Restaurants in Chicago.

312 Chicago
Hotel Allegro, 136 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/696-2420
$20 to $35
Greater Downtown
Italian

An Italian-accented dining room inside the hip Hotel Allegro, 312 Chicago is handy for lunch, dinner, power-breakfast, and pre-theater dining. Baked breads and yummy desserts may tempt you to bypass the in-between courses, but roasted sturgeon with potato-mushroom lasagna and salmon and tuna tartares will beg you to consider otherwise. Brunch is served on Sunday. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Adobo Grill
1610 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/266-7999
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Mexican

This lively Mexican restaurant adjacent to Second City comedy club is extraordinarily popular; even with a reservation you might have to wait, as people tend to linger over straightforward, flavorful fare like grilled quail and red snapper Veracruzana. Guacamole is prepared table side, a clever gimmick that ensures absolutely fresh guacamole at the spice level you prefer. The bar whips up a better-than-average margarita and stocks an impressive number of sipping tequilas - there's even a tequila sommelier to help neophytes (meaning most of us) with selection. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Ambria
2300 N. Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/472-5959
Over $55
Lincoln Park and North
French

In a spacious art nouveau atmosphere, Ambria combines a classic haute-cuisine style and atmosphere with contemporary French food - all without flash or bombast. The modestly understated menu dazzles with blackberry-sauced venison, lobster gazpacho, and rosemary-infused lamb loin. The assortment of cheeses, sherbets, fruits, and pastries is upstaged by the sensational dessert soufflé. If the à la carte offerings are too much to contemplate, simplify your decision with one of several multicourse dinners. The wine list is encyclopedic, but sommelier Bob Bansberg is an unintimidating and sensitive guide. Reservations essential. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

Ann Sather
5207 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/271-6677
Under $20
Lincoln Park and North
Swedish

Both branches of this large, light, airy Swedish restaurant, a favorite for weekend breakfast, emphasize home-style food and service. The homemade cinnamon rolls are famous; those without time to sit can grab a dozen to go. Potato sausage and chicken croquettes are also specialties, and there's even a full sandwich menu. A Swedish sampler lets you try duck breast with lingonberry glaze, a Swedish meatball, a potato sausage, a dumpling, and sauerkraut. Very reasonable entrée prices include an appetizer (such as Swedish fruit soup or pickled herring), two side dishes (choose from Swedish brown beans, mashed or boiled potatoes, pickled beets, and more), and dessert. Reservations not accepted at Clark St. location. No dinner at Clark St. location; 929 W. Belmont Ave., PHONE: 312/348-2378. AE, MC, V.

Army & Lou's
420 E. 75th St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/483-3100
Under $35
South
Southern

First-rate home-cooked soul food has earned a stellar reputation for this South Side institution. The fried chicken is arguably the city's best; barbecued ribs, roast turkey, collard and mustard greens, and crunchy fried catfish are other standouts. There's also a brief wine list. The setting is surprisingly genteel for such down-home fare: waiters glide about in tuxedo shirts and bow ties, tables have starched white cloths, and African and Haitian art graces the walls. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Tues.

Arun's
4156 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/539-1909
Over $55
Lincoln Park and North
Thai

The finest Thai restaurant in Chicago - some say in the country - is also the most expensive, featuring only multicourse, custom-designed menus for a flat $75 price. The beauty of Arun's presentation and freshness of its ingredients are far beyond what other Thai restaurants usually attempt; your meal might include intricate golden pastry baskets filled with diced shrimp and shiitake mushrooms, or veal medallions with ginger-lemongrass sauce. The two-level dining room has lots of natural wood, complemented by Thai art and a small art gallery. Reservations essential. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch.

Atwood Cafe
Hotel Burnham, 1 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/368-1900
$20 to $35
Greater Downtown
Contemporary

Mahogany-clad columns, cherry-wood floors, gold café curtains, and curvy light-blue banquettes fill this heart-of-the-Loop charmer with color. The mostly American menu includes reliable dishes like chicken potpie and a thick pork chop, along with contemporary dishes such as duck and manchego quesadillas and grilled salmon with charred tomato sauce. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Aubriot
1962 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/281-4211
$20 to $55
Lincoln Park and North
French

.This fine, intimate French restaurant is operated by highly regarded chef Eric Aubriot and his wife, Stephanie. Menu items include a fricassee of frogs' legs and veal kidneys, sautéed monkfish with cardamom-veal jus, and foie gras drizzled with chocolate sauce - definitely not your standard French fare. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch.

August Moon
225 W. 26th St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/842-2951
Under $35
South
Indonesian

Although half the menu at this Chinatown restaurant is indeed Chinese, the Indonesian dishes are what set the place apart. The rijsttafel (Dutch for "rice table") dinner, an 18-course banquet ($35 per person; minimum four people; one-day advance notice requested) provides you with the widest possible variety of meat, fish, and vegetable dishes - and quite a full stomach. If you're not in so expansive a mood, it's quite all right to sample just a dish or two (the shrimp in spicy gravy is a good choice). The kitchen is conservative on the heat, so speak up if you like things spicy. Bring your own wine and beer. Reservations essential. MC, V. BYOB. Closed Mon.

