Wakefield's, Lake Geneva

German-born chef Mike Richie surrounds his culinary stylings in the upscale environment of The French Country Inn on the Lake, a history-rich haven with ties to the Chicago World's Fair and gangsters of yore. The seasonal menu merges elements of European cuisine and contemporary American traditions to forge dishes that complement the dining room's rustic décor and view of Lake Como, which reflects the stars at night to keep them out of guests' soup. In fine weather, diners can enjoy their continental fare amid an all-natural symphony on the lakeside patio, while the music schedule regularly features manmade melodies to entertain those on the inside.