DOWNTOWN. This chic hotel restaurant is a study of muted tones, sleek lines, and intermittent flashes of glitter and shine. Its menu is a similar amalgam, a successful juxtaposition of creativity and quality ingredients. Wonderful, assertive dishes include a navel orange and beet salad, Texas Hill Country venison chop, wild mushroom risotto, and braised short ribs. A five-course tasting menu is also a worthy alternative. Fruit-inspired desserts offer a refreshing cap to any offering. Great wine list, too.

MONTROSE. The brainchild of Scott and Annika Tycer, this stylish, contemporary restaurant offers discerning diners an upscale neighborhood alternative. Featured entrées include Oregon rabbit with porcini broth and wild French asparagus, Sonoma lamb chop with lamb sausage and braised Savoy cabbage, three-onion brioche bread pudding with confit of tomato and artichoke, and English-cut short ribs with French beans and radishes. The reasonably priced chef's tasting menu typically features dishes like paddlefish caviar and poussin with parmesan potato emulsion. Of course, dessert is a must, thanks to butterscotch bread pudding and irresistible Evil Chocolate Overlord Cake. Reservations are a must.

DOWNTOWN. High ceilings, a wall of windows, and chunky, sculptural chairs provide the mise en scène for this culinary hot spot. Whether you choose a pre- or post-theater meal or simply attend for a pleasant dinner out, Artista promises sublime city views and enviable people-watching opportunities. Crawfish taquitos are the signature appetizer and are ably succeeded by an unusual main course treatment whereby diners craft their entree from a broad selection of proteins, sides, and sauces. Among the many possibilities: bronzed scallops, baby bok choy, and coconut beurre blanc. Terrific service.

GALLERIA. Cafe Annie serves innovative regional cuisine amid polished woods, white tablecloths, and exquisite floral arrangements. The elegant, perennially popular restaurant has won many culinary awards, including ones from James Beard, the Fine Dining Hall of Fame, DiRoNA, and Gourmet magazine. Specializing in what has come to be known as Southwestern Cuisine, the establishment serves tempting fare like wood-grilled shellfish, cinnamon-roasted pheasant, and coffee-roasted filet of beef. Bar Annie is the restaurant's less formal, less pricey venue.

MONTROSE. Owner/chef Mark Cox originally honed his craft at chic Tony's and now makes a name for himself at this eponymous restaurant. Occupying a former church, Mark's boasts striking architecture, golden hues, and palpable elegance. Dishes offer an innovative twist on classics, as evidenced by bourbon-glazed pork tenderloin, five pepper-crusted Scottish salmon, lamb loin with basil sauce, and grilled ahi tuna medallions. Great wines and an appealing bar add to the wonderful experience.