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.

WEST PALM BEACH. Styled after a WWII-era home, this satisfying restaurant serves up traditional American fare while it provides views of aircraft at the local airport. Everything from decor to music to the menu is dotted with references to the 1940s, and visitors take in the ambience while they sample the hearty food. If you're in the mood for classics, sample roast turkey, chicken pot pie, or a juicy slice of prime rib. You'll also find fresh salmon, briny shellfish, and a selection of pastas studded with morsels of lobster, artichokes, and crisp-tender vegetables. Desserts are consistently lush, whether you choose pie, cheesecake, or something dressed with fresh fruit. An intriguing take on the theme restaurant.

PALM BEACH GARDENS. Lauded for its incredible cuisine, terrific service and outstanding wine list, Chardonnay proffers great food in a contemporary space. Amid vibrant artwork and floral compositions, guests take in the kitchen's latest successes. Innovative entrees skillfully mix spices and seasonings to create such fantastic fare as pan-seared duck breast with hoisin glaze, macadamia-crusted yellowtail snapper, and roasted Australian lamb with zinfandel-pepper sauce. The seafood martini, a signature dish, flavors shrimp, scallops, and lobster in herbs, vermouth, and vodka for a taste unlike anything you've sampled before. Delicious! For a special treat, plan on one of the three-course wine dinners. An appropriate vintage joins each dish, allowing patrons insight into the sympathetic workings of wine and cuisine that Chardonnay so beautifully cultivates.

PALM BEACH. A constant outpouring of accolades renders this spectacular restaurant one of Palm Beach's best known establishments. A romantic ambience is set with arched windows, mirrors and candlelight, and glorious flower arrangements. Guests are graced by impeccable service and cuisine, not to mention live music, courtesy of a pianist and a jazz combo. Representative entrees include roasted veal chop, rack of Colorado lamb, wiener schnitzel, tempura style ahi tuna, and crispy duck breast and leg confit. A celebrated and extensive wine list promises a wealth of possibilities, and the caviar and champagne bar extends dining options, as does the late-night menu. Whether you want to honor a special occasion or simply indulge for a moment, Cafe l'Europe guarantees excellence.

WEST PALM BEACH. A spacious, clean-lined dining room with large windows and dark wood accents distinguishes this well-received restaurant. Students from the Florida Culinary Institute hone their skills in a working kitchen, testing fledgling culinary abilities under real-time conditions. Consistently, the results are worthy of praise. Salads, sandwiches, and pastas come to the table fresh and beautifully presented. Signature dishes include pan-seared grouper with citrus buerre blanc, jumbo sea scallops with port wine glaze, and a tender, well-seasoned rack of lamb. Desserts are also artfully conceived and displayed. Affordable prices, organic foodstuffs, and private dining rooms increase the restaurant's appeal.