Abacus
4511 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/559-3111
Over $30
Dallas
Contemporary

High-profile, high-dollar eateries like Abacus are one reason why Texas can't shake that "everything's bigger" image. The interior - warm cherry woods, metal and glass sculpture, soft lighting - cost a reported $6 million. The food melds Southwestern influences with Asian accents to create offerings like lobster "shooters" flavored with red chile and sake. Reservations essential. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

Addison Café
5290 Belt Line Rd. , No. 108, Addison, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/991-8824
$20 to $40
Dallas
French

This small restaurant is known for its Gallic dishes, bistro setting, and extensive wine list. The rabbit and duck dishes are popular. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Adelmo's
4537 Cole Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/559-0325
Over $20
Dallas
Mediterranean

Tablecloths, candles, fresh flowers, and mauve walls create a cozy and romantic feel inside this 25-table, two-story restaurant. Head upstairs for a little more space and privacy. Try the lobster, duck with strawberry brandy sauce, or the 20-ounce veal chop. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Angelo's Barbecue
2533 White Settlement Rd., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/332-0357
Under $20
Fort Worth
Barbecue

Angelo's is famous for its succulent smoked ribs, so tender that the meat falls off the bone. Arrive early, as they've been known to run out of ribs well before closing. Reservations not accepted. No credit cards. Closed Sun.

Angeluna
215 E. 4th St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/334-0080
Over $20
Fort Worth
Contemporary

A see-and-be-seen crowd and a sometimes-raucous atmosphere make this Sundance Square hot spot an exciting place to dine. You'll find eclectic winners such as black-and-blue tuna with spoonbread and key lime tart. AE, DC, MC, V.

AquaKnox
3214 Knox St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/219-2782
Over $30
Dallas
Seafood

Since the restaurant opened to critical acclaim in late 1997, folks have lined up to sample rock shrimp pot stickers and oak-roasted lobster. A short time ago, the bar area was transformed into Fishbowl, a more-casual lounge attuned to small-plate noshing and drinking. Reservations essential. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Arc-en-Ciel
3555 W. Walnut St., Garland, TX, USA
Phone: 972/272-2188
Under $40
Garland
Vietnamese

Curtained dining areas offer an intimate dining experience in this very large restaurant. Try the charcoal-broiled pork, lobster, or shrimp baked with cheese. There's a Sunday brunch. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Athenee Cafe
5365 Spring Valley Rd. , No. 150, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/239-8060
$20 to $30
Dallas
Mediterranean

Popular dishes include the rack of lamb, stuffed cabbage, and snapper. Reservations essential Fri., Sat. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat.

Aw Shucks
3601 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/821-9449
Under $30
Dallas
American

A casual establishment specializing in all things tasty and aquatic, Aw Shucks serves a huge, whole catfish lightly fried in cornmeal batter, and many other catch-of-the-day specials. Paper towels are used for napkins here, you can mix your own sauces to taste, and everybody pays on the honor system. AE, DC, MC, V.

Balcony
6100 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/731-3719
Over $40
Fort Worth
Continental

This is a longtime favorite with diners looking for a quiet, relaxed place to eat. Semi-formal wear is the order of the day - many patrons sport business casual suits and dresses. Try the pan-seared rack of lamb or lamb mozzarella. There's a pianist on the weekend. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Bistro Louise
2900 S. Hulen St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/922-9244
Over $20
Fort Worth
Mediterranean

People drive 30 miles from Dallas to dine on tea-smoked duck, macadamia-crusted shrimp, and the like. Wood-beam ceilings and flowered tablecloths add to the charming French setting. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Blue Mesa Grill
5100 Belt Line Rd., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/934-0165
Under $30
Dallas
Southwestern

This informal restaurant has a tree-filled covered patio for outdoor dining. Try the tequila-roasted duck or smoked chicken enchiladas. There's a children's menu and brunch on Sunday. AE, DC, MC, V.

