Think all foodies live on the North Side? This Beverly restaurant thinks you're wrong, and it aims to offer serious diners down south an alternative to the wildly successful Koda Bistro.

The modestly decorated ten-table dining area at this American-style bistro puts the focus squarely on the food, created by former Vermilion and Monsoon chef Thomas Eckert. He and Blair and Shirley Makinney (owners of the neighboring gourmet shop Beverly's Pantry) have put together a menu that emphasizes the use of seasonal ingredients, and incorporates a melange of global influences.

Because of the restaurant's size and emphasis on seasonality, the menu selections are small, inspired, and slightly pricey (the average entree price at Cafe 103 is $24). Grilled sturgeon with pureed Okinawa sweet potatoes is a winning dish. Sushi appetizers stand side-by-side with guinea hen roulade, and the desserts, such as an amazing blueberry tart, must be sampled.

Centerstage Reviewer: Chuck Sudo