DOWNTOWN. A quiet, measured dining experience awaits at this popular hotel establishment. Expansive windows invite views of the Hillsborough River into the space, and muted surroundings allow fresh flowers, modern artwork, and terrific cuisine to shine through. The menu updates classic fare, featuring such dishes as salmon carpaccio, lobster strudel with shiitake mushrooms, roasted Long Island duck, and chicken Wellington with mustard demi-glace. Steaks and a full bar are also available, along with an outdoor terrace.

AIRPORT AREA. If old fashioned comfort grub is what you need to get the day started, give this casual little joint on West Hillsborough a try. Decorated with antiques and forever casual, the Brunchery stays true to its name by delivering time-tested classics like steak and eggs, Belgian waffles, omelets, crepes, eggs benedict and French toast. In addition to the morning eats, the kitchen also assembles some rather outstanding sandwiches. Consistently good, this is the type of place that doesn't really get much in the way of style but really racks up the points when it comes to service and food. NB If you're paying with plastic, be advised: The Brunchery requires a $10 minimum.

ROCKY POINT. Freshly-caught seafood and panoramic views attract diners to this popular waterside restaurant. The cuisine, which features coconut shrimp, crab legs and skewers of seafood, takes inspiration from coastal ingredients. The bouillabaisse benefits from them too, and constantly garners rave reviews. If seafood doesn't appeal to you, The Castaway is also renowned for its steaks and light, homemade pastas. No matter your selection, plan to dine on the outdoor deck. Swept by ocean breezes, it's the best way to enjoy the beautiful setting and spectacular sunsets.

HYDE PARK. If you're looking for a local place that's sure to "run circles" around the familiar chain joints, this charming '20s bungalow may just be right up your alley. Here, fabulous Sunday brunches are served on intimate tables covered by white linens. As to the lunch and dinner offerings, the kitchen isn't afraid to fuse together flavors and ingredients from all over the world; therefore, it's not uncommon for one person at your table to enjoy a dish tinged with Asian influences while somebody else opts for a spicy Cajun dish. And here's a little-known gem: Circles features a pretty darn good selection of wines from all price ranges.

SOHO. Part of the Ciccio and Tony's family of restaurants, Daily Eats is a contemporary diner whose shtick includes counter seating, plenty of chrome accents and caddies loaded up with sweeteners, salt and pepper shakers, ketchup and, of course, Tabasco. That said, the kudos really stem from Eats' knack for tasty fare, particularly morning numbers like buttermilk pancakes, Mediterranean omelets and Cuban breakfast wraps. On weekends, the menu expands some after 12pm to include their signature California Bowls (chopped chicken and fresh vegetables over brown rice), brick-oven pizzas and wrap sandwiches.