu. Lazy Daze's dim lighting, mismatched furniture and extensive collection of local artists' wares create the perfect backdrop for live poetry readings every Thursday and live acoustic music even more often. Regular events like these create Lazy Daze's unique local flavor and indie environment, which puts chain coffee houses to shame. www.lazydazecoffeehouse.com, 10 S. Johnson Ave., 353-0777
Second: Monon
Third: Abbey

Best place for drink specials: Scotty's Brewhouse
There is no place better for drink specials than Scotty's Brewhouse. What's better than a cold 24-ounce microbrew on a Monday? Easy, one you don't have to shell out a ton of cash for. The specials aren't limited to beer either; look for half priced bottles of wine and cheap you-calls throughout the week. www.scottysbrewhouse.com, 1 Virginia Ave., 571-0808
Second: Melody Inn
Third: Brother's

Best brewpub: Broad Ripple Brewpub
Not only does Broad Ripple Brewpub deliver some great beer, the food matches the quality, making for a great experience. Try the traditional, English-style cask ales for the real pub experience. Or maybe the Lawn Mower Pale Ale, a draft that is sure to quench your thirst during the hot summer months. After a few pints, the Drunken Tortelloni will satisfy your hunger with its five-cheese tortellini covered in their spicy vodka cream sauce. www.broadripplebrewpub.com, 842 E. 65th St., 253-2739
Second: Brugge
Third: Rock Bottom Brewery

Best wine selection: Deano's Vino
With a consistently rotating collection of wines, Deano's Vino is the best place in Indy for wine lovers. They guarantee at least 45 wines available by the bottle or glass, and feature a $5 wine tasting every Wednesday. The menu makes it easy to pair wines with meals, making for a great overall experience. deanosvino.com, 1112 S. Shelby St., 423-3154
Second: Corner Wine Bar
Third: SI

Best local wine/liquor store: Kahn's
With an incredible selection of wine, beer and liquor, Kahn's Fine Wines is an easy choice for best local liquor store. They claim to carry over 5,000 wines, 900 beers and an impressive liquor selection to round it out. www.kahnsfinewines.com, 5341 N. Keystone Ave., 251-9463
Second: Mass Ave Wine
Third: 21st Amendment

Best Indiana beer: Upland Brewing Co.
The best Indiana beer comes from its largest brewery, Upland Brewing Co. Upland regularly produces five varieties of beer, and adds seasonal selections to the mix. The Wheat Ale has a classic taste, and is great for the summer. New to the arsenal is the Nut Hugger Brown Ale, with caramel malt flavors, hints of chocolate and a slightly sweet finish. www.uplandbeer.com, 350 W. 11th St., Bloomington, 812-336-2337
Second: Three Floyd's
Third: Oaken Barrel

Best Indiana wine: Oliver Winery
Started in the 1960s by Indiana University law professor William Oliver, Oliver Winery has since grown into one of the largest wineries in the Eastern United States. They now offer a complete collection of wines, and are committed to producing quality wine from grapes grown in Indiana. www.oliverwinery.com, 8024 N. S.R. 37, Bloomington, 812-876-5800
Second: Chateau Thomas
Third: Easley

(Editor's) Best hangover food: Jimmy John's
Nothing hits home after a long evening out like a sandwich from Jimmy John's. The flavors are all great, but generally mild, making this the perfect meal on a questionable stomach. The Turkey Tom with a bag of salt and vinegar chips will have anybody up and going in no time at all. The reasonable prices and extremely fast preparation make Jimmy's even better. www.jimmyjohns.com, 845 Broad Ripple Ave., 253-6671

(Editor's) Best drunk food: La Piedad
Authentic Mexican food is undeniably delicious at any hour of the day, but it tastes especially great during the late, drunken hours of the weekend. La Piedad in Broad Ripple has a friendly staff and a great location next to the Monon Trail. Most importantly, their food is relatively inexpensive and positively delectable. The Tres Marias chicken enchiladas covered in cheese sauce are a fantastic way to end a night out on the town. 6524 Cornell Ave., 475-0988

(Editor's) Best small plates: Zing
The great idea behind small plates dining is the variety. Patrons don't have to choose one item, but can instead choose an assortment of them. Zing does this with great success, offering dishes from garlic and herb polenta fries to pineapple tamales with sautéed shrimp. The drink menu is also as extensive, with a great selection of beers, wines and specialty drinks. www.zingrestaurant.com, 543 Indiana Ave., 636-7775

(Editor's) Best breakfast: 3 Sisters Café
3 Sisters Café is great for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is a great alternative to the greasy breakfast usually found when dining out in the mornings. 3 Sisters uses wonderfully fresh ingredients and delivers fantastic breakfast food. The menu also offers plenty of healthy choices that will satisfy both vegetarians and carnivores alike. Located in an old house in Broad Ripple, the charming atmosphere only adds to the experience. 6360 Guilford Ave., 257-5556

(Editor's) Best bar food: Union Jack Pub
While it does not offer the healthiest of choices, the food at Union Jack Pub is delicious. The deep-dish pizza is always worth waiting for, but the sandwiches are a quicker alternative. The wide selection features something for every taste, and the beer menu is also fantastic. In true pub style, Union Jack also shows soccer matches from around the world. www.unionjackpub-broadripple.com, 924 Broad Ripple Ave., 257-4343

(Editor's) Best Sushi: Naked Tchopstix
Naked Tchopstix wins this category for a variety of reasons. Most importantly, the menu is easily accessible for sushi veterans and rookies alike. There are plenty of chances to customize your food, but also easy options that are just as enjoyable. The wonderful atmosphere and friendly staff help to make this a great dining experience. 6255 N. College Ave. (multiple locations), 252-5555