The world of culinary options in Albany Park just got a little bigger. This former Cuban food spot (known as Cuban Island) now serves up Bolivian, Puerto Rican, Mexican and Peruvian cuisine as well. All of this is housed under the roof of a corner storefront decorated in lush colors, artwork, seating and a small stage where musicians entertain on the weekends. The stage has also been known to bring both local and out-of-town musicians together for informal, festive jam sessions of Peruvian, Mexican and Bolivian folk styles, creating a raucous atmosphere for diners to dance, mingle and sing along.

True to its mission, El Arpa's menu is all over the map. Take the three styles of empanadas, for example; the Chilean version is the largest, while the Bolivian variety (known as saltenas comes loaded with spices (check out the Peruvian ones, too). The Cuban-style sandwich teems with pork, ham, and swiss cheese, and is served on grilled French bread with loads of pickles. Couples looking to share a dish may want to try the "El Arpa combination," a medley of steak, pork, chicken, octopus and other seafood served with a choice of rice (Puerto Rican, Cuban, or plain), plantains or cassava. Leave room for a thick shake made with fresh fruit.

Centerstage Reviewer: Chuck Sudo