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Adesso
There�s a lot to love about this casual Italian Boystown newcomer (save for the aloof, indifferent servers): It�s BYOB; it�s bustling without being a clubby mob scene; the design is sleek but comfortable; and the simple Italian dishes are much-needed in this Italian-bereft �hood. New spring dishes to try include the pollo al mattone, a Tuscan herb�rubbed half chicken; trota rosso, ruby-red trout stuffed with braised fennel, olives, capers and garlic; and pesce e patate, a cornmeal-crusted skate wing flanked by garlic fries and red-pepper aioli. 3332 N Broadway at Buckingham Pl (773-868-1516). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 36, 77 (24hrs), 152. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $14. BYOB. Brunch served.

Aladdin�s Eatery
It�s health food that doesn�t taste like health food, fast food that doesn�t taste like fast food�and those are both high compliments. Lemony fool (fava bean puree) arrives at the table just moments after it is ordered. The �rolled pitas��essentially Middle Eastern burritos stuffed with grilled chicken shistawook and a slathering of toum and then grilled�aren�t far behind. House-made juices like the sweet carrot-apple provide an extra dose of nutrients. But just in case your mental health requires something stronger, an interesting wine list featuring many Lebanese bottles is on hand. 614 W Diversey Pkwy at Clark St (773-327-6300). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Diversey. Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 36, 76. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $7.

A La Turka
Modern-day Turkey isn't the idea here, so if you're looking for contemporary Istanbul, get a plane ticket. This dining room harkens to times of eating on luxurious floor cushions and sucking on hookahs like they're Tic Tacs. You can make a meal out of the hot appetizer platter, with its thin zucchini pancakes and tangy rolls of feta-stuffed phyllo, and the Turkish pizza, a house-made pita piled with perfectly seasoned ground lamb. Or fill up on the A La Turka special: sauteed beef and grilled vegetables served with a slightly sweet eggplant puree. Either way the portions are sized for big appetites, so you won't leave hungry. 3134 N Lincoln Ave between Barry and Belmont Aves (773-935-6101). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24 hrs). Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $15. Vegetarian-friendly

Al Hambra Caf�
This newish addition to Buena Park is bright, cheery and easily mistaken for just another American caf�. But as the name suggests, Middle Eastern specialties can be found scattered throughout the menu. Baladi salad�full of thick chunks of cucumber�is dressed with tart lemon juice and parsley; falafel sandwiches bulge with warm chickpea balls, crisp slices of red onion and creamy tahini; and the baba ghanoush platter is rife with smooth, smoky flavors. Yet the American palate is not left out: A freezer case is stocked with more than 20 varieties of Homer�s ice cream. 903 W Irving Park Rd between Sheridan Rd and Fremont St (773-281-4113). El: Red to Sheridan. Bus: 9, 80, 151 (24 hrs). Lunch, dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $5. Vegetarian-friendly

Arun�s
When chef Arun Sampanthavivat opened this stately legend 21 years ago, he began cultivating what would become the first Thai restaurant in America to nab four Mobil stars, a AAA award and a James Beard for Best Chef in the Midwest. These days, brilliant Thai food is prevalent in Chicago, so visit this upscale stalwart only if you have money to burn and the desire for ethnic food in an interesting, art-filled, tablecloth setting. For $85, you�ll get a 12-course tasting of excellent food, including delicate beef panang curry, textbook pad thai, ethereal lemongrass crab cake and perfectly steamed, curry-drizzled lobster. But we can�t help wondering if these diners don�t know that these same dishes can be had elsewhere in town for a fraction of the cost. 4156 N Kedzie Ave between Warner and Berteau Aves (773-539-1909). Bus: 80 Irving Park, X80 Irving Park Exp. Dinner (closed Mon). Average degustation: $85. Vegetarian-friendly

Angelina
You know those Italian places you see in the movies? Those charming neighborhood joints where the walls are lined with empty bottles of wine (most of them baring messages of thanks from customers past) and the room has a constant candlelit glow? The kind where the menu isn't a revelation, but the big portions of food are hearty and delicious? Where well-spiced, olive- studded Italian meatloaf, herbaceous spinach lasagna and savory eggplant parmigiana pull in regulars who've been coming "for years"? Yeah, this place is exactly like that. 3561 N Broadway between Brompton Ave and Addison St (773-935-5933). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 36, 146, 151 (24 hrs), 152. Brunch (Sun), dinner. Average main course: $16. Brunch served

BeBoBa Bubble Tea House
The kids from Lane Tech High School flock to this mod version of a neighborhood soda shop�tucked into the corner of a strip mall�to sip funky, fruity bubble teas in a rainbow of colors and flavors, play board games, and take advantage of the free Wi-Fi. Tapioca-laced teas (which originated in Taiwan) can be ordered clear, milky or frozen in flavors that run the gamut from strawberry to red bean. There�s also a small selection of sandwiches, instant ramen noodles and penny candy, all served by a supersmiley staff. 3533 N Western Ave between Cornelia and Addison Aves (773-883-2622). Bus: 49 Western (24 hrs), 152 Addison. Mon�Thu 10am�8pm; Fri 10am�9pm; noon�9pm. Average drink: $3.25.

Bittersweet Pastry Shop
Stop by midday for chef Judy Contino's acclaimed pastries and desserts, and chances are you'll pull up a chair in the tiny, charming bakery cafe for lunch. You won't go wrong with any of the handful of rotating daily menu options like carrot jalape-o soup, spinach salad with blue cheese and lemon vinaigrette, and roasted eggplant�and�goat cheese sandwiches�perfect light fare before you dive into that picture-perfect meringue tart. 1114 W Belmont Ave between Clifton and Seminary Aves (773-929-1100). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 22 Clark (24 hrs), 77 Belmont (24 hrs). Breakfast, lunch (closed Mon). Average main course: $7.

BoJono's
In a city known for its deep-dish pizza, this hideaway is churning out tasty slices of super-thin, cheese-heavy goliaths to the hungry masses craving a taste of the NYC wedge. Mostly a storefront delivery/takeout joint (save for a few stools), the menu posted on the wall is loaded with simple, mob-friendly selections that fill the belly and appease those hard-core greasy cravings (we like the garlic, oil and tomato). The juicy steak sandwich�topped with bubbly, melting cheese on toasted garlic bread�is a meatlover's dream. Make sure to finish off with a slice (or two) of the tangy cheesecake; it's surprisingly some of the best around. 4185 N Clarendon Ave between Buena Ave and Gordon Terr (773-404-9700). El: Red to Sheridan. Bus: 36, 80, 135, 151 (24 hrs). Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $8

Bolat African Cuisine
If you�re like us, you�ve walked by this Wrigleyville African restaurant countless times, always curious but never venturing inside. Time to take the plunge. Start with fried yams: crispy, starchy slices served with a slightly spicy tomato sauce for dipping. Or get your yam fix with the �House Special,� a mixed plate of sweet caramelized plantains, savory yam porridge and your choice of fish, meat or chicken (the tilapia, immersed in yet another spicy tomato sauce, is a good bet). After one meal you�ll no longer be curious about what�s inside�but you may have a problem walking by without stopping in. 3346 N Clark St between Buckingham Pl and Roscoe St (773-665-1100). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 77 (24 hrs). Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $8.

Brett's Cafe Americain
An adorable restaurant in a great location with a cheery yellow dining room dotted with vintage wine posters�it's hard to imagine that the food here could be as charming as the atmosphere. But for 14 years, Brett Knobel has been making sure it is. There are a few missteps: The shrimp-and-sweet-potato fritter arrived hot but left us cold. But we loved the potato taco covered in a creamy poblano chile sauce. The menu changes often, and Knobel has been on an Indian kick lately, resulting in dishes like monkfish swimming in spicy ginger and curry sauce, and upma, a savory Indian breakfast porridge served during the popular brunch. 2011 W Roscoe St between Damen and Seeley Aves (773-248-0999). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 50, 77 (24 hrs), 152. Brunch (Sat, Sun), lunch (Wed�Fri), dinner (closed Mon, Tue). Average main course: $16.

