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.

PALM BEACH. Housed in the Brazilian Court Hotel, this beautiful yellow dining room is outfitted with large windows, upholstered coral chairs and an irresistible patio. Before dinner, enjoy a cocktail in the comfortably furnished bar overlooking the terrace. An interesting variety of starters includes smoked salmon with herbed salad and Scandinavian brown bread, a Spanish tapas platter, and veal ravioli. Diners feast on artfully prepared mains such as the squab tartine with mushroom duxelle. Exquisite desserts draw the meal to a close ­ try the pear struesel with cinnamon ice cream.

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.

PALM BEACH. Although it entertains Palm Beach's elite, this fashionable eatery is refreshingly without pretense. Its cozy rooms and imaginative artwork grant patrons license to relax and enjoy the ambience and the food rather than the social scene. Under the chef's capable hand, authentic French cuisine takes on a Provençale accent, redolent with fresh herbs and seasonings. Poultry in particular is well prepared, crisp-skinned and juicy, and seafood benefits from unfailing attention as well. Desserts beg sampling too, whether you opt for a frosty sorbet or perhaps the delicious excesses of homemade profiteroles.