The Talbott Hotel offers a genteel reprieve just off of Michigan Avenue. It stands tucked away from the hustle and bustle, a pleasant and comfy contrast to nearby skyscraping hotels. Appropriately, Basil's maintains the charm of an English countryside manor with wooden finishing, tufted leather couches and foxhunt paintings (even the flat-screen television has a gilded picture frame around it).

A delicate menu offers a decidedly European option for a spot of lunch amidst a busy day of shopping. And how could it have European charm if it didn't have outdoor seating in the warmer months? By evening there's generally a mix of diners and drinkers. For those not interested in a dinner menu, there's an impressive list of aged scotches, cognacs and tequilas.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Larry Majewski