Nestled into the food court that crowns the top floor of Chicago Place, The Great Steak & Potato Co. is actually one the illustrious shopping establishment's higher-end eateries. Yes, it's a chain. But it's a chain that knows the keys to a Chicagoan's heart: steak and potatoes. Whether you're in the mood for a steak sandwich dripping with provolone, slippery onions and bell peppers, or you want to go the marginally more healthy route with a "Veggie Delight," you'll find your poison hiding on a greasy bun here.

As the name suggests, they don't slack on the potato prep here. The fries are a meal in themselves, hand-cut and fried in peanut oil. They are perfect on their own but you can have them slathered in cheese sauce if your heart can take it. Great Steak is a worthy opponent to all the other fast-food breakfast service downtown—and likely the cheapest breakfast you'll find on the Mag Mile. You'll find the usual suspects on the morning menu—variations of meat, egg and cheese on a croissant—but Great Steak seems to provide a fresher alternative to a McGriddle, not to mention you get to choose from a 7" or 12" breakfast sandwich. For those worried about their weight—or their cholesterol—there are a couple modest salad options available. Not exactly superior quality veggies, but they'll do in a pinch. And hey, you can always forgo the dressing for a heap of grilled meat.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: K. Tighe