Bubamara Pizza & Pasta
This pale green Ravenswood pizza joint looks like just another neighborhood hole-in-the-wall. But like any good delivery/take-out spot, the pie is more important than in-store ambience. And the coolest thing about this place, is that in addition to its regular menu, an organic menu includes 100 percent organic pizzas, pastas and salads. And we're not talking one or two items. Pizza toppings include loads of veggies, chicken, beef, sausage and even bacon. The organic goods cost about double the conventional dishes, but taste even better. The pizzas arrive at your door in a white box affixed with the little organic-produce stickers. 4706 N Wolcott Ave between Leland and Lawrence Aves (773-334-2633). El: Brown to Damen. Bus: 50, 78, 81 (24 hrs), 145. Dinner. Vegetarian-friendly

Cafe 28
Cuban food goes upscale at this contemporary and undeniably pleasant spot. Standards are dressed up with fancy touches like saffron cream, garlic polenta and sun-dried tomato pesto, and it's all executed with competence, but with a little less oomph than the dramatic menu descriptions suggest. Two enormous pork chops arrive tender with plenty of honey flavor, but only a trace of the advertised jalapeno. The ropa vieja, flanked by crunchy, sugary plantains, is juicy and fork-tender, but you can't help feeling like you could order it at your local Cuban dive for half the price. Make like most of the eclectic crowd in the packed room and throw down a few excellent mojitos�those pesky shortcomings will go away quickly. 1800 W Irving Park Rd at Ravenswood Ave (773-528-2883). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 11, 50, 80. Brunch (Sat, Sun), lunch (Tue�Fri), dinner. Average main course: $16.

Caf� Orchid
The Middle Eastern crowd at this new Turkish spot should tip you off that it isn�t another watered-down outlet for hummus and pita chips. In case you aren�t convinced, the menu reveals its authenticity. It�s filled with Turkish dishes that are largely unfamiliar in these parts, such as balik sarma, grape leaves stuffed with sardines and crisped around the edges for an aggressively flavorful, crispy starter; cig borek, a savory, deep-fried pastry stuffed with ground lamb; and manti, dumplinglike �Turkish ravioli� stuffed with more lamb and topped with a garlic-yogurt sauce. 1746 W Addison St at Hermitage Ave (773-327-3808). Bus: 9, 11, 50, 152. Lunch, dinner (closed Mon). Average entr�e: $11. Vegetarian-friendly. Outdoor seating. BYOB.

Chicago Diner
If you can get used to all the soy milk, tofu and tempeh on the menu, this vegetarian restaurant can feel like a normal, everyday diner. Waits for weekend brunch can get painful (even though the menu is served daily), but patient non�meat-eaters are rewarded with tempeh �corned beef� hash (tastes nothing like corned beef, but the onion-y flavor is enjoyable nonetheless); dense (and fairly flaky) soy margarine biscuits; and sweet blueberry-lemon muffins made with soy eggs. French toast is a little soggy and lackluster�but afterall, this is diner food. 3411 N Halsted St at Roscoe St (773-935-6696). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8 Halsted, 77 Belmont (24 hrs). Brunch, lunch, dinner. Average main course: $11. Brunch served. Vegetarian-friendly.

Coobah
Given the neighborhood and decor�plasma televisions display faux fireplaces�this pan-Latin joint could be written off as something akin to Chi-Chi�s. But it takes only a promising pair of subtle lumpia�Filipino egg rolls stuffed with crab, coconut and longaniza sausage�to realize that this spot deserves a closer look. Tilapia arrives flaking apart after being cooked in paper in a sherry-spiked broth; Chicken Negra Modelo is glazed in its namesake beer and flanked by luscious spinach and cheese chilaquiles; and the Sandwich Coobah is as solid a Cuban sandwich as any other�despite the chain-restaurant�style misspelling. 3423 N Southport Ave between Roscoe St and Newport Ave (773-528-2220). El: Brown to Southport. Bus: 9 Ashland, 22 Clark (24 hrs). Brunch (Sat, Sun), dinner (Tue�Sat). Average main course: $18. Brunch-served

Cordis Brothers Supper Club
Dan and Mike Cordis set out to create a modern-day supper club, and quite frankly, they failed�their restaurant feels so authentically homey, old-school and nourishing that there are few modern things about it. But this is a good thing: It means you get a complimentary relish tray to start your meal (though the hummus on it would be the exception to the aforementioned authenticity); a buttery crab cocktail and a well-dressed Caeser salad as appetizers; and a hefty slice of lasagna, redolent of nutmeg, for an entr�e. The �baseball steak,� a tough impersonation of filet mignon, left us cold. But the rest of the experience was so warm, we hardly noticed. 1625 W Irving Park Rd at Marshfield Ave (773-935-1000). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 9, X9, 80, X80. Dinner (closed Sun). Average main course: $20. Serving after 10pm.

Cornelia�s
If you�re not the show-tunes type, you may want to keep your distance. Then again, if you�re not the show-tunes type, you probably weren�t thinking about eating here to begin with, because the nightly cabaret performers are just as important as the food. Dishes such as the meaty shiitake-mushroom pancakes (touched with maple syrup and offset by balsamic vinegar), cerdo relleno (pork loin stuffed with herbs, dried cranberries and pine nuts) and the Tuscan skirt steak are kind of like the performances: They may not be perfect, but they still do the trick. 750 W Cornelia Ave between Halsted St and Broadway (773-248-8333). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 8, 36, 152. Dinner. Average main course: $16. Serving after 10pm

Cousin's
Middle Eastern cuisine has always pretty much been a safety zone for vegetarians. But the people at Cousin's wanted to take it one step further. The "vegetarian flair" they advertise seems to refer not only to the meat-free Turkish grub they offer (like tangy, crumbly spinach pies and a particularly smoky baba ghanoush) but also in a line of vegetarian dishes from other cultures. A cheesy, vegetarian Italian rotollo; Greek vegetable moussaka; and an Indian dish of peppers, shallots and garlic yogurt. The offbeat offerings are all tempting, but you'll do best to go the purist route and just stick to the Turkish tastes. 2833 N Broadway between Diversey Pkwy and Surf St (773-880-0063). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Diversey. Bus: 22 (rush hrs), 36, 76. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $10. Vegetarian-friendly

Cullen�s Bar and Grill
With the waitresses brandishing brogues along with the shepherd�s pie and Guinness pints, you know this Lakeview Irish pub is the real deal. Besides potpies, fish and chips, and other Emerald Isle imports, everyone from neighborhood families to tipsy Cubs fans stop in for the above-par bar grub. You can�t go wrong with the char-grilled skirt-steak sandwich, mile-high turkey-and-corned-beef Reubens, and Bass Ale�battered onion rings the size of your head. 3741 N Southport Ave between Addison St and Irving Park Rd (773-975-0600). El: Brown to Southport. Bus: 9, 22 (24 hrs), 152. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $10. Serving after 10 pm. Vegetarian-friendly.

