Opened in 1986 and remodeled in 2002, Chef Paul's Bavarian Lodge is one of the newer kids on the block as far as German restaurants go. Make the drive out to Lisle (about 40 minutes west of downtown) for a hearty German meal served in a gorgeous carved-wood chalet. Red oak booths and a red oak bar contribute to the rich, dark atmosphere of Chef Paul's, a lodge look topped off by German antiques and wrought-iron accents.

The food is a typical mix of meat and potatoes in the $10-$15 range, with plenty of classics like goulash and stuffed cabbage rolls. Or celebrate Oktoberfest year-round with a platter for two of the same name, teeming with three kinds of sausage, roast pork and smoked pork chops for $37.95. Ten beers on tap and around 40 in bottles (including Czechvar and plenty of Belgian brews) tempt the tastebuds, but be careful not to overdo it: The L doesn't run out here, and a cab ride back to the city will cost you dearly. Hand-painted steins are for sale at the front of the restaurant for die-hard beer drinkers looking for a souvenir.

Centerstage Reviewer: Aimee Hall