Exceptional Value...In other words, Inexpensive

Every Saturday, my boyfriend and I trade off choosing a new restaurant to try.

There are no "rules", per se, but we'd like to spend less than $25 each after tax and tip (neither of us will be drinking) and we're not dessert people.

Places we've tried and enjoyed so far: Andalous, Khan's BBQ, and Sticky Rice.

It's my turn this week and I have no idea where to go.

I'm hoping some of you have suggestions on places with excellent food at a great value, something unique and not falling into any of the above restaurant food categories.

Ambiance is not important, parking is something to be considered, and we'd probably drive as far south as the loop (which is by no means "south") and as far north as Evanston.

I've read conflicting things about Los Nopales, Semiramis and Horseshoe, but I suppose sometimes you just have to stop reading reviews and just try things out for yourself.

Anyway, TIA for any ideas!

I went to Hai Yen (Vietnamese) on Argyle for dinner a couple of weeks ago. The 5 courses of beef was, IIRC, $14 per person before tax and tip. I believe the 7 courses of beef is available for the same price. If beef isn't your thing, they have an absolutely huge menu (about 120 items) to choose from. We all thought the food was great, and only one member of our party was on the verge of getting a case of the meat-sweats.

Edited to add:

Hai Yen
1055 W. Argyle St.
773-561-4077

try this link - Chicago Mag's 100 "bargain" dining. includes prix fixe...

Atmosphere and a bargain: Klas

I believe they are on vacation until mid-February.

Hands down, best dinner for 2 for under $20 (and maybe under $15 depending on what you order), is Pita Inn in Skokie. Great middle eastern fast food and super fresh! Falafel made to order! Smoky delicious baba ganoush, yummy meats, and savory rice!

And: almost no atmosphere If you can get by that, then this is a great dinner.

If you're looking for 'slightly' more atmosphere than the Skokie location, try the one in Glenview/Niles.

Pita Inn
3910 Dempster St
Skokie, IL 60076

Pita Inn
9854 N Milwaukee Ave.
Glenview, IL 60025