Ben Pao
52 W. Illinois St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/222-1888
Under $35
Near North
Chinese

The hippest-looking Chinese restaurant in town has minimalist decor in black and shades of gray and soothing touches, such as two water walls. Well-prepared selections include chicken soong (cooked chicken presented with soft lettuce leaves for wrapping). There's also a spicy eggplant dish that's not to be missed, and featured fish entrées are always a good bet. The waitstaff helps with explanations. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

The Berghoff
17 W. Adams St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/427-3170
Under $35
Greater Downtown
German

This Chicago institution has been serving its signature beer since the end of Prohibition; in fact, it holds city liquor license No. 1. The handsome oak-panel interiors evoke an authentic Old Chicago feel. You can expect to wait for a table, but your meal will proceed rapidly - too rapidly, for some - once you're seated. (For even quicker service, grab a sandwich, and some elbow room among the businesspeople at the standing-only bar.) A menu of German classics (Wiener schnitzel, sauerbraten) is augmented by American favorites and, in keeping with the times, lighter dishes and even salads. AE, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Billy Goat Tavern
430 N. Michigan Ave., lower level, Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/222-1525
Under $20
Near North
American/Casual

A favorite hangout for reporters, this counter-service bar and grill sits midway between the Tribune and the Sun-Times. Griddle-fried "cheeseborgers" are the featured chow, but, frankly, if you're not interested in a glimpse of Fourth Estate history, don't bother - the food is nothing to write home about. Reservations not accepted. No credit cards.

Bin 36
339 N Dearborn St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/755-9463
$20 to $55
Near North
Contemporary

A fascinating hybrid of fine-dining establishment, lively wine bar, and wine shop, this relative newcomer serves wines by the bottle, glass, half-glass, and as "flights" of multiple 1.5-ounce tastings. If you fall in love with a particular wine, chances are the retail store can sell you a take-home bottle. A menu of fine contemporary offerings, such as striped bass with Kalamata-olive mashed potatoes and veal paillard with fingerling potatoes, lists one or two wine selections for each. The sprawling bar and dining room are dominated by a 35-ft-tall atrium and an all-glass west wall lets in plenty of natural light. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Bistro 110
110 E. Pearson St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/266-3110
$20 to $55
Near North
French

Like any good bistro, this place can be noisy and chaotic, but that's a testimony to its popularity. Besides the lively bar scene and Water Tower views, the real draw is the food from the wood-burning oven; the kitchen consistently offers excellent renditions of French classics and vegetarians praise the roasted-vegetable platter. The Sunday jazz brunch, accompanied by a Dixieland jazz band, is a standout. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Bistrot Margot
1437 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/587-3660
$20 to $35
Near North
French

From the faithfully executed menu and budget-friendly prices to the Parisian Art Nouveau interior, this is a classic bistro in every sense of the word. Chef-owner Joe Doppes whips up silky chicken liver pâté, succulent moules mariniere, (steamed mussels), and soul-satisfying coq au vin. Doppes even finds room on the menu for a bit of humor - his Taylor Street pizza, an homage to Chicago's Little Italy neighborhood, is a Frenchified pizza made with brioche dough and topped with spinach and goat cheese. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Bistrot Zinc
3443 N. Southport Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/281-3443
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
French

An authentic bistro, down to the vintage zinc-topped bar imported from Paris, Bistrot Zinc has caught on big in the gentrified Southport Avenue corridor. Classics such as steak frites, bouillabaisse, and poulet grandmére (roasted chicken with bacon and garlic) can't miss, and there are one or two modern interpretations as well - a brandade made with monkfish and crawfish rather than salt cod, for instance. Cafe Zinc, to the left of the entryway, is a self-service counter with quick nibbles (crepes, quiche of the day, assorted pâtés) for eat-in or carryout. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon.

Blackbird
619 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/715-0708
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
Contemporary

A well-dressed, trendy clientele packs this cramped, west-of-the-Loop hot spot for renditions of contemporary American food, such as duck confit with sweetbreads and celery root puree, and roasted sea bass with clams and roasted garlic broth. The decor is minimalist, even stark in its unbroken expanse of white walls, but it goes well with all the black most customers are wearing. Thankfully, the restaurant bans cellular phones - tables are close enough to overhear conversations. Reservations aren't required, but weekends are typically booked solid. Credit cards are required to hold reservations for five or more, and a flat fee is charged for no-shows. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Blackhawk Lodge
41 E. Superior St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/280-4080
$20 to $55
Near North
Contemporary

Rustic vacation-lodge furnishings set a distinct mood at this American regional restaurant. Hickory-smoked cuisine is a specialty, so the aromas coming from the kitchen are irresistible. The bacon, salmon, smoky corn chowder, and ribs are particularly good. An à-la-carte Sunday brunch, featuring live bluegrass music, is one of the city's most appealing. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat.

Blue Point Oyster Bar
741 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/207-1222
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
Seafood

Wood-louvered windows and overstuffed booths impart a slick circa-1940s aesthetic upon this serious seafood restaurant in the West Loop. At least six varieties of oyster are featured daily, sold by the piece (making it easy to mix and match). Grab a bowl of spicy crab gazpacho when it's available, along with grilled baby octopus and chili-glazed escolar. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Brasserie Jo
59 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/595-0800
$20 to $55
Near North
French

When Jean Joho, chef-proprietor of the acclaimed Everest, opened this brasserie in 1995, it became an overnight hot spot for discerning diners. Don't miss the choucroute, a crockful of pork cuts with Alsatian sauerkraut; shrimp in a phyllo-dough bag; classic coq au vin; and steak tartare. Have the profiteroles for dessert and watch as a waiter decants chocolate syrup over your ice-cream-filled pastries. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Brett's
2011 W. Roscoe St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/248-0999
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

Soft lighting, classical music, and a mellow, smoke-free environment make this a great place for an intimate dining experience. The menu, which changes monthly, is full of creative surprises: potato tacos with poblano chili sauce, Thai-style salmon, jerk pork chops. Soups are a particular strength, and desserts are heavenly. Don't miss the homemade bread. Brunch, served on weekends, is very popular with neighborhood residents. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon.-Tues. No lunch.

