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. Highbrow wheeling and dealing is always on the slate at this long-lived Buckhead steakhouse, which is characterized by an outstanding menu and a decor that pays homage to Atlanta's rich history. Favorite entrees include petit filet mignon, a perfectly cooked bone-in rib-eye and a deliciously mammoth 20-ounce New York strip. Couple your meal with a side dish such as roasted garlic mashed potatoes or fried onion rings ­ you'll easily see why Bone's enjoys such revered status. Superb service, an excellent wine list and a large, cigar-friendly bar round out its impressive offerings.

BUCKHEAD. Chops, a swanky local favorite, is often frequented by power brokers and features hushed tones and a well-stocked display case. Steaks take center stage, of course, and you can choose from a range of cuts and sizes. Side dishes are also noteworthy, going beyond run-of-the-mill salads and baked potatoes to include creamed spinach and walnut-raisin bread. If you want something lighter, opt for the Lobster Bar downstairs, which offers the featured crustacean along with yellow fin tuna, almond-crusted swordfish and grilled sea scallops. The wine list is excellent.