Two of Chicago’s culinary wiz kids, Giuseppe Tentori of Boka and Ryan Poli, formerly of Butter, have joined forces with their new bistro, Perennial.

Located in the Park View Hotel, Perennial showcases whimsical food in a dramatic space that includes floor-to-ceiling windows, natural stone floors and an indoor white birch tree. The outdoor terrace is a prime spot for al fresco dining and Lincoln Park people watching.

A seasonal, creative menu offers such starters as asparagus soup, served with a soft poached egg, parmesan tuile and lavender proscuitto dust ($8); and wings and beer, crispy confit chicken legs, beer-braised onions, cheese foam and sherry vinegar ($9). Options like the peekytoe crab salad, served with pickled cucumbers, avocado mousse, and ginger oil ($12); New York strip with roasted garlic spinach puree, blue cheese fondue, and shallot rings ($32); and house made linguine with wild mushrooms and fava beans ($17) will not disappoint either a foodie or the traditionalist.

Average cost: $21-$30

Centerstage Reviewer: Abbey Gillespie