Café Absinthe
1954 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/278-4488
$20 to $55
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

This funky, theatrical spot in fashionable Bucktown is a trend-seeker's haven: It's noisy and full of stylishly dressed folks, and the menu is distinctly untraditional - from scallops in fennel bouillon to octopus with watercress-jícama salad. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
2024 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/935-5000
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Spanish

Chicago's best-known purveyor of tapas is usually crowded with upscale young people having a good time. Choose from among a large selection of cold and warm tapas, including baked goat cheese, cannelloni stuffed with tuna, and steak with blue cheese. A few soups and salads are available, as is an entrée menu that includes nearly a dozen paellas, baked salmon, and even venison. When the weather's warm, the outdoor patio is packed and the sangria flows freely. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekdays Sept.-Apr.

Café Matou
1846 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/348-8886
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
French

Off the beaten path but worth finding for its simple charm and well-prepared food, this cute bistro has but 60 seats in its smoke-free dining room (the bar, which permits smoking, can seat 24). The straightforward menu of classic French dishes includes very good mussels marinière (with white wine and herbs) and salmon in puff pastry. Monthly wine dinners focus on the food and wines of specific French regions and are very popular. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch.

Caliterra
633 N. St. Clair St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/274-4444
$20 to $55
Near North
Contemporary

The flavors of California and Italy blend in this colorful restaurant inside the Wyndham Chicago Hotel. Executive chef John Coletta creates thin pastry "cigars" stuffed with shrimp and basil, makes gnocchi out of Yukon Gold potatoes and pairs them with lobster cooked Bolognese style, and matches Sonoma lamb loin with barley risotto. Less-complex dishes include well-made pizza appetizers and wok-fried calamari. The earth-toned dining room flows into a display kitchen and adjacent jazz lounge, so wherever you sit, there's something to look at. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Capital Grille
633 N. St. Clair St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/337-9400
$20 to $55
Near North
Steak

The Chicago outpost of this steak-house chain can hold its own with the city's big boys. Prime steaks are dry-aged on the premises in a glassed-in room. The decor, though masculine, avoids at least some of the steak-house clichés, and the award-winning wine list includes a gratifying number of half bottles. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Carlos'
429 Temple Ave., Highland Park, IL, USA
Phone: 847/432-0770
Over $36
Highland Park
French

This restaurant continues to challenge Le Français for recognition as Chicago's best French restaurant. Service is particularly good - owner Carlos Nieto (himself a Le Français graduate) gets involved in the front-room operations - but even the lowest-ranking assistant has a firm grasp of the menu. Dishes are mainly contemporary French: you might find squab ravioli with garlic sauce or rabbit tournedos with creamed leeks and truffles. Desserts are heavenly. The substantial wine list includes some magnificent vintages, although at eye-popping prices. The main dining room is dark and woody; mismatched antique china plates lend character. Reservations essential. Jacket required. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Tues. No lunch.

Carmichael's Chicago Steak House
1052 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/433-0025
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
Steak

Though it may look like old-time Chicago, with its oak-and-brass decor, vintage photographs, and waiters dressed in suspenders and shirtsleeve garters, this steak house opened in 1988, on a block that was Skid Row a decade ago and now boasts fancy town houses. Not that you need to be a millionaire to eat here; certified-Angus steaks are in the upper $20s, making this one of the more reasonably priced top-tier steak houses in town. Planked salmon is a good non-beef option, and keep your eyes peeled for the monstrous triple-thick pork chop. Desserts are huge; several - including the nine-layer chocolate tower - are meant to be shared. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Catch 35
35 W. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/346-3500
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
Seafood

Ahi tuna and mahimahi, Thai curries and ginger make frequent appearances on the menu at this street-level restaurent in the Leo Burnett Building. The handsome multilevel dining room is wood-paneled and designed for a measure of privacy. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Centro
710 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/988-7775
$20 to $55
Near North
Italian

Reservations are tough to come by at this ultrapopular restaurant, which draws trendies like moths to a flame. Even with a reservation, expect a wait to be seated: VIPs arrive on a regular basis and force ordinary folk farther down the waiting list. Those who stick it out are rewarded with stupendously portioned pastas and a smattering of other traditional Italian dishes, such as grilled pork chops with fennel and garlic. Prices are reasonable - until you get to the prime cuts. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sun.

Charlie Trotter's
816 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/248-6228
Over $55
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

Plan at least a month in advance to dine at this temple of haute cuisine. Charlie Trotter's has only 20 closely spaced tables, far too few for the people who would like to eat here. Indeed, the four-seat kitchen table, where one can dine while watching the famous chef in action, is the most sought-after table in town. Trotter's menus are invented daily from the best of what's available, and he never repeats a dish. You might be dazzled by an antelope strudel with wild mushrooms or foie-gras ravioli with mango and lemongrass sauce, but you won't find either creation the next time you visit. Dishes are presented in a multicourse, degustation format; choose from the $100 all-vegetable menu or grand degustations at $110 or more. Naturally, there's an expansive (and expensive) wine list to match the elegant cuisine, but prices are fair. Reservations essential. Jacket required. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.-Mon. No lunch.

