Not just contemporary American, but contemporary Pittsburgh, the Bigelow Grille in the DoubleTree Hotel offers invigorating traditional local fare with wholesome ingredients. Its unique Alchemy tasting menu is something to experience. Vegetarians can enjoy a special 7-course dinner paired with a selection of hand-crafted beers from East End Brewing Co.

Its sophisticated ambience and menu attract patrons across the region. Featuring Portuguese cross-culture cuisine in Theatre Square, Café Zao is the new home to former fans of legendary Baum Vivant as well as Cultural District visitors. Open for lunch and dinner.

The Delmonico is divine. So is just about everything else including the creamy sorbet. A critically acclaimed chain specializing in dry-aged beef and fresh seafood, it just opened in Downtown's newest Piatt Place luxury condo complex. The Capital Grille offers more than 5,000 bottles of wine, private dining rooms and luxurious décor with portraits of famous Pittsburghers. Valet parking.

The Carlton is a popular downtown lunch and dinner venue for CEOs, lawyers, businessmen and women offering creative American cuisine Service, an elegant décor and top-flight and quick services that is appreciated by on-the-go patrons due back in court or one their way to seal a deal.

Among Pittsburgh's most beautiful restaurant interiors, Eleven is heaven for the well-heeled crowd. Everything (except the Heinz ketchup) is made on the premises, including ice cream. Gorgeous long bar, high ceilings and a most incredible wine rack designed by a local artisan (on the second floor for all to admire). Staff is hip and well-trained.

Inspired by the sea and sun, Kaya melds fresh ingredients with bold flavor and alluring preparation. Chef Brandy Stewart draws from the Caribbean Islands, South America, the Pacific and beyond, combining herbs and spices with a sizzling grill to create exotic, lively food.

Lidia's is an upscale, family-style Italian restaurant in a chic, contemporary space, with good old-fashioned service and large portions. New York-based celebrity chef Lidia Bastianich visits often to make sure her standards are met. Try Sunday brunch, Italian style.

They say they have “the best steaks anywhere.” Others might say the biggest, too. You know what you're getting - good cigars, stiff martinis and private dining. A place where big players love to go to unwind and impress. Think Gordon Gekko.

Executive Chef Richard de Shantz's continental cuisine includes mouthwatering starters, kobe beef carpaccio, seared tuna topped with sautéed foie gras and deconstructed chowder. “Pittsburgh Surf and Turf” is the most unique main course — grilled filet and lobster pierogie with thyme-roasted onions, topped with black truffle béarnaise. Rich, cozy atmosphere.

Tucked in the lobby of the Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel, high-backed banquettes provide a sense of privacy and escape from a busy world. The food is beautifully presented and well-prepared. But the location is also a big draw in the heart of the Cultural District and just minutes from the stadiums. Valet parking.

Tucked inside the Westin Convention Center Hotel, The Fish Market is a mecca for sushi and seafood buffs. Crowded with tourists, sports fans, business types, local athletes and movie stars (Richard Gere, Michael Douglas). Offers some of the best seafood in town.

Owner John Valentine's pride is great service and a friendly staff. Directly across from Heinz Hall, Palate features delicious French cuisine in a romantic, warm setting. Opened in May, it's gained highest regards from the theater-going crowd and Downtowners. One of the better wine lists in the city.

An upbeat city restaurant and bar famous for its rich and stylish ambiance. Guests love Palomino's European-inspired regional American Cuisine at reasonable prices. Pretty lunchtime spot. Good happy hour crowd.

Ruth’s Chris earned its reputation for serving up the finest cuts of steak broiled to perfection and simply seasoned. While steak is king, this top-shelf chain also offers market fresh fish, including the Ahi Tuna Stack, seared rare, topped with Colossal lump crabmeat and served sizzling with red pepper pesto. There's also vegetarian fare, including grilled marinated Portobello mushrooms on garlic mashed potatoes with grilled asparagus, broccoli, tomatoes and sizzling lemon butter.

Where a meal without wine is like a day without sunshine. Located next door to the Convention Center, Sonoma Grille is known for precision pairing of food and wine. Chef Yves Carreau features the “Mixed Grille,” offering a flexible, inventive way to experience some of the finest grilled preparations. Casual, yet elegant. Beautiful bar. Spacious dining room. Excellent wine list.

The impressive Trilogy has a sleek, streamlined décor of red velvet drapes with city views, a perfect blend of chrome, glass, wood and leather. Large bar and lounge area. It's chic, but casual and unpretentious. Serving well-priced contemporary American cuisine.

Where good food is fine art, the chefs create a seasonal menu of distinctive soups, salads, gourmet specialties and delectable desserts from fresh ingredients. Known to serve one of the best lunches and the best desserts. The best part — this Café is in one of the most gorgeous settings in town — Henry Clay Frick's back yard at Clayton.

