OLD CITY. This stylish Old City bistro is a cool place to hang out and people-watch, especially at the close of day. The menu features a range of small plates, sandwiches, pizzas, all-day omelets and mains like grilled swordfish, meat loaf and flat iron steak. NB The sidewalk tables are at a premium on days when the weather's cooperative.

BLUE BELL. Alison Barshak, who was hailed far and wide for her culinary exploits at Striped Bass, opened her cozy Blue Bell, PA eatery in May of 2003, and things in this tiny Philadelphian haven't been the same since. Indeed, Barshak's New American artistry draws curious palates from far and wide, and it's easy to understand why once you've sampled her West Coast halibut with truffled grits, lump crab cakes with warm potato and green bean salad, or grilled Pompano with marinated summer vegetable salad. Adding to the restaurant's small town charm is the fact that Barshak makes frequent passes through the dining room to chat with her guests. If you want to dine on Saturday, try to make reservations one month in advance. $5 corkage per bottle.

QUEEN VILLAGE. Beau Monde is crazy for crepes! Though this beautifully decorated eatery serves appetizers and salads as well, the crepes are the main attraction. And they aren't just for dessert. For dinner, try a buckwheat crepe stuffed with herbs and chicken or shrimp. For dessert, the sweeter wheat crepes are served with fruit or cream filling. Reservations are accepted for groups of six or more.

MANAYUNK. A truly stylish place to catch a game on the tube, Canal's suave atmosphere includes a house DJ, cool music, weathered rock walls, eight TVs and an eight-foot projection screen TV. On the restaurant side of things (downstairs), Bourbon's kitchen delivers New American fare, and many dishes bare a splash or two of Big easy influence.

OLD CITY. What started as a small mom-n-pop grocery back in the 1940s has evolved into one of the signature places on Market to enjoy a Philly Cheesesteak. Is it the best in town? You be the judge. Just know that you're not going to find to find a friendlier place to enjoy the city's signature sandwich. If grilled rib-eye topped with provolone and onions doesn't strike your fancy, don't fret: They also serve up great hoagies and even a few vegetarian options.