MIAMI LAKES. Canton is slightly more upscale than many area restaurants, and most evenings it caters to couples and groups of local executives. The menu is extensive, with options ranging from beef to vegetarian. The steaks earn top marks for quality, freshness and skillful preparation, and honey garlic chicken, served in lip-smacking stacks on the plate, is sure to disappear quickly. From Cantonese to Szechwan to Mandarin, the chefs cook with confidence, and servers present each dish with efficiency and friendliness.

SOUTH BEACH. This bustling Asian-fusion favorite is known for its satisfying, family-style portions of fantastic seafood and other Asian favorites. Celebrities, millionaires, and other jet setters often make a night of it here. The vivid decor features transcripts of Marco Polo's diaries on the floor, but there is usually too much people-watching going on to notice. Tantalizing menu options include seared rare tuna with spicy Japanese peppers or delicate rolled lobster pancakes. The side dishes are as excellent as the main dishes, especially the wasabi mashed potatoes. (Insider tip: Oprah recommends the crispy spinach.) Finish your evening with a bang by ordering the dessert sampler, which features a small portion of every dessert on the menu, from crème brûlée to flourless chocolate cake, served complete with a festive sparkler. Reservations required.

COCONUT GROVE. Middle Eastern restaurants are few and far between in Miami, but Daily Bread offers a delectable array of tabouli, baba ghanoush and lamb or beef kebabs, all served with generous portions of fresh pita bread. Daily specials may include lamb and cauliflower with preserved lemon, and gourmet sandwiches and salads satisfy on-the-go patrons. Quick service and wallet-friendly prices also please, and the baklava is widely regarded as some of the best in town.

DOWNTOWN. An important cornerstone in downtown Miami for many years, this restaurant is famous for vegetarian, fat-free and low-fat fare, along with interesting daily specials. Try the soup of the day ­ always a winner ­ or an omelet and a smoothie. Although red meat is not on the menu, even dedicated carnivores are sure to be satisfied with chicken, seafood, vegetable, or pasta dishes served in imaginative ways. Low prices and a relaxed, upbeat environment make this eatery a lunchtime favorite, particularly with the executive set.

NORTH MIAMI. Shirk the chains, with their standard, artery-clogging fare and try this restaurant for unique, healthy meals. Health food can now be found everywhere, but this longstanding favorite was one of the first in the Miami area. The diner atmosphere is appealing in its simplicity, and the menu features a rotating selection of entrees, soups, and salads. You'll find plenty of options for vegetarians, including veggie-stuffed wraps and the miso burger, but chicken and fish dishes are available as well. Whatever you choose, you'll want to top it with the famous Sun Sauce, a tangy topping that is a closely guarded recipe.