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.

BUCKHEAD. Although it's set in a strip mall, this fantastic eatery attracts a cast of regulars, who clamor for the fresh sushi and sashimi. Everything is impeccably prepared, and the rolls are incredible, whether you choose a rainbow roll, California roll, or a soft-shell crab one. You'll also enjoy the edamame, yakitori chicken, seaweed salad, and the selection of noodle dishes. The authentic Japanese menu also offers patrons dishes that aren't as available at more mainstream places, including grilled eel and fried smelt.

BUCKHEAD. Views of a manicured Asian garden entrance visitors to this restaurant, which boasts Chinese cuisine and a Japanese steak house. Golden Buddha specializes in Mandarin and Szechuan fare, and Mo Mo Ya offers both hibachi entrees and a sushi bar. Beef, chicken, pork, duck, vegetarian and seafood options are available, along with tempura, yakitori, and noodle dishes. Daily specials also increase the possibilities. Luckily, if your group is split over what to have, both menus are available wherever you sit.

MIDTOWN. First off, this sushi bar's initials stand for "Magic Fingers," which is the accomplished sushi chef's nickname. Second, sushi is all the restaurant serves. But, oh, what sushi it is, presented in a stylish place of pale woods and rhythmic music. Perfectly composed morsels are beautiful, fashioned from premium seafood, and are exemplary models of the genre. Fresh wasabi, terrific sakes, and knowledgeable servers up the ante on quality. Crafting the sushi does take time, so be prepared for some anticipation.

This well-established Japanese restaurant builds its reputation on consistency and quality. Patrons return again and again to dine in the garden room, saddle up to the sushi bar, or participate in the animated culinary presentations at the teppanyaki grills. Among the options you'll find are bento box dinners (featuring a selection of small dishes), sushi meals, and shabu shabu (which pairs thinly sliced beef with fresh vegetables). You can also choose from hibachi scallops, teriyaki chicken, and a combination dinner of lobster and filet mignon. A selection of wine and beer is available as well.