Located about half a block west of its sister restaurant, Chicago Kalbi, Chiyo specializes in Japanese cuisine that goes beyond the typical sushi joint. While Chiyo's menu does include an impressive selection of sushi, sashimi and tempura, its shabu shabu is the real attraction. If you order it, you'll receive paper-thin slices of raw beef, which you cook yourself in a pot of boiling water. Prices start at $39 for prime beef, but you pay more for Kobe beef or Chiyo's top-of-the-line Wagyu beef.

Chiyo's other specialties are sukiyaki, a one-pot dish with beef simmered in vegetables and soy sauce, and yose-nabe, a seafood, chicken and vegetable stew. If you call several days in advance, you can order Chiyo's kaiseki, which is an elaborate seven-course meal for $80 per person, or the lighter Chef's Choice kaiseki for $40 per person.

The small, sparsely-decorated dining room seats 25 people, and two private rooms are available for groups of up to 12 people. Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a fun place for small groups, Chiyo's authentic food, extensive sake menu and unique desserts will give you something to talk about for the rest of the night.

Average cost: $31+

Centerstage Reviewer: Aimee Hall