Omar Rodriguez spent close to a decade cooking for the Carlucci restaurant group - Carlucci, Vinni's, Strega Nona - before opening his own place. His first effort was a Loop sandwich shop; his second is the charming Bucktown storefront THINK , where he seems to have hit his stride. THINK is simple but welcoming, with blond wood floors and chairs, white linen tablecloths topped with butcher paper, and attractive silk flower arrangements for a splash of color. Dinner appetizers and entrees hark back to Rodriguez's days with Carlucci. Wicker Park / Bucktown 2235 N. Western Ave. Chicago, IL 60647 Premiered 1/25/2005

After 75 years, this modest steak house is still serving delicious meats with great service. Oak Forest 14700 S. Oak Park Ave. Oak Forest, IL 60452 (708) 687-2331 Premiered 1/25/2005

Cafateria style Southern cuisine, all made-from-scratch. Hillside 4330 W. Roosevelt Road Hillside, IL 60162 (708) 544-6230 Premiered 2/4/2005

Bistro 110 is a legendary Chicago favorite that lures locals, visitors (and oftentimes celebrities) with its chic style and neighborhood charm. Accented with gleaming copper and contemporary murals by renowned artists, it's a fantastic place for casual meals or special occasions. Gold Coast 110 E. Pearson Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 266-3110 Premiered 2/4/2005

A simple Italian trattoria in the same vain of buildings and restaurants one would find in southern Italy with a menu to match. Most items on the menu are priced reasonably for the portions. Lincoln Park 1419 W. Fullerton Chicago, IL 60614 (773) 665-1981 Premiered 2/4/2005

Oak Park 734 Lake Street Oak Park, IL 60301 Premiered 2/4/2005