Chez Joel
1119 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/226-6479
$20 to $35
Greater Downtown
French

In a restaurant row populated almost exclusively with Italian eateries - the Taylor Street area is also known as Little Italy - sits one of the best French bistros in the city. The straightforward French classics such as brandade (a puree of salt cod, olive oil, garlic, and cream) and bouillabaisse are first rate, and the day's fresh fish is always a reliable choice. Yellow-painted walls make the room feel sunny even on inclement days. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
1401 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/786-1401
$20 to $55
South
American/Casual

An historic South Side fire station makes a fine setting for this straightforward yet refined American restaurant. The menu dishes up everything from pan-fried rainbow trout to a superb New York strip steak. The bar area, which is decorated by two vintage fire poles, offers a pub menu of sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Clark Street Bistro
2600 N Clark St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/525-9992
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Mediterranean

The comfortable surroundings and more-than-fair prices of this eclectic neighborhood charmer keep it filled with cost-cutting students, local regulars, and visiting shoppers. Dishes are pretty as a picture, whether you order a complex bouillabaisse or a simple saffron couscous with cilantro and cumin. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekdays.

Coco Pazzo
300 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/836-0900
$20 to $55
Near North
Italian

This Chicago branch of a very successful Manhattan restaurant shines with solid, mature, and professional service and a kitchen that focuses on Tuscan cuisine - lusty, aggressively seasoned fare, such as chicken livers with polenta. Grilled game is a particular strength, as are the risotto dishes; duck-confit risotto offers a bit of both. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Costa's
340 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/263-9700
Under $55
Greater Downtown
Greek

One of the prettiest restaurants in Greektown, Costa's has a colorful, multilevel interior with terra-cotta tile work and rough-textured white walls and archways. It's an inviting atmosphere, though noisy; some of that noise, however, is due to the live nightly piano music. Sample from among a nice assortment of mezes (tapaslike Greek appetizers). Then move on to fresh fish, such as excellent whole snapper or sea bass, or a classic dish like spicy shrimp piperates. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Courtright's
8989 Archer Ave., Willow Springs, IL, USA
Phone: 708/839-8000
$36 to $55
Willow Springs
Contemporary

This ambitious south suburban restaurant in Willow Springs, 25 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, has a dining room overlooking a pretty garden and forest preserve; time your meal right and you might spot a grazing deer. Inside, you'll find such inventive fare as wild-mushroom napoleon with aged ricotta and smoked duck, black-truffle gnocchi with braised oxtails, and chili-dusted pork medallions with black-bean polenta and persimmon-mango sauce. Can't decide? Order the five-course degustation and let the chef choose. A marvelous, award-winning wine cellar offers more than 700 selections. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sun.

Crofton on Wells
535 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/755-1790
$20 to $55
Near North
Contemporary

Chef and owner Suzy Crofton breaks a few contemporary-dining rules with her first solo venture. She doesn't pack tables too close together (the dining room, although small, is surprisingly comfortable), she keeps the noise level down, and there's no sponge painting on the walls. Her food is short on clichés but long on flavor. Dig into gutsy Cajun-barbecued shrimp over sweet-potato hay, or indulge in the luxury of grilled foie gras with chanterelles and red pearl onions. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch weekends.

Cuisines
Renaissance Chicago Hotel, 1 W. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/372-7200
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
Mediterranean

Chicago's first upscale Mediterranean restaurant successfully weds informal cuisine with formal standards. A particularly good paella highlights the main menu, which includes a rustic asparagus-and-polenta dish along with sophisticated items like crabmeat and shiitake mushrooms wrapped in phyllo dough. Just steps from the Chicago Theater, the restaurant is a handy pre- and post-theater destination. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Cyrano's Bistrot & Wine Bar
546 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/467-0546
$20 to $35
Near North
French

Chef and owner Didier Durand presents the food of his birthplace, Bergerac (hence the restaurant's name), in this cheerful, accomplished restaurant. Traditional dishes such as onion tart and bouillabaisse are handled deftly; the restaurant also specializes in rotisserie chicken, rabbit, and duck. The wine list includes many vintages from lesser-known producers in southern France. For lunch, the Grand Lunch Express presents four courses simultaneously on a large platter - ideal for time-constrained diners. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

D'Vine
1950 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/235-5700
$20 to $55
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

This Bucktown spot describes itself as a "bistro and wine bar," and certainly the wine-bar label fits - the wine list is impressive, especially in its by-the-glass offerings. Although the dining room has a bistro-like intimacy, the food is contemporary American, with French accents. A short menu includes such treats as pan-roasted squab with wild-mushroom risotto, sautéed calamari steak with couscous, and sea scallops with a curried cream sauce. The low-lighted dining room is romantic, and that votive candle at your table will come in handy when it's time to read the menu. AE, D, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

The Dining Room
Ritz-Carlton, 160 E. Pearson St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/266-1000
Over $36
Near North
French

