With a dining room that is reminiscent of a more glamorous time, Vie uses local products to create fragrant flavors and drinks and wines. Western Springs 4471 Lawn Ave. Western Springs, IL 60558 (708) 246-2082 Premiered 11/10/2006

Bhabi's Kitchen is owned and run by Mr. Syed, his wife and sister do all the cooking. As soon as you sit down in this tiny restaurant, you feel as though you are guests in the Syed's home. Rogers Park 6352 N. Oakley Ave. Chicago, IL 60659 Premiered 11/10/2006

The strip-mall location might be a bit off-putting, but once inside, the Peruvian art-clad walls transport patrons to a land where they can feast on paella and other Peruvian treats. Rogers Park 6545 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL 60626 (773) 381-4540 Premiered 11/10/2006

The perfect juxtaposition of lighthearted attitude and intense flavor in an atmosphere that proves fine dining doesn't have to be uptight. Evanston 915 Davis Street Evanston, IL 60201 (847) 570-9821 Premiered 11/17/2006

Wrigleyville 410 Circle Ave. Forest Park, IL 60130 Premiered 11/17/2006

Amidst cozy and classy interiors at Thai Pastry & Restaurant, they serve authentic Thai cuisine, a creative combination of delicate herbs and distinctive spices, market-fresh ingredients and delicious tastes plus selections of homemade Thai pastry. Uptown 4925 N. Broadway Chicago, IL 60640 (773) 784-5399 Premiered 11/17/2006