DOWNTOWN. Lauded for its superb cuisine and inviting ambience, this esteemed restaurant is elegant and gracious ­ just as you'd expect from the Ritz. Well-executed murals and classic city photographs distinguish the space, which plays host to well-to-do travelers and celebs. The Southern-inspired menu finds great expression in the prix fixe brunch, which includes fare like prime rib, artisan cheeses, and pastries. Not to be outdone, lunch at the Grill is itself an impressive affair ­ one that includes frisee and endive salad with pancetta, Maine lobster club with eggs brioche, tomato and cucumber gazpacho, and green asparagus soup.

BUCKHEAD. A distinctly Continental atmosphere pervades at this elegant hotel restaurant, American sibling of the highly regarded Parisian of the same name. The space's design takes its cues from the French brasserie tradition ­ black and white tiled floor, rich velvet curtains, ornate chandeliers and tables covered in crisp white linens. Seating on the outdoor terrace is a romantic alternative when the weather is pleasant, but if you really want to leave a lasting impression on that somebody special, the exclusive chef's table is the best way to enjoy your mussels, veal with foie gras ravioli, and chocolate parfait.

AIRPORT AREA. It's not that the Barbecue Kitchen is hard to get to (it's located just off I-85), but the ill-informed may consider its airport area setting a bit "out there." In point of fact, this A-frame smokehouse is a reward worth traveling for, and the heavy traffic is proof positive that if you serve up good food and neighborly service, people will go out of the way to give you their business. The finger-licking house specialty is hickory-smoked pulled pork, and when a heaping portion arrives flanked by made-from-scratch biscuits (or corn muffins), collard greens, fresh rutabagas and candied yams ... Well, let's just say that nature'll kick in, and you'll know exactly what to do! MARTA: College Park

SANDY SPRINGS. Craving full-flavored Mexican quick food at more-than-fair prices? El Taco Veloz knows just what you need. The place is nothing to look at, but don't let that deter you ­ taste and satisfaction are ample rewards for your determination. Soft corn tacos are as homey and delicious as you'd imagine, and huge burritos make folks sigh with delight. Along with standard offerings, you can try selections like beef tongue or the even more exotic barbacoa (slow-cooked beef headmeat). Don't forget to spice things up with their potent, zesty salsas.

BUCKHEAD. This Cajun restaurant serves terrific beignets, those light, doughnut-like pastries made famous in New Orleans. Alhough they can be topped with raspberry, chocolate or praline sauce, the mouthwatering treats taste best with just a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a piping hot cup of coffee accented with chicory. Of course, you can always stick with a classic cheesecake or a dish of bread pudding if you want something a little more substantial. Huey's does a brisk business at lunch and brunch.