Corporate lunch chains beware: Crepe Bistro aims to give you a run for your money. This Loop lunch spot charms at first sight, with its bright yellow wall, Eiffel Tower artwork and mondo jars of Nutella. Step up to the counter and order any of the 20-plus crepes (savory or sweet combinations of veggies, meat, sauce, fruit and chocolate, delicately sandwiched between the layers of a paper-thin, pancake-like crepe). Watch the deft work of the crepe master behind the counter, then take a seat at one of the half-dozen wooden tables and sit back for a kicky, quirky bite of lunch.

Making up your mind about what to feast on proves to be the hard part (wolfing these babies down is a breeze). Crepes range from the tried and true (bananas and Nutella; coq au vin with chicken, mushrooms, and a white wine sauce; eggs and cheese) to the offbeat (shrimp, cheese and lemon juice; a zucchini-heavy ratatouille). But at only $4-$7 each, it's easy to justify splurging on both savory and sweet. Baked croissants and Belgian waffles vie for attention on the menu, but first-time visitors would be wise to try the namesake items first. Did we mention the wonderfully toothsome and cheesy ham crepes? Or the simple powdered sugar and lemon? Or the Kathmandu with curry chicken and mushrooms? Good thing lunch breaks happen five times a week.

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Rockwood