photo: Courtesy of Nick Flandro

Looking for a little something to soak up all those Jager bombs? This late-night spot is where DePaul's post-bar crowd comes to munch. Though Lincoln Park Pizza doesn't get awfully busy for dinner, drunken denizens spill out of its intimate dining room onto the street once the hour turns late. The sign outside says exactly what it means: Lincoln Park Pizza Whole or Buy the Slice. After 10 p.m., the restaurant serves only slices and water.

At the five-table and a bench pizza (and pasta if you're not in a rush) stop, the decor is a mix between mom's veranda and Italian porches. Plants hang from the exposed ductwork and garlands and white lights are strung along the ceiling. The walls feature Victorian art and an antique clock – probably the best way to warn students that it is way past 4 a.m. and time to go home. Vinyl tablecloths cover the metal tables and the only place to find salt, pepper, parmesan, chilies or napkins is at the front counter, where they can be safe-guarded from drunk hooligans. Festive green and white plasters the checked floors, counters and even the striped awning outside.

Ready-made salads and brownies are stocked in the front cooler, and Lincoln Park Pizza offers smothered chicken dinners and raviolis as well as breads and simple pasta dishes to complement the pizza choices. Pies range from $7-$16.

Come early in the week if you're feeling frugal; a 14-inch pizza with one topping costs just $5 Monday-Wednesday. Slices cost just over $4 regularly, but you can get them for $3.55 each during lunch hours (or two along with a soda for $5.10). Lunch pasta specials are $4.95. Beware, this place is cash only, but there is an ATM inside.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Pasha Carroll