Bread Winners Cafe and Bakery
3301 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/754-4940
$20 to $30
Dallas
Contemporary

This café has an in-house bakery which makes fresh breads and pastries. Try the New York Strip steak. For dessert, the cheesecake is popular. Sunday brunch is another feature. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No dinner Mon.-Tues.

Cafe Aspen
6103 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/738-0838
$30 to $40
Fort Worth
American

This cozy eatery is frequented by romantic diners and is known for its fresh fish. The beef tenderloin and rib-eye steak are also popular. There's entertainment Friday and Saturday. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Cafe Cipriani
220 E. Colinas Blvd., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/869-0713
$30 to $40
Dallas
Italian

Romantic lighting, lots of warm, dark wood, and snow-white linens enhance a menu of made-from-scratch north Italy specialties: try the chef's lasagna, the cannelloni filled with fresh shrimp, scallops, and crabmeat, or the rolled chicken breast stuffed with wild mushrooms. The restaurant is always packed, particularly on weekends when it features live piano music. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Cafe Pacific
24 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/526-1170
Over $20
Dallas
Seafood

You can dine outdoors here on the partly covered terrace. Try the almond-crusted sole or pepper steak. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Campisi's Egyptian
5610 E. Mockingbird La., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/827-0355
Under $20
Dallas
Italian

This family-friendly restaurant is home to renowned pizzas and pasta dishes. Add pleasantly low lighting and quick, congenial service to Campisi's tasty, inexpensive food, and you've got a lively setting and sometimes lines out the door. AE, D, MC, V.

Cattlemen's Steak House
2458 N. Main St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/624-3945
Over $20
Fort Worth
Steak

Steaks are charcoal-grilled at the front of the room, and you can pick out your own cut of meat. The seafood is also popular. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Celebration
4503 W. Lovers La., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/351-5681
$20 to $30
Dallas
American

You can dine outdoors on the covered patio, which has a fireplace. The place is known for pot roast. There's a children's menu. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Chamberlain's Steak and Chop House
5330 Belt Line Rd. , Addison, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/934-2467
Over $30
Dallas
Steak

Lots of cloth-covered tables and brass accents dress up this restaurant, which is known for its lamb, aged prime beef, and wild game. There's a children's menu. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Chez Gerard
4444 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/522-6865
Over $30
Dallas
French

Gallic dishes are served in a classic bistro setting, with fabric walls, hardwood floors and fresh flowers throughout. Outdoor dining is possible on a covered patio. Try the chateaubriand. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Dakota's
600 N. Akard St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/740-4001
$20 to $40
Dallas
American

Marble tables, dark wood accents, French doors, and an Italian marble floor create a sleek look. The granite outdoor patio has a five-tier waterfall. Try the swordfish. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Del Frisco's
5251 Spring Valley Rd., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/490-9000
Over $20
Dallas
Steak

Even in Dallas, cattle is king, and you can't get a better piece of beef than in this legendary steak house. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

Dream Cafe
2800 Routh St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/954-0486
Under $20
Dallas
Contemporary

This festive restaurant blends Mediterranean-style cuisine with flavors from the American Southwest for a healthful, organic menu. Try the crunchy coconut shrimp appetizer, or stop into the bakery for a quick bite to go. Dream Cafe is especially known for its fabulous breakfasts - ask for seating on the spacious back patio. Reservations recommended for brunch. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Edelweiss
3801-A Southwest Blvd., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/738-5934
Over $20
Fort Worth
German

Specializing in schnitzel and roulade, this place has Alpine decor. There's entertainment Tuesday-Saturday. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun., Mon.

