Bougie on budget: The Capital Grille without breaking the bank

Yes, but: It gets pricey fast. Entrees start at $40 and most are in the $60+ range.

• And most of those are served a la carte, so diners are likely adding a starter or side, at a minimum.

Zoom in: The Caesar salad and truffle fries is not only, arguably, the perfect meal — it's also a steal at just $24.

• You can add a glass of wine and still get out of there for less than the menu's cheapest entree (which is chicken breast).
• The salad has giant crunchy, cheesy croutons and a hearty portion that totally works as a meal.
• Yes, truffle fries are gilding the lily and yes, they can fix whatever ails you. I'll be taking no notes on this.

Plus: Unlike some high-end restaurants, the Capital Grille is open for lunch and that menu has many of the same items at sized-down portions and prices until 4pm.

If you go: 40 W. Washington St.

• Open from 11:30am to 9pm Sunday-Thursday and 11:30am to 10pm Friday and Saturday.
• The Capital Grille also serves a separate breakfast menu every day from 6:30-10:30am.

Have somewhere bougie you want us to try out on a budget? Tell us about it at [email protected].