My review of Buona Terra: This is the best-kept secret in Logan Square. With its exposed brick walls, friendly staff and fantastic menu, this is one of my favorite places for good Italian food. This is where go when I can’t go home to Grandma’s!
Best BYOB: Coast Sushi (2045 N. Damen Ave. 773-235-5775). I bring either a great pinot noir from Oregon, or a crisp chardonnay or sauvignon blanc, depending on the season and what’s in my wine rack.
Best brunch: O’Donovan’s (2100 W. Irving Park Rd. 773-478-2100) because of the bloody marys! Seriously, I love their French toast, and the omelets are made to order and delicious.
Best under-the-radar spot: El Tapatio (3400 N. Ashland Ave. 773-327-5475). When you eat there, you actually feel like it’s authentic Mexican cuisine. The fact that you can sit outside and the margaritas are huge helps too.
My guilty pleasure: Bistro Campagne (4518 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-271-6100). Not only do they have a salad with a fried egg (the Lyonnaise), but their mac and cheese is ridiculously sinful.
Monica Melchiori
‘Hood: Arlington Heights Age: 28
5 favorite spots: Kaze (2032 W. Roscoe St. 773-327-4860)
Buona Terra (2535 N. California Ave. 773-289-3800)
Tango Sur (3763 N. Southport Ave. 773-477-5466)
La Sardine (111 N. Carpenter St. 312-421-2800)
Volo (2008 W. Roscoe St. 773-348-4600)
