$250 Gift certificate to Mercat a la Planxa, a soaring two-story space with windows overlooking Grant Park, in the Blackstone Hotel.  A hostess escorts you up a spiral staircase. When you reach the top, prepare for an "Oh, wow" moment: The glittering dining room pulsates with a clubby soundtrack. Yes, this is Spain by way of Las Vegas.

The word planxa (pronounced plan-CHA), refers to tapas prepared on an iron griddle, common in Spain’s Catalan region. Executive chef Jose Garces, a Chicago native who made his name in Philadelphia with two regional tapas joints, seems to capture the vivacious spirit of traditional Catalan cuisine (think lots of grilled seafood) while still offering contemporary flourish. You’ll find cuts of waygu ($40-$75) and Colorado rack of lamb ($16-$32) in addition to more traditional Spanish dishes, including a whole roasted suckling pig (48-hour notice required, $45 per person/four person minimum).