The Enclave
8325 Walnut Hill La., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/363-7487
Over $30
Dallas
Continental

Curtained booths, tuxedoed staff, and candlelit tables with fresh roses create a romantic setting. Popular dishes include the chateaubriand and rack of lamb. There's live entertainment on some evenings. Reservations accepted. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Enigma
3005 Routh St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/999-0666
Over $40
Dallas
Contemporary

True to its name, this restaurant's seemingly themeless style is hard to define. No two tables are the same shape, no two place settings alike. There are even 26 different menus. Enigma's big claim to fame - outside of world-class cuisine - is the fact that it does not have a freezer, thus requiring that all dishes be made absolutely fresh. Look for unusual delicacies such as Scottish partridge and rack of kangaroo. Reservations essential. AE, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.

Ferrari's Italian Villa
14831 Midway Rd. , Addison, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/980-9898
Over $20
Dallas
Italian

Tables surround a masonry oven that stands in the dining area. Try linguine al pescatore (with seafood) or veal piccata al limone (veal served in a white wine lemon sauce with capers). The pasta is homemade. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

French Corner
2221 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/828-8783
Under $20
Dallas
French

The title is apt - this restaurant only seats 11 inside and a few more outside, but the close quarters do not hamper the kitchen's enthusiasm. Specializing in crêpes of all descriptions, French Corner is best known for its delicate Florentine crêpe: a mixture of chicken, spinach, and a subtle sauce. You'll also find varied quiches, salads, and soup dishes. No credit cards.

French Room
1321 Commerce St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/742-8200
Over $40
Dallas
Contemporary

Housed in the beaux arts Adolphus Hotel, Dallas's finest old hotel (dating from 1912), this elegant restaurant serves such classics as roasted duck breast in port sauce. Jacket required. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch.

Gershwin's
8442 Walnut Hill La., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/373-7171
Over $30
Dallas
American

The dining room is adorned with wood, brass, wrought-iron, and white linen. Try the red snapper for supper and, for a truly special dessert, indulge in the chocolate sack (Godiva chocolate melted into the shape of a delicate sack and stuffed with pound cake, strawberries, kiwis, and Grand Marnier). There's a pianist on some evenings, plus a children's menu. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Gloria's
3715 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/874-0088
Under $30
Dallas
Latin

The food here is Mexican and Salvadoran, with plentiful servings and intriguing desserts; you must try the chocolate flan. Gloria's also features more varieties of margarita than you might have thought possible. The restaurant's interior is typical Tex-Mex, and it's known to get loud at peak times. You can sit outside for air and people-watching. AE, D, MC, V.

Green Room
2715 Elm St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/748-7666
$30 to $40
Dallas
Contemporary

In Deep Ellum, an area of town known for its hipster music vibe, this restaurant has a menu that fuses disparate elements nicely - think coconut risotto or soft-shell crab-laden paella - and the special chef's tasting menu is one of the best bargains in town (four courses for $36, or $58 with wine). AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Hotel St. Germain
2516 Maple Ave., Dallas, TX 75201, USA
Phone: 214/871-2516
Fax: 214/871-0740
Over $40
Dallas
Continental

Built as a private residence in 1906, this tiny boutique hotel with white-glove service is one of the most romantic in the city. The dining room (which doesn't serve lunch and is closed Sunday and Monday) is known for its $75-per-person, prix-fixe menu, which might include French Riviera bouillon, classic terrine de foie gras, or rack of lamb. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Javier's
4912 Cole Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/521-4211
$20 to $40
Dallas
Mexican

Exposed brick walls, antiques, and dim lighting give this restaurant a burnished glow. Specials include the filete cantinflas (beef tenderloin stuffed with Chihuahua cheese and seasoned butter, topped with a mild Chile mulato sauce and sliced avocado served with black beans and rice). AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Jennivine
3605 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/528-6010
$20 to $40
Dallas
Continental

This popular restaurant resembles a country cottage. It is known for rack of lamb, beef tenderloin, and duck. The patio has tables with umbrellas, and is surrounded by a garden. There's a Sunday brunch. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Joe T. Garcia's
2201 N. Commerce St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/626-4356
Under $20
Fort Worth
Tex-Mex

This is the ultimate Tex-Mex joint, where cowboy-boot-clad customers drink Mexican beer and the bartenders mix potent margaritas. There's usually a wait for tables, which on Saturday nights can stretch to an hour. It's worth it. Reservations not accepted. No credit cards.

