SOUTH BALTIMORE. This popular restaurant and happy hour spot serves spicy, invigorating Mexican food and authentic cocktails. A signature Chilean sea bass in mango-habanero sauce, topped with black bean salsa and red chili oil highlights the menu; meanwhile, the bar boasts over 100 varieties of tequila. Sunday brunch offerings include huevos rancheros (fried eggs, corn tortillas, pico de gallo and cheese) and crepes filled with berry and mango compote. Reservations are recommended Friday and Saturday nights.

LITTLE ITALY. Delicious pasta and seafood dishes and an adjoining piano bar make Della Notte a popular spot for an evening out.

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.

INNER HARBOR. Inside the Harbor Court Hotel, this restaurant boasts an elegant interior that gets a touch of drama with superb views of Baltimore's beloved Inner Harbor. Inventive cuisine and polished service contribute to the upscale ambience, which is made even more appealing with fresh flowers and furnishings reminiscent of an English country manor. The menu is classic American, however: Maine lobster gratinee, pan-seared Atlantic halibut, and veal tenderloin over risotto. An award-winning wine list and impressive desserts make the restaurant a top choice for special occasions. Jacket suggested. Reservations recommended. Magnificent champagne brunch served on Sunday.

CANTON. Located on Canton Square, this classic seafood features a downstairs bar and an attractive dining room, flanked with red decor and a fireplace, above. Highlighting the menu are the raw bar and tasty seafood platters, available with crab cakes, lobster, shrimp or scallops. For landlubbers, filet mignon, wrapped in bacon, or encrusted in blue cheese, is difficult to top. A wide variety of sandwiches also available.