Any newer Chicago spots to recommend for nice dinner?

[kristinndc]

My parents are hosting another couple in Chicago and need a good dinner spot. They're not local but visit frequently and have been to a bunch of the top spots already, so are looking for a newer place that might not be on their radar yet. Upscale but not absolutely top-tier. They're fairly conventional, love Italian, appreciate fine food but not super adventurous. Thanks for ideas!

[kemmek]

I have not eaten there, but Pelago, an Italian restaurant in the Rafaello hotel by the John Hancock building, just opened and has gotten pretty good reviews.

[nsxtasy]

Sixteen, in the Trump Hotel in River North (upscale, borderline top-tier though) - www.trumpchicagohotel.com/Food_Wine/sixteen.asp

Cafe Des Architectes, in the Sofitel off the "Mag Mile" (Contemporary American) - www.cafedesarchitectes.com

Piccolo Sogno, in the West Loop (Italian) - www.piccolosognorestaurant.com

Terzo Piano, in the new Modern Wing of the Art Institute in the Loop (Italian; lunch daily but dinner only on Thursdays; museum admission is NOT required to dine there) - www.terzopianochicago.com