DOWNTOWN. Upscale dining is a pleasure at 360, which is located in the CN Tower and boasts some of the most spectacular views in the city. The restaurant also revolves slowly while you dine, so you get more than just a single, fixed vista of Toronto. Lunch and dinner menus offer elegant choices, such as blackened quail, scallops in the shell, and rack of lamb. A la carte and prix fixe menus are both available for dinner. Reservations are essential. The ordinary elevator fee (Adult $20, Senior $18, Child $14) is waived with the purchase of an entree.

DOWNTOWN. This three-story establishment is an old Victorian house which has been converted into a café frequented by a diverse crowd. The downstairs bar has a hip atmosphere, and the rooftop patio draws a young crowd. Whichever spot you choose to settle down in, rich yet inexpensive desserts will prove to be quite satisfying. If your appetite is a little bigger, you'll also find surprisingly good appetizers, pastas, sandwiches and soups.

WEST TORONTO. Alternative Grounds is perhaps best known for using fair traded ingredients. Every coffee bean and tea leaf served has been lovingly grown and roasted by farmer-owned co-ops. The patio usually draws out families and a hip crowd, while others mingle inside. Coffees and teas are exquisite and are perfectly complemented by the simple lunch fare served daily. In the afternoon, come for tea and pastries.

DOWNTOWN. A favorite since 1959, Barberian's is a traditional steakhouse set in an 1860 home, with the expected dark woods, white linens and framed artwork. Steaks come in various sizes and preparations ­ char-broiled, bacon-wrapped or topped with peppercorn or béarnaise sauce. All are accompanied by garlic bread, kosher pickles, and a potato or rice. Other choices include ribs, salmon and rack of lamb. The after-theatre menu also offers cheese or beef fondue for two. The most charming dessert is chocolate mousse presented in a white-and-dark chocolate house. Award-winning wine list.

WEST TORONTO. Sleek and contemporary, with a few artistic touches to add interest. The menu is equally contemporary, focusing on inventive combinations of traditional comfort foods. You might start with a spinach and pear salad or a sweet pea tart. Main course dishes include a fine veal striploin with cauliflower and goat cheese fondue, Chinese-glazed ribs, and sea scallops with cracked wild rice. Save room for dessert ­ the lemongrass-white chocolate crème brûlée is a revelation.