THIS RESTAURANT HAS CLOSED.
To sum it up, dining at Evanston's La Petite Amelia is an absolute delight. Unassumingly romantic, its decor is classic and not at all pretentious, with ample space between the tables, buttery lighting and jazz playing softly enough to allow for conversation but loudly enough to foster an air of sexiness.

Studded with dishes like escargot and steak frites, the menu is quintessentially bistro and priced in kind (entrees ranges from $14-$21.95), while the wine list seamlessly complements its offerings. Oh, and chef Greg Mistak's menu—in a word, incroyable. The French onion soup, the bistro's claim to fame, is magnificent—filling, affordable and a perfect way to start the meal or double as a light lunch. As for entrees, specials like tilapia in beurre rouge (red wine butter) stand out, though the classic filet of beef is just as mouth-watering. Top off the night with creme brulee and head home seriously satisfied.

But what stands out even more than the menu is the impeccable service. Our waiter was a dream. He was helpful but not pushy, attentive, but somehow appeared only at the very moment we needed him. Our glasses of wine were never empty, our napkins never in disarray, and our table never cluttered.

Centerstage Reviewer: Emily Browne