A'Cappella Bistro

For years this South Loop restaurant sat idle, the tables and chairs and fake flowers in position. When it finally did open, its classic American comfort-food menu seemed to predate the development of the South Loop: meatloaf, angel-hair pasta, cold-cut sandwiches for lunch. Entrées, though basic, are excellent values: For about $12, you get a protein (e.g., serviceable broiled chicken), two sides (such as well-seasoned, not-overcooked green beans), and a choice of hearty soup (such as bacon-studded potato) or salad. It’s the kind of meal your mom would make for you on school nights, only the servers here are happy to bring you your warm apple strudel—even if you don't clear your plate.