I typically go to websites by typing their URL and Chrome completes it. It works for most sites I visit: for example, I can type "m"+Enter and go to Gmail, or "n"+Enter and go to Hacker News.
But some Google sites/apps don't work as well because the name is after google.com. E.g. Calendar is https://www.google.com/calendar/, Reader is http://www.google.com/reader/ and typing "reader" doesn't actually complete it, just suggests it below the location bar. Meaning: I have to select it in the drop-down. So having the link in Gmail was working pretty well for me in my routines: check my email, click the link, check Reader.
I've also become completely blind to what is displayed in the new tab: apps/shortcuts and most visited sites.
But you're right, I could probably find better ways…
edit: thanks to all of you who replied! My life is forever changed :) Just tried it, it works and Chrome already knows what to do…