Tess, Milwaukee

Described by OnMilwaukee.com as "a warm and relaxing getaway that's close to all the East Side action," Tess occupies a renovated Victorian on the Milwaukee River's east bank. Chef Martin Magana and his team man the kitchen, marrying locally sourced ingredients with time-tested counterparts: sage with sausage, strawberries with arugula, and potatoes with beef. Although the chefs adjust the menu seasonally, they maintain a consistently robust wine list and artisan beer collection. Tess's modestly sized dining room opens up to a garden patio, which then opens up to Narnia, but only if you have the proper armoire.