DELRAY BEACH. A warm, inviting ambience beckons diners to this contemporary bistro, which bathes diners in the same muted light that gleams on polished wood surfaces. An exhibition kitchen gives hints of the incredible fare the kitchen produces. New American in name, the cuisine also has touches of Mediterranean spice and technique. Believing that the best ingredients make the best food, chef Nick Morfogen creates a daily menu, incorporating what's freshest at the market. Artfully presented plates include pan-seared salmon, grilled scallops, glazed halibut, and grilled pork chops. You'll also find steak, pasta, and game, depending on what's in season. Everything is incredible, and patrons return time and again for the great atmosphere and always-perfect food.

DELRAY BEACH. Not far from the beach, this hip venue has that slightly off-beat vibe that makes it so appealing, complete with belly dancers and a stylish decor. The cuisine has its roots in Mediterranean traditions, although you'll see it stray whenever something intriguing gives reason. Dolmades and hummus maintain the theme, although foie gras and ribs give indication of outside interests. Seafood dishes appear as a tribute to its location, and the pizzas are highly rated for their great combinations of toppings. At lunch, lighter fare is available, including salads and sandwiches, and desserts are worth sampling, no matter which meal you come for. Sidewalk and terrace dining are great when the weather's mild.

WEST PALM BEACH. Large, bustling and active, this establishment is a popular gathering place. Tiered seating is defined by curved partitions, and the rear glass wall of the huge bar provides glimpses of an enormous wine selection. Dark and seductive, City Cellar features a menu that concentrates on grilled seafood and meats. You'll also find pastas, salads, daily specials, and a grill menu that offers cheaper alternatives. Mussels, steamed with chardonnay and shallots, are sublime, and the wood-oven baked pizzas are crisp and smoky. North Atlantic sea bass, dressed with saffron sauce, comes accompanied by haricots verts, grilled fennel, and savory mashed potatoes. Steak, duck, pork, and lamb are also for the asking. The balcony dining area provides a great view of the courtyard, and the restaurant's outdoor bar draws a constant crowd of singles. NB The bar area is open until 2am most nights, sometimes later.

DELRAY BEACH. This upscale venue follows the established rules of hip dining: great ambience, stylish surroundings and a terrific menu. It's all a success, and patrons frequent the place regularly for scene and cuisine. Infused with Mediterranean and Asian accents, the menu features ocean-fresh seafood in many incarnations. Crab ravioli, lobster risotto, sesame-ginger salmon, yellowtail snapper, Thai seafood bowl and osso bucco crafted of monkfish are representative of the offerings. Cold shellfish platters, oysters on the half shell and caviar are also available, along with steak, chicken and pork. Salads, soups and sandwiches take care of lunchtime appetites and those who want something light.

PALM BEACH. Rustic but elegant and welcoming, this restaurant sports stucco walls the color of saffron and an exhibition kitchen towards the rear. A central bar divides the dining room into a front and back section, and a great sidewalk dining area lets you keep an eye on pedestrian traffic along Royal Poinciana Way. Although the menu changes regularly to take advantage of seasonal ingredients, you can always be assured of wonderful pastas, grilled fish, and terrific house-baked pizzas. A nice wine list guarantees an apt complement to the cuisine, and a strong espresso provides a nice cap to a meal. It's also an ideal pick-me-up when you need a break from the day.