As bizarre as it sounds, it's Chicago's off-the-radar sushi houses that dole out the really superior stuff. They're usually kept quiet for a reason: to keep the masses away. This speck-of-a-restaurant in Lincoln Park is so discreet you could be standing directly in front of it and not even know it. Just pray that other diners make the same mistake and move on to bigger fish around the block.

If you do happen to happen upon Green Tea, you'll be delighted by the calm oasis inside the storefront. Soothing Asian-inspired music plays in the background of the five-table, barstool-spotted seating area, and the staff lightly befriends anyone that walks in the door. (Beware: the regulars at the sushi bar love to gab loudly). A pale shade of green covers the walls and the casual vibe is BYOB all the way.

Start with an addictive, sugary version of go mae (it's as if Green Tea uses sugar in the raw for the sesame paste, and the spinach is Popeye-quality) and an order of the marinated baby octopus. Pending on how hungry you are and how deep your wallet is, we suggest you give the special dai shiroi maguro maki a go. It's a perfectly-seared piece of super white tuna perched atop a shrimp tempura and avocado roll that's touched with a special homemade soy sauce. Talk about delicious.

The lunch specials are quite popular, though they are just as expensive as the regular menu. If you find the place to be packed when you stop by, keep in mind Green Tea delivers for a mere $2.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Misty Tosh