For diners nostalgic for Chicago's bluesy past, The Big Downtown Chicago is the best spot to reminisce about the good old days. So don your fedora and plop down at the bar for one of The Big Downtown's gargantuan diablo burgers, layered with jack cheese, guacamole, bacon and the secret diablo sauce. Not in the mood for burgers? No sweat, there are lots of possible substitutions, like a turkey or corned beef reuben, a chicken breast sandwich dripping with Boursin cheese or a barbeque chicken pizza. You can't find any sharks in Lake Michigan, but you can eat one, or at least a part of one, with asparagus, risotto and carrots in an apricot vinaigrette. Other options that you can't catch from Montrose harbor include crab-stuffed prawns, chipotle pasta with scallops and lobster cakes. The entrees aren't as expensive as a fishing boat, but they are a bit pricey. Sandwiches run from $10-$13, while entrees start at around $15 and top off at $30.

Located beneath the Palmer House Hilton, the Big Downtown has a subterranean feel but, because of the multiple dining rooms and spacious dimensions, is not the least bit threatening to the claustrophobic diner. The dining room nearly overflows with expansive booths, while the bar has plenty of room to gesticulate, celebrate a big win for the Cubs, or demonstrate the latest dance moves you picked up in the club the previous evening. With nightly drink specials, the Big Downtown eventually serves everyone's favorite, whether you like a stiff bloody Mary, a shaken martini, or just a Stoli on the rocks. The dining room's walls are dominated by giant murals demonstrating the glamour of the city's post-war past. The bluesmen taking the stage on Wednesday nights add to the sense of Chicago's enchanting past. Capone won't sneak out of the woodwork, but you'll wonder if his ghost is lurking nearby.

Average cost: $21-$30

Centerstage Reviewer: Patrick Corcoran