Deleece
With chef Carol Wallack gone and manning her own ship, Sola, this old Lakeview standby has undergone a makeover. Gone is the artwork that gave the place its outdated, Blossom-style funkiness; In its place is a new awning, new logo and a newfound sleekness. Even the comfort food manages to branch out: Potato skins are given new life by stuffing them with lobster and horseradish cr�me fra�che, salmon is given an Asian treatment by plating it over black sticky rice, and a rack of lamb is stuffed with creamy cambozola. Creatures of habit may resent the changes and head to Sola for some of Wallack�s signature dishes. But more likely, they won�t miss a thing. 4004 N Southport Ave between Irving Park Rd and Cuyler Ave (773-325-1710). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 9, 22 (24 hrs), 80, X80. Brunch (Sat, Sun), lunch (Wed�Fri), dinner. Average main course: $9. Brunch-served

El Llano
This small, cheery room is packed with Colombian tchotchkes (as well as an enormous stuffed armadillo hanging out on the wall) that give the place a festive vibe. What is being celebrated? Chicken, and the fact that, somehow, the cooks turn this blank-slate-of-foods into a dinner that�s plump, juicy, golden, perfectly charred and endlessly flavorful. Tender brisket immersed in a mild tomato sauce, crisp and starchy fried yuca, and a strip steak with fresh and lively chimichurri grace this menu. But they�re just backup. For once, the lowly chicken is the star of the show. 3941 N Lincoln Ave between Larchmont Ave and Irving Park Rd (773-868-1708). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 11, 50, 80. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $11. BYOB/Serving after 10pm

El Nuevo Mexicano
How does a seemingly typical Mexican restaurant survive Lakeview�s changing landscape for 25 years? By being consistent with the simple stuff and throwing in a few specials every now and then to keep things interesting. The regular appetizer menu is Anglo-ized and boring, so ditch that and go for the flaky beef empanadas from the specials list. Stick to that list for the delicious pomegranate margarita (made with real lime, not a mix), the chicken enchiladas in smoky red mole and the juicy tilapia with mango salsa. If there�s room, finish with the insanely rich flan. 2914 N Clark St between Surf St and Oakdale Ave (773-528-2131). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Diversey. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 76. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $12.

Fernando's
Look, if you order one of the more sophisticated dishes�the bland white fish, perhaps?�you're missing the point. This place is all about the stuff you really want: juicy chicken tacos, cheesy nachos, deep-fried stuffed peppers. Don't want to eat for a few days? Get the gigantic fajita quesadilla, an oversize tortilla bulging with grilled slices of steak or chicken, bell peppers and onions that'll fuel you for weeks. And if you feel guilty for eating so much, down one of the house margaritas: They're so big and potent that you won't remember a thing. 3450 N Lincoln Ave between Newport and Cornelia Aves (773-477-6930). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 9, 11, 152. Dinner. Average main course: $9.

Firefly
Rumor has it that if you aren't gay, male and cute, the service you get at this Boystown stalwart will be less than kind. We'd like to squash that rumor right now because these waiters are rude to everyone�gay, straight and in-between. If you can brush off the attitude, you can make a nice meal out of the decadent Parmesan deviled eggs (oddly but pleasantly served warm) and the delectable, tender pork tenderloin or the skirt-steak sandwich with sharp Gorgonzola on soft focaccia. While you're at it, you may as well order a bottle of wine; after all, you'll be saving money on the tip. 3335 N Halsted St between Buckingham Pl and Roscoe St (773-525-2505). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 77 (24 hrs). Dinner (closed Tue). Average main course: $15.

Frasca
With wood-fired pizza spots opening faster than a Cubs catcher can throw a punch, it looks like thin-crust pizza has replaced sushi as Chicago�s trendiest cuisine. The swankiest of the bunch is Frasca, with arches reminiscent of a Tuscan wine cellar, sexy red leather banquettes and wallpaper of bare branches climbing up the curved walls. The cavernous space is packed to conversation-inhibiting capacity with twentysomethings chomping on chewy thin-crust pizzas�we like the fennel sausage, onion and mozz Capone�and tossing back reasonably priced wines. Simple apps like the bland polenta in tomato sauce were disappointing, but the chocolate pistachio panna cotta was a light, creamy dream of a finish. 3358 N Paulina St between School and Roscoe Sts (773-248-5222). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24 hrs). Lunch (Sat, Sun), dinner. Average main course: $16. Vegetarian-friendly/Outdoor seating

Harmony Grill
If you�re into comfort food and huge portions, this casual folk art�filled dining room is for you. Start with the meaty, slightly spicy crab cakes, resting on mini �Johnnycakes� (sweet corn cakes) and drizzled with tangy r�moulade. Move on to the cheddar-crusted cod with mashed potatoes and creamed spinach (this dish alone could fill you up for a week) and the juicy half-pound Angus burger. It�s one of the best around, especially when coupled with the sweet-potato fries. Vegetarians get plenty of love with dishes like edamame hummus, smoked tofu-veggie chili, a Southwestern falafel burger and killer mac and cheese. But if you�re finishing up with a show at the adjacent Schubas, prepare to hear the music from a food coma. 3159 N Southport Ave at Belmont Ave (773-525-2508). El: Brown to Southport. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24 hrs). Brunch (Sat, Sun), lunch, dinner. Average main course: $12. Vegetarian-friendy/Brunch-served

HB
Now that the Food Network hype surrounding the Hearty Boys has died down a little, we can actually grab a table in this funky-cozy Boystown BYOB. Good thing�the new dishes that chef Joncarl Lachman is turning out have seasonal and fresh written all over them. We�re into the lamb steak over warm, curry-citrus chickpea salad; the roasted bass with bitter greens flecked with raisins, roasted tomatoes and pine nuts; and the pan-roasted veal chop on summer squash couscous with a garlicky sour-cherry gastrique. Sweets fiends will be happy to know that the cupcake flight remains in place. 3404 N Halsted St between Roscoe St and Newport Ave (773-661-0299). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 77 (24 hrs). Brunch (Sat, Sun), dinner. Average main course: $16. BYOB/Brunch served

Jack�s
on Halsted Awash in underwater blue-green hues and pulsing with ambient techno (lest we forget we�re in Boystown), this spot is a neighborhood draw for older gay couples and even older Lakeview lifers. While the solid menu offers few surprises, what Jack�s does, it does well: perfectly seared scallops wading in decadent lobster cream sauce with creamy mushroom risotto; a grilled calamari starter with spicy tomato-pesto that�s as simple as it is delicious; and a four-inch-high ice-cream turtle pie that�s a gut-busting ender. Or make like a bona fide Boystowner and finish with a sweet-as-candy martini from the 14-strong list. 201 N Halsted St at Belmont Ave (773-244-9191). El: Red, Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Belmont. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 77 (24 hrs). Brunch (Sun), dinner. Average main course: $19. Brunch served

Joey's Brickhouse
Dinners here start when your server hands you the Long Island iced tea list�15 ways to get really wasted, really fast. The menu is accordingly full of the kind of simple, filling food you want to eat when you're drunk. We liked the tomato soup with "grilled cheese croutons" (actually an entire sandwich) and the sweet and spicy "pot 'o mussels." But our server recommended the lemon-pepper chicken, and we'll never trust her again. The meatball casserole and s'mores were more successful: hearty, tasty dishes that only a snob wouldn't love. 1258 W Belmont Ave between Racine and Lakewood Aves (773-296-1300). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24 hrs). Brunch (Sat, Sun), dinner. Average main course: $15. Brunch served

Katachi
Sushi and BYOB go together like Matthew McConaughey and crap movies, which explains why this cozy, unassuming raw-fish emporium gets packed to the gills with folks looking for reliably good sushi to pair with their Trader Joe�s pinot grigio. All the maki standbys are present and accounted for, but signature rolls like the tuna, salmon and yellowtail�packed Triple and the unagi-topped, shrimp tempura�stuffed Dragon allow the chef�s creativity to shine. Don�t let the harried servers� forgetfulness get you down�just relax and try not to catch the eye of the people standing in the doorway jealously coveting your table. 3911 N Sheridan Rd between W Sheridan Rd and Dakin St (773-880-5340). El: Red to Sheridan. Bus: 36, 80, 151 (24 hrs). Dinner. Average nigiri: $2. BYOB/Vegetarian-friendly

