Although the MCA has big-name celebrity chef cache with its Puck's at the MCA restaurant, the Art Institute of Chicago's Garden Restaurant has a more classic garden party charm. Located in the lower level of the Art Institute, it's a quiet and sophisticated place for lunch, even if you don't have time to explore the museum. With salads, sandwiches and entrees in the $10-$15 range, The Garden isn't for a cheap lunch date, but the seasonal menu of contemporary American cuisine sets it apart from the pizza and burger joints that are more popular Loop lunchtime spots. The Garden's executive chef, Bruce Cohen, also designs special entrees to match current exhibitions, officially establishing the culinary arts one of the fine arts.

From late spring to early fall, alfresco dining is available in McKinlock Court, a shady courtyard with tables set up around Carl Mille's gurgling "Fountain of the Tritons." Marc Chagall's cobalt "America Windows" on the western wall of McKinlock Court have been removed until 2009 because of construction on the Art Institute's new wing, but the courtyard remains a work of art in itself, providing a scenic setting for a light lunch and a glass of wine.

Centerstage Reviewer: Aimee Hall