A culinary standout on the Damen Avenue restaurant strip, Feast's eclecticism makes it tough to sum up in just a few words. Traditional menu items are given a global twist, infused with Asian, Indian, Mediterranean and Mexican flavors. Inspired appetizers include coconut curry chicken quesadillas with tropical fruit salsa, spicy crab cakes with chipotle mayo and roasted corn salsa, and the oft-praised wonton napoleon: tuna sashimi, tuna tartar and smoked salmon layered between wonton chips with wasabi dressing.

The barbecued salmon entree is served over corn-buttermilk hotcakes and topped with avocado salsa, and (speaking of inventive sides) the ancho chili and maple glazed pork chops come with red onion marmalade and sweet potato, roasted corn and jack cheese tacos. Black bean and jalapeno ravioli is fiery and vegetarian-friendly, while the half-pound burger and fries will suit less adventurous eaters...not that there's anything wrong with that.

Entrees cost $11-$24; less pricey sandwiches and salads (plus a few select entrees) take over the lunch menu with the same creativity and freshness that you can expect after sundown. Meanwhile, omelets, oatmeal pancakes and potato skins with scrambled eggs, bacon and cheese make the weekend brunch a worthwhile trip.

The decor is stylish, colorful and cool, but by no means over the top. Though the summery, spacious outdoor patio is a people-watcher's paradise, comfy couches, a fireplace and smart-looking bar area made us want to linger indoors over an apple-blueberry crisp and a bottle of wine, which, by the way is half-price on Monday and Tuesday nights as long as you order an entree (you can also BYOB on those nights).

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Natalie Goldstein