Many locals feel the Vinings neighborhood is fast becoming the city's most prestigious dining destination, and with places like Blackstone, it's easy to see why. A grand restaurant in the dark-wood, big-tabled American tradition, large corporate parties and small family gatherings are equally at home here. The classic bar itself is worth a trip. American dishes here are served in big American proportions. Check out the Big Eye Tuna steak with mango relish, spicy black beans and goat cheese. A good wine selection, full service bar, easy to pocket early dinner specials keep patrons coming back for more.

Amid the snazzier and snobbier clubs of Midtown's night scene, the Last Great Watering Hole remains a grounding, down-to-earth presence. Great local sounds are featured most nights of the week, with different live bands each night. The kitchen offers steaks, ribs, chicken and salads in addition to regular pub fare such as wings, chips and cheese sticks. If you're just here to dine, be prepared to deal with a pretty noisy crowd, especially later in the evening. A full bar serves until 4a.

Not far off Interstate 75 in Marietta, this reliable spot specializes in authentic south of the border specialties for the crowd. The ambiance is Old Mexico, with fun furnishings and decorations throughout. Equally appropriate for a family outing or for when the business meeting has dragged on too long and it's time to lighten the mood. In keeping with Mexican-American eatery tradition, the platters are huge, and offer plates combining tacos, burritos, fajitas, enchiladas and more. The chicken and beef quesadillas are without equal in Cobb County. Beer and wine are available.

The laid-back attitude at El Ranchero creates a great atmosphere for fine, affordable dining. You'll feel as though you've stepped into an old desert cantina, whether nestled in a booth in the back room, or front and center at a table near the door. Enjoy the dim, cool environment with a margarita from the bar while you wait for your order. With most entrees being easy to the pocket, you can afford to treat the crowd once in a while. Great frijoles and fajitas headline a menu of authentic Mexican winners.

At Houlihan's, the focus is on fun, at least until the food arrives. The restaurant is perhaps a shade more formal than national chain competitors such as Bennigan's and T.G.I.Fridays, but keeps the mood high nonetheless. The centrally located bar provides a hub around which activity at the warm wooden booths and tables revolves. Great for happy hours, work parties, and large groups. Houlihan's serves up the best of the new American sit-down fast food. Pasta dishes, fajitas, barbecue and salads are all competently prepared and satisfying.

Set in the nerve center of the trendy Vinings district on Atlanta's north side, the Vinings Inn serves as a lively gathering place for a few drinks or a light dinner in a comfortable historic setting. The building resembles an early 20th-century farmhouse, while inside the antique charm is in full swing, with live entertainment nightly in the attic bar. The restaurant serves mostly standard American fare with a mild salute to Southern influence, and all dishes are competently prepared and fairly priced. Full wine, beer and liquor service is available.

Formerly a gas station, Brake Pad delights patrons with stellar brews and mouth-watering burgers. The Brake Pad features one of the best outdoor patios in the College Park area, with plenty of outdoor seating and kitschy decor. It has become quite the hangout for those heading to the airport as well as a mix of locals. Their spicy black bean quesadilla and house special Brake Pad burger are among the favorites.

The Manchester Arms offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience that is still perfect for the whole family. The restaurant is full of unique and historic decor, including a naval Union Jack flag that's over a hundred years old and a bar top made from reclaimed box-car wood. The Manchester Arms serves contemporary British Gastro Pub dishes, such as a cold smoked salmon sandwich. Save room for dessert with tempting options such as sticky toffee pudding. You'll also find an impressive selection of British beers and ales.

Located on an unassuming corner of Atlanta's Dunwoody neighborhood, d'Vine Wine Bar & Shop is truly a gem for those who love wine. Boasting a long list of accolades (including the 2009 Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator), d'Vine features a wide selection of wines and a delicious food menu to accompany them. With wine tasting events every night and lovely patio dining, a visit to d'Vine makes for a great night out.

Nine Street Kitchen in Historic Roswell puts an emphasis on fresh ingredients, making all the sauces, rubs, dressings, and marinades from scratch every day. Many locals come to sample the small plates, like the homemade bleu cheese and celery, or the Pizzadilla, which is pepperoni, tomato, and cheese, wrapped in a tortilla. One of the menu features is Marina del Mer, which is linguini topped with crab, shrimp, and marinara. Weekends and some nights find the patio filled, with patrons bobbing heads to the sounds of live music.