Kaze
Gifted with the hands of a warrior, chef Macku slays fish instead of dragons at his sophisticated Japanese storefront. Making yearly sojourns to Japan, the Chan clan (chefs Kaze and Hari round out the family) studies with their master for inspiration. The result is a form of fusion that dresses up slick cuts of nigiri with seasonal, cooked toppings and includes creations like whitefish tempura wrapped in shrimp and drizzled with a parsley butter and pan-fried minced pheasant breast smothered in creamy Brie and white miso sauce. Menus change with the seasons, and Tuesday nights are a steal: Four courses with wine pairings goes for $45. 2032 W Roscoe St between Seeley and Hoyne Aves (773-327-4860). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 49 (24 hrs), 50, 77 (24 hrs). Dinner. Average main course: $15. Vegetarian-friendly

Kit Kat Lounge
If you don't know who Marilyn and Joan are, don't bother. This slick nightspot landed in Chicago from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, four years ago, and it only gets campier with age. So come ready to be entertained by classic movies and performances by sexy, sophisticated female impersonators. The menu plays runner-up to the entertainment, but there are some pleasant surprises, like the eponymous salad, full of crunchy pumpkin seeds, and the filet mignon rubbed with eye-opening espresso beans. The drink list, which is 71 martinis strong, is also a draw. It's not haute cuisine, but you didn't actually come here for the food, did you? 3700 N Halsted St at Waveland Ave (773-525-1111). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 8, 36, 152. Dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $20.

Koryo
Korean classics you'd normally cook yourself on coal-fired tabletop grills at other spots arrive already cooked on sizzling platters here, and that reminds us of too many bad fajita experiences. So we opt to get our bulgogi (beef) fix in the so go-ki guk, a rich beef broth packed with vermicelli noodles and tender pieces of beef. Some dishes, such as the flour pancake stuffed with kim chi, are subtle and border on bland, but dolsot bi bim bop, the toasted, nutty, veggie-laden, egg-topped rice bowl, is exactly how it should be. 2936 N Broadway between Oakdale and Wellington Aves (773-477-8510). Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 36, 76. Dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $11.

La Mora
Though it's definitely a rocky relationship we've built with this Mediterranean old-timer (the hits and misses are hard to predict), when we're in the neighborhood, we dive into the warm, crusty bread; basil-infused Pomodori pasta; and delicious fried calamari. And you can't beat the nightly specials, like quarter Cosmos on Thursdays and penny-wine Wednesdays (glasses of house wine for one red cent). If only they'd lose the blaring techno music and bring back the crispy little pizzas. 2132 W Roscoe St between Hamilton Ave and Leavitt St (773-404-4555). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 49 (24 hrs), X49, 50, 152. Dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $17.

Las Tablas
There�s something about the arepa chorriada at this Colombian steakhouse: By most standards the dense, polentalike slice of �corn bread� smothered in melted cheese and onion-and-tomato criolla sauce is greasy and unattractive. But the combination is such pure, simple pleasure that before you can overthink it, you�ll be scraping the plate. That�s the theme here: Before you can exclaim how enormous the bandeja paisa combination is, you�ve already sliced into the juicy New York strip, torn off a crisp piece of fried pork and broken the fried egg and mixed the yolk with the beans. And by that time your mouth is too full to get the words out anyway. 2965 N Lincoln Ave at Wellington Ave (773-871-2414). El: Brown. BYOB.

La Taberna Tapatia
If the setup of the dining room (which looks much more like a bar than a restaurant) and the hours (food is served until 1:30am) are any indication, this spot is for drinking your dinner. With that in mind, order the Taberna margarita (yes, it�s the more expensive of the two margarita choices, but trust us, it�s significantly better) as your main course and get the gringas (a cross between a taco and a quesadilla filled with mild chorizo), beef tacos and piquant shrimp ceviche on the side. 3358 N Ashland Ave at Roscoe St (773-248-5475). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24hrs). Dinner. Average main course: $7.Serving after 10pm.

La Tavernetta
This basement trattoria oozes hole-in-the-wall goodness. Expect �homestyle� fare (think house-made doughy delights with rich gravies typical of an Italian grandma). The lost art of complimentary starters lives on with a choice of a fresh mesclun salad or a cup of minestrone. Both starch-o-phobes and the carb-indulgent can leave well fed: The vast menu (plus several daily specials) includes archetypal Italian treasures such as eggplant Parmesan, gnocchi with sausage, portobellos with Gorgonzola and roasted red peppers, and rigatoni smothered in a creamy tomato sauce. Thanks to friendly pricing and the BYOB status, it�s an affordable down-home experience all-around. 3023 N Broadway between Wellington and Barry Aves (773-929-8787). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 36, 77 (24 hrs), 156. Dinner. Average main course: $14. BYOB

Laschet's Inn
If you were to wander in off the street, you might think this gem is little more than a charming German pub. It is, and it has been since '71, but since '91 it's also been one of the best spots in town for Rouladen, thin beef rolled with bacon, onions and pickles. The German comfort food staple is served with tasty brown gravy, sweet braised cabbage and perfect, fluffy spaetzle dumplings. Stick with the authentic offerings like hackepeter (rich, fresh steak tartare on rye with capers and onions), lox Rouladen (herbed cream cheese and smoked salmon rolls) and the wiener schnitzel (pounded-thin veal breaded and fried crispy), which is great with a heavy squeeze of fresh lemon. 2119 W Irving Park Rd between Hoyne and Hamilton Aves (773-478-7915). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 80 Irving Park. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $13.

Lucca�s
Every neighborhood has a Lucca�s, a sunny room where the windows are thrown open in the summer and feels warm and cozy in the winter. Places like this are always going to be around, because where else are the neighbors going to gossip about one another? The garlicky saut�ed shrimp, salmon in a creamy saffron sauce and the enormous portion of penne with spicy sausage don�t hurt, either. Just be wary of the guy who wants to take your photograph. He�s not taking your picture just because you�re pretty; he�ll be back in about 20 minutes to sell you the framed print for ten bucks. 2834 N Southport Ave at Wolfram St (773-477-2565). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Diversey. Bus: 9, 11, 76. Dinner. Average main course: $17. Outdoor seating

Mama Desta's Red Sea Restaurant
Traditionally, Ethiopian food is eaten with your hands, so if that's what scares off potential diners from this 20-year-old enclave, we urge you to wash up and get over it. Break off pieces of flat, spongy injera bread to scoop up the succulent morsels of wat (the spicy, tender, boneless lamb stands out among the choices) and alitcha (stewed cabbage and flavor-layered lentils are favorites). Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the honey wine, while others can go for the African beer. Don't skip the house dessert, a delicious sweet-and-sour cream topped with tart raspberries and honey. 3216 N Clark St between Belmont and Aldine Aves (773-935-7561). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 77 (24 hrs). Dinner. Average main course: $10.

Matsuya
The combination of the words cheap and sushi usually sends us running, but the high turnover at this popular Wrigleyville spot leads us to believe that the fish must be fresh. One bite of the silky salmon confirmed that at least some of the nigiri fares perfectly well on its own. Still, this sushi shows better in maki. When it�s paired with spicy mayo and cilantro in the �Mexican� roll, or with layers of tempura in the �crunch� roll, you can�t tell that it�s not the most high-quality sushi around. And if you can�well, then we suggest ordering the delicious beef teriyaki instead. 3469 N Clark St at Sheffield Ave (773-248-2677). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 22 Clark (24 hrs), 152 Addison. Lunch (Sat, Sun), dinner. Average maki: $4.

