As if you needed any more proof as to why fast food is for the birds, Metropolis Rotisseria puts the final nail in the Boston Market/KFC coffin. Consciously pairing "fast" with "food" (defined here as edible, tasty stuff), the casual shop specializes in thoughtfully prepared rotisserie chicken. Any visible fat is removed before stuffing parsley, olive oil, lemon zest and garlic beneath the skin for a "bold flavor" that owes itself to good cooking, not gobs of grease.

Your options are hardly limited to a whole or half-bird, however. Rotisserie chicken sandwiches add pesto to the mix, while a bevy of salads offer "with roasted chicken" options. Or take a fowl-free route with a tuna nicoise salad, smoked ham and provolone sandwich or BBQ ribs. You'll also find a wide array of thin pizzas (only $8.25 for your basic 10-inch) and pastas, like fettuccine florentine and shrimp metropolis. Pair with the expected (cole slaw, mashed potatoes) and the unexpected (herbed polenta, steamed cauliflower).

Tired cooks can easily bypass dinner duty with a combo: Dinner for three to four, priced at $31.95, includes bread, sauce, one-and-a-half whole chickens, two side dishes, one pasta and any large salad. Things get even easier when you opt for $2 delivery.

Average cost: $21-$30

Centerstage Reviewer: Kate Schwartz