Here’s how it works:

You’ll need about 10 minutes to complete the poll. Select or write in your favorite in each category, then submit your ballot. We’ll tally up the votes and the TOP 10 in each category will move on to The Finalist Round. We’ll count up the votes again, and the Readers’ Choice winners will be announced in our June issue.

A few rules:

• Voters submit their cell phone numbers, then receive a text message confirmation code to access the poll. Only one ballot per phone number.
• Only locally owned, independent restaurants qualify to be in the poll. Any votes cast for non-St. Louis area-based chains or franchises will be disqualified.
• All categories have a write in option in case you don’t see your favorite – just make sure they adhere to the locals-only rule above.