Stepping into the Congress is like stepping back a few decades, with its yellow-chrome rails, square bar surrounded by leather booths and '70s lighting. The extremely friendly staff welcomes everyone as if they are regulars and serves cocktail standards (try the Manhattan or the Amaretto Stone Sour) without skimping on the alcohol.

If you're looking for a drink that's a little more recent, the bartender is willing to listen to your recipe, and everyone's welcome to sit at the bar and watch the Simpsons or fit in a quick game of Ms. Pac-Man at the entrance. The pizza and appetizers, particularly the mozzarella sticks, practically melt in your mouth. Take your choice of thin-crust, pan, stuffed and thick-crust pies, which can range in size from a 12-inch medium to an 18-by-26-inch Congress Super Bowl to the massive 21-by-31-inch Congress Stadium.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Stephanie Kuenn