Wave, W Chicago Lakeshore (CLOSED)

Hotel lobbies aren’t our dining rooms of choice, but we make an exception for the sultry vibe of this low-lit Mediterranean spot with a lake view from the patio. Many of the small plates are overpriced, so avoid buyer’s remorse with standouts like the watermelon salad, which pairs cool cubes of melon with fiery spice-cured beef and creamy feta; and a crudo (slivers of raw scallops and tuna) packing big, sprightly flavors. Ignore the waiter’s hard sell; three small plates and two large feed a group of four just fine.