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Want ambience? Go somewhere else. But what the just-opened Caracas Grill lacks in interior design it makes up for in homey South American charm and dishes that reflect Venezuela’s Latin, Caribbean and Italian roots. Start with an empanada ($1.99), stuffed with beef, shredded chicken or fish. The tostone ($3.50), a crispy green plantain tostada topped with shredded pork, mozzarella and fragrant cilantro-and-onion sauce, is another must-try. For entrees, pabellon($9.99), Venezuela’s national dish that’s similar to Cuban ropa vieja, is terrific. Bonus: Caracas Grill’s still waiting for its liquor license, so it’s BYOB. Our recommendation: Pick up a nice merlot or cab.

6340 N. Clark St. 773-743-3593