Gracious service and fine food in a beautiful setting make this Ritz-Carlton restaurant a classic. Walnut paneling, tapestry carpeting, and crystal chandeliers grace the room in classic French style. Chef Sarah Stegner's kitchen turns out exemplary French cuisine with nouvelle accents, such as squab breast with roasted garlic sauce and turbot in shellfish broth. Daily specials complement the seasonal menu selections. The cheese selection is the finest in Chicago, and few restaurants can match the breadth and depth of the wine list. The Sunday brunch - one of the most elaborate and expensive in the city - routinely sells out for big-ticket dates such as Easter and Mother's Day. Reservations essential. Jacket and tie. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Echo
1856 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/395-3474
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

The portions are tiny at this anything-goes restaurant - and that's the whole idea. Mix and match hot and cold "small plates," which are smaller than entrées but a bit heftier than appetizers, to create your own grazing menu. Options include a vanilla-scented lobster ceviche, chilled noodles in a spicy peanut sauce, peppered venison carpaccio, and grilled ostrich with black-eyed peas. Desserts include the chocolate chocolate chocolate cake, which is self-explanatory. Matching wines to this madness can be tricky, but a well-chosen list is up to the challenge (and, happily, so is the waitstaff). MC, V. No lunch.

Ed Debevic's
640 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/664-1707
Under $20
Near North
American/Casual

This tongue-in-cheek re-creation 1950s diner is busy from morning till midnight. Gum-snapping waitresses in garish costumes trade quips and snide remarks with customers, but it's all in good fun. The menu lists eight different hamburgers, a large sandwich selection, four chili preparations, five hot dogs, and a variety of such "deluxe plates" as meat loaf, pot roast, and chicken potpie. Unlike a real 1950s diner, Ed's has a selection of cocktails and wines, plus Ed Debevic's Beer. Reservations not accepted. No credit cards.

Eli's the Place for Steak
215 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/642-1393
$36 to $55
Near North
Steak

Clubby and inviting, this outstanding restaurant relies on top-quality ingredients prepared to customers' tastes. Prime aged steaks are among the best in Chicago. You'll also find superb, thickly cut veal chops and excellent calf's liver. For dessert, order Eli's renowned cheesecake, now sold nationally in countless varieties. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Emperor's Choice
2238 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/225-8800
Under $35
South
Chinese

This sophisticated but comfortable restaurant sets out to demonstrate that Chinese seafood specialties can go well beyond deep-fried prawns. It succeeds admirably; seafood dishes such as steamed oysters and Peking-style lobster are fresh and expertly prepared. A separate menu offers such "delicacies" as rattlesnake soup and pork bellies. Seating is a bit cramped, but the food is worth it. There's free parking (with validation) in the Cermak/Wentworth lot. AE, D, MC, V.

Encore
171 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/338-3788
Under $35
Greater Downtown
Contemporary

By day, this convenient Loop spot is handy for a quick lunch, offering a small list of sandwiches, half of them carved-to-order brisket, tenderloin, and the like. In the evening, the lights dim and the velvet-draped space becomes a lounge with jazzy deejay music and a "cocktail cuisine" menu of light appetizers (spicy chicken wings, fresh oysters, pizzas, and grilled shrimp) - perfect for a before- or after-theater nibble. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Entre Nous
Fairmont Hotel, 200 N. Columbus Dr., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/565-7997
$36 to $55
Greater Downtown
French

One of the finest hotel dining rooms in the city (inside the Fairmont hotel), Entre Nous has an understated elegance that makes it ideal for romantic dining or a quiet, top-notch business meal; a pianist plays softly in the otherwise whisper-quiet dining room. The menu is deceptively simple, filled with well-executed classics such as Maine lobster bisque and rack of lamb. The selections on the tiered dessert cart are impossible to resist, and the thorough wine list is reasonably priced, as hotel restaurants go. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

erwin
2925 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/528-7200
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

This appealing spot brims with the sunny personalities of owners Erwin and Cathy Drechsler. The straightforward menu may look ordinary - roasted chicken with lemon-garlic sauce, for instance - but the skillful cooking will give you new respect for simplicity. Flavors are pure and vibrant and every dish seems perfect. Sunday brunch is popular with locals. Service is friendly and capable, and the wine list goes beyond brand names to offer modestly priced, little-known vintages. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch.

Everest
440 S. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/663-8920
Over $55
Greater Downtown
French

This Everest reaches extraordinary heights - not only because it's 40 stories above the ground, with a sweeping view of the city's West Side, but because the dinner check can be formidable. The creative chef, Jean Joho, takes often-ignored, ordinary ingredients (particularly favoring foods from his native Alsace) and transforms them into memorable dishes such as risotto with black trumpet mushrooms and quail or pheasant wrapped in savoy cabbage. The dining room is pleasingly neutral with oversize tables and plenty of room, and service is discreet and professional. The wine list is plentiful, particularly in Alsatian vintages. Reservations essential. Jacket required. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.-Mon.

Feast
1835 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/235-6361
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

Peruse the globally influenced menu of this pleasant neighborhood restaurant amid yellow walls and simple, sturdy wood furniture. Try a napoleon of crispy wontons layered with tuna tartare and smoked salmon, ravioli stuffed with jalapeños and black beans, or wild-mushroom Stroganoff with puff pastry. In back, an atrium offers garden-like dining that's especially pretty during the day - say, during Saturday or Sunday brunch. AE, DC, MC, V.

Flat Top Grill
319 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/787-7676
Under $20
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

This crowded, narrow spot is one of the city's best create-your-own stir-fry places. Patrons fill their bowls from an assortment of fresh vegetables, meat, and fish; ladle on the sauce of their choice; and watch a chef stir-fry the ingredients on a hot griddle. A handy sign gives detailed advice for neophytes. Students and other budget-conscious patrons jam the place on weekends. Reservations not accepted. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Mon.-Thurs.

