Just a stone's throw from where Mayor Daley et al run the city, Garden Village's talented staff runs a kitchen. The deli part of Garden Village lies on the right side of its tri-fold to-go menu, with a long list of wraps, grilled paninis and signature sandwiches.

All the options are prepared with Boar's Head meats, and the upgrade in quality is noticeable: The sandwiches are mouth-watering. And forget plain ol' American and Swiss cheese; try picante provolone, Gruyere and Fontina. Typically updates of old favorites, toppings like watercress, sliced apples and jalapenos slip different flavors into tried and true recipes. We like the Tuscany panini, with turkey, dill havarti cheese, alfalfa sprouts, roasted bell peppers, romaine and honey mustard. Sandwiches run $5.95 on average.

Beyond the standard fare, Garden Village puts forward sushi, gourmet salads and big bowls of pasta. In the morning, the Village can fill you up with pastries, muffins and bagels, and wake you up with Caribou Coffee. For dessert, cakes and cookies and a candy shelf guarantee an afternoon sugar boost.

Centerstage Reviewer: Patrick Corcoran