Dēliz

An Italian steakhouse with a flair for the dramatic, Dēliz offers up wood-fired steaks, housemade pastas and a see-and-be-seen atmosphere in Bucktown. It’s one of the neighborhood’s most polished dining destinations, with the glitz and glamour of a River North or West Loop hotspot, and the food stands out in its own right.

The vibe: The dining room pairs ruby-red hues with dim lighting, plush seating and music that keeps the energy high. The first floor is ideal for intimate dinners, while the livelier second floor has a bar with TVs for watching sports. When the weather’s nice, the outdoor terrace is a charming space for al fresco dining.

The food: Light and airy pan brioche makes for a delicious start to the meal, but the wood-fired seafood tower steals the show with lobster, crab, scallops, prawns, clams and oysters roasted in rich shellfish butter. For pasta, the cacio e pepe gets a luxurious upgrade with black truffle, and the buffalo ricotta gnocchi are pillowy delights. The steaks are the main event, spanning cuts from Australian wagyu to an impressive 40-ounce tomahawk. Finish with the tiramisu caviar, a playful spin on the Italian classic featuring espresso-soaked ladyfingers topped with chocolate “pearls” and served in a tin.

The drinks: The cocktail program reimagines familiar favorites, including a cannoli-infused espresso martini and the Il Bianco, a floral riff on the white Negroni. Still, the Italian-focused wine list is the move for those looking for a traditional complement to steak or pasta.

Time Out tip: Visit during the weekend for brunch service, when you can enjoy dishes like a Maine-style lobster roll, tiramisu-stuffed French toast and a ribeye cheesesteak.