There's a certain margin of error allowed for twenty-four hour diners. As long as they can keep the coffee coming, scramble an egg and manage not to burn the toast, very few all-night establishments will see a drop-off in business. The Blue Angel takes it further with a great location—a convenient meeting spot right off the I-90—and plenty of charm.

Blue Angel is a beacon of light for students, artsy types and Jefferson Park locals. With its touch of old-world elegance, the main dining area serves as backdrop to booths full of casually clad college students cramming pancakes into their mouths at three in the morning. Falling more in line with the retro diner prototype is the back room, complete with a counter and more comfy booths. That nostalgic air is further accented by career waitresses with flippant attitudes; quick with a coffee pot, they always get your food out hot and will chat you up in the wee hours. The daytime clientele tends to lean more toward senior citizens, while the weekends are chockfull of families.

Blue Angel's menu carries all the staples: Monte Cristo and tuna melt sandwiches; breakfast combos featuring variations on the traditional egg, meat, carb axis; and of course, plenty of pies a-la-mode.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: K. Tighe