Francesca's on Taylor
1400 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/829-2828
Under $35
Greater Downtown
Italian

One of the best trattoria's in the city, Francesca's offers such delicacies as ravioli stuffed with a spinach and artichoke mix or blue marlin with sea scallops and roasted peppers. There's not a lot of red meat on the menu - just the occasional veal dish - but that helps keep prices down, too. Folks come here before heading to the United Center for Bulls and Blackhawks games, making this a popular early dining spot. AE, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Frontera Grill
445 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/661-1434
$20 to $35
Near North
Mexican

Chef-owner Rick Bayless and his wife, Deann, literally wrote the book (Authentic Mexican) on Mexican cuisine - and that's what you'll find at this casual café, along with a tile floor, bright colors, and Mexican folk art. The Baylesses learned about regional Mexican cuisine by tramping across Mexico, and they return once a year (with their entire staff) to further their research. The results are uncommonly delicious: try silver salmon with pumpkin-seed mole, pork in a pasilla-pepper sauce, or chilis rellenos (stuffed chili peppers). Saturday brunch is wonderful, but don't arrive famished as you'll almost certainly wait for a table. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Reservations accepted for parties of 5 or more. Closed Sun.-Mon.

Gene & Georgetti
500 N. Franklin St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/527-3718
Over $36
Near North
Steak

A real guys' steak house, Gene & Georgetti is as far from trendy as you can get, and decor is nothing special. But for massive steaks, good chops, and the famed "garbage salad" - a kitchen-sink creation of greens with vegetables and meats - you simply can't go wrong. If you like rubbing elbows with the well connected, you can do that, too, though service may be brusque if you're not connected yourself. Reservations essential. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Gibsons
1028 N. Rush St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/266-8999
Over $36
Near North
Steak

On the site once occupied by the famous Mister Kelly's nightclub is now what is perhaps the convention crowd's favorite steak house. The reasons? Plenty of room, attractive decor with lots of dark wood trim, huge portions, and good service. You don't see chopped liver on many appetizer lists these days, but the version here is good. Reservations essential. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Gioco
1312 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/939-3870
$20 to $55
South
Italian

This neighborhood Italian restaurant would seem all too typical in Lincoln Park or River North but is a refreshing addition south of Roosevelt Road. Set in a former speakeasy (the Speakeasy Room, a private dining space with its own rear-alley entrance, is an homage to the old days), Gioco has a distressed-urban decor of plaster-spattered brick walls and well-worn hardwood floors. The country-Italian menu offers rustic fare like prosciutto-wrapped scallops, pasta with veal ragout, and lobster gnocchi. And though the dish originated in Chicago, not Italy, chicken Vesuvio (roasted with garlic and oregano) also makes an appearance. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Grace
623 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/928-9200
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
Contemporary

This dimly lit, intimate restaurant is one of the hottest eateries in the city. You might try spicy crab cakes with a bit of rock shrimp and corn chowder, or crispy lamb sweetbreads with dabs of goat cheese. Chef Ted Cizma has a special place in his heart for wild game, offering dishes such as pheasant breast risotto and blackberry-stuffed venison. The well-chosen wine list assures that an appropriate wine will be available, whether you're nibbling on catfish or wrestling wild-boar tenderloin. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch.

Green Dolphin Street
2200 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/395-0066
$20 to $55
Lincoln Park and North
Contemporary

Set in an industrial area just north of Bucktown, this sprawling complex encompasses a cool green dining room, a stylish jazz club (no cover for dinner guests), a cigar-friendly bar, and an outdoor patio overlooking an unspoiled stretch of the Chicago River. Globally influenced American dishes include oyster-stuffed tenderloin, grilled salmon over firm polenta cake, and mushroom-asparagus risotto. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Grillroom
33 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/960-0000
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
Steak

Across the street from the Shubert Theater, this clubby steak house is a convenient choice for pre-theater patrons. If you don't feel up to a slab of beef before the show, there's also a sizable raw bar and a large selection of seafood and pasta dishes. The wine list offers more than 40 by-the-glass options; the fleet of foot can slip over for an intermission drink if they so desire. For those with time to linger, the dining room is very comfortable, particularly if you can nab one of the soft leather booths. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Harry Caray's
33 W. Kinzie St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/465-9269
$20 to $55
Near North
Italian

Famed Cubs announcer Harry Caray passed away in 1998 but his legend lives on, and fans continue to pour into his namesake restaurant (where Harry frequently held court). Though the Italian-American menu holds no surprises, the pastas are fine, the chicken Vesuvio (roasted with garlic and oregano) might be the city's best, and prime steaks and chops are cooked expertly. The wine list has won a number of national awards. Thanks for the memories, Harry. Holy cow! AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Harvest on Huron
217 W. Huron St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/587-9600
$20 to $55
Near North
Contemporary

One of the stars of the River North neighborhood, this contemporary American eatery combines colorful decor, superior service, and outstanding food by Alan Sternweiler (for years the chef at renowned Printer's Row). There are always one or two vegetarian entrées, such as acorn squash filled with mushroom risotto, along with dishes like roast rabbit rolled around rabbit sausage and ancho-chili glazed pork tenderloin. Lovers of fine spirits will rhapsodize over the massive collection, available in half-pours for financially prudent experimentation. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Hatsuhana
160 E. Ontario St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/280-8808
$20 to $55
Near North
Japanese

