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. Youngsters adore this fun, funky place as much for its eclectic interior and can't-miss rooftop cows as for its superb ice creams. Of course, adults also find much to appreciate, whether it's a serving of addictive Mexican vanilla or a swirl of white and Belgian chocolate. Seasonal offerings include amaretto peach and watermelon ice, and fruit ices accommodate folks watching calories. Seven flavors are typically available at any one time from their slate of dozens, and mix-ins and coffee drinks can be had as well.

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.

RIVER OAKS. It's all casual at this appealing diner, which sits adjacent to a local drug store. Red-and-black checkered floors, vinyl-covered booths, counter seating, ceiling fans, and warm-hearted servers give it charm, and regulars can't get enough of the delicious food. Farm-fresh breakfasts and hot plate lunches have kept Avalon humming along since 1938, and there's no signs of its stopping. Cheeseburgers, milkshakes, and homemade lemonade are sublime, as are crisp-edged waffles, omelets, French toast, migas, huevos rancheros, and chicken-fried steak and eggs. Expect a crowd.