Stephanie Izard, Chef and partner at Girl and the Goat

Chicago native Stephanie Izard, who won season four of Bravo’s Top Chef, opened Girl and the Goat (dinner, $20; 809 W. Randolph St.; 312-492-6262) in July and has already earned raves. Chicago magazine lauded the “effortless mini masterpieces” that appear from her lively kitchen. The 145-seat spot in the West Loop neighborhood features communal tables and an expansive oak bar, and the menu focuses on rustic New American dishes—like seared North Carolina yellowfin with sugar snap peas, blueberries and radish—that reflect Izard’s dedication to small local farms and seasonal produce.

Cheap Eat: The Baby Buddha Bowl at Crisp. “This is the way to go for a fast lunch. You get to choose different vegetables with rice and a fried egg—quick, healthy and delicious.” $7. At 2940 N. Broadway; 773-697-7610; crisponline.com.

Secret Indulgence: Sweets from Black Dog Gelato (pictured). “The place is always packed because it’s the best gelato in Chicago. I even put it on my menus. I’d recommend a flavor to try, but each one is better than the next.” $3. At 859 N. Damen Ave.; 773-235-3116; blackdogchicago.com.

Up-and-Comer: Crispy chicken flautas at Chilam Balam. “One of the hottest off-the-map places to eat in the city. Everyone is talking about chef Chuy Valencia and his incredible Mexican food. I love the small plates here because you get to taste a little of everything.” $9. At 3023 N. Broadway; 773-296-690; chilambalamchicago.com.

Haute Splurge: The rainbow trout with braised artichoke, sweet corn purée and crispy pig tail at Boka. “Given the quality of the food, it’s really no splurge at all. Every time it comes to the table, I almost don’t want to eat it because it looks so beautiful. But then I devour it.” $28. At 1729 N. Halstead St.; 312-337-6070; bokachicago.com.