A Southwest Side institution, DiCola's has a reputation for having a vast selection of seafood to choose from, though I don't exactly get it. On each visit I find myself staring at the basics, plain and simple (salmon, shrimp, crab legs, etc.). What's there is fresh, of the best quality and cost-effective, but if you're looking for something exotic and out of the ordinary, you need to go elsewhere.

That said, I love sampling from DiCola's cooked menu. Let's face it; there are days when you don't want to slave over the grill. When these moments hit, DiCola's is there to make sure you eat and eat well. Cooked dinners include old favorites like fried oysters and catfish, but also frog legs. If you're planning dinner for one or a party, stock up on reasonably priced side items and salads. If you do want to cook your catch yourself, DiCola's also sells just the right spices to take your fish from ordinary to unbelievable.

Centerstage Reviewer: Venita Griffin