QUEEN ANNE. A traditional favorite, Canlis overlooks the beauty of serene Lake Union. Even if it weren't in such stunning surroundings, the restaurant would capture your fancy with its incredible cuisine. Among the offerings are stuffed chicken, lamb shank with puréed mint and garlic, and delectable cuts of beef and fresh seafood. If you can't make up your mind, try the fixed price menu, pairing each dish with a wine from their terrific collection. After all, Canlis is one of only 85 restaurants in the world to have received the "Grand Award" for its wine list. 5-course tasting menu $80, $115 with wine.

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.

BELLTOWN. High ceilings, expansive windows, and an abundant use of cherry wood create a clean-lined, warm space that perfectly complements the cuisine, a tribute to the Northwest's bounty. The restaurant's name refers to the area between the Cascades and the Pacific, from Canada to California ­ they use only local foods from this area. A "rain window" separates the dining room from the kitchen, adding flair to the already-interesting space. Intriguing dishes include green curry rubbed rack of lamb and ahi tuna poached in olive bouillon. There's even a fun kids menu. Tasting menus $65-90; Prix fixe menu $30, with wine $49.

WHIDBEY ISLAND. Part of the beautiful Inn at Langley, this restaurant offers seasonal, six-course tasting menus on weekends. Fresh, local ingredients and wine selections from an impressive cellar add to the attraction. Come in summer for the exquisite taste of wild Alaskan black cod with sweet lettuce ravioli, or plan a winter excursion to experience beef tenderloin on curried lentils. The river-rock fireplace and open kitchen ensure a comfortable and interesting meal. Tasting menu $85; with wine pairing, $145.

DOWNTOWN. Atop Pike Place Market's rooftops sits what has been called one of the city's most romantic restaurants. Thanks to giant semicircular windows, patrons are graced by a spectacular view of Puget Sound. Contemporary French cuisine is also an immense draw, whether it be from the seasonal menu or the chef's tasting menu. Comestible delights like seared foie gras with blueberry pistachio compote or asparagus bisque with roasted tomato oil and crème fraîche can be paired with a varied wine list. For dessert, indulge in a hazelnut chocolate crêpe cake or a distinctive cheese selection.