Serving up a swankier alternative to the Elephant & Castle pub located downstairs, Sky Lounge gives guests at The Avenue Hotel and hungry Chicagoans a chance to sample European cuisine via small plate sharing or buffet sampling.

Located on the 40th floor of the hotel, Sky Lounge may sound like a dancefest, but it's light on the nightclub and heavy on the noshing — just how we like it. The lounge's gastronomic grub offerings include upscale tapas and a well-stocked, European-themed breakfast buffet each morning from 6-10:30 a.m.

But Sky Lounge has more to offer than just a morning menu. Although it's closed for lunch, there's low-key fun to be had once the workday wraps up. Lean back in a plush leather seat — part of the bar's decidedly modern decor — and take in the killer city and lake views, or unwind by ordering up a stiff glass of sangria to sip on.

Centerstage Reviewer: Erin Brereton