Fox & Obel/Atrium Wine Bar

A short stroll from Navy Pier, this bustling gourmet market has a boon of options for those looking to avoid the area’s uninspired chain food. Early in the day, the cafe serves excellent egg dishes; later, it makes sandwiches ranging from upscale (roast beef and blue Brie) to classic (grilled cheese). The attached wine bar kicks it up a notch with seasonal small plates (perhaps spicy grilled tofu) and large ones (maybe pumpkin and duck risotto) served at candlelit tables overlooking the river. Servers pour loads of reasonably priced reds and whites by the glass. The adjoining store is packed with supplies for an idyllic picnic.