Kobe Steaks
5000 Belt Line Rd., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/934-8150
Over $20
Dallas
Japanese

The interior of this deluxe teppan-style steakhouse was designed by a noted Japanese architect and is an excellent setting in which to enjoy traditional cuisine prepared before your eyes. Separate rooms for larger groups are available. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch.

L'Ancestral
4514 Travis St. , No. 124, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/528-1081
Over $20
Dallas
French

Dine outdoors on the stone terrace at this French bistro, which has long been a favorite in the Highland Park area. Try the pepper steak. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

La Calle Doce
415 W. 12th St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/941-4304
Under $30
Dallas
Mexican

The most mouthwatering mariscos (seafood) in Dallas, particularly the fish soup, keep local customers coming back to this relatively undiscovered restaurant in the little, blue house in Oak Hill. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

La Trattoria Lombardi
2916 N. Hall St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/954-0803
$20 to $40
Dallas
Italian

Antique furnishings and exposed brick walls hung with pictures and tapestries are found throughout. The southern Italian menu includes specials like fettuccine pescatore (scallops, shrimp, and mussels in a white wine sauce over fettuccine) and veal chop served with Portobello mushrooms. There are 12 tables with umbrellas on the patio. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat., Sun.

The Landmark
3015 Oaklawn Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/521-5151
Over $30
Dallas
Contemporary

This restaurant is in the Melrose hotel. Try the pumpkin seed-crusted beef filet. Sunday brunch is available, and breakfast is served Monday-Saturday. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Laurel's
Westin Park Central Hotel, 12720 Merit Dr., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/851-2021
Over $40
Dallas
Contemporary

Its location at the top of the Westin Park Central Hotel allows for great panoramic views. Try the marinated Chicago lamb rack with goat cheese and potatoes. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun., Mon. No lunch.

Lavendou
19009 Preston Rd. , No. 200, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/248-1911
$20 to $40
Dallas
French

Outdoor dining is possible on the covered terrace with a fountain and greenery. Try the cassoulet or daube de boeuf (beef stewed in wine). No smoking. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.

Lawry's The Prime Rib
14655 Dallas Pkwy., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/503-6686
Over $30
Dallas
Steak

Choose your meat from a silver cart for later tableside preparation. This establishment is known for prime rib and lobster tails. There's a children's menu. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat.

Liberty
5631 Alta Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/887-8795
Under $40
Dallas
Pan-Asian

This tiny, trendy pan-Asian eatery features standards (Vietnamese spring rolls) cuddled up to more ethnic offerings (Japanese udon noodle bowls). The "Big Soups" - particularly the heavenly chicken-coconut - are pricey, but worth it. Reservations recommended. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon.

Lola
2917 Fairmount St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/855-0700
Over $40
Dallas
Contemporary

In a century-old, ivy-covered cottage, you'll find tables spread throughout several small rooms decorated with dark wood and rich wall treatments. Lola's chef makes creative and celebrated appetizers: the signature Stilton cheese and chive soufflé; venison and wild mushrooms wrapped in phyllo and cut like spring rolls; and seared sea scallops with crisp, fried carrot and chilled cucumber slaw. Try a lamb entrée or the mahimahi, and finish off with a sweet "strawberry martini." Reservations recommended. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun./Mon.

Lombardi's
311 N. Market St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/747-0322
Over $20
Dallas
Italian

In addition to Dallas, this Italian restaurant chain has franchises in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Captiva Island, Atlanta, and Phoenix. Dine outdoors at one of the 15 sidewalk tables with umbrellas and tablecloths. Try the crab soufflé. AE, DC, MC, V.

