Finding a place in the Gold Coast area for dinner and drinks isn't that hard to do. But finding a place that has stood its ground for 10 years while creating a name for itself is. Ask for a recommendation from any concierge by the Magnificent Mile and you'll likely be referred to Hugo's.

You might think that this place was named after some hop-happy food, but you'd be wrong. A portrait of General Bruce "Frog" Hay (of Her Majesty's Imperial Forces), who happens to be the grandfather of owner Hugo Ralli, watches over mingling guests. Suit-and-tie types out on business usually venture to this convenient destination, and locals also make it a regular stop where they can see and be seen (especially on the outdoor patio).

The simple decor features wooden walls, fixtures and seating. Water glasses holding cloth napkins are set atop tables covered in white and green plaid tablecloths. The menu presents a selection of appetizers like fried calamari, spicy crawfish boil, pan-roasted mussels and roasted portabella mushrooms. A healthy variety of main dishes include steak and crab cake, planked Lake Superior whitefish, Alaskan king crab legs, linguini, whole roasted chicken and sliced sirloin with red wine sauce. The average dinner meal is $30. And if you've had enough of the live pianist while having dinner and drinks, a range of nightlife awaits you in the busy Gold Coast triangle.

Centerstage Reviewer: Janis Mabalay