DOWNTOWN. Hip and stylish, Andaluca is a study in rich tones and sculptural shapes. The menu features local produce prepared with a Mediterranean twist. Among the small plates and shareables, you can choose from lamb dolmas, green gazpacho with crab, or vegetable meze, which includes grilled asparagus, tabbouleh and mushrooms a la Grecque. Entrees include Andaluca Paella with seafood, or roasted quail with blood orange-saffron sauce and rosemary polenta. Every dish can be accompanied by the recommended wine or beer. The wine list has a number of good options in a variety of price ranges. Complimentary valet parking is provided.

BELLTOWN. This sultry Mediterranean dining spot is one of Belltown's favorite denizens. Along with clean lines and a mix of textures, the restaurant features an open-fire grill that produces incredible dishes like cinnamon-scented quail in black bean sauce, chicken with apricot and green peppercorn cream, and foie gras pizza with arugula and white truffle oil. You'll also find Sonoma duck, roasted red tilapia, and a luscious suckling pig. The helpful staff are glad to help you choose a vintage from the well-rounded wine list.

MADISON PARK. If zesty food, full-flavored and rich, constantly tempts you, Cactus stands poised to satisfy the craving. You should be prepared to wait a bit when you go, but the food is worth it! Offerings are consistently good and inventive. The menu is full of well-prepared delights, such as carnitas, tamales, fajitas, and pork steak adobo. You'll also find a great selection of tapas items, which could satiate your appetite on their own. The festive atmosphere adds to the good mood, and the staff is helpful and friendly too. While you wait, try a mojito!

CAPITOL HILL. Known as Seattle's top vegetarian spot, this restaurant's menu is innovative and flavorful enough to win over even the most ardent carnivores. Have brunch in the sunny atrium and enjoy the soothing sounds of the indoor waterfall. Dishes such as cornmeal pancakes in pomegranate sauce or beignets with berries and ginger cream anglaise are served with complimentary fresh-squeezed orange juice. You'll also find plenty of specialty teas and juice blends to choose from as well. Call ahead seating only.

GREENWOOD. Residents of Seattle's north side definitely count themselves lucky to have this gourmet vegetarian nearby, where the innovative kitchen emphasizes local seasonal produce, grains, cheeses, and herbs, most of it organic. Specialties include English pea agnolotti with asparagus and foraged mushrooms, heirloom tomato risotto cakes with artichoke hearts and summer squash, and parsnip gnocchi with vanilla butter and rapini. For those looking to add a touch of romance, ask for a table on the garden patio out back. It's heated, too, so you can enjoy al fresco dining well into the cooler months.