CENTER CITY. The hip yet quaint ambience makes this bistro a winner. The culinary treats, ranging from risotto with parmesan veal to bouillabaisse, offer a wonderful combination of French-Mediterranean tastes. Hidden in the Marketplace Design Center, Bistro St. Tropez's decor and savory delights make it well worth the search. Reservations recommended.

QUEEN VILLAGE. Hidden away in the Queen Village section of South Philly, this modest little cafe probably won't distract you with its decor ­ there are no hackneyed themes, no kaleidoscope of colors, no fancy dressings whatsoever. But if you pay attention at all, you'll see that folks queue up from far and wide, hoping for dibs on a table (translation: space is tight, and they don't accept reservations) and anticipating Dmitri Chimes' consistently fabulous, Mediterranean-inspired fish and seafood dishes.

CENTER CITY. Younger sibling of esteemed BYOB La Boheme, this sophisticated French-Med eatery is located in Rittenhouse's historic Wetherill Mansion (the same building that houses the Philadelphia Art Alliance). In addition to the fairly-priced prix fixe ($30), Le Jardin's kitchen artfully delivers topnotch bistro staples like bouillabaisse, scallops with parsnip purée, and grilled pork loin with blue cheese-smashed red potatoes. Weekend brunch, too, is an impressive affair, one featuring the likes of tuna nicoise, moules marinieres and truffled eggs benedict.

SOCIETY HILL. BYO and French nouvelle cuisine? You can have it at Overtures! Bring your own wine or beer and enjoy it with creative, French-Mediterranean cuisine. The staff is friendly and gracious, and the strikingly romantic atmosphere is reminiscent of a posh Europeean dining room.

DOWNTOWN. Seafood is the specialty at this restaurant! The menu includes lobsters of several sizes and a myriad of fresh daily catches that will excite even the most seasoned dining critic. Options for non-seafood eaters include steak, pasta, and chicken. Reservations suggested. Business casual attire.