Lucile's
4700 Camp Bowie St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/738-4761
$20 to $30
Fort Worth
American

There's been a restaurant of some sort in this building since the 1930s; the original pressed-tin ceiling is still in place. Known for its pasta and wood-roasted entrées, the restaurant also has seven tables on a patio with umbrellas to ward off the southwestern sun. Breakfast is also available weekends. AE, D, DC, MC, V. .

Mama's Daughter's Diner
2014 Irving Blvd., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/742-8646
Under $20
Dallas
American

Favored by bikers and long-haul truckers, this diner serves up super hearty portions of classic American comfort food: potatoes 'n' gravy, chicken-fried steak, and meatloaf. AE, D, MC, V.

Mansion on Turtle Creek
2821 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas, TX 75219, USA
Phone: 214/559-2100
Fax: 214/528-4187
Over $40
Dallas
Southwestern

The Mansion is the only five-star, five-diamond hotel in the Southwest. The service is legendary, as is the food in the dining room. Chef Dean Fearing helped pioneer Southwestern cuisine, and he continues to wow his customers with amazing renditions of tortilla soup, warm lobster tacos, and even halibut with cashews in basil sauce. Count on finding Dallas-Fort Worth's most beautiful, celebrated, and powerful crowd inside this opulent room. There's valet parking. Reservations essential. Jacket required. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Matt's Rancho Martinez
6332 La Vista Dr., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/823-5517
Under $40
Dallas
Tex-Mex

Tex-Mex is served up for the masses in this Dallas institution. Specialties include chicken-fried steak, chile rellenos (stuffed with rice, cheese, and vegetables), and the signature "Bob Armstrong" dip. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Mediterraneo
18111 Preston Rd. , Suite 120, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/447-0066
Over $30
Dallas
Continental

Specializing in southern French and northern Italian seafood dishes, this restaurant serves inspired meals like horseradish-encrusted halibut and polenta-coated north Atlantic salmon. The elegant dining room has linen tablecloths, chandeliers, and fine art on the walls. An outdoor patio has topiary juniper trees, fountains, imported Indian tile inlays, and a delicate wrought-iron fence. Live entertainment is featured Friday and Saturday nights. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat., Sun.

Mi Piace
14854 Montfort Dr., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/934-8424
Over $20
Dallas
Italian

A moon-roof that opens to the sky, huge windows that overlook a patio with a garden and duck pond, and cream-colored archways lend a Tuscan charm to this restaurant. Risottos and homemade pastas are made daily on the premises, and fish and seafood dishes like calamari and Dover sole are delicately prepared with flavorful southern Italian sauces. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Michaels
3413 W. Seventh St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/877-3413
$20 to $40
Fort Worth
Southwestern

Southwestern or "contemporary ranch" cuisine is what you'll find here, with an emphasis on fruits and chiles. The decor is rustic and comfortable. Try the pecan-crusted goat cheese chicken, or the Southwestern crab cakes. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Morton's of Chicago
501 Elm St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/741-2277
Over $30
Dallas
Steak

Meals are cooked on an open grill at this intimate restaurant in the basement of a historic building. Try the filet mignon or seafood. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Nana Grill
2201 Stemmons Fwy., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/761-7479
Over $40
Dallas
Contemporary

High atop the Wyndham Anatole Hotel, this restaurant is a popular choice for a romantic dinner. It's known for ostrich, rack of lamb, and buffalo. There's entertainment Wednesday through Saturday nights and brunch on Sunday. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Newport's Seafood
703 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/954-0220
Over $30
Dallas
Seafood

This restaurant is housed in a former brewery, and a 55-ft-deep, 30-ft-wide artesian well that fed the brewery stands in the middle of the dining room. Try the almond-crusted filet of sole. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat., Sun.

Old Warsaw
2610 Maple Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/528-0032
Over $30
Dallas
French

Try the lobster thermidor or chateaubriand in this restaurant established in the mid-1900s. Live music is provided by a violinist or pianist. Reservations essential. Jacket required. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Palm
701 Ross Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/698-0470
Over $20
Dallas
Steak

This West End restaurant, with its clubby mahogany and caricatures of Dallas's rich and famous, is popular with the downtown business crowd. It's known for surf and turf. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat., Sun.

