Top 10 Restaurants of 2003

3423 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 (map)

Southport's scene got a whole lot sexier when this hot Latin place opened.

600 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60610 (map)

Stunning decor, eye-catching Japanese fare--nobody else impressed us as much in 2003.

60 S Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60005 (map)

Suburban sushi lovers flocked to this hip Arlington Heights eatery for fresh sashimi and creative maki.

1729 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614 (map)

This sophisticated Halsted Street spot hit the ground running with a cool scene and spot-on American menu.

615 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661 (map)

The folks behind Blackbird scored again with this hip, casual wine bar next door.

504 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610 (map)

Flashy and over-the-top, sure--but this Japanese-Brazilian fusion spot served up some mighty tasty maki, too.

1232 w Belmont, Chicago, IL 60657 (map)

Quirky new American fare plus a stylish, romantic vibe made for a delicious pre-theater setting in Lakeview.

1475 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 (map)

This lovely little French bistro made a welcome addition to Andersonville's blossoming dining scene.

4535 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625 (map)

Score another point for booming Lincoln Square, where this low-key hangout debuted with upscale, affordable bar food in stylish surroundings.

2045 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (map)

Creative signature maki, reasonable prices and a BYOB policy made this low-lit sushi place a favorite Bucktown date spot.

2600 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 (map)

This friendly Lincoln Park spot won us over with impressive American food, cordial service, and a comfortable, laid-back vibe.