Well, our dear CITY readers, that was a harrowing, hair-raising experience, wasn’t it? Thousands of you braved the treacherous journey (to your computers) to vote in our Best of Rochester primary ballot. But we’re not quite through with you yet…

In the first round of our competition, we asked readers to dig deep for their dark nominations to each category. We then toiled over the results, counting and meticulously checking for the top four votegetters in each category (five if there was a tie) for this final ballot. (NOTE: The finalists were determined solely by reader nominations. CITY Newspaper had no say whatsoever in what people, places, or businesses the ghouls picked for the final ballot, outside of our set rules.)

Now it’s time to put the final nail in the coffin. The Best of Rochester final ballot is now open through 5 p.m., Friday, October 13 (how convenient). You can vote online here or by mail-in ballot (look for our print edition on stands now) by choosing the best in at least 30 categories. The results will be announced Wednesday, October 25.

And we really are looking for the best. We all have our favorites; we’re all guilty of sticking to the same restaurants and take-out joints, bands and bars, and dungeons. But Rochester has a lot to it, and we want you to take some time to consider our final poll.

Is there a sushi restaurant you haven’t tried yet? Or is that really the best coffee you’ve had in Rochester? What best represents the city to you? There’s a lot to see, so don’t be afraid — before casting your last vote, give something new a try.

Make sure to follow CITY Newspaper on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for Best of Rochester updates. And tell us about your descent into madness with #bestofroc17.

Did we mangle something? Have a suggestion you think will make our poll even better? Let us know! Howl at us at [email protected].