Kitschy cool spot with a great atmosphere and creative menu. A gathering place for Shadysiders where everybody knows everybody, and everybody is urbane and well-dressed. The high-end, artsy patrons talk to each other from table to table.

Probably the sultriest restaurant and lounge in the city. Home to the movers and shakers of Shadyside. Great by-the-glass wine list in the lounge. One of the closest comparisons to SoHo's Mercer Kitchen. Tasty Mediterranean cuisine.

Coca features daily soups, salads, wraps, and panini, including vegetarian selections. If a piece of art glass on the shelves catches your eye, ask about taking it home. The owners are glassmakers and sell their works here.

A slice of Paris, tucked away off Walnut St. with authentic crêpes (light and savory). Choices include eggs, cheese, mushroom, spinach, salmon with chives and crème fraîche. Topped with a choice of four sauces and served with a small tossed salad with light vinaigrette. Dessert-like crepes are filled with preserves, chocolate and fresh fruit, topped with whipped cream or chopped walnuts. Fast service.

The aroma of the wood-burning oven, warm interior and friendly service set the tone. Cuisine is fresh and simple. Wholesome soups, quiches, wood-fired pizzas, roasted chicken, whole fish, lamb stew — like eating at your grandmother's but with updated décor.

A seasonal menu with fresh pastas and dynamic entrees created by this family-run Italian establishment. Semi-subterranean, the limited seating makes you feel you're home for an intimate Sunday dinner.

Tapas, tapas, tapas. When you can't get enough of trying new things, step into one of the smaller inside spots around. With quaint, outdoor garden seating available, it's a unique Mediterranean dining experience.

A fresh entry on the neighborhood dining scene with a commitment to local fare by Chef Trevett Hooper in town from La Jolla with his wife Sarah. Eclectic dining settings in a cozy space recall a European experience. Italian and French influenced fare. BYOB.

This delightful bistro serves French fare with a great selection of Belgian beer on tap. A small, outdoor patio is open well into fall. Inside, there are comfortable booths and a welcoming bar. Exceptional service, and you'll quickly befriend your server as she recommends the mussels with a side of double-cooked fries.

This oasis of offerings pairs high-energy oatmeals and yogurts to go (or stay) in the morning and mixes a great California salad for lunch. Inventive, healthy dinners are also available. Closed Sunday.

Thai one good meal at Eileen and Norraset Nareedokmai's eatery. Direct from Thailand years ago, Nor's father often mans the kitchen. You can't beat the authenticity. Try the iced teas and coffees and just one ginger martini. Garnishes are a premium here too — they alone transport you to another place.

Seductive music, low lights, good drinks, beautiful people. Understated yet ultra-hip design. Soba is known for well-prepared pan-Asian delights and contemporary atmosphere. The lounge has sofas and chairs nestled among a very crowded but very tolerable weekend bar scene of Shadyside hipsters and business owners. Fireplace in winter. Open-air in summer.

On Millionaires' Row, this tea room, restaurant, martini bar and boutique hotel was built in 1886 as the home/office of Shadyside Hospital's founder. It's a swank, quaint spot for a romantic dinner or lunch on the veranda with an eclectic blend of continental and Mediterranean cuisine, emphasizing fresh fish and select meats. Nice Sunday brunch.

Tessaro's has a very special talent for cooking up steaks, chops, seafood and, of course, the most savory burgers around. No ordinary burgers, the secret is in the mix — ground beef and filet. Char-grilled and fresh, the half-pounders come with a choice of dressings: bleu cheese and bacon, coleslaw and more. Worth the wait.

Walls lined with bamboo, an interior of rich blues and tans and soft music create a relaxing ambiance. Typhoon is inviting to Shadyside folks and Thai cuisine aficionados. Expect everything from classic pad Thai and perfectly prepared tofu to contemporary creations such as escolar with mild chu chee curry.

Neighborhood watering hole with casual dining and casual prices. From seafood and steak to creative sandwiches and salads, it's the perfect bite for on-the-go Shadyside shoppers. Terrific brunch. Bellinis, mimosas and a great bar.

Outstanding sushi. Need we say more? Located just above hot spot Soba restaurant and lounge, patrons will experience the freshest and most authentic Japanese food with a contemporary flair.

On a wide and happening corner, Bruschetta's celebrates good Italian food. Some 118,632 choices are on the “Create Your Own Pasta” menu. There's outdoor seating, a quaint bar/lounge and a private bar and dining area on the 2nd floor.

