Ambria Exciting nouvelle French cuisine in Lincoln Park's Belden Stratford Hotel. Great for a splurge -- this is one of Chicago's most luxurious restaurants. 2300 N. Lincoln Park West 773.472.5959 Charlie Trotter's The best in town, leave the cooking up to Charlie. Figure on spending at least $200 per person. Try to reserve the table in the kitchen, it's worth the extra money. Dinner only. Reservations and jackets required (even weekdays are booked two months ahead). 816 W. Armitage (Just West of Halsted) 773.248.6228 Everest Very expensive French restaurant in Chicago's financial district. owned by award-winning chef/owner Jean Joho. One Financial Place, 40th floor, 440 S. LaSalle 312.663.8920 Morton's Chicago's finest steak house, Morton's has a limited menu but the food is outstanding. Reservations advised. 1050 N. State 312.266.4820 Trio The food is a combination of French, Italian and Asian, all on one plate. Reservations two to four weeks in advance for prime-time weekend nights. Ask whether the kitchen table is available for a behind-the-scenes look at top chefs in action. 1625 Hinman, Evanston 847.733.8746 Tru Rich Melman and award-winning chefs Rick Tramonto and Gale Gand. Very good, expensive and cool. 676 N. St. Clair 312.202.0001 Spiaggia Exceptional award-winning contemporary Northern Italian dishes in a formal and elegant setting with a great view of the lake. 980 N. Michigan 312.280.2750 The Pump Room 1301 N. State Pkwy. 312.266.0360