DOWNTOWN. Open all-day every-day, 13 Coins is a local institution favored by everyone from tourists to local personalities. Across the street from the "Seattle Times," the eatery also pulls in lots of late-nighters, who stop by for a quick, gourmet meal. Low lighting and high booths provide the ultimate in privacy, and if you're dining alone, make sure to sit in a high-backed bar chair and watch the workings in the open kitchen. Classic foods include veal cordon bleu, chicken piccata, sweetbreads, salmon fettuccine, and veal scaloppini. You'll also find prime rib, calves liver, fresh seafood, and an array of pastas. Even better, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are available any time you want them, day or night. Desserts too.

CAPITOL HILL. This cozy red-brick eatery is ideal for people on a budget, especially if Sunday brunch is on the slate. As the name no doubt hints, homemade crêpes are the stars (many local rags regard these as the "best in town"), and the skilled chef stuffs them with everything from salmon, ham, and Gruyere cheese to scallions, potatoes, and sautéed veggies. Friendly, Parisian-esque service and a comfortable lounge make this an easy fave of Capitol Hill's young, hip crowd.

DOWNTOWN. Hip and stylish, Andaluca is a study in rich tones and sculptural shapes. The menu features local produce prepared with a Mediterranean twist. Among the small plates and shareables, you can choose from lamb dolmas, green gazpacho with crab, or vegetable meze, which includes grilled asparagus, tabbouleh and mushrooms a la Grecque. Entrees include Andaluca Paella with seafood, or roasted quail with blood orange-saffron sauce and rosemary polenta. Every dish can be accompanied by the recommended wine or beer. The wine list has a number of good options in a variety of price ranges. Complimentary valet parking is provided.

BELLEVUE. Excellent Italian cuisine is readily available at this romantic little restaurant, which is centrally located near the Meydenbauer Center. The homemade ravioli stuffed with wild mushrooms and topped with a tasty tomato sauce comes highly recommend. More contemporary than many Italian favorites, this restaurant gives a nod to traditional while adding a stylish edge to both the décor and the excellent food.

BELLEVUE. Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, Andre's is a unique find. Its eclectic menu takes cues from European and Asian cuisines, and the sleek, open space includes a romantic fireplace, making the restaurant a great place for a date. Tempting dishes include Asian crab ravioli, Algerian lamb, turmeric-lemongrass chicken, and Eurasian pork tenderloin, simmered in a curry marsala-ginger sauce. Noodle, pasta, and vegetarian dishes are also delicious.