One of Pittsburgh's premiere, distinctive restaurants. It has set the standard for Riviera cuisine with 18 years of good food and service, winning dedicated patrons who are more like extended family members. Being next to City Theatre and Club Café makes it popular for theater-goers and music lovers.

You'll think you're in a secret European garden. Small plates, no fried anything and plain, good food and service. The menu is fresh, with creative dishes and savory flavors such as chicken-cranberry-apple sausage, ricotta and herb skillet cakes with smoked salmon and pine nut-encrusted salmon. Among the home-made desserts, try the unforgettable Banana Nutella Cheesecake. BYOB.

Superior little secret spot renowned for oversized entrees, heaping salads and unique interior. Davio is a Pittsburgh legend serving authentic Italian cuisine and seating just 55 guests.

Wings, burgers, mashed potatoes, tacos and old-fashioned American food in “double wide” style. A creatively designed space peppered with car-repair motif, vintage advertising, oil cans, garage doors bolted to the ceiling as skylights and an old truck above the bar. Large, outdoor dining area with tables arranged around gas pumps. A throw-back experience.

Take a trip to the old world and stroll into the Gypsy café. Excellent Eastern European fare, tarot card readings, and by far one of the most creative brunches in town (each Sunday the theme changes. i.e., Famous Women in History Brunch; 80's Glam Rock, etc.). Home of the Gypsy Strings, who perform live every Thursday night at 9 pm, strolling from table to table playing primitive stringed instruments. A great place to get the family together for some good old fashioned fun with savory food.

Next to Mallorca, this tapas and wine bar features over 45 tapas from across the world. Taste the flavors of Brazil, Portugal, Argentina and other Latin American countries. Ibiza also has savory entrees and a great selection of wine, ports, cognacs and specialty drinks. Kitchen closes late. Valet parking most evenings.

Its gorgeous view of Pittsburgh and exquisite dishes have won many hearts and stomachs. Nestled 1,200 feet above the city, the cozy, 2-floor restaurant has intimate seating for formal and casual dining. Its open kitchen is ready to serve seven courses, using fresh, organic meats from the most outstanding local farms. All desserts are made in-house.

This Middle Eastern eatery is dirt cheap. You'll find all the traditional dishes -- hummus, stuffed grape leaves, kibbee, falafel, kebobs and more. Delicious. Local. Good food. No frills. Simple as that!

For more than 40 years, this landmark has delivered classic food and excellent service. Recently renovated, it sparkles with city lights, crystal chandeliers and a celebrated wine cellar, making LeMont a top choice to impress your future fiancée, business partner or wedding guests. Breathtaking view of Downtown and the rivers.

Concentrating on country French, this fine restaurant offers great food and atmosphere at a very reasonable price. Cozy and romantic with three dining rooms, Le Pommier is not pretentious — dress any way you choose. Reservations are suggested. Carryout is available. Smoking is allowed at the bar.

This clever, themed restaurant has delicious dishes named after famous authors and book titles. You'll love the décor: Tables are glass-covered pages, menus are glued into old library books and even the dessert card is tucked into the library card envelope of the front cover! Creative American cuisine. Great brunch.

Antonino Pereira's Mediterranean traditions include home-made sangria, classic dishes and daily specials — roast suckling pig and baby goat in red wine sauce. Known for paella and signature complimentary after-dinner almond liqueur. Large portions, great service from Mediterranean waiters, gorgeous dining room and outdoor patio are sure to impress.

High-grade sushi bar and steakhouse with a great scene. Enjoy the chef's knife-wielding showmanship. Aptly named (Nakama means friend in Japanese), good times and good people abound, whether you're sipping cocktails at the wrap-around bar, sampling raw fish at the sushi station or dining at a hibachi table. Nothing brings folks together like the collective misuse of chopsticks, and by meal's end, you'll be clinking Buddha mugs and ordering another round of sake.

Just around the corner from the South Side Works Cinemas is this reasonably priced tapas restaurant with a great lunch and dinner menu. Fresh wraps, wafer-thin crusted pizzas and classic Mediterranean entrees. Good service.

Pronounced ooo-boo-six, named after its original home to the Workingmen's Beneficial Union No. 6. (WBU No. 6), it's nestled on the slopes. Featuring dishes such as an eggplant boat with crawfish-oyster toffee and seared basil swordfish served with ratatouille, this place is far from blue collar. Close tables. Pretty bar. A very cool dining destination all around.

Think Rao's in New York. Great Italian food with enormous family-style portions. It's off the beaten path. Expect to leave in a food coma. Recently opened lounge upstairs, “Trenta” is swank and cozy, with a fireplace, plush seating and a flat screen TV playing The Godfather trilogy just about 24/7.

