James Beard Award-winning Chef Stephanie Izard–also the first female chef to win Bravo’s Top Chef—opened Duck Duck Goat as a way to celebrate the Chinese-American cuisine she has loved her whole life. The vibe here is buzzy, with groups sharing plate after plate of dim sum like soup dumplings (aptly made with duck and goat), pork steam buns, spicy chicken wings with a chili crunch, along with hand-pulled noodle dishes, fried rice and other classics (the Peking Duck and grilled beef with broccoli, a soy mayo, and shallots are particular highlights). In summer months there is outdoor seating as well.

This Lincoln Park bakery is a delightful place for a quick bite or sweet pick-me-up. The bi-level space is bright and airy, with display cases exhibiting the French-style pastries and terrific sandwiches on house-made bread. The crowd includes well-heeled residents picking up a rustic fruit tart to serve at a dinner party later on and families enjoying a leisurely breakfast on the flower-bedecked sidewalk patio. If the Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies are among the day’s offerings, you’d be remiss not to order a few.

This farm-to-table institution is beloved by locals and took inspiration from Chez Panisse for its seasonally driven fare. Though the dishes are of the same caliber as Chicago heavy-hitters Avec or Sepia, the ambiance (and pricing) are of a relaxed neighborhood eatery. The menu changes constantly but has included ocean trout with brandade-stuffed peppers and short ribs with cauliflower three ways. Staples like the satisfying pasta “yiayia” (bucatini, cinnamon, feta, garlic and brown butter) and beet bruschetta remain year-round. Note that this no-reservations joint is perpetually mobbed on the weekend, but makes a peaceful venue for a weekday lunch.

Just west of downtown (but not quite in the West Loop), Piccolo Sogno serves fresh and authentic Italian with a great wine list. Dine on the large outdoor terrace in the warmer months.

Pizzeria Portofino serves thin crust pizzas and salads right on the river. With a large outdoor space, it’s popular with friend groups, who post up for the day with rosé to watch as the boats go by. (If you’re on the water yourself, dock pick-up for orders is also available.)