WHEATON. This Wheaton seafood restaurant serves fresh fish to locals who come for the food as well as the casually comfortable atmosphere. The toques in the kitchen are generally busy as bees turning out all manner of notable entrees. Some of their creations include grilled Ecuadorian mahi mahi, sautéed shrimp and scallops atop penne pasta, and a crispy Amish chicken entree served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes. The dining room boasts vaulted ceilings and lovely stained glass windows. Outdoor seating is available during warm weather. Smart casual dress. Reservations recommended.

GENEVA. This New American restaurant, with its constantly changing menu, is located in a former bank building and exudes charm and sophistication. High ceilings, a multi-level space, warm colors, and linen-covered tables set the stage for expertly prepared seasonal cuisine. The menu includes an award-winning roster of seafood, poultry, meat, game, and vegetable dishes, but the dessert menu really takes the cake. Each night, in fact, you'll find a selection of over 15 decadent desserts. The well-chosen wine list features options from boutique wineries, and many are available by the glass.

DOWNTOWN. This hotel dining room has made quite a name for itself even outside of the property's confines. It draws rave reviews from business folks and other locals who can't get enough of the kitchen's Continental-Asian fusion fare. Flatbread pizzas and pan-roasted osaka black cod are notable, along with masaman-style braised veal shank and chestnut-crusted filet of striped bass. The dining room is nicely accented with mosaics and tapestries, and a sushi-and-sake lounge promotes relaxed nibbling.

NEAR NORTH. Elegant and exquisite, this stately hotel dining room serves French-Mediterranean cuisine and has a penchant for fresh seafood. The contemporary menu includes dishes like foie gras, duck breast, Maine lobster, and fresh scallops. An elegant interior features gold walls, rich leather chairs, an open kitchen, and fine china. The large wine list includes over 600 varieties. Impeccable service too.

MAGNIFICENT MILE. Expect a crowd at this lunch hotspot. Bandera serves superb American fare, and the selection of entrees ranges from roast prime rib to jambalaya. Ask a local, and they'll likely tell you that neglecting Bandera's famous cornbread is an unforgivable mistake. The Western-style interior offers a cozy respite, especially on "brisk" winter afternoons. The authentic wood-burning stove is a nice touch.