DOWNTOWN DALLAS. Although this revolving restaurant offers outstanding views from its 50th story perch atop Reunion Tower, what truly sets it apart is its knack for delivering outstanding New American dishes. Indeed, it's not uncommon for Southwestern ingredients like epazote, serranos, red chiles, and poblanos to find their way into main course fare. Whether based around chicken, lamb, or seafood, dishes reveal equally creative preparations. Reservations are strongly encouraged for Sunday's champagne brunch.

NORTH DALLAS. Southwestern touches and contemporary decor contribute to Blue Mesa Grill's casual ambiance. The food is utterly Tex-Mex, and the restaurant thrills diners with starters like Blue Mesa churrascaritas ­ skewers of marinated steak and chicken served with grilled mesa panna flatbread. Entree options range from Adobe Pie (pastry with spicy chicken, cheese, and roasted peppers) to red chile salmon tacos. Other options include blue crab and shrimp enchiladas, a mixed seafood grill, and slow-roasted, glazed chicken with grilled asparagus. Another of the restaurant's claims to fame is its tequila selection ­ 60 premium options await. Don't forget the fabulous Sunday brunch either!

UPTOWN. This charming establishment has been meeting morning comestible needs for more than ten years now. Slip into the bakery to pick up a dozen caramel pecan rolls for the office, or enjoy a leisurely Sunday brunch ­ either way, you'll delight in fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. Scrambles rich with cheese, veggies, and meats are a favorite, but don't forget about bagels, croissants, an assortment of eggs benedict, pancakes, French toast, breakfast casseroles, and delectable brunch potatoes. Snag a seat on the pleasant patio when the sun is shining for a breakfast idyll. No reservations accepted for brunch. The Quarter, a bar, is also on the premises.

OAK LAWN. Since 1976, this restaurant has managed to maintain a perfect balance between traditional, dependable dishes and specials with a new and unique twist. Menu favorites include roast pork with honey and rosemary, chicken and dill dumplings, and black bean ravioli. Patrons rave about the outstanding weekend brunch, too.

NORTHWEST DALLAS. A pale graceful dining room, touched with dark accents and clean-lined furnishings, sets guests at ease in this resort dining room. The menu boasts an American sensibility, enlivened with Continental touches. An intriguing soup that unites the flavors of parsnips and truffles is an unusual dish that leads beautifully into Chilean sea bass with hazelnuts and squid ink vinaigrette or whole roast squab with apricot glaze. Other options include Australian lamb chops with mint pesto, grilled scallops with coconut-habanero hush puppies, and beef tenderloin with blue cheese spoon bread. Steaks and pastas are also available. A wonderful wine list adds to the experience, while prix fixe menus and breakfast and lunch buffets further increase dining options.