Looking for an excuse to check out of your life and into a hotel -- at least for a meal?

D'Amico Kitchen has has taken over the lobby level of the Chambers hotel, so diners can see and be seen.

Beyond the scene-ry, there's the amazing food. The $22 lunch special has become our favorite midday dining experience to date. (And, if you order right, you can get away with eating just one meal for the day).

Start with the crudo of yellow fin tuna, avocado and melon (for a lighter meal) or the crispy fried cauliflower fritters sprinkled with parmigiano (for those who miss the State Fair). For the main course, try the house-made fresh orecchiette with fried cherry tomatoes, pecorino and fresh arugula. (There are plenty of meal-worthy salads too.)

Then, onto the new best dessert in town -- the buttery baked almond frangipane crepes with mascarpone. Seriously melt in your mouth.

Indulge a bit too much?

You can always really check yourself in for a nap.

Three-course (antipasti and salad, sandwich or pasta and dessert) lunch special, $22, at D'Amico Kitchen, 901 Hennepin Av., Mpls, 612-767-6999).

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