Monteverde is the best Italian restaurant in Chicago. Order lots of pasta.

Ciccio Mio is a great Italian restaurant in River North from the team behind Gilt Bar and Bavette’s.

Gadabout is a restaurant in Andersonville with an all-over-the-place menu, but really good food.

Vajra is an Indian restaurant in West Town with great food and cocktails.

Amaru is a fun and casual Latin American restaurant in Wicker Park.

Ras Dashen is an excellent Ethiopian restaurant in Edgewater with fantastic food.

Mart Anthony is a casual Italian restaurant in the West Loop.

Bella Notte is a small Italian restaurant in Wicker Park.

Rooh is an upscale Indian restaurant in the West Loop with beautifully-plated, tasty food.

Love Street is a cocktail bar in Lincoln Park that’s great for pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap.

Perilla is an upbeat Korean restaurant in the West Loop with great small plates.

Virtue is an upscale spot in Hyde Park with great Southern food.

Good Fortune is a New American spot in Logan Square with a frequently changing menu.

Cellar Door Provisions is an excellent cafe and restaurant in Logan Square that’s useful for a lot of situations.

Wherewithall is a fantastic tasting-menu spot in Avondale with excellent food and a menu that changes daily.

Superkhana International is an Indian restaurant in Logan Square that’ll help you get out of your own head and enjoy yourself.