SANDY SPRINGS. Though this restaurant is popular among vegetarians, even the most dyed-in-the-wool carnivore enjoys the upscale, creative cuisine. The healthy yet satisfying dishes feature the freshest local ingredients. Try the flavor-packed ravioli with capers, peppers, zucchini and mushrooms in tomato-coconut herb sauce. The colorful, stylish interior is a pleasant place to enjoy your meal.

BUCKHEAD. This trendy, artsy establishment is popular for dinner but is also a frequent jumping-off point for a rowdy evening out. The well-dressed, young crowd comes in for mixed drinks and appetizers, and the spacious rooms fill up early. Walls are covered with unique portraits and colorful pieces from local artists, some of whom paint right in the middle of the hubbub. Entertainment, including dancers and singers, spices up the place most nights of the week.

BUCKHEAD. The culinary baby of owner-chef Joël Antunes, this contemporary Buckhead restaurant is an exciting foray into French cuisine with an Asian tinge, and it's garnered both praise and delight. The chic surroundings ­ complete with expansive windows, leather banquettes and a vibrant red tile wall separating the kitchen from the dining area ­ are luxe but not overpowering. The rich, seductive menu features a wonderful bouillabaisse, veal sweetbreads, beef short ribs, roast lamb and Alaskan king crab salad. Beautiful desserts and a selection of fine wines are both available. A 42-seat chef's room affords guests a sharp, private setting that is ideal for parties and meetings.

BUCKHEAD. This five-star favorite offers a flavorful fusion of French, Asian and Mediterranean cuisines in an elegant, luxurious setting. The menu, served by an impeccable waitstaff, offers such mind-blowing items as citrus-cured Maine cod and Little Neck clams with fennel broth, Four Story Hill Farm veal loin with wilted spinach, and sweetbread kebob with tomato confit. The wine list is just as exotic, featuring selections from around the world. Finish your meal with an unbelievable warm chocolate cake with pistachio cream or perhaps another of their sinful treats. MARTA: Lenox or Buckhead

BUCKHEAD. Under the masterful tutelage of chef Roy Yamaguchi, this restaurant's menu is a skillful fusion of European and Asian cuisines. Here, Roy's standards are joined by dishes created by the resident chef, and the place has a reputation for lively ambience, attentive service, and incredible food. A devotion to impeccably fresh ingredients and a penchant for artistic presentation characterizes the menu, whose temptations include steamed Hawaiian onaga, tri-peppercorn-crusted ahi, and ginger-steamed Chinese chicken. There's also steak, lamb, pasta, pork, and duck. Nightly specials make an appearance too, and the signature chocolate soufflé is absolutely sinful.