Make no bones about it: Chicago is a meat-and-potatoes kind of town, and there are few things that native Chicagoans like more than a great slab of ribs. Choices abound, but a local favorite is Twin Anchors Restaurant and Tavern in the Old Town neighborhood just north of downtown (and a fairly short cab ride away). Although this former speakeasy was reincarnated as a restaurant in 1932, it maintains its hole-in-the-wall appeal, complete with diner-style booths, linoleum tabletops, a jukebox stocked with an eclectic mix of tunes, and an extensive collection of beers. The real attraction, however, is the ribs—rumor has it that they were Frank Sinatra’s favorites. Order them zesty, like a local, and then let the feast begin. The menu may be limited, but the portions are generous. If ribs aren’t your style, the hamburgers and filet mignon are also excellent. Be prepared for a long wait, though; this 60-seat restaurant fills up fast. This popular setting was used in the film Return to Me.

Twin Anchors Restaurant and Tavern Information:

• American menu. Lunch, dinner. Closed holidays. Bar. Children's menu. Casual attire. Valet parking. Outdoor seating. Credit cards accepted.