MT VERNON. Head to this upscale restaurant for the best in flavorful North Indian cuisine. Spicy but not overwhelming, each dish shows a delicate balance of flavors that keeps locals returning for more. If you come for lunch, opt for the tasty, affordable buffet. For dinner, try the classic lamb curry or chicken tikka, both redolent with coriander and cumin, or sample specialties like vegetable fritters in creamy yogurt or any of the excellent, buttery masala dishes. Relax amid the muted colors of the elegant dining room while digging into indulgent Indian ice cream made with pistachios and rosewater.

Little Italy is full of excellent, authentic dining options, but this one has carved out a niche for its friendly hospitality and its simple but flavorful cuisine. Ample portions of pastas, meats and seafood are generously ladled with the excellent, robust tomato sauce and plenty of melting cheese. Sample ziti la rosa, full of tasty sautéed shrimp, or the sweet, hearty sausage Marsala. The restaurant has several small dining rooms divided by hallways, giving an intimate feel to the space. If you have any room left after all that feasting ­ most don't ­ the cannoli is a worthwhile indulgence.

Located in Belvedere Square Market, this popular kitchen emphasizes natural, homegrown ingredients. Hearty sandwiches are served on delicious from-scratch house breads, such as walnut cumin, kalamata olive, cherry pecan and peasant wheat, and the menu also features a selection of homemade soups. The cozy interior offers counter seating, and all items are available for takeout.

CANTON. Everything is healthy and fresh at Helen's, which manages to combine upscale cuisine with a relaxed, low-key atmosphere. Pastel colors, interesting folk art and romantic candles provide a soothing backdrop for great meals that make the most of fresh local ingredients. The menu includes numerous vegetarian options, including eggplant and provolone wrapped in pesto flatbread, but there are also excellent seafood dishes and specialties such as the pepper-crusted pork chops in apple and leek puree. The wine list is eclectic and the desserts are imaginative and homemade. On warm evenings, the patio is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. Weekend brunch features gourmet omelets, best served with a mimosa or bloody Mary.

GREEKTOWN. Simple and satisfying, this restaurant eschews the trendy decor and modern dishes in favor of classic, homestyle Greek cooking served in a serene, relaxed atmosphere. From crisp fried calamari to creamy moussaka to flavorful broiled whole fish, this restaurant guarantees you won't leave hungry. Lamb is served eight ways, and is especially tasty in a simple sauce of wine and tomato. The friendly staff is made up of people of Greek heritage, who wear elegant Greek-style garb, and who love to introduce visitors to their traditional cuisine. Reservations recommended.