Out of all the cafes, bistros and restaurants at my disposal in Chicago, I choose this restaurant as my go-to spot for birthday celebrations year after year. At a reasonable price, it may not seem like a treat to visit on the one day of the year where I allow myself to splurge – both on price and on taste – for meals; however, that is the true testament to how delicious the dishes are at Turquoise.

Right when you sit down, you are greeted with warm doughy homemade bread and a house-special spread, which seems great, but the spread is overwhelmingly delicious, making it difficult to stop eating. Although challenging, it’s best to stop and save room for the actual meal, as the dip sets the bar for the quality and tastiness of the main fish, vegetable and pasta dishes available. For an entrée, I like to split a fish and a vegetarian dish – normally, I am satisfied enough with a vegetable as a side; however, the meatless entrées offered at Turquoise are accompanied by delectable Turkish spreads that are too good to dismiss.

My favorite dish is the Turkish Delight and consists of sautéed wild mushrooms, broccoli, zucchini, baby carrot, bok choy, and garlic served on a large plate of hummus with pine nuts and Turkish golden apricot ($15.95). Paired with a seared Mediterranean salmon or sea scallops, my go-to meal at Turquoise Restaurant is always something to celebrate.