Mia Francesca
Clearly the business minds behind this Italian concept have figured out a formula for success: approachable, Northern Italian cooking for the masses, with suburban outposts seemingly opening weekly. At this location, loyalists from the neighborhood dig in to huge oval platters of cool, caper-studded carpaccio; pastas tossed with lemony cream and asparagus; capable fish and chicken sautes; and what's surprisingly the best garlic spinach in town. Couples and families happily wait at the bar drinking tumblers of cheap wine, somehow oblivious to the chaos of the always-packed room and the obligatory wait even for those with a reservation. 3311 N Clark St between Aldine Ave and Buckingham Pl (773-281-3310). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 77 (24 hrs), 152. Lunch (Sat, Sun), dinner. Average main course: $13.

Moxie
Mixologist John Kinder whips up some of the tastiest, seasonal cocktails in the city, and it�s hard to drink just one. That�s why it�s vital to have some food in your stomach. Fill up on the small plates (a.k.a. bar food) from Moxie�s eclectic menu, such as the jerk pork (juicy slices of pork immersed in a sauce layered with peppers and spice) or the �mammoth wings,� which really aren�t that mammoth but pack lots of tongue-tickling spice. Heavier dishes include the gnocchi sprinkled with toasted garlic and the lobster rangoon, which is light on lobster, heavy on cream cheese, and just the kind of thing you want when you�ve had one too many lemon martinis. 3517 N Clark St between Cornelia Ave and Eddy St (773-935-6694). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 77 (24 hrs), 152. Dinner. Average small plate: $9.

Mrs. Murphy and Sons
Soda bread? Black-and-white pudding? Not so much. This Irish bistro serves food you'd find in modern-day Dublin, which means Guinness isn't just on the epic beer list, but also in a rich onion�and�white cheddar soup. Bangers and mash are up for grabs, but the savory lamb sausage and potatoes are a better bet�the fingerlings are roasted with Morbier cheese and apples and served next to the sausage on a fragrant cedar plank. If a full meal isn't in the cards, stop by for a great Irish whiskey at the gorgeous bar. 3905 N Lincoln Ave between Byron St and Larchmont Ave (773-248-3905). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 11, 80, 152. Dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $20.

Nana Bistro and Lounge
We wouldn't really consider it a lounge or a bistro, but we would happily call this hideaway a diamond in the rough. Hearty Italian fare (including tender mozzarella-stuffed pork chops) is punctuated by flickering candles dotting small, close-quartered tables. The essence of the room is brought to life by the chatter of ladies lingering for a carefree girls' night out. The creamy polenta rounds smothered in a heavy sausage and mushroom sauce and the simple, yet mouthwatering panini sandwiches are reason enough to return. But with a couple of bottles of your own cheap Italian wine in tow, you may never leave. 2825 N Lincoln Ave between Wolfram St and Diversey Pkwy (773-281-7200). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Diversey. Bus: 9, 11, 76. Dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $14. BYOB

Nazarlik
The name Nazarlik refers to the blue, eye-shaped beads rumored to ward off bad luck. Thankfully, you won�t need any of those here, because the food at this family operation is prepared with lots of care. We had the greatest success with the mujver, a crispy and ethereal pan-fried zucchini patty; the gooey spinach-and-cheese pie; and the lahmacun, a thin, pizzalike concoction topped with minced meat that was rolled out, baked to order and flanked by fresh, smoky baba ghanoush. With so much success, we decided to brave a drink that was explained to us as being composed of yogurt, ice and salt; we were pleasantly pleased�and refreshed�by the result. 1650 W Belmont Ave between Ashland Ave and Paulina St (773-327-5800). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24hrs). Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $8.

Nookies Tree
We'll admit it: We've never really considered trying the food here when we were sober enough to taste it. No. 3 in the local "chain" of straightforward diners has always been a 3am favorite of Boystown barhoppers, so we were pleasantly surprised to find that in the light of day, this place can cook. The summer brunch special hits our sweet tooth just right: a trio of blueberry corncakes, blackberry-strawberry French toast and peach-studded pancakes topped with raspberries and toasted almond slivers. Get it before it's gone. From the regular menu, the frittatas are great, especially the combo of bacon, mushroom, Gouda cheese and caramelized onions. Add a cup of strong (and always fresh) coffee to the mix, and it's a great way to start the day�or end the night. 3344 N Halsted St at Buckingham Pl (773-248-9888). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 77. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner (24 hrs Fri�Sat). Average main course: $7. BYOB/Vegetarian-friendly/Serving after 10pm/Brunch served

North Pond
A rustic, Prairie-style hideaway on a small pond. A view cutting through the trees of Lincoln Park to an unobstructed city skyline. A chef who puts as much thought into his organic, seasonal food as the local farmers who grow it. All of this adds up to a place we wish we could afford to eat at more often, and enjoy every bite of when we can. Chef Bruce Sherman�s latest menu change brings a chanterelle tart with warm goat cheese, grilled leg of lamb flanked by pistachio-dotted couscous and a housemade merguez sausage link and grilled black cod with sweet potato puree and balsamic-roasted raddichio. 2610 N Cannon Dr between Fullerton Pkwy and Lake Shore Dr (773-477-5845). Bus: 76, 151 (24 hrs), 156. Brunch (Sun), dinner (Tue�Sun). Average main course: $30. Vegetarian-friendly. BYOB. Fireplace.

Papacito�s Mexican Grille
Eating at this casual Lakeview spot is like hanging out in the kitchen while Dad whips up another one of his delicious meals. Sip a from-scratch limonada or horchata while the kitchen whips up huevos rancheros and mango pancakes at breakfast, light fish tacos studded with tilapia at lunchtime and hearty enchiladas for dinner. The heaping $8 carne asada dinner entr�e, perfectly grilled and served with creamy guacamole and rice and beans, may just be the best deal in town. 2960 N Lincoln Ave between Wellington Ave and George St (773-327-5240). Bus: 11, 76, 77 (24 hrs). Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Average main course: $7. Vegetarian-friendly

Piazza Bella
We're always on the hunt for another affordable rustic Italian restaurant, and this one fits the bill perfectly. Looking like it was imported straight from the boot, this tiny eatery packs the house every night of the week and dishes up hearty Tuscan country fare like platters of soft ricotta-stuffed tortellini in a sage and brown-butter�heavy-cream sauce (the first bite could stop time). With a glass of fruity Sangiovesi, an insalate de cannelloni (with shrimp) and a summery breeze on the patio, Italy never seemed closer. 2116 W Roscoe St between Hoyne and Hamilton Aves (773-477-7330). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 50, 49 (24 hrs), X49. Lunch (Mon�Fri), dinner. Average main course: $16. BYOB

Pie Hole
Like almost everything Twisted Spoke�s owners (the Einhorn brothers) do, this tiny pizza joint has unexpected details of excellence that betray its machismo, carefree atmosphere. Fresh garlic and pristine basil (free for the asking), house-smoked bacon, French olives and more all add up to some pretty delicious pizza. The red pesto pie (which owes its fiery hue to its sun-dried tomato base) has two standout features: the meaty and brilliantly spiced sausage and the chewy crust. On the dessert pie, however, the crust is a distraction (it�s not sweet enough), so pick off the roasted brown-sugar apples and Brie and eat them solo. 737 W Roscoe St between Halsted St and Elaine Pl (773-525-8888). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8, 36, 152. Dinner. Average pizza: $15. Vegetarian-friendly/Serving after 10pm

Pierogi Factory
Forget your New Year�s resolution to go easy on saturated fats and carbs, and dig into the dense little dumplings at this new Lakeview eatery, the first in a planned local chain. Stand-outs among the dozen or so varieties include hearty potato and cheese, tangy sweet cabbage and desserty plum. All can be either boiled or deep-fried, and the savory options taste even better topped with optional bacon, sour cream and grilled onions (what doesn�t?). Other traditional Polish treats�pyzy (potato dumplings) with ground beef and pork, stuffed cabbage, and borscht�are nearly as satisfying. You can eat with plastic utensils at a handful of tables or opt for fast take-out, plus bring home frozen pierogi, chocolates and tea. 1034 W Belmont Ave at Kenmore Ave (773-325-1015). El: Red, Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Belmont. Bus: 77 Belmont (24 hrs). Vegetarian-friendly. BYOB.

