>>NOW SEATING

Owner Rich Podulka (North Bar & Lounge, Next) had never seen a diner go out of business until the American Pie Grill tanked in the last quarter of 2005. His neighborhood research eventually led to the opening of Flo's last month. The night owl spot focuses on good food instead of all-too-predictable hipster kitsch. The all-day breakfast menu also features open-face sandwiches and hearty soups. Flo's boasts a liquor license should you desire a cordial after last call. Bite This: The homemade meatloaf is a crowd favorite, served with two sides and soup or salad. "There's nothing too fancy about it," says Podulka. "It's just good." That's even more refreshing than a vodka tonic at 2 a.m on Sunday morning. Wow, I have a problem.

Husband-and-wife team Jin Sung and In Mi Jang, who have been in America for four years, recently brought their interpretation of contemporary Japanese cuisine to the Pine Tree Plaza. (And yes, it's named after Yoko Ono.) Asian-influenced landscape murals painted by the couple's son and niece adorn the walls, creating an authentic framework for their light, crisp dishes. Much of the seafood is imported from the waters of Honolulu. Diners have been catching on to their ice-bowl serving technique, a traditional Japanese practice that keeps sashimi as fresh as the minute it was caught. Bite This: The homemade wasabi fries are julienne-cut potatoes topped with a spicy sauce.

>>WAITING LIST

Everyone's favorite six-pack pit stop is planning a new location in NoLibs. The grand opening was originally set for Christmastime, but they've run into a few permit problems. Tentatively set to debut in February, the venue will boast twice the space of its predecessor at 10th and Pine streets, which means—yes! --more beer. Chances are they'll still carry your favorite brand; the hard-to-find bottles, local microbrews, groceries, snacks and deli sandwiches will all be available as well. Management is also considering the idea of holding weekly beer tasting events to promote the Foodery as a destination instead of an in-and-out affair.