Back in January I told all of our COAD readers that the West Loop was going to be 2012′s hot spot. It has proved to be just that. I recently dined at Nellcote and it absolutely met all of my expectations.

The dining room was exquisite, in a Miami Beach meets Versailles kind of way, incorporating mirrors, chandeliers, hues of white and splashes of orange.

Not only was the space great, the food was delicious. A French-inspired menu featuring small dishes was something I was unsure of at first. However, they mill their own flour in the basement of the restaurant, so being the carb lover that I am I was looking forward to trying some of their freshly baked bread and pizzas.

We had shaved asparagus salad, baby artichokes, escargot, halibut and pizza. Everything was light and delicious, and the pizza really topped it all off. For under $60 between three of us, this new spot is Chi On A Dime approved!