Ping Pong
Stylish doesn't even begin to describe the aesthetic here. A lone goldfish in a bowl is the only decoration the art-gallery�esque room has, that is if you don't count the tricked-out, fashionista-boy servers. The pan-Asian fare is just as stylish, but thankfully more complex. The lettuce cups pair spicy chicken with ginger, peanuts and a spark of lime for a dish with perfect synergy of flavor. Other delectable choices include the golden calamari, gently spiced with chilies, and a perfectly tender Chilean sea bass in a soy-Riesling sauce that was a tad too sweet. Like any good gallery opening, the wine here is free...because you bring it yourself. 3322 N Broadway between Aldine Ave and Buckingham Pl (773-281-7575). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 36, 77 (24 hrs), 152. Dinner. Average main course: $10. BYOB/Vegetarian-friendly/Serving after 10pm

P.S. Bangkok
 As pleasant and sunny as this dining room is, sticklers for authenticity should steer clear. The rest of us, however, may be able to appreciate the �Heavenly Tofu� (tossed with peanuts, chile peppers and soy sauce to sweet-hot results) and �Bite Size Delights� (tiny lettuce rolls with dried shrimp, ginger and coconut) for the Americanized Thai food it is. On Sunday mornings there�s a brunch buffet, and if there�s a better cure for hangovers than unlimited banana fritters and �Dreamy, Creamy, Crispy Crab� (a.k.a. crab rangoon), we�ve yet to find it. 3345 N Clark St between Buckingham Pl and Roscoe St (773-871-7777). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 22 (24hrs), 77 (24hrs), 152. Brunch (Sun), lunch, dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $9. Vegetarian-friendly.Brunch served.

Raw Bar
If we were restaurant psychologists, we'd diagnose this place as being bipolar. The front room is a boisterous bar with Big Country on repeat; the dining room is serene, candelit and a venue for local cabaret acts. But whichever vibe you prefer, the menu is the same: Sweet, meaty crab legs are a stand out from the raw bar, chunky crab cakes are topped with a sharp chive mayo, and juicy salmon filets are flanked by perfectly grilled shrimp. Of the Middle Eastern dishes, the Egyptian chicken is so juicy and flavorful you won't be surprised that it's been marinating in yogurt all day. 3720 N Clark St between Waveland Ave and Grace St (773-348-7291). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 36, 152. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $14. Serving after 10pm

Renaldi's Pizza
Chicago-style pizza joints are a dime a dozen, but New York�inspired takes are harder to come by. Grab a booth in the dim, casual, somewhat shabby room (it's not bad, but the place does much more take-out biz) and start with a simple, hefty Italian salad (romaine with pepperoncinis, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers and herbed vinaigrette). Flavorful meatballs, tangy tomato sauce and toasted bread make for a great meatball sandwich, and basic but fresh ingredients make up the handful of pastas, like angel-hair with shrimp and spinach ravioli in tomato cream. But pizzas rule the roost�the thick-crusted, square-cut pan is a good base for hearty toppings like Italian sausage, but we prefer the thin crust for delicate classics like spinach, tomato and garlic. 2827 N Broadway between Diversey Pkwy and Surf St (773-248-2445). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Diversey. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 36, 76. Lunch, dinner. Average pizza: $15. Vegetarian-friendly/Serving after 10pm

Resi's Bierstube
From the shingled roof to the oompah music, this North Side fave is the place to get your Teutonic eat on. Many trundle in for the extensive collection of German beer (and who doesn't want to hoist a stein of Weihenstephaner?), but the food is sehr gut, too. The butter-soft smoked Thuringer sausage has a great mellow taste, while the Sheboygan brat makes a delicious mess with mustard and a heaping pile of sauerkraut. Try the hearty rahmschnitzel, a breaded pork loin swimming in mushroom gravy�a meal that will stick to your ribs for days. Skip the disappointing black forest cake�the only dessert on the menu�and fill up that stein one more time. 2034 W Irving Park Rd between Seeley and Hoyne Aves (773-472-1749). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 11, 50, 80. Dinner. Average main course: $11.

Rick�s Caf�
Plenty of restaurants offer the opportunity to eat by candlelight. Few, however, still have the class to light the kind of regal, skinny candles that reach a full foot off your table. But this is the way things are done at this old-school Lakeview storefront. Go all the way and order the luscious chicken-and-duck p�t� to start. From there, choose between a thick fillet of tuna with cr�me fra�che and the daily house-made pasta in sweet marinara. Just avoid the fishy mussels and be sure to bring enough wine�those candles take a while to burn down. 3915 N Sheridan Ave between Byron and Dakin Sts (773-327-1972). El: Red to Sheridan. Bus: 36, 80, 151 (24 hrs). Dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $18. BYOB

Riverview Tavern
Stick to the basics at this neighborhood watering hole, and you'll be rewarded with $3 microbrews and enormous portions of delicious pub grub. Pizzas come from the adjoining Robey Pizza Company, where the crackerlike crust and spicy sausage on the eponymous pie make an addictive meal. Ditto for the "silver flash," a thick Black Angus burger spilling over with sweet grilled onions, melted Swiss and crisp curls of bacon. But skip the bland hummus and boring quesadilla. The warm wood tones in the room will make you want to stay forever, which comes in handy when you eat too much to stand up. 1958 W Roscoe St at Damen Ave (773-248-9523). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 50, 77 (24 hrs), 152. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $8. Serving after 10pm

Salt & Pepper Diner
There's more chrome and grease here than a motorcycle repair shop, but that's how you know a diner is worth its spit. The decor's no retro throwback�the original Lincoln Avenue location has been around since '65. Our favorites from the standard diner menu include gooey, juicy cheeseburgers; hot, crispy fries; thin omelets overstuffed with sauteed vegetables; and tall, thick and appropriately famous milk shakes. We also love the fact that you can eat your heart out (or at least eat enough to give yourself heart disease) for less than ten bucks a person. 3537 N Clark St between Cornelia Ave and Eddy St (773-883-9800). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 8, 22 (24 hrs), 152. Breakfast, lunch, dinner (Mon-Sat). Average main course: $6.

Samuel�s Deli
It�s hard out there for a Jew looking for a decent bagel and lox on Sunday morning, but these folks have been providing weekend noshes for more than 30 years. In that time they�ve clearly made some concessions to a nonkosher crowd: Several of the speciality sandwiches commit crimes against deli purists, such as pairing pastrami and corned beef with�it pains us to even think about it�melted cheese. Still, great bagels from New York Bagels in Skokie provide a chewy base for creamy smoked-whitefish salad, thick slices of lox, and only slightly thinner slices of Vienna corned beef and pastrami (served with mayo if you absolutely must�just don�t let us catch you). 3463 N Broadway between Stratford Pl and Cornelia Ave (773-525-7018). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 8, 36, 152. Breakfast, lunch, dinner (Mon�Fri). Average main course: $6.

Sapore di Napoli
Though its competition may have a leg up on ambiance and authenticity, this newest addition to Chicago�s profusion of Neapolitan pizza joints is still good enough to become your favorite new neighborhood spot. The quattro stagioni piles big cuts of high-quality prosciutto, fat artichokes, mushrooms and olives onto perfect, bubbly crust, and the verdure, with its heaps of asparagus, peppers, eggplant and zucchini, nearly takes care of your daily veggie requirements in one bite. Panini, served only at lunch, are tasty but unremarkable, but the gelati are as smooth and creamy as any we�ve had in European gelaterias. 1406 W Belmont Ave at Southport Ave (773-935-1212). El: Brown to Southport. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24 hrs). Lunch, dinner. Average pizza: $12. Vegetarian-friendly. BYOB.

