Since first inkling hit about Curtis Duffy's Grace, it became one of the most talked-about concepts of the past year. Now that it's here, from Flora to Fauna, it's not disappointing. Zagat even named it one of the 10 hottest restaurants in the world.

Fat Rice, with an open kitchen and counter seating, features cuisine inspired by the travails of colonial Portuguese throughout Southeast Asia over the last 500 years. That means curries, noodles and wood-grilled meats with a beverage program pulled together by Craig Perman.

Chef Gene Kato's "lifelong dream" is finally a reality. The former Japonais chef's first solo venture is two-floor traditional Japanese robata bar first, with the exclusive 11-seat Charcoal Bar underneath. Find juicy grilled meats and intricate cocktails either place.

Takito Kitchen opened with a splash, bringing "modern tacos" to the Division Street bar strip. Chef David Dworshak is rolling out redfish tacos, chicken tinga tacos and lamb chorizo tacos, ceviche and yucatan chicken soup in a stunning interior and exterior.

Carrie Nahabedian's second restaurant is finally here. The concept has all the grace and taste of her first, Naha, but with a slightly more approachable vibe and a Parisian-centric theme.

The latest Land and Sea Dept. project was kept quiet for months and opened unannounced. Now that it's open, however, diners are flocking for the fried chicken, fish, Negroni slushies, and the '77 El Camino.

Jason Chan and B.K. Park had abrupt endings with their former restaurants and joined forces to open Juno. The "contemporary Japanese" cuisine is delicately plated inside the former Merlo space that's made over with Japanese pop art.

Enoch Simpson has finally brought his cult-favorite doughnuts to Roscoe Village. The all-day dining menu also features biscuit sandwiches, fried chicken, and small plates in a cozy and rustic environment.

The "Mayor of Chinatown's" (Tony Hu) empire has finally reached downtown. Lao 18, the crown jewel thus far, features the best of all his restaurants, elegant atmosphere, and a trendy neighborhood rolled into one.

The heralded team behind Ruxbin Kitchen has expanded north to that red building on Ashland. The night market-themed menu features "everything wings," crab brain fried rice, and kimchi and Oaxaca spring rolls with chimichurri creme fraiche.

Matt Eversman's Southeast Asian restaurant, nearly two years in the making, is finally open on restaurant row. The anticipation has foodie crowds flocking to get a taste.