There are many reasons why Spiaggia remains one of the city's most beloved Italian restaurants. It has high-end bells and whistles aplenty, and to hear the staff recite the effort and intricacies behind, say, the culurgiones is to compel you to order them.

Good-looking groups and cozy couples make up most of the crowd here. Bread is a noteworthy assortment, like the dark ash loaf begging to be smeared with honey-drizzled whipped ricotta. Of course, if Chef Eric Lees' many tempting options prove too much, opt for the tasting, which delivers all of the highlights without any of the decision making. Zuppa di funghi, for instance, arrives with pesto, leeks, and pine nut; while aromatic tortellini in brodo is presented with a twist—think deliciously tender rabbit and nutmeg-spiked mortadella. Tartufo ties a wonderful bow around the meal; and desserts like the chocolate gelato with hazelnut and cocoa nib tuile make for a delicate departure.

All in all, to dine at Spiaggia is to celebrate a Chicago grande-dame. The stunning dining room is designed with marble columns and alcoves to enhance its dramatic views, thereby making it an idyllic spot to appreciate the Magnificent Mile by night.