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Wan Shi Da Bakery
The best, and cheapest a la carte lunch in Chinatown, this bright little bakery has fluffy BBQ pork buns, hot dog buns (a Chinese variation on the pig-in-a-blanket), bite-sized egg custards, coconut and winter melon pastries and some dim sum fare. It's available to go, or to scarf down by the handful at the no-frills tables in the back. The more weather-beaten sister bakery across the street, Chiu Quon Bakery, has a nearly identical menu and more tourist foot traffic.
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West Town Tavern
The owners of the West Town Tavern hoped to create a neighborhood restaurant that evoked the Chicago of the '40s, and the exposed brick walls and tin ceiling in the handsome dining area do just that. The atmosphere - casual, ebullient and unpretentious - mirrors the outstanding cuisine, and the beef, chicken, and pork mains are all crafted with care.
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Wiener Circle
'Order now or get the f*** out!' screams the apron-clad man behind the counter while an addled patron tries to comply. It's at this Lincoln Park equivalent of a roadhouse, and the scene has reached its frenetic peak. Wiener Circle is both infamous and revered in Chicago; the charred hot dogs are good and the verbal berating is a cheerful sport.
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Wildfire
A rotisserie and wood-burning oven roast shrimp, prime rib, steak and ribs at this haven for barbecuers. Prices for the generous portions average about around US$19 - not bad for this comfortable and welcoming place. In the best tradition of Chicago's smoke-filled rooms (where dubious political deals are cut), you'll emerge smelling of smoke, but at least it's barbecue rather than cigar.
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Yolk
Slinking into one of the custom booths at this cheerful diner is worth the long wait - you'll dig into the best traditional breakfast in the South Loop. The omelets range from healthy options (the 'Iron Man' has egg whites and comes loaded with veggies and avocado) to heart-stoppers (the meaty 'Butcher Shop') and there are scores of big salads and burgers for those inclined to order lunch.
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Yoshi's Cafe
Yoshi and Nobuko Katsumura preside over one of the most innovative casual places in town. The changing menu focuses on low-fat dishes with a Japanese flair. The kitchen treats all ingredients with the utmost respect, from the salmon to the tofu in the vegetarian dishes. Try to save room for the group dessert, which includes a little bit of everything on the menu. The service is every bit as good as the food.
