SHORT NORTH. Down a narrow street surrounded by private homes, this off-the-beaten-path Italian restaurant lives up to its location by serving creative takes on classic dishes. You won't find red sauce here, instead the husband and wife team of John Dornback & Trish Gentile offer sensational seasonal fare such as a roasted beet carpaccio, Tuscan onion soup, or a grilled ostrich fillet with butternut squash purée in a fig-balsamic reduction.

The Florentine is a local institution with cozy ambience, a tried-and-true menu, and friendly rapport with customers. Regulars come early for Roman Bread (crusty and brown with butter, garlic and plenty of provolone and Gorgonzola) and, of course, the most popular item on the menu, spaghetti and meatballs generously laden with a thick, zesty tomato sauce.

GERMAN VILLAGE. Housed in an historic townhouse in German Village, the award-winning G. Michael's is one of Columbus's favorite restaurants. Elegant touches abound in the brick-lined dining room. Feast on seasonal appetizers and entrees that might include steak Tartare with arugula salad and kettle chips, seared jumbo scallops with spicy mashed sweet potatoes, parmesan-breaded fried chicken with polenta. A winner of Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence, their wine list covers it all from the lightest pinot noir to full-bodies cabs to pair with everything.

GERMAN VILLAGE. One of the top draws in charming German Village, Lindey's serves steak and pasta dishes in an elegant atmosphere with views of tree-lined cobblestone streets. Start with calamari and shrimp fritto misto and follow with veal saltimbocca, mushroom risotto, or extra-thick New York strip with garlic mashed potatoes. An extensive wine list and an ever-changing selection of classic desserts such as bananas Foster round out the menu.

A place to sit may be difficult to come by at this oft crowded Short North bar where people wait for a table or simply drop in to try one of 18 martinis. Concoctions include traditional offerings and specialties such as the chocolate martini made with Godiva liqueur or the signature Italian mojito made with Effen vodka housemade basil syrup and fresh lime. The extensive menu includes a terrific selection of desserts and wines.