A long, angled sushi bar, wooden tables, Japanese lanterns, and natural wood trim set the tone at what some consider Chicago's best sushi and sashimi restaurant. The menu lists numerous appetizers - broiled spinach in sesame-soy sauce, fried bean curd with sauce, steamed egg custard with shrimp, fish, and vegetables - and only a few entrées. Most diners come for the vinegared rice and raw fish delicacies. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Hong Min
221 W. Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/842-5026
Under $35
South
Chinese

This no-frills Chinatown mainstay succeeds by virtue of its low prices and well-prepared food. The menu embraces everything from chop suey to stir-fried lobster; insiders tout the fresh oysters. Dim sum, available daily 10-3 (until 4 on weekends), is another big draw. And though decor is virtually nonexistent, the twin dining rooms, one of which is for nonsmokers, are at least comfortable. Bring your own beer and wine. MC, V. BYOB.

House of Fortune
2407 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/225-0880
Under $35
South
Chinese

This elegant and spotless restaurant serves more than 150 entrées, including relatively uncommon items such as tripe and sea cucumber, as well as more familiar dishes. Discounted parking (with validation) is available in the Cermak/Wentworth lot. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Hubbard Street Grill
351 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/222-0770
$20 to $35
Near North
Contemporary

Slightly off the beaten track (in the western fringe of the River North neighborhood) is this comfortable, attitude-free restaurant. Chef David Schy shows a deft hand with seasonings and a fine respect for classic American food, using spicy or sweet sauces, chutneys, and relishes to enliven his grilled meats and fish; the ahi tuna burger alone justifies a visit. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Ixcapuzalco
2919 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/486-7340
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Mexican

Geno Bahena, a longtime chef at Frontera Grill, opened this Logan Square restaurant in 1999 and people have flocked here ever since. It isn't for the fancy decor - the former gyros shack is clean and comfortable, but hardly elaborate. And the service, while capable, isn't drawing big crowds. It's Bahena's robustly flavored food - hearty moles (which change daily) paired wonderfully with grilled quail or sliced duck breast - that has made this quiet corner a dining destination. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Tues.

JaponiSante
2044 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/348-8228
$20 to $55
Lincoln Park and North
Japanese

Come to this daring fusion restaurant for mind-blowing combinations of Japanese and French culinary influences - such as mille-feuille of sea eel and Japanese eggplant with red-pepper coulis. There's also a full sushi bar with well-known sushi dishes plus a few that make up in creativity what they lack in authenticity. The dining rooms are similarly daring, with red and mustard walls, but the overall experience remains highly civilized. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Jezebel
3517 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/929-4000
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Mediterranean

The food at this quiet, cozy restaurant is simple, but there are treats for the adventurous. Baked shrimp in phyllo dough and sizzling calamari are highlights. Service is attentive, probably because the owner is rarely out of the dining room. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch.

Joe's Be-Bop Cafe & Jazz Emporium
Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/595-5299
Under $35
Near North
Barbecue

Live jazz is featured nightly at this casual barbecue restaurant, whose ribs are proving as popular as some of Chicago's finest. Or is it the delightful Navy Pier lake views? There's a children's menu, so bring the whole family. Reservations not accepted. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Kiki's Bistro
900 N. Franklin St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/335-5454
$20 to $35
Near North
French

The decor of this consistent standout may be country French, but the cooking is contemporary and full of bold, aggressive flavors. Grilled rabbit sausage with garlic and rosemary is a fine starter; for an entrée try grouper with an herb-scented fish bouillon and vegetable medley. Classics, such as steak frîtes, are always reliable. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

La Donna
5146 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/561-9400
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Italian

Run by the sister of the Via Veneto owner, La Donna has excellent pastas - try the pumpkin ravioli in creamy balsamic sauce or the fine penne arrabiata (with a spicy tomato sauce) - and good, cracker-crust pizzas. Like Via Veneto, it has a generally crowded dining room that makes customers feel like part of a very large party. The wine list is well chosen and fairly priced, and there's a bargain-price Sunday brunch. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

La Petite Folie
1504 E. 55th St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/493-1394
$20 to $55
South
French

A favorite among locals and professors at nearby University of Chicago, this classic French restaurant is quiet and elegant, with white-tablecloth tables and hefty flatware. Happily, prices are modest for treats like sea scallops with artichoke and citrus reduction, or foie gras with finely sliced endive and pears. The early-bird menu is especially appealing for pre-theater patrons. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.-Mon.

La Sardine
111 N. Carpenter St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/421-2800
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
French

True to its name, this West Side bistro, across the street from Harpo Studios (where Oprah tapes her talk show), packs customers in snugly. Tight as it is, this is a comfortable place, with a simple, eye-pleasing decor of brick and wood. The menu sticks to dishes like leek-bacon tart, bouillabaisse, and mustard-crusted rack of lamb - all deftly prepared. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Lao Sze Chuan
2172 S. Archer Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/326-5040
Under $20
South
Chinese

Come to this enticing Szechuan restaurant in the Chinatown Square Mall for the guilty pleasures of kung pao chicken (with garlic and peanuts) and twice-cooked pork (though Lao Sze Chuan uses a lighter hand than many oil-heavy Szechuan kitchens in town). Dishes on the English-language menu are very good, but if you're feeling adventurous ask the waitperson to recommend something off the Chinese menu. AE, MC, V.