Scooter�s Frozen Custard
Here�s how it�s going to go down: You�ll walk into Scooter�s and disregard the hot dogs, Italian ice and anything else that doesn�t contain the words frozen and custard. You�ll order a Boston shake, and you�ll quiver in awe as the towering milk shake topped with hot fudge and whipped cream is handed over. You�ll tell yourself you can�t possibly finish it. But as you taste how dense, thick, buttery and rich the custard is, you�ll soon be on your way to a full stomach and an ice-cream headache. And it�ll be worth it. 1658 W Belmont Ave between Ashland Ave and Paulina St (773-244-6415). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24 hrs). Mon�Sat 2�10pm; Sun 2�9pm. Average cup of custard: $4.

Smak-Tak Restaurant
Smak tak translates to �delicious, yes!� in Polish, and we�re not about to disagree after sampling sauerkraut pierogi flecked with tiny pieces of mushroom, thin and crispy potato pancakes that rival our grandma�s, and stuffed cabbage rolls ladled with tangy tomato sauce. It�s all served up in a tiny Jefferson Park spot with a vibe that�s more ski lodge than diner�just the kind of cozy place to warm up and settle in for the night as the weather turns nippy. 5961 N Elston Ave at Mason Ave (773-763-1123). Bus: 56A Milwaukee, Pace 270. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $10. BYOB, Vegetarian-friendly

Sol de Mexico
Clementina Flores is a mole goddess, a woman sent from the heavens to create sauces so rich and complex, you�ll want to ingest them with a straw. Formerly the mole master at Chilpancingo and Ixcapuzalco, she�s now the consultant at this art-filled small-plates spot, and when her mole combines with chef Carlos Tello�s food, magic happens. Pork ribs marinated in oranges and red onion get paired with a fiery habanero sauce in the cochinita pibil; sopesitos (little corn patties) get topped with juicy shredded chicken and rich mole rojo; and the puerco de manchananteles is pork loin and leg covered with the mole manchananteles, a sauce made with chorizo and three different types of chiles that�s so exquisite we have half a mind to cover ourselves with it, too. 3018 N Cicero Ave between Wellington Ave and Nelson St (773-282-4119). Bus: 54 Cicero, 77 Belmont (24 hrs). Lunch, dinner. Average small plate: $8. BYOB

Sola
We liked Sola when it opened last winter, but the Hawaiian-influenced food always seemed more suited for warmer weather. Now that the 100-degree days are here, we feel like we can put the sidewalk patio and refreshing flavors on the seafood-heavy summer menu to their best use. Cool down with poke (a Hawaiian-style ceviche that changes daily); a trio of tuna tartares flanked by cucumber salsa; halibut with papaya, mango, cucumber and ginger-braised peaches; and desserts like house-made sorbets and braised pineapple, which make summer worth the stifling heat. 3868 N Lincoln Ave at Byron St (773-327-3868). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 11, 50, 80, X80. Brunch (Sat, Sun), lunch (Thu, Fri), dinner. Average main course: $19. Vegetarian-friendly

Sticky Rice
Ridiculously cheap has always been synonymous with Thai food, but if your stomach is getting shorted, this place is your new home. Chef-owner Kritsana Moungkeow kept the neon-colored walls from the spot's previous life as a Filipino buffet and added a menu of Northern Thai specialties, as well as standard Anglo favorites. A mix of Thai natives and locals fill the tables, inhaling house-made spicy fermented pork sausage, stir-fried water spinach and probably the best gang hung lay (pork in fiery, garlicky, ginger-laden curry) in town. Translations of the Thai-language menu courtesy of "Erik M" are available for adventurous eaters. 4018 N Western Ave between Irving Park Rd and Cuyler Ave (773-588-0120). Bus: 49 (24 hrs), X49, 80, X80. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $5.

Su Van's Cafe & Bakeshop
This is the sort of chipper, happy-go-lucky place that positively drips with good vibes. Start with a cup of meat-free chili and any of the oversized sandwiches�the BLT with sun-dried tomato mayo and the grilled veggie panini rock, and the house favorite is a tuna powerhouse aptly dubbed "The Cat's Meow." The little ones buzzing through with Mom can't seem to get their fill of baked goods lining the glass display case. Come to think of it, neither can the studious types digging into the free magazines in the corner. 3351 N Lincoln Ave between School and Roscoe Sts (773-281-0120). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24 hrs). Mon�Fri 10am�7pm; Sat 8am�6pm; Sun 9am�3pm. Average main course: $6.50. Vegetarian-friendly

Sweet Tamarind
True to its name, this charming Lincoln Park spot injects dishes with sweet tamarind every chance it gets: Light and fresh cilantro, mint and basil�packed spring rolls get a sweet tamarind dipping sauce, and the crispy rice noodles in the mee krob are flavored with tamarind, green onion and egg. But even when the signature ingredient is omitted, dishes can still stand out: Crispy catfish arrives in a red curry with a lot of kick (go for the pad see-ewe, thick rice noodles with crunchy broccoli and juicy chicken, for a milder option), and a cakey pumpkin custard makes for a sweet, tamarind-free ending. 1408 W Diversey Pkwy between Southport and Janssen Aves (773-281-5300). Bus: 11 Lincoln, 76 Diversey. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $9. Vegetarian-friendy

Szechuan Garden
Sure, you could order a meat or seafood dish at this hole-in-a-wall joint, but why? Regulars are willing to endure slowish service to enjoy fresh, vegan mock-meat dishes. Start with flavorful tofu- and seitan-studded hot-and-sour soup and plump soy gluten pot stickers�the latter are perfectly fried and surprisingly nongreasy. You�ll need restraint to keep from inhaling the honey-kissed saut�ed seitan dish in one breath, but take a pass on the sludgy-sauced mock-meat cashew entr�e. Don�t leave without sampling a pot of rose, plum or lavender tea to finish things off. 2901 N Broadway between Surf St and Oakdale Ave (773-525-6677). El: Brown to Wellington. Bus: 36 Broadway. Lunch, dinner (closed Mon). Average main course: $10. Vegetarian-friendly

T Spot Sushi & Tea Bar
Venturing into this sushi spot can be a bit intimidating (with its purple-and-green decor, it could double for the Joker�s bedroom, and the place is nearly always empty), but the payoff is worth taking the chance. Sample your way through dozens of loose-leaf teas (the dragon well and the magnolia oolong are amazing), start with the marinated squid salad and pay attention when the server rattles off the maki specials: These are the kitchen�s best bets. If the �Hot Spot maki� is still around, get it. Honey-drizzled mushrooms are wrapped in spicy crab, shrimp and eel with slivers of jalape�o for addictive results. Sushi snobs be warned: The sashimi is mediocre, so stick with maki and tea. 3925 N Lincoln Ave between Byron St and Irving Park Rd (773-549-4500). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 11, 50, 80, X80. Lunch, dinner (closed Sun). Average nigiri: $3. BYOB

TAC Quick Thai
You're not imagining things; the once-tiny Thai joint at the top of many Chicagoans' favorites list has more than doubled in size. Luckily the kitchen isn't having any trouble keeping up with the crowds that flood the simple, minimalist room. Standouts are still found on the translated Thai-language menu, with never-fail flavor explosions such as tart and smoky pork-and-rice sausage; ground chicken with crispy basil and preserved eggs; wrap-ready pork meatballs served with rice papers, fierce chilies, garlic cloves, fresh basil and mint, diced banana and apple; and the best, richest, earthiest beef noodle dish in town, the brisket-packed "boat noodles." 3930 N Sheridan Rd between Dakin St and Irving Park Rd (773-327-5253). El: Red to Sheridan. Bus: 36, 80, 151. Lunch, dinner (closed Tue). Average entree: $8. BYOB/Vegetarian-friendly

