Downtown/Loop

Fourth generation restaurateur Jimmy Bannos Jr. showcases his love for Mediterranean food in fun, inventive ways. Featuring "cheese, swine and wine" as the menu says, this is great place to bring out of town guests for rustic share plates and an impressive wine list, or to stop in for a bite if you're shopping downtown.

A delicious option amid the old school restaurants in the Gold Coast, Nico Osteria is part of One Off Hospitality Group (Avec, Blackbird, The Publican) and offers rustic seasonal Italian food with a very enticing Italian-focused wine list. Sit outside for a casual lunch and creative cocktail or sit inside and watch the cooks the care of business in the open kitchen.