Le Bouchon
1958 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/862-6600
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
French

The French comfort food at this charming (if cramped) bistro in Bucktown is in a league of its own. Onion tart has been a signature dish of owner Jean-Claude Poilevey for years; other not-to-be-missed delights are hunter-style rabbit and salade Lyonnaise (mixed greens topped with a creamy vinaigrette and a poached egg). Don't miss the fruit tarts. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

Le Français
269 S. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, IL, USA
Phone: 847/541-7470
Over $55
Chicago
French

After a 10-year absence, founding chef Jean Banchet is back in charge of what many consider to be Chicago's finest restaurant. Abetted by chef de cuisine David Sanders, Banchet produces a parade of delights that include some of his earlier signatures, including the duck consommé and roasted game plate, along with newer flavors like striped bass with lobster-truffle vinaigrette. A picture window in the stylish dining room offers glimpses of the master at work. Wheeling is about 30 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. Reservations essential. Jacket required. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

Les Nomades
222 E. Ontario St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/649-9010
Over $55
Near North
French

Owned by Roland and Mary Beth Liccioni, who for 10 years owned the acclaimed Le Français, this formal restaurant offers a splendid dining experience. A carefully composed menu of contemporary French food includes the usual suspects, such as duck consommé and duo of foie gras, as well as more creative pairings like sweetbreads and ostrich over an eggless béarnaise sauce. Dinner is presented as a four-course prix-fixe, though there are plenty of choices in every category. Reservations essential for dinner. Jacket and tie. AE, D, MC, V. Closed Sun.-Mon. No lunch.

Lutnia
5532 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/282-5335
Under $35
Lincoln Park and North
Polish

The menu here is Polish-Continental, but stick to the hearty Polish creations unless you're dying for steak Diane or other unremarkably prepared Continental dishes. (A bonus is that the Polish cuisine is considerably less expensive.) Start with an assortment of pierogi, and perhaps some hunter's stew; then try the terrific stuffed quail. Decor is upscale, and a pianist performs most nights. AE, D, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch weekends.

Maggiano's Little Italy
516 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/644-7700
$20 to $35
Near North
Italian

Enormous portions of red-sauce Italian food star in a cleverly realized Little Italy setting. Order two entrées for every three diners in your party, and you'll be as happy as the other cheerfully loud patrons in the wide-open dining room. This is the kind of cooking many Italian-Americans grew up with: brick-size lasagna, chicken Vesuvio (roasted with garlic, oregano, and olive oil), veal scallopini. The cuisine is hearty rather than inspiring, but maybe it'll bring back a memory or two. Lunchtime sandwiches are especially good. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Mama Desta's Red Sea
3216 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/935-7561
Under $20
Lincoln Park and North
Ethiopian

Dramatically different from European cooking, the stewlike dishes at Mama Desta's intriguingly combine herbs and spices with complex aromas and interesting textures. Dishes like spicy chicken, lamb stew, and pureed lentils are flavorful, earthy, and simple. Instead of silverware, diners use injera, a spongy, fermented flat bread, to scoop up the chef's creations. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch Mon.-Thurs.

Manny's Coffee Shop
1141 S. Jefferson St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/939-2855
Under $20
South
American/Casual

Locals and visitors alike may bemoan the dearth of "real" delis in Chicago, but this cafeteria-style deli on the near South Side is the real deal. Favorites include thick pastrami sandwiches, soul-nurturing matzoh-ball soup, and piping-hot potato pancakes, though there's plenty to choose from. Do make up your mind before you reach the front of the line - the countermen are notoriously impatient and bark at dawdlers. Besides, indecision is the easiest way to label yourself an outsider. Reservations not accepted. No credit cards. Closed Sun. No dinner.

Marché
833 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/226-8399
$20 to $55
Greater Downtown
French

This popular restaurant west of the Loop draws a see-and-be-seen crowd that includes the occasional celebrity; its cachet among the who's who almost overshadows the bistro food. Classics like duck confit are executed with precision. The theatrical, circuslike decor includes an open display kitchen as its "center ring." AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Marco
2360 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/248-2450
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Italian

This tiny, out-of-the-way Italian restaurant has only 12 tables, but its food is remarkable. A half-dozen versions of risotto are offered daily, along with beautifully made pastas (the spicy black fettuccine is a highlight) and excellent veal dishes, from scaloppini with Gorgonzola sauce to osso buco with a porcini mushroom sauce. AE, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Mas
1670 W. Division St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 773/276-8700
$20 to $35
Lincoln Park and North
Latin

There are only 74 seats in this Latin-inspired Wicker Park restaurant, and on weekend nights that seems like 50 seats too few. Reservations aren't accepted, so you're likely to start with a cocktail at the bar, maybe a Chilean Pisco sour or a Cuban mojito. When you do order food, pay attention to the ceviche of the day, served in an elegant martini glass, and the black-bean soup, served with a shot of Brazilian cachaca (sugarcane liquor). Main courses include grilled tuna with chimichurri (thick herb sauce) and chili-rubbed pork tenderloin. Reservations not accepted. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch.

McCormick & Schmick's
41 E. Chestnut St., Chicago, IL, USA
Phone: 312/397-9500
Over $20
Near North
Seafood

Part of an Oregon-based chain, this large-scale fish house boasts a massive menu that is updated twice daily to reflect the freshest