MIAMI LAKES. Local sports legend Don Shula, once the coach of the Miami Dolphins, runs this clubby steakhouse, which has some of the most tender and delicious beef in the area. The football theme is evident throughout, with photos, pennants and newspaper clippings on every wall ­ particularly those detailing Shula's 1972 Super Bowl victory. Business groups, families, sports fans and steak lovers of every ilk rave about great cuts like the 48-ounce porterhouse and the tender filet. Try the surf and turf, which includes a succulent 3-pound Maine lobster. If you have any room left, double chocolate cheesecake is a treat. Reservations recommended.

CORAL GABLES. This restaurant is known for having the area's best breakfast, but its vast champagne brunch buffet on Sundays (10am-3pm) presents some tough decisions. Everything is presented so elegantly, you'll want a little bit of it all. How about an omelet made any way you like? Pastas? Sushi? Or even caviar? Afterwards, there's a chocolate fountain and no shortage of sinful dessert offerings. Indeed, no one walks away hungry! Live music complements the meal perfectly, and al fresco seating is available in the tropical courtyard.

SOUTH MIAMI. The gourmet sandwiches at this casual local favorite fly out of the shop every weekday ­ a lot of local workers call or fax ahead to get their fix. You can also sit in the simple but pleasant dining room to enjoy your sandwich or salad. Either way, the options are limitless, with numerous gourmet fillings and combinations that can be served on tortillas, baguettes, whole wheat bread or crusty rolls. The menu includes numerous vegetarian combos, like the eggplant Parmesan sandwich, as well as meat-filled classics like turkey and ham and unique favorites like the Bayou chicken wrap. The fresh-baked cookies are a must for dessert.

SOUTH BEACH. As polished and gracious as is the Ritz, so is Americana. Dressed in sleek mid-century style and peppered with stainless steel, the restaurant is a beauty. Its menu is just as well composed, if not a little more bold in approach. Classic comfort foods are the kitchen's realm, but they're taken to new heights of invention. As a result, you'll find phyllo fried chicken, lamb cassoulet, braised veal ravioli and Dover sole presented in four different preparations. Steaks with lush sauces of truffles and cognac can also be had, and desserts are similarly delicious. In addition, Sunday brunch is an extensive, spectacular event.

SOUTH BEACH. If your idea of decadence is to indulge in excellent cuisine and be attended to in style, you'll adore this posh restaurant and nightspot. Luxurious beds replace typical seating, and dinner is served on elegant trays, in keeping with BED's acronym: "beverage, entertainment and dining." Early in the evening, an upscale clientele samples eclectic dishes amid the sexy digs; later on, trendy patrons transform the place into absolute BED-lam. While DJs spin tunes meant to get bodies moving, stylish drinks nurture fun and romance. Don't forget to keep an eye out for celebrities.