As the more casual sibling of River North’s Coco Pazzo, this bustling Streeterville café draws much of its clientele from the neighborhood’s many hotels—but locals like it, too. (The sidewalk tables are a big draw in warm weather.)

Pastas, risottos, and other tastes of Tuscany range from pleasantly straightforward to timidly inoffensive. On recent visits, favorite bites came from the beautiful, bountiful antipasti table. The terrific grilled, braised, and roasted vegetables, with wine and bread would make a dandy meal on their own. Pair that with an impressive rustic apple crostata for dessert.

Dishes We Liked: misto terra ($8); carpaccio ($10); salmone marinato ($10); risotto with shrimp, Parmesan, and shiitake mushrooms ($18); quaglie (quail) with polenta ($23); bistecca ($26); fruit crostata ($7)