DOWNTOWN. A mural depicting life under the sea highlights the rich, blue interior of this dining room. The menu's bounty includes a raw bar, a daily fresh catch and other magnificent bites like crab-stuffed flounder and tempura lobster tail. Roasted chicken, filet mignon and lamp chops accommodate landlubbers. Happy hour specials on raw bar fare, appetizers and drinks are available Monday-Friday 4pm-7pm. NB Monday through Friday, they offer a three-course prix fixe (soup or salad, main and dessert) for just $30.

INNER HARBOR. This high-quality steakhouse attracts Baltimore's power brokers and is definitely a place to see and be seen. Its clubby atmosphere attracts plenty of business heavyweights, who come for the substantial portions and perfectly cooked steaks. Lobster is incredibly popular, as are chicken, veal and seafood dishes. Desserts are practically mandatory, so plan in advance. The wine and cigar lists are icing on the cake.

INNER HARBOR. In Maryland, Phillips has been a seafood institution since 1956. The Harborplace restaurant is an ideal stop-off for Harborplace Pavilion shoppers, Camden Yards fans, and aquarium-goers. Offering great harbor views and live music, Phillips prepares every type of seafood imaginable and wins special raves for fried oysters, crab and lobster sauté, and the all-you-can-eat buffet. If seafood doesn't tempt your appetite, Phillips will set you up with a succulent steak or a tasty chicken entree. Children's menu available.

DOWNTOWN. This retro-hip steakhouse has a swingin' kind of atmosphere that makes you think you might spot Frank Sinatra and the rest of the Rat Pack hanging out at a back table. A recent Baltimore poll named the sophisticated spot the most popular restaurant in the city, and it's easy to see why. Dark woods, animal prints, and dim lighting lend a stylishly romantic vibe; plus, martinis are well-mixed and steaks are superb. Try filet mignon, melt-in-your-mouth prime rib, and bourbon bread pudding as a grand finale. Enjoy jazzy live music played on the shiny white piano.

INNER HARBOR. This beloved chain of steakhouses bills itself as "Home of Serious Steaks," and a single visit will tell you that's more than a marketing slogan. The steaks, known for their sizzle, get that characteristic sputter thanks to a dollop of butter dropped on the broiler-hot cuts. Not for calorie-counters but for true steak lovers, Ruth's Chris is also known for great service, an extensive wine list, and an atmosphere of comfortable elegance. Reservations recommended.