Very contemporary cuisine matched by an equally chic decor is what Canton Dockside is all about. The regular jazz performances are another added charm that draws patrons, locals and tourists to this fine-diner. You can drop in at this restaurant to enjoy daily lunches and dinners that seem more like intimate gatherings within the warm wood and granite interiors. Or then you can enjoy its weekly Champagne Jazz brunches held on Sundays. Canton's is the best place for the whole family-the food is great, the atmosphere relaxed, and the prices worthwhile!

If crabs are your forte, then Bo Brooks Crab House is a must. From Bo's traditional Steamers to innovative dishes like crab quesadillas, cream of crab soup and Bo's crab fluff which is actually a crab cake dipped in homemade beer batter. Bo's features the best of Baltimore seafood. For further details, visit their website.

Coburn's Tavern & Grill has a decidedly English-pub feel to it with its faux fireplace, wood tables and mirrored bar. The food extends beyond the traditional pub offerings to include breakfast and fresh salads, pizzas, a hand-tossed dough topped with grilled onions, olives, spinach and feta cheese. House specialties include the crab pie and a tasty shrimps, clams, chicken, ham and saffron rice with garlic, tomatoes, artichokes, onions and peas.

This small restaurant combines a casual atmosphere with excellent food. Here, the cacti centerpieces, the giant lizard over the bar and other Southwestern touches let you know you're in for a spicy experience. And the food doesn't disappoint. The Smoked Shrimp Quesadilla and the Vegetable Medley are both fantastic. And how can you not fall for a place where the kitchen makes its own tortilla chips. The restaurant also makes a mean coconut flan.

It is an unwritten rule that every Baltimore neighborhood must have at least one Irish pub, and this busy establishment fills Canton's quota in spades. It's not so much the meat-and-potatoes menu, or the pictures of Irish musicians adorning the walls that make this such a great pub. The spirit of the place is what makes it so special. Whether you're in the bar for a Guinness, or in the dining room feasting on Rack of Lamb, you'll be sure to smile.

This tiny jewel of a bistro does many things very well. On one hand, it is a great coffee bar. On the other hand, it is a dandy wine bar, with a list that's affordable and eclectic. Then again, it is a vegetarian restaurant, boasting items like the La Luna (eggplant, greens and provolone wrapped in a pesto flatbread!). However, the seafood entrees are the best. Finally, the downstairs is a bustling café and the upstairs a cozy, candle-lit, folk-art styled hide-away.

Canton, located just a few minutes to the Northeast of downtown, is the most recent in a fairly long line of revitalized Baltimore neighborhoods. As such, it has become home to young professionals and urban hipsters. One of the favorite hangouts of this energetic crowd is this small, friendly Mexican restaurant that offers enormous portions of good food at modest prices. The Portabello Mushroom and Spinach Quesadilla is terrific, National Bohemian beer is exceptionally cheap, and at least a dozen portraits of Elvis grace the walls.

Crossroads situated in the luxurious Radisson Hotel At Cross Keys, is an elegant dining area with a comforting ambiance. The cuisine served is simple and American. The pricing is not overwhelming and the staff is cooperative. The restaurant has a patio area where you can dine when the weather is perfect for an outdoor dining experience. Call the restaurant for more information. 

The Northwest Baltimore neighborhood of Roland Park is one of the city's prettiest. Full of beautiful old homes and ancient oaks, it's the perfect setting for this French-style bistro. The fare is simple, with piquant sauces and perfectly prepared meats. From the Mussels Provencale to the Grilled Lamb Brochette, you just can't go wrong. Plus, