Evanston

Buffalo Joe's offers their wings at three heat levels: mild, hot, and "suicide" topped with jalapeño peppers. Some people swear that this place has the best wings and burgers in the city.

An Evanston favorite for many years, Gigio's offers up thin-crust pizza by the huge slice, as well as other fare, at reasonable prices.

Regarded by many as the best sandwiches in Evanston. Pizza, soups and salads compliment the famous sandwiches. Catering to Northwestern students, the eatery offers excellent food fast, and has plenty of cute seating in their store to stop and enjoy a meal. Beware: on gamedays Northwestern Football games, lines may stretch down the street; its a good idea to call ahead and pick up your order.

This tiny, French-inspired cafe near the Noyes Arts Center is a favorite of locals. Bob Pottinger and his brother, aided by a succession of Northwestern students, serve homemade soups one per day and hand-crafted sandwiches, along with cookies voted Chicago's best. The baguettes are provided by a local bakery, made with a recipe developed by Mr. Pottinger based on his travels in France. The soup/sandwich combo is almost enough food for two, but save room for the luscious, vanilla-rich buttercream cookies or the new and delicious Belgian chocolate cookies.

Try the stuffed spinach pizza.

Warm atmosphere and hearty food at a local favorite, in Evanston for more than 35 years. Enter in a hurry and you'll leave relaxed.

Another local favorite: Creole barbecue since 1983.

Eggs in a variety of ways.

Indian, Tibetan, and Vegetarian.

Best Chicago pizza! Order the ice cream pizza for dessert when you arrive, it takes time.

Spanish tapas cuisine with a big menu, including a long list of imported booze.

Popular, long-standing restaurant with fresh, flown-in seafood, including the Raw Bar.

Fine Italian cuisine and a renowned wine cellar in the historic Margarita European Inn.