The Grid, Chicago

The Grid takes the concept of a sports bar to soaring new heights with an ambiance that's cozy, yet modern and cuisine that's familiar, yet refined. A wood-burning pizza oven fills what used to be one of the building's elevator shafts, roasting pies topped with everything from smoked chicken, apple, and gorgonzola to pancetta, brussels sprouts, and fried egg. The chefs even elevate tavern staples by frying vodka-battered trout into fish and chips and layering peppers, tomato, provolone, and giardiniera atop a housemade sausage that Time Out Chicago hailed as "a worthy contender to any in town." To accompany these upscale comfort foods, The Grid also features local breweries on their beer list as well as intricate cocktails named after Chicago landmarks.

Continuing the refined-pub theme, The Grid's decor balances rustic elements with eye-catching set pieces. Weathered brick walls and exposed timber ceilings lend a bit of vintage charm to the dining space, although modern accents include more than 20 high-definition televisions, floating fireplaces, and a fully operational hadron collider. On some nights, the space evolves into a night club with live DJs and bottle service.