Northern Lincoln Avenue is an amazingly interesting place. It's littered with old motels that rent by the hour and "special" massage parlors. Then there are the chain stores - Borders, Starbucks, Home Depot and the like. It's a place that's Chicago, but not Chicago; modern day, but vintage and full of cars but seemingly devoid of people. It's an odd place to put a restaurant.

Yet, that's exactly what the owners of Alcatraz did - put a restaurant in the middle of this errand-runners paradise. If you're a narcissist you will love this place: one whole wall is covered in a giant mirror. The restaurant offers traditional Mexican food for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Breakfast offerings include chilaquiles con carne, huevos and jamon (ham and eggs) and a handful of omelets, all for an average of $7. For lunch choose from burritos, salads, flautas and tortas. Dinner specialties include fajitas, steak and seafood. Specialty dishes, like the "cecina a la Alcatraz" (thinly sliced cured skirt steak served with nopales and cactus in the chef's special sauce) are offered throughout the day.

Alcatraz would be a good option if you're looking for a place to rent for a family gathering. After all, there's already an installed dance floor and it may be slightly cheaper than its closer-to-the-city counterparts.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Christy Bonstell