When it comes to dining out, we all have our “place.”

You know the one — the place where you have a special table you sit at each time. When you walk in, the scent of the food is familiar, your eyes adjust to the lighting in no time and the cacophony of conversations and food prep provides a soundtrack you know by heart.

If you are a regular, you are likely greeted by wait staff or proprietors who know you by name. They may put down your drink without even asking for your order and know that when they see you, you’re craving a specific menu item that no place makes better — in your opinion.

If you are like me, these favorite spots have earned your trust by giving you exceptional customer service and quality products, and you know that they give back to the community they serve.

It is that time of year where you get to give these special businesses some love. Best of the Best voting begins today.

As you weigh in, we hope you take the time to remember the auto shop that went above and beyond to serve you, or the meat market staff that greets you like a friend. 

While casting your ballots this year, we strongly encourage you to think about locally owned businesses — shops and restaurants owned by your neighbors and friends. These business owners are right here in Michiana sending their students to our schools, frequenting other businesses, paying taxes for their homes as well as their businesses and ultimately choosing Michiana not only as the place they do business, but as the place they do life.

We have no doubt that Olive Garden makes a mean fettucine alfredo, but have you tried the pasta at Pizza Transit or Pete’s Patio?

Of course you can get a good steak at Outback Steakhouse, but if you have not tried the juicy steak tips at Jim’s Smokin’ Café at Paris Soda Co., I can tell you first hand that you are missing out (tell Jim that Ambrosia said you have to try the blue cheese).

Here in southwest Michigan, some categories are a bit more competitive. Best landscape specialist is always a close call. Best burger and best pizza usually get the most votes, and best school district is a toss-up every year.

We need your input to determine which businesses are best.

To vote, visit leaderpub.com and click “Best of the Best,” or fill out the paper ballot inside your newspaper today and drop it off at our office, 217 N. Fourth St. in Niles. You must include your name and phone number so we can ensure that ballots are legitimate and that all are playing by the rules.

New this year, our web ballots include a multiple choice option of the top five businesses (in no particular order) from last year’s contest. There is also a free form option where you can vote for any business of your choosing.

Voting ends June 28, so there is not much time to waste. Hurry up and cast your ballot, and don’t forget to choose “your place.”

Ambrosia Neldon is the general manager at Leader Publications. She can be reached by phone at (269) 687-7700 or by email at ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com