WHEATON. This Wheaton seafood restaurant serves fresh fish to locals who come for the food as well as the casually comfortable atmosphere. The toques in the kitchen are generally busy as bees turning out all manner of notable entrees. Some of their creations include grilled Ecuadorian mahi mahi, sautéed shrimp and scallops atop penne pasta, and a crispy Amish chicken entree served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes. The dining room boasts vaulted ceilings and lovely stained glass windows. Outdoor seating is available during warm weather. Smart casual dress. Reservations recommended.

CRYSTAL LAKE. Creative New American cuisine is the fine art of choice at this Crystal Lake favorite that crafts its cuisine out of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Wild game such as ostrich, buffalo, and elk are presented as well as more traditional offerings such as rack of lamb and seafood. Try the vegetarian pasta, the grilled Indiana chicken, or the veal and mushroom meatloaf. An exemplary tapas dinner is available the first and last Thursday of every month. The bar serves wine, microbrewed beer, single malt scotch, and port.

GENEVA. This New American restaurant, with its constantly changing menu, is located in a former bank building and exudes charm and sophistication. High ceilings, a multi-level space, warm colors, and linen-covered tables set the stage for expertly prepared seasonal cuisine. The menu includes an award-winning roster of seafood, poultry, meat, game, and vegetable dishes, but the dessert menu really takes the cake. Each night, in fact, you'll find a selection of over 15 decadent desserts. The well-chosen wine list features options from boutique wineries, and many are available by the glass.

WHEATON. Satisfying New American fare is complemented by a lively roster that includes regular wine dinners and weekly evenings of live jazz.

LITTLE ITALY. Spots to sample a Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich abound, but no place holds a candle to the Little Italy original, which has been around since the late 30s. Steak spiced with garlic and oregano, grilled onions and peppers and a soggy loaf of white bread ­ this is what a sandwich is supposed to be! And it's also probably why napkins were invented. In addition to the signature sandwich, they also offer hotdogs and burgers. And, just in case you were wondering, nobody comes here for the decor.