Chicago

So wait, there is a high quality restaurant that isn't a chain in downtown Chicago? Who knew! Went here for a meal as part of a rehearsal dinner and was extremely impressed with the quality of the dishes and selection. If you didn't know it was there, I can imagine you've walked right past it (as I have many times). I really like the ambiance of the place, wood details and a great bar area with French-style tiles.

The food was extremely tasty and even with a large group prepared wonderfully, did not hear complaints from anyone. Was especially impressed with the presentation - delicate yet enough on the plate to appease a large appetite (as opposed to a sloppy mess as I've seen at other Italian restaurants *cough*Gold Coast*cough*).

Great spot for a before-theater dinner or after work entertaining evening meal. If you're pressed for time and have to take a date out right after work, it would definitely work for that too!
Check out my review of Trattoria No. 10 - I am superchristine - on Qype