Despite my obsession with protein bars, aka candy bars in disguise, I had my doubts about Protein Bar. I couldn't get over the name – I imagined a GNC with a few spartan tables where diners could scarf down meals in bar or smoothie form before rushing back to work. The restaurant's uninviting and impersonal exterior (it's housed in one of the less attractive skyscrapers in the Loop) didn't exactly assuage my trepidation.

However, once I entered the new health-conscious eatery located across from the Sears Tower, I felt right at home. The obsessive calorie counter in me loved that every item on the menu and in the cooler was labeled with nutrition info. My inner protein junkie was excited by the option to mix whey, soy or egg powder (available in chocolate, strawberry and vanilla flavors) into any smoothie and cereal/oatmeal bowl. And my caffeine addiction was satisfied by the Millennium Perk signature drink (chocolate protein, choice of milk, espresso extractand stevia) as well as the promise of a Mag Mile Mocha (only 120 calories and 15 grams of protein with the caffeine equivalent of one espresso shot) on the next visit.

If you prefer not to drink your meal, then try one of the of Kashi cereal or oatmeal bowls with mix-ins like fresh fruit, nuts and yogurt. The chicken caesar and southwestern chicken wraps, full of quality meat and made with tasty whole wheat tortillas, make a great lunch. For dessert, an assortment of protein-packed, low-calorie baked treats taste just as good as the real thing and leave you feeling satisfied, not guilty.

Oh, and as for the atmosphere, "spartan" is the last word to come to mind. The bright orange walls, friendly staff, free Wi-Fi and pair of flat-screen TVs make Protein Bar a fun and lively place to eat.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Amanda Nyren