Don’t be too quick to pass up this unassuming storefront. Regulars describe Mandarin House as “comfortable and pleasant” and “homey and friendly,” perfect for casual (and inexpensive) dates and conversation with friends. This family-owned and operated Chinese and Korean restaurant seats around 60 comfortably and serves up the usual suspects like sweet and sour shrimp and fried rice among its beef, chicken, pork, seafood and vegetable dishes. Favorites among Northwestern students and local residents include Mongolian beef and garlic chicken. The most popular dish, bibim bop, is made with steamed rice topped with egg, beef and assorted vegetables, served with hot bean paste sauce. Large portions, perfect for two, will set you back a modest $6-$8 bucks. There’s plenty of wine and beer to go around in the form of Heineken, Miller Lite and chardonnay, to name a few options.

Centerstage Reviewer: Shelly Burton