This "home of fine African cuisine" makes its presence known far beyond its Broadway Avenue location. A staple at neighborhood festivals throughout the city including the Taste of Chicago, Vee-Vee's also makes its way into rural territory catering such events as Black History Month dinners and cultural festivals on student campuses (including my alma mater Illinois Wesleyan, where I first tasted the meat-centric wonders of African cuisine).

Specialty soups and stews, made with your choice of meat, fish and spices, also include traditional African flavors of ground pumpkin seeds and okra. If you'd rather not explore the potent tastes of goat and dried fish in the traditional stews, try the popular bean plates or rice entrees offered with yams and plantains. Running from $7.50 to $9.50, favorites include black-eyed beans with plantains and your choice of meat, or the sweeter side of coconut rice served with fried plantains and chicken. BYOB with no corkage fee.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Heather Blaha