Amidst the sea of chain spots near the busy intersection of Clark, Diversey and Broadway sits Y2K Cafe, a dubiously named restaurant with an extensive Chinese menu, extremely friendly service and low prices. Stuff yourself silly with favorites like fried rice, egg rolls, and lemon chicken. Plenty of spicy dishes are available, as well as an array of juices and teas to soothe your palate after a bite of uber-hot Kung Pao chicken. There's not much atmosphere, but the food more than makes up for the somewhat bare surroundings.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Jacqueline Ostrowski