Paris Coffee Shop
700 W. Magnolia, Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/335-2041
Under $20
Fort Worth
American

Enthusiastic diners claim that this breakfast spot, oddly enough, has the best chicken-fried steak in Texas. Try the chicken-and-dumplings. Breakfast is also available. AE, D, MC, V. Closed Sun. No dinner.

Patrizio
25 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/522-7878
$20 to $40
Dallas
Italian

Try the angel-hair artichoke pasta or crab claws at this local eatery that specializes in New York-style Italian cuisine. Open-air dining is available on a shady patio with a view of a shopping village. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Possum Lodge
9120 Boat Club Rd., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/236-4499
Under $20
Fort Worth
Barbecue

On the north side of town on the grounds of a gas station, this pit barbecue restaurant draws crowds from miles away for its ribs, burgers, and catfish. AE, MC, V.

Pour House Sports Grill
209 W. 5th St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/335-2575
Under $20
Fort Worth
Continental

Lunch and dinner, happy hour, and big screen TVs are the norm at this sports bar, and cover bands perform live music on Friday and Saturday nights. There are plenty of good burgers and sandwiches, as well as more eclectic dishes such as blackened chicken étouffée and the catfish pecan chicken sandwich. A covered patio on the second floor overlooks 4th Street. The restaurant is closed Sunday, except during football season. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Pyramid Grill
1717 N. Akard St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/720-5249
Over $30
Dallas
American

An extensive wine list, live piano music, and elegant furniture, gas lamps, linens, and silverware make this restaurant in the Fairmont Hotel a popular place. Try the Angus beef. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Railhead Smokehouse
2900 Montgomery St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/738-9808
Under $20
Fort Worth
Barbecue

Most people come to this casual place with cafeteria-style dining for the tender smoked ribs. The beer and wine are inexpensive, and the brisket is also tasty. MC, V. Closed Sun.

Reata
500 Throckmorton St. , Bank One Tower, 35th floor, Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/336-1009
Under $40
Fort Worth
Southwestern

This is about as Texan as restaurants get in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with leather-trimmed menus, cowhide-covered chairs, and beef straight from the owner's ranch. Other selling points include a great view, good food, and friendly service. AE, MC, V.

Riscky's Sirloin Inn
120 E. Exchange, Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/624-4800
$20 to $40
Fort Worth
Steak

If you're hanging out in the vicinity of the Stockyards, this western-theme steakhouse is a good place to grab a meal. Try the Stockyard Special - a 10-ounce New York strip with red-wine mushroom gravy. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Riviera
7709 Inwood Rd., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/351-0094
Over $40
Dallas
French

One of Dallas's best known eateries, this crowded restaurant is a favorite for business lunches. Try the Dover sole and bouillabaisse. Jacket required. AE, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Rodeo Steakhouse
1309 Calhoun St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/332-1288
Over $20
Fort Worth
Steak

This moderately priced, downtown restaurant serves "the best darn steaks in town." You'll find it mere steps from three major hotels and just down from Sundance Square. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch.

Rooster
3521 Oak Grove Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/521-1234
Over $30
Dallas
Contemporary

This relaxed eatery's menu changes frequently. If they are available, try the baby lamb chops. Brunch is featured on Sunday. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Royal Tokyo
7525 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/368-3304
Over $30
Dallas
Japanese

Dine amid knife-wielding chefs in the Hibachi Steak room or kimono-clad servers in one of the Tatami rooms. The restaurant's sushi bar is the largest in Texas. The grounds include a pond surrounded by bonsai trees and an authentic Japanese garden. Try the Wagyu beef (tender meat from cattle bred in Japan), or any of the carefully prepared sashimi or sushi combinations. There's a children's menu. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Ruggeri's
2911 Routh St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/871-7377
$20 to $40
Dallas
Italian

A favorite for "power lunches" as well as romantic dinners, this restaurant is known for northern Italian fare - especially the veal dishes. Muted lighting lends an intimate feel. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sat., Sun.