Tango Sur
Things to know when planning a trip to Tango Sur: You will wait for a table at this crowded Argentine grill, and when it's time to order, it's best to keep it simple. Start with a plate of deep-fried empanadas to share, then order a perfectly seared steak (ask the waiter to translate the traditional cuts of meat) to dunk in the house chimichurri sauce, and finish with the flan. Bring along that bottle of big red wine you've been holding on to, drink it with your slab of beef, sit outside on the sidewalk and enjoy the live Latin guitar�is life really always this sweet in Buenos Aires? 3763 N Southport Ave between Waveland Ave and Grace St (773-477-5466). El: Brown to Southport. Bus: 9, 22 (24 hrs), 152. Lunch (Sun), dinner. Average main course: $14. BYOB

Taqueria El Asadero
It�s not going to win any awards for most welcoming decor, but look past the Big Buck Hunter arcade game and the handful of tables that could use some busing, and you�ll find some of the freshest tacos in town. Meats are grilled on the spot (our favorite is the perfectly spiced carne asada), then sprinkled with fresh cilantro and onion and served up with a fiery, take-no-prisoners salsa verde. Wash it down with a cooling horchata and a side of creamy, made-to-order guac�served with a mound of fresh-from-the-fryer chips�that rivals the fancy tableside preparations you�ll find at upscale Mexican spots around town. 2213 W Montrose Ave at Lincoln Ave (773-583-5563). El: Brown to Western. Bus: 11, 49 (24hrs), X49, 78. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $5. Vegetarian-friendly.

Thai Classic
Vegetarians know that just because a dish doesn�t have a hunk of pork sticking out of it doesn�t mean it�s animal-free. This Anglo favorite caters to those phobic of fish sauce� and dried shrimp�laced Thai specialties, going so far as to omit oyster sauce when a tofu version of noodle or rice classics is ordered. �Drunk noodles� are among the best around, stir-fried in spicy soy with onions, tomatoes, straw mushrooms, bell peppers and hunks of tofu. Pescetarians should go for the gingery steamed tilapia, while meat-eaters should just take a day off; beef is standard at best and chicken dishes employ only flavorless white meat. The weekend buffet (offered Saturday for lunch, Sunday for lunch and dinner) is a steal�30 dishes for $11.75. 3332 N Clark St between Belmont Ave and Roscoe St (773-404-2000). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Belmont. Bus: 8, 22 (24hrs), 77 (24hrs). Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $8. Vegetarian-friendly. BYOB.

The Art of Pizza
It's the sauce. Don't get us wrong; we love the fresh toppings, including meaty chunks of mild sausage and fresh vegetables that are crisp and crunchy when you bite into them. But it's really the sauce�full of fresh tomato flavor, speckled with oregano, basil and the faintest hint of red pepper�that's made this dingy take-out joint (save for a couple of seats) a Chicago institution. In terms of crust, both the deep-dish and the (not very thin) thin-crust lack the flakiness of other local pies, but they resist sogginess after a night in the fridge, making them the breakfast of champions. 3033 N Ashland Ave at Nelson St (773-327-5600). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 9, 11, 77 (24 hrs). Lunch, dinner. Average pie: $13. BYOB/Vegetarian-friendly

Toro
This place had us at the premeal hand towels: aspirinlike tablets that grow into towelettes when servers pour hot water over them. But this pint-size sushi spot offers more than just gimmicks. Sushi man Mitch prides himself on serving oversize pieces of nigiri (he says that's how he was taught, and he's not changing) and creative rolls (we particularly like the Crazy Horse combo of tuna, salmon, yellowtail and avocado topped with tobiko). Nonsushi eaters can opt for traditional Japanese dishes (teriyakis, tempura, udon) or try house specials such as linguine with veggies, prawns and soy-ginger sauce. The owners' Korean heritage shows up in the flavorful bulgogi (thin slices of marinated beef with a sweet soy sauce). Vegetarians get their pick of nine fish-free maki. 2546 N Clark St between Deming Pl and Wrightwood Ave (773-348-4877). El: Red, Brown Purple (rush hrs) to Fullerton. Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 36, 151 (24 hrs). Lunch and dinner (closed Mon). Average nigiri: $2. BYOB/Vegetarian-friendly

Turquoise Cafe
We can't rave enough about this stylish Turkish spot in Chicago's newest Restaurant Row. We show up every few days to wolf down the manti (Turkish ravioli stuffed with bits of lamb in a creamy yogurt and chili oil sauce), whole slabs of juicy, salt-crusted sea bass and some of the best hummus around. Savvy regulars skip the filling entr�es and instead fuel up on apps and sides like lightly fried zucchini pancakes with chilled yogurt dip, heavenly scalloped potatoes bubbling in heavy cream and char-grilled calamari with tons of fresh lemon. Couple these dishes with a few baskets of warm, homemade sesame bread, and you'll still have enough pocket change for a robust cup of Turkish tea. 2147 W Roscoe St between Hamilton Ave and Leavitt St (773-549-3523). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 49 (24 hrs), X49, 50, 77 (24 hrs), 152. Brunch (Sun), lunch, dinner. Average main course: $16. Brunch served

Tuscany
You don�t usually hear the words sophisticated and Wrigleyville in the same sentence, but the dining room of this trattoria is just that: warm, comfortable and, despite being right across the street from Wrigley Field, completely free from Old Style�fueled antics. Raviolli Pera alla Giorgio, stuffed with pear and Parmesan, is only slightly sweet, using pine nuts, walnuts and sun-dried tomato to make it savory enough for dinner. Pork chops are adorned with a white-wine sauce sporting thick slices of garlic, while pizzas from the wood-burning oven have a nicely charred crust. Still yearning for that old Wrigleyville feeling? Sports are on the tube in the boisterous bar in front. 3700 N Clark St at Waveland Ave (773-404-7700). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 8, 22 (24hrs), 36, 152. Lunch, dinner. Average main course: $16. NEW

Twist
You'd have a hard time doing any twisting in this dark, sexy and very narrow tapas joint, or any other dancing for that matter. And chances are you'll have a hard time fitting everything you want to try on your table, so ask your server to bring your plates out in waves. If you're going to start with something from the "twisted" portion of the menu (tapas influenced by other cuisines, like Japanese and Jamaican), skip over the dry ahi tuna and try the punchy jalapeno gnocchi. Of the more traditional tapas, the delightful, quiche-like Spanish omelette is full of salty potatoes and onions; and the juicy stuffed chicken breast oozes with goat cheese and roasted red pepper. 3412 N Sheffield Ave between Roscoe and Clark Sts (773-388-2727). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 77 (24 hrs), 152. Dinner. Average tapa: $6.

Uncommon Ground
You might expect a place that has a 70% vegetarian menu and is completely nonsmoking to have a boring menu of soy milk and flax seeds. But this coffee shop/bar/restaurant/performance space will surprise you with dishes like the Jamaican jerk pork chop served with citrus celery slaw and the sesame seed�coated organic salmon. During brunch, the winners keep coming: The huevos rancheros are gooey, cheesy and substitute black bean cakes for tortillas; and the fruit plate sometimes comes with passion fruit sorbet and a slice of white-chocolate banana bread. It's all so heavenly it may bring tears to your eyes�and for once, you can be sure that it's not just the cigarette smoke. 3800 N Clark St at Grace St (773-929-3680). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 22 (24 hrs), 80, 152. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner. Average main course: $11. Vegetarian-friendly/Serving after 10pm/Brunch served

Vien Dong
You don�t need to hike up to Argyle Street for authentic Vietnamese thanks to this unassuming Lakeview storefront, where a menu with English translations and pictures makes it easy for novices to navigate through the extensive choices. Skip the ho-hum Chinese dishes in favor of impressive Vietnamese fare l