Stephanie Izard reinterprets the Fudgsicle at Girl & the Goat.

GIRL & THE GOAT So far the girl appears to be winning. But an awful lot of people seem to like the goat as well. 809 W. Randolph St.; 312-492-6262. Read our review »

HENRI The rage at The Gage spills over next door into this Francophile hot zone from the same owners. 18 S. Michigan Ave.; 312-578-0763

URBAN BURGER BAR Calling Dr. Phil: The hamburger addiction at UBB is so serious, we might need an intervention. 1578 N. Clybourn Ave.; 312-255-0055

LILLIE’S Q The star of the great barbecue meatstorm of 2010 pulls no punches—but plenty of pork. 1856 W. North Ave.; 773-772-5500

GILT BAR If you are waiting until the crowds die down at this River North phenom, you live in la-la land. 230 W. Kinzie St.; 312-464-9544. Our first look at Gilt Bar »

PENSIERO RISTORANTE In the age of barbecue and beer, civility thrives on a charming side street in Evanston. 1566 Oak Ave., Evanston; 847-475-7779

THE PORTAGE Tired of updated comfort food? So were we until we ventured to Portage Park. 3938 N. Central Ave.; 773-853-0779. Read our review »

PORK SHOPPE Is there any quicker way to endear yourself to Chicagoans than by opening a good rib joint? 2755 W. Belmont Ave.; 773-961-7654

PRASINO Now that this eco-chic spot has conquered La Grange and is set to open a sib in St. Charles, every environmentally minded chef is green with envy. 93 S. La Grange Rd., La Grange; 708-469-7058

SPRINKLES If we’re all so sick of cupcakes, who are all those people in line? 50 E. Walton St.; 312-573-1600

Photograph: Anna Knott