SANDY SPRINGS. More than just a brewpub, 5 Seasons is a destination for awesome microbrews, an inventive menu and constant conviviality. The warm, inviting space issues an irresistible call, and patrons give heed, eager to sample the signature Seven Sisters Münchner, a Vienna-style lager, not to mention a variety of tasty ales, porters, stouts and more. At lunch, they make terrific companions to luscious burgers, sandwiches, mussels, fish and chips, and grilled salmon. At dinner, a selection of small plates caters to nibblers and groups, while individual entrees include lamb tenderloin, poussin, Niman Ranch pork chop and grilled ravioli.

BUCKHEAD. Owner-chef Gerry Klaskala earned his culinary stripes at the celebrated Hedgerose, known for its traditional ambiance and cuisine. These days his Aria, which has been receiving rave reviews since its 2000 debut, has become a fixture on the Buckhead dining scene thanks to its creative "slow food" and sleek atmosphere. Menu highlights include Georgia mountain trout with crab smashed potatoes and haricots vert, and zinfandel braised beef short ribs with celery whipped potatoes and sugar snap peas. Kudos go to the pastry chef whose desserts are fittingly decadent and artfully presented.

WESTSIDE. This elegant restaurant is considered one of Atlanta's ­ perhaps even the South's ­ finest and is a superb setting for romantic, intimate dinners, special occasions and celebrations. The innovative menu changes daily. Begin with gourmet specialties such as steak tartare with shallots and capers, or foie gras terrine with brioche toast and onion jam. Selecting a main dish poses an even tougher question: will it be wood-grilled breast of squab with potato gratin, or braised red snapper with caramelized turnips? Going wrong is just short of impossible at Bacchanalia.

BUCKHEAD. Contemporary through and through, this chic favorite is prime stomping ground for the area's hip and beautiful crowd. Theatrical halogen lights wash over black and red harlequins, 40-foot ceilings, evocative artwork, freestanding terraces and sleek tables. The New American menu, whose creative dishes bear the exotic influences of East Asia, features Chilean sea bass with shiitake mushrooms, fresh hard-to-get oysters, and sushi appetizers. Desserts like coconut rice pudding with maple syrup reflect similar degrees of trendiness. Reservations are required.

VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS. This former Virginia Highlands gas station has been converted into a slick, urbane eatery offering a creative dining experience. Appetizers like rosemary pine nut popcorn or crab beignets make an excellent prelude to mussels with goat cheese or pan-roasted skate wing. The well-chosen wine list lets you find the perfect vintage to complement your meal. Reservations are not accepted but you may call ahead to have your name placed on a waiting list. Onsite parking is limited.