Located in the former Boggs Mansion, now the Inn on the Mexican War Streets, this splendid restaurant offers a seven-course, prix fixe menu as well as a small ala carte menu. The historic architecture and décor create the feeling of a European country estate, but the food is cutting-edge American with a menu that changes monthly.

Within walking distance of Heinz Field and PNC Park, Hyde Park serves steaks inspired by famous Pittsburgh athletes. Specializing in fine, aged steaks and chops, lobster and fish and $4 martinis. The stunning lounge and its great city views make Hyde Park a must for tourists and sports fans.

Hearty dishes, steaks, chops, mac and cheese, rigatoni with spicy sausage. Classy comfort food. Sleek, stylish, and gender-neutral interior. Jerome says it's a restaurant, not a sports bar, welcoming men, women and families. Sporting 40 high-def TVs for guests to cheer on 12 different sporting events in five time zones.

With the same owners as the Oaks Theater next door, it's the perfect casual spot to dine before a movie or to retreat for discussion after. Everything is reasonably priced and freshly prepared, including some terrific vegetarian selections, wonderful salads and sublime pastas.

Nestled among stately timbers slope side, Helen's is the original home of Seven Springs' founders. This rustic retreat serving intercontinental cuisine is great for romantic getaways and après ski.

Charming neighborhood restaurant. Generous portions. Large menu offering everything from cheese ravioli to rack of lamb, traditional Italian dishes to chipotle flat iron steak.

With a wine-driven, health-conscious, seasonally inspired menu, this best-kept secret looks like a hidden neighborhood bar from outside. You'll find culinary creations and excellent wines - hence the name.

Consistent with the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture of Falling Rock hotel, Aqueous imparts the aspects that set Wright apart to a special dining experience. The cuisine at Aqueous, a AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, takes the upscale steakhouse concept to a new level: the menu focuses on locally raised beef, lamb, pork and chicken created with progressive thought in the natural surroundings of the Laurel Highlands. Not open in winter.

This bistro feels a bit New Yorky. Chic and stylish, yet welcoming and warm, Bistro 19 is sophisticated without the pretentiousness you'd expect by gazing through the window. A great choice for calorie-counting hipsters who want healthy cuisine but might indulge in a heaping order of Bananas Foster.

As French as the Left Bank and as gracious as an old farmhouse in Provence. It's fragrant with baking breads and simmering soups. The extensive menu is simply elegant. Savor the cuisine and ambiance which has earned wide praise. You'll find the company congenial. Come for a slice of American history ... and a piece of French Camembert.

Local readers voted it one of the “Best New Contemporary Casual Restaurants,” serving fine Contemporary Italian Cuisine in a family-style atmosphere. Specializing in Osso Buco, fresh seafood and, of course, great pasta.

“One part artist. One part chemist. And one part historian.” Pizza here is among the best around. Thick crusts topped with buffalo mozzarella, artichokes, eggplant and prosciutto. Pastas are creamy and full-flavored. Salads taste as if they're straight from the garden. Excellent desserts. Lovely outdoor terrace and wine bar in the back.

Soba veteran and Mt. Lebanon native Jeff Iovino created this intimate and delightful restaurant. With an understated, appealing décor, this white tablecloth café offers great salads, pasta, seafood and meats with locally grown, organic ingredients.

Nemacolin's most acclaimed restaurant — the “grande dame” of fine dining in Western Pennsylvania. Named for Post-Impressionist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, this AAA Five-Star restaurant offers elegant dining with contemporary French flair. The menu changes daily. Artistic extras include tableside food presentations, custom champagne cart and cheese trolley service.

One of the best Italian restaurants for generations of Pittsburghers. Picture dinner scenes from The Godfather - you'll think Scorsese filmed here. A little bit out of the way, but definitely worth the trip. Those “in-the-know” are happy to drive to this hidden spot.

A piece of local culinary history, Hyeholde has been serving great meals to generations of discriminating diners since 1938. Famous for serving Pennsylvania game, live lobsters, oysters and turtle soup, Hyeholde is in an old Tudor-style mansion in the hills of Coraopolis. Perfect for intimate weddings and private parties.

Known for fine dining in a warm tavern atmosphere. With intimate booths, a long wooden bar, rich tones and low lighting, it's elegant and laid-back, with friendly service — making the many local patrons feel right at home. Crab cakes, seared trout, Cajun turtle soup, steamed mussels. Reminiscent of scenes from St. Elmo's Fire.

One of the first restaurants and bars to go non-smoking, this is a place that is serious about enjoying food. It's worth the trip to visit the idyllic grounds that inspired the restaurant's themed décor and simple menu of Contemporary American delights. Chef Michael Rudman uses strong flavors conservatively to avoid masking the delicacy of other flavors.