OLD CITY. This stylish Old City bistro is a cool place to hang out and people-watch, especially at the close of day. The menu features a range of small plates, sandwiches, pizzas, all-day omelets and mains like grilled swordfish, meat loaf and flat iron steak. NB The sidewalk tables are at a premium on days when the weather's cooperative.

BLUE BELL. Alison Barshak, who was hailed far and wide for her culinary exploits at Striped Bass, opened her cozy Blue Bell, PA eatery in May of 2003, and things in this tiny Philadelphian haven't been the same since. Indeed, Barshak's New American artistry draws curious palates from far and wide, and it's easy to understand why once you've sampled her West Coast halibut with truffled grits, lump crab cakes with warm potato and green bean salad, or grilled Pompano with marinated summer vegetable salad. Adding to the restaurant's small town charm is the fact that Barshak makes frequent passes through the dining room to chat with her guests. If you want to dine on Saturday, try to make reservations one month in advance. $5 corkage per bottle.

OLD CITY. Owner-chef Jose Garces' tantalizing tapas ­ Spanish octopus and garlic shrimp among them ­ give his fabulous lobster paella, suckling pig and other main courses a true run for their money. If you're with a group, for an especial treat let Garces hand-select the tapas for your table; at $45 per person, it's well worth the price. Flamenco dancing is featured every Wednesday, and their sinfully good signature sangrias are available throughout the week.

Cozy confines sets the mood at this romantic eatery, reminiscent of the old taverns you'd find while exploring the French countryside. The cuisine and service are impeccable. Imaginative and reliable dinner courses may include broiled rainbow trout with pistachio and herb-garlic crust or crusted chicken breast with smoked ham and cheese filling. Reservations recommended.

QUEEN VILLAGE. Beau Monde is crazy for crepes! Though this beautifully decorated eatery serves appetizers and salads as well, the crepes are the main attraction. And they aren't just for dessert. For dinner, try a buckwheat crepe stuffed with herbs and chicken or shrimp. For dessert, the sweeter wheat crepes are served with fruit or cream filling. Reservations are accepted for groups of six or more.