There are certain activities, seasons and locations that confirm the belief that Chicago is indeed one of the most beautiful cities in the country, and the North Pond is one of these spots. With a warm, Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired interior and views of lovely Lincoln Park and the lake, simply sitting in the restaurant is a delight. For the dining experience, however, make sure that your wallet is full (with dinner entrees around $30) and that you’re up for trying new things, as North Pond enjoys putting new spins on old favorites, taking pride in offering local and fresh ingredients.

The menu will wow you from beginning to end. Appetizers start with the courses range from sunchoke salmon served with a Jerusalem artichoke soup with smoked wild salmon and rainbow chard; salads feature goodies like beets and chevre cheese; and the main course offers goodies like ancho-spice-rubbed duck and a grilled, lavender honey-glazed pork chop. And that's just to name a few.

Centerstage Reviewer: Claire Zulkey