Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse (4751 Owen Ayres Court, Eau Claire) brings the rat-pack era to the 21st century with the smokey-hued décor and soft lighting. Cowboy Jack’s (1432 Front Porch Place, Altoona) is a taste of theWest in the Midwest, with delicious food and an outdoor patio that offers a place to catch up with a buncha pals. Houligans Steak & Seafood Pub (415 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire) resides in a century-old, two-story building, which lends to its upscale country-club feel. All three spots are go to atmospheric spots. — Justine Childs