Jason Little
Meet Up: Ristorante Al Teatro
Start your evening perched on a stool at the granite bar of this gilded, World's Fair-inspired spot. Set in historic Thalia Hall, it offers baked pasta and two dozen house-made gelati, but there's also an impressive lower-level cellar. Pair by-the-glass pours with antipasti, or one of 20 crackly-crusted pizzas. 1227 W. 18th St. (between Racine Ave. and Allport St.); 312-784-9100 or alteatro.us
Catch Up: Nightwood
The team behind Logan Square's cherished Lula Café have expanded south to a bigger, airier space (pictured), bringing their seasonal ethos with them. The farmer-driven, oft-changing, handwritten menu--with dishes like duck and pork agnolotti with spring onions ($10) and wood-grilled trout with cabbage and prawn butter ($21)--showcases local produce at its best. 2119 S. Halsted St. (between 21st Pl. and Cermak Rd.); 312-526-3385 or nightwoodrestaurant.com
End Up: Simone's
Full of funky, salvaged finds (booths decorated with old pinball machines, a bowling-lane bar top), this ideal neighborhood hangout has it all: DJ-spun beats, local art and a patio. There's wine, beer (10 on tap, plus a selection of cans) and cocktails--the Elderfizz (Cava splashed with St-Germain, $10) makes a refreshing after-dinner drink. But best of all: Slabs of moist Kahlua tres leches cake from nearby Kristoffer's Cafe & Bakery ($6) make for a rich (and happy) ending. 960 W. 18th St. (between Morgan and Peoria Sts.); 312-666-8601 or simonesbar.com
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