Comet Cafe serves up a menu of classic mid-western comfort food, while still satisfying alternative palettes with a wide variety of flavorful and fun vegetarian and vegan options. This casual cafe has a hip, eclectic vibe. Wisconsin 1947 N. Farwell Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 273-7677 Premiered 2/17/2012
Situated on the lakefront with magnificent views of the water, the Milwaukee skyline, and the nearby Milwaukee Art Museum and Pavilion, Harbor House serves up a menu that includes a fresh variety of seafood, sandwiches, and a fine selection of steaks, lamb chops, and chicken dishes. Steps from the lake, the seasonal outdoor seating is reminiscent of dining on Nantucket. Service is top notch and very accommodating. Perfect for special occasions. Wisconsin 550 N. Harbor Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 395-4900 Premiered 2/17/2012
Traditional Mexican cuisine elevated. Braised and slow roasted meats in Yucatan style marinades, classic Oaxacan moles, as well as fresh seafood and ceviches. Zocalo offers excellent margaritas and over 130 varieties of tequila. The atmosphere is warm and rustic and live music on the weekends make it lively and festive. River North 358 W. Ontario Ste. 1A Chicago, IL 60654 (312) 302-9977 Premiered 10/20/2010
Viaggio, meaning journey, provides a culinary journey to the southern region of Italy. This family friendly restaurant offers a menu including a hearty assortment of homemade pasta dishes, hand-made sausage, and a meatball salad that will not leave you hungry. The dishes are plentiful and the staff will treat you like family. Near West Side 1330 W. Madison Chicago, IL 60607 (312)829-3333 Premiered 2/11/2011
Brick-oven pizzas, like the classic margarita to the exotic lamb sausage with eggplant and olives, are served up with live music almost every night of the week. There is something for everyone on the menu, which includes a delicious variety of small plates and salads. The full bar offers a tasty collection of cocktails, wine, and beer. The live music takes place in a separate room called The Space. Evanston 1245 Chicago Ave Evanston, IL 60202 (847)475-2400 Premiered 2/4/2011
A family owned Mediterranean Middle-Eastern restaurant that provides flavorful dishes at a great price. Classic menu offerings include hummus, falafel, schwarma, and kefta, along with more interesting fare in large portions. The chicken schwarma is a perfected family recipe. The juice is fresh squeezed and Middle Eastern coffees are brewed. Alcohol is BYOB. Hyde Park / University Of Chicago 1611 E. 55th Street Chicago, IL 60615 (773)324-9499 Premiered 1/28/2011