Ruth's Chris Steak House
5922 Cedar Springs Rd., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/902-8080
Over $30
Dallas
Steak

This branch of the chain steakhouse has a country club feel, with dark paneled walls, heavy wood chairs, and prominently placed sports memorabilia. Popular dishes include live lobster, roasted chicken, and buffalo steaks. AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch.

Saint-Emilion
3617 W. 7th St., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/737-2781
$30 to $40
Fort Worth
French

Though it doesn't look like much from the outside, this is one of Tarrant County's best restaurants, with a legendary crispy-roast duck and excellent daily specials. The wine list is so extensive that it has its own table of contents. Reservations essential. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Mon. No lunch.

Seventeen Seventeen
1717 N. Harwood St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/880-0158
$20 to $40
Dallas
Continental

Housed in the Dallas Museum of Art, this restaurant's patio lies outside of windows designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. There's a Sunday brunch. AE, D, MC, V. Closed Mon., Sat.

Sonny Bryan's
302 N. Market St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/744-1610
$20 to $30
Dallas
Barbecue

Wooden benches and tables are part of this restaurant's rustic look. The outdoor dining area has wrought iron tables with umbrellas. Try the ribs, beef brisket, or smoked turkey; popular side dishes include green bean casserole, homemade macaroni and cheese, and fried okra. Youngsters are kept happy with the children's menu. AE, D, DC, MC, V.

Star Canyon
3102 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/520-7827
Over $20
Dallas
Southwestern

This is still one of the hottest tickets in town (read: reserve well in advance for a weekend dinner). Prepare to be dazzled by Southwestern-inspired inventions such as tamale tart with roast-garlic custard or red-chile- and Shiner Bock-braised osso buco. The dining room has a branded ceiling, and a barbed-wire motif is etched into the bar area's glass panels. Reservations essential. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch weekends.

Sushi
2927 Maple Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/871-7111
Over $20
Dallas
Japanese

This sushi bar is in a lobby area of the elegant Stoneleigh hotel. No smoking. AE, D, DC, MC, V. Closed Sun.

Thai Taste
3101 N. Fitzhugh Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/521-3513
Under $30
Dallas
Thai

This longtime local favorite has raised ceilings, huge windows, and subtle paintings on the wall. Popular dishes include eggplant with green curry and basil, garlic prawns with broccoli, and pad Thai (rice noodles with shrimp and peanuts). AE, D, DC, MC, V. No lunch Sun.-Tues.

Toscana
4900 McKinney Ave., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/521-2244
Over $20
Dallas
Italian

Dine outdoors on a covered patio and enjoy live jazz Tuesday-Thursday nights. Try the risotto or a sampling from the extensive wine list. There's a children's menu. AE, DC, MC, V.

Uncle Tai's
13350 Dallas Pkwy., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 972/934-9998
$20 to $40
Dallas
Chinese

There's a formal dining section here as well as a casual patio area that overlooks the ice rink of the Galleria mall. Popular dishes include General Tso's chicken and sweet and sour pork. No smoking. AE, DC, MC, V.

Wan Fu
6399 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, TX, USA
Phone: 817/731-2388
$20 to $30
Fort Worth
Chinese

This restaurant serves Szechuan specialties. AE, MC, V.

York Street
6047 Lewis St., Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/826-0968
Over $30
Dallas
French

This small, intimate restaurant has just 12 tables. The menu is varied and there is an extensive wine list. Try the roast rack of lamb or the Cajun sea bass stuffed with crab. No smoking. MC, V. Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch.

Ziziki's
4514 Travis St. , Suite 122, Dallas, TX, USA
Phone: 214/521-2233
$20 to $40
Dallas
Mediterranean

Open-air dining is available on a patio. Try the paella. AE, DC, MC, V.