The in-house restaurant of the flashy Hotel Allegro, 312 Chicago has proved itself by relying on the Italian-inspired specialties of chef Dean Zanella. The restaurant has a clubby Jazz Age feel, with mahogany, antiques, and an earthy coloring. Because this is a hotel restaurant, the hours are more extensive than those of other dining spots in the area (including breakfast and lunch every day of the week) and the crowd is as eclectic as the guests who patronize the Allegro. 312 Chicago isn't the sort of place that sends food critics into a frenzy, but it serves consistently dependable meals at prices that are quite reasonable for downtown.

The seared day-boat scallops appetizer with wild mushrooms and truffle oil is a signature dish. The entree list is filled with familiar pasta and meat favorites, but most dishes have subtly creative touches (ravioli filled with shrimp, or grilled lamb chops served with a goat-cheese-and-spinach pie and artichoke sauce); there are always at least a couple seafood dishes. Zanella draws on his family heritage for dishes such as Grandma Anna's veal meatballs, topped with tomato sauce and ricotta. On weekends, the restaurant has simple brunch offerings distinguished by home-baked breads.