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.

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND. An interesting union of Northwestern and Mediterranean fare emerges at this romantic eatery, one of Bainbridge Island's culinary treasures. House specialties include Cornish hen with wild rice-almond stuffing, and chicken medallions with Egyptian curry sauce. More exotic dishes are featured as well, such as coffee ground-encrusted ostrich filet with fresh seasonal vegetables. Although the elegant dining room is lovely, during fine weather the best tables are on the tranquil garden patio. In addition, the restaurant promotes regional wines, so you'll have quite an array of choices.

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.

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.