Mariano's Ravenswood

Of all the Mariano’s stores that have popped up across the city in the last half-decade, the Ravenswood location is perhaps the richest in bells and whistles. You thought the pianist at your local branch was fancy? Try an oil and vinegar station, an apothecary-esque spice shop and an oyster bar. The well-stocked wine department is a pleasure to browse, and should you need a bracer before you hit the aisles, two bars pour brews from the likes of Revolution, 21st Amendment and Deschutes. In addition to standard butcher counter fare, the carnivorous offerings here include buffalo, rabbit and pheasant. The prepared foods department turns out meal anchors like smoked brisket and meaty salmon cutlets, and as with most locations, there’s a free grilling station, so you can take home a freshly cooked dinner and leave the cleanup behind.