As the campaign season heats up across the nation, it’s time to have a primary of sorts here on the South Coast. It’s time for you to elect your favorite clam chowder.

There may be early favorites, but as we’ve seen recently, the favorites don’t always come out on top when the voting gets done.

In recent years, the Cuisine section here at The World has conducted several polls, including favorite pizza (Rogers Zoo) and breakfast (Dishner’s).

Now we want to know, who you think makes the best of that seafood staple we’ve come to know and love here on the South Coast.

Even my wife, who is not a huge seafood fan, came to enjoy clam chowder following a trip to the Chowder, Blues and Brews festival held each fall in Florence.

In recent years, several area restaurants have done well in this coastwide chowder competition. Last year, the Anchor Grill in Winchester Bay won the People’s Choice award. The Lakeshore Lodge in Lakeside finished second in both the people’s vote and the professionally judged contest. Anchor Grill was voted third in the professional contest.

 In 2006, the 777 Cafe at Three Rivers Casino in Florence won the People’s Choice award.

Other local competitors have included the Village Roastery in Winchester Bay and the Red Lion Inn in Coos Bay.

There are a lot of restaurants and eateries that make a wonderful clam chowder. Let us know who makes your favorite.

You can submit your votes by e-mail or regular mail by Friday, Jan. 25. The winner will be featured in early February.

The polls are now open.