Bandera Restaurant   

535 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
312-644-3524
www.houstons.com

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Michigan Avenue bargain hunters can find solace from the bustling shopping strip with a filling stop at Bandera. Situated above a fur shop, this eatery's location is ideal for a meal in between browsing the shelves at Saks or Water Tower. Instead of snagging a sandwich at a fast-food chain, linger in the dark and clubby atmosphere -- it complements the stick-to-your-ribs menu. Start your dining experience off with a grilled jumbo artichoke, cornbread and focaccia bread plate or the favorite -- the dip duo with warm tortilla chips. Traditional burgers and chicken, fish or steak sandwiches dominate the main course options, but fresh grilled fish and barbecued salmon are also highlights. The dinner menu focuses on succulent cuts of meat and sides like the Millionaire Club filet steak and mashed potatoes, while the lighter lunch menu features several salads, including the ''nice little house salad'' with black bean chicken chili. Bandera only offers two desserts, but it's safe to say chocoholics will be tempted -- either the homemade Oreo ice cream sandwiches or the banana cream pie with caramel and crushed chocolate makes it easy to finish your dining experience on a decadent note. -- Jacqueline Ostrowski