DOWNTOWN. This is about as trendy as it gets. Blowfish combines the sexiness of a stylish club with the cuisine of a high-end restaurant, with great success. Sushi is the main component of a creative menu that incorporates Japanese dishes with a bit of international appeal. Fresh and beautifully presented food is the result, and sake is the perfect accompaniment, although saketinis and other cocktails are also popular. There are two seatings, one between 5:30pm and 7pm, the second between 8:30pm and 9:30pm. DJs up the club quotient on weekends after 9pm.

MIDTOWN. Dining is an event at this elegant eatery, set in a Victorian house with a bright, bold color scheme. In the middle of the restaurant, an enormous fresh flower arrangement offers a lovely focal point. The menu promises a variety of innovative taste combinations, and specialties include lamb, beef, and duck. Make sure to leave room for the chocolate-pudding cake (a house specialty) or the lemon trio, which features lemon ice cream and a chocolate wedge with homemade wafers.

DOWNTOWN. This Japanese bistro is loved by Japanese tourists for its authenticity. The sushi is the freshest around, and appetizers are perfect. In the bar or one of the tatami rooms, a hot pot can be ordered and shared among friends.

MIDTOWN. Adjacent to the much celebrated Scaramouche, this more casual sibling serves similar (albeit a bit less expensive) food in a slightly more casual atmosphere. The menu is mostly French, with touches of Asian and Italian influence. Start with duck spring rolls or spring vegetable risotto, then enjoy grilled quail, steak frites or fresh ravioli stuffed with beef, spinach and gorgonzola.

DOWNTOWN. The consensus of opinion about Hiro is that the only way to truly appreciate it is to sit at the sushi bar and order the omakase. Watch as each tidbit is prepared, chat with the chef, and relax ­ then marvel that anything could taste so incredibly good. To be sure the omakase (chef's choice) is usually an adventure, so if you're new to sushi or prefer to stick with the tried and true, you may prefer to order off the a la carte menu.