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1 / 10
This hip newbie with an upmarket American menu (think aged duck breast) took even the Viagra Triangle by surprise (see “Soaring, Bi-Level Somerset Serves Upscale Fare on State Street”). 1112 N. State St. Website
Photo: Huge Galdones -
2 / 10
Whether this is really pizza or a crispy, airy hybrid, you’ll have to get in a long line to try it (see “These Out-of-Town Pizza Styles Are Invading Chicago and We Don’t Hate It”). 161 N. Sangamon St. Website
Photo: Arianna Giuntini -
3 / 10
Jason Hammel’s ingredient-driven fare at the MCA’s new restaurant is contemporary. But is it art? Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 205 E. Pearson St. Website
Photo: Jeff Marini -
4 / 10
Two dollars for a bagel—without a schmear—is steep, but no one’s complaining. 1840 W. Irving Park Rd. Website
Photo: Jeff Marini -
5 / 10
Where Mississippi catfish and red-hot tamales go down easy with spiked punches and craft beers. 1745 W. North Ave. Website
Photo: Myles Grio -
6 / 10
Who says you can’t enjoy $80 golden osetra caviar with an old-time relish tray and Polish sausages? 2700 W. Chicago Ave. Website
Photo: Caroline Manrique -
7 / 10
And here’s more caviar—this time in a tony wine bar with a refined modern menu. Browse pics from our night at the West Loop spot. 1134 W. Washington Blvd. Website
Photo: Courtesy of The Press Room -
8 / 10
This indoor-outdoor spot on the river has everything from sandwiches to short-rib pappardelle. 150 N. Riverside Plz. Website
Photo: Courtesy of Henson Consulting -
9 / 10
Hearty roasted meats and freshly baked bread for sandwiches seem just right in a bar with 21 taps. Check out photos of the Lincoln Square bar. 2050 W. Balmoral Ave. Website
Photo: Half Acre/Nick Robins -
10 / 10
Pizza goddess Nella Grassano added pasta to her repertoire and moved the whole shebang to Hyde Park. 1125 E. 55th St. Website
Photo: Courtesy of Nella Pizza e Pasta