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.

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.

Ipsento 606 is a coffee shop with a full bar that's great for early in the game dates.