Those with a penchant for cookies or Cher will feel right at home in this Italian bakery, whose Moonstruckvibe is almost as powerful as its rich aroma. Widely considered one of the best (and most authentic) Italian bakeries in Chicago, D'Amatos does it old school and does it right, down to the overly loud mechanical cash register. You'll find trays overflowing with peanut butter, chocolate chip and sprinkle-clad cookies, as well as biscotti, tiramisu, rolls, tomato bread and focaccia that's the stuff of legends.

For a sinfully rich treat that packs a visual wow, opt for the chocolate cream-filled cookies, a sizeable creation that sandwiches cream between two U-shaped butter cookies whose ends have been dipped in chocolate and sprinkles.

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Schwartz