INNER HARBOR. French sophistication and Southern hospitality blend to create appealing atmosphere at this upscale local favorite. The dimly lit, romantic dining room whisks you away to a world of Old South gentility, and the menu makes the most of fresh local seafood. Oysters in cornmeal crust, seafood Perlau and an extravagant version of shrimp and grits are top choices. The offerings from the wine cellar are unrivaled in the area, and the servers know the menu and the wines so they can help you create a memorable meal. End with a decadent slice of Grandma Wolf's Cheese Pie, which sheds new light on traditional cheesecake.

NORTH BALTIMORE. Well-received Gertrude's enjoys a prime location inside the Baltimore Museum of Art. Its name pays homage to chef John Shields' grandmother, who introduced him to cooking, and to Gertrude Stein, who introduced several important artists to the museum. Shields, a local culinary celebrity, produces traditional regional dishes with a contemporary spin. Sunday brunch features an extensive array of specialties: crabmeat omelets, crab cakes served on English muffins with skillet potatoes, and stuffed French toast with honey cream cheese and cinnamon apples. For the best experience, grab a coveted spot on the patio overlooking the sculpture garden.

CANTON. Everything is healthy and fresh at Helen's, which manages to combine upscale cuisine with a relaxed, low-key atmosphere. Pastel colors, interesting folk art and romantic candles provide a soothing backdrop for great meals that make the most of fresh local ingredients. The menu includes numerous vegetarian options, including eggplant and provolone wrapped in pesto flatbread, but there are also excellent seafood dishes and specialties such as the pepper-crusted pork chops in apple and leek puree. The wine list is eclectic and the desserts are imaginative and homemade. On warm evenings, the patio is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. Weekend brunch features gourmet omelets, best served with a mimosa or bloody Mary.

FELLS POINT. Modern American cooking, a huge assortment of beers from around the world, and an intimate, artistic dining room add up to a fun evening of fine dining at this Fell's Point find. Like many restaurants in the area, the seafood is a specialty; look for the meaty, juicy crab cakes and the Chilean sea bass, both regulars on the always-changing menu. Beef and chicken dishes are favorites as well, and desserts like Oreo cookie ice cream pie and Chocolate Oblivion offer plenty of reason to linger. No reservations are accepted at this cozy 12-seater, so plan to arrive early or late.

OWINGS MILLS. One of Baltimore's finest eating establishments, this is a masculine, club-like setting for power meetings or special occasions, and the New American cuisine never disappoints. Tournedos of barbecued tuna with fried oysters and country ham, and venison served alongside orange-infused wild rice are two uniquely satisfying and beautifully presented options. The sophisticated dining room and the popular bar are great places to see and be seen, and a counter near the kitchen is perfect for people who are dining alone. Reservations recommended.