Opera

Description:

• This restaurant has nothing to do with Aida or La Bohème, but the mood is certainly theatrical at the South Loop's most eye-catching restaurant. Here, the folks behind Red Light and Marché take classic Chinese dishes to the next level. You'll know you're in for something far beyond Chinatown when you walk past the dramatic velvet curtains and take in the bold red-and-orange decor, not to mention the grand staircase leading up to the private dining room. Signature East-meets-West dishes include a spicy crab cake served with "chopsticks" (skinny crab-stuffed spring rolls) and peppered filet mignon served over a brandied beurre blanc with a side of broccoli in black-bean sauce. If you want to go all out, try the signature Peking duck service: a tray with three different preparations (pulled duck tossed with noodles; sliced duck breast served mu shu-style with pancakes; and roasted duck leg). While I'd usually skip dessert at a Chinese restaurant, it's worth saving room for here, whether you choose one of the light homemade sorbets or the more decadent Tao of Chocolate (a liquid-center flourless chocolate cake with sticks of frozen chocolate mousse). This building used to house a film warehouse, and the storage vaults in the back have been converted into cozy dining nooks -- the best tables in the house for romantic couples. Note: If you've sworn off meat and dairy, there's a special menu of vegan entrees.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

CitySearch

•  Chinese Food 2007

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2009
•  Highly Recommended 2010