Yeah, it really comes down to intent and preference. I race MTB and love the width/height of risers for their control (less twitchy steering input) and greater climbing power (more upright position-->stronger power transfer, wider bar-->expanding lungs/rib cage).
However, when riding on the road I can't afford the aero penalties of having a wide, upright chest/riding position.

If you're looking for comfort and control, by all means run a riser (or rased flatbar). If you're looking for speed/long distance endurance, better stick with a set of drops that fit your shoulders. Sounds like a lot of people are rockin the urban scene here, so I can totally appreciate the want for a more laid back position. But trust me, touring 100k on a hardtail w/slicks is much more painful than a roadie w/drops.