Chicago needs more restaurants that offer crepes, a perfect foodie option that can incorporate almost any ingredient and made either sweet or savory. For the practical, it's also worth noting that the crepe is easily transported, much like the beloved burrito and hot dog.

Evanston's Vive La Crepe (right next to famed jazz venue Pete Miller's Steakhouse) gets points for consistency; its thin crepes are light, but sturdy enough to soak up the juices. You'll find spinach-ricotta and varied seafood options, but the chicken marsala and the New York strip mushroom crepes are the best of the savory bunch. For dessert, the old standby Nutella crepe is nicely topped off with vanilla ice cream and hazelnuts. Other sweet tooth favorites are the strawberry with sour cream and apple-cinnamon crepes.

Seating about 40, the sunny decor's French bistro touches include a striped awning and vintage posters, along with vibrant paintings and black lacquered chairs. Crepes can be ordered to-go, and the menu includes beer and wine; skillets with eggs, potatoes and meat; and a smattering of sandwiches and salads for those odd folks who can't find a crepe variety here to get excited about.

Centerstage Reviewer: Gretchen Kalwinski