Lake View musts

My wife and I are moving to Lake View in a few weeks, and are looking for some places that are neighborhood "musts". We are specifically moving to Belmont and Racine--and would like to start around there and eventually branch out further.

We love all types of food--and are interested in finding some great local recs, especially places that might fly under the radar. Looking primarily for recs in the $15-$25 per entree range...

I'd appreciate any suggestions you have...

[Helper Monkey]

FYI- Menagerie is no longer in business.

[SuzMiCo]

I love Jack's at Halsted and Belmont, contemporary American food. The drinks are good, the good is really good, especially the appetizers, and the service is friendly. I usually go there for dinner or late-night drinks, but they also have an excellent Sunday brunch.

[urigio]

Erwin, Menagerie and Yoshi's are really close to you and serve great American fare. I guess Yoshi's is actually a blend of Japanese and French/American.

For good cheap sushi, I would suggest Blossom Cafe on Barry at Broaday.

Some of my favoites, which are not too far from you are Fattoush for Lebanese fare (great falafel and shish taouk) and Raj Darbar for Indian. Thet're both on Halsted around Diversey.
Also, try El tapatio on Ashland and Roscoe for good Mexican and fantastic Margaritas.

Bittersweet as someone mentioned has great cakes and lunch items.
Orange for brunch.

If you like sushi Matsu Yama on Belmont is a nice byob option.

I highly recommend Joey's Brickhouse at Belmont and (just east of) Southport. I go there about once a month, and find their Smores dessert to be a fun alternative when with friends.

Mi Tierra is at Belmont and Sheffield, and has great margaritas. As already mentioned, Menagerie (sp?) is also a very nice place, and Bittersweet is great for pastry things. I also really like Bittersweet's granola.

There is a wine shop that is in the same lot as Joey's Brickhouse (Howards Wine?) and I find their selection and especially their service to be outstanding. They have always recommended the perfect wines for what I'm looking for.

[putzbrain]

I agree Joeys is number one in that area. I eat there once a month aswell. unbelievable pizza or skirt steak

Although only loosely defined as Lakeview I would highly recommend Sweets and Savories, on the 1500 block of West Fullerton.

Recently had a great meal there. It is everthing a neighborhood restaurant should be. They now have their liquor liscense.

XC

Mia Francesca - nice Italian (Clark & School)

Ann Sather - casual Swedish (near Belmont & Clark)

Nookie's Tree - casual diner (Halsted & Buckingham)

Lucca (Southport & Wolfram)
Erwin (Halsted & Diversey)
La Tavernetta (Broadway & Wellington)

And for dessert...
La Creperie (Clark & Diversey)

One I have not yet tried but would like to is Menagerie, on Belmont just west of where you'll be.

Welcome to the 'hood!

I can't agree more with Erwin. Mostly local produce, great service, relaxed atmosphere. It's a nice rustic type place. They serve a great brunch, too.

I also like Cousin's at 2833 N. Broadway. Turkish cuisine. Pretty cheap. I realize that's not right at Belmont/Racine, but worth the long walk or quick cab. Another good Turkish near you is A La Turka at 3134 N. Lincoln Ave.

Finally, you are very close Wishbone which has great Southern-style brunch.

You're practically around the corner from:

Bittersweet
1114 W. Belmont Ave.
[phone]
Closed Monday.

wonderful pastries, light sandwiches and excellent soups.