Set 70 stories up in Lake Point Tower, Cite has a breathtaking panoramic view of Chicago's skyline, lakefront and lights of Navy Pier. You may think this screams "tourist trap," but even the most seasoned Chicago veterans will get cramps craning their necks for a glimpse of the city through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
The inside of Cite is just as elegant, so don't think about dining in jeans, gym shoes or shorts. You'll feel out of place among the sport-coated gentlemen and ladies with cardigans tied over their shoulders, most of who happen to be, well, taking out-of-towners to dinner before heading to Navy Pier.
Executive Chef Oscar Ornelas creates delectable French-inspired American contemporary cuisine. Appetizers include escargot Francais with fresh herbs and garlic sauce, citrus-cured salmon with warm cornmeal blini, creme fraiche, caviar and tasteful garnishes, and the obligatory shrimp cocktail. The main dishes follow the trend, featuring entrees like the grilled swordfish, filet mignon and seafood tortellini. Save room for dessert; the sautéed apples with cinnamon crumble and caramel ice cream will top off the meal perfectly, as will the neo-Neapolitan, with strawberry napoleon, hot chocolate fondue and toasted marshmallow.
You need not go far if you want to lounge around for after-dinner drinks. The He'ritage, a concoction of Godiva dark chocolate, Frangelico hazelnut liqueur, creme de cacao and a lemon twist, tops a list of signature cocktails. See, being a tourist can be fun, after all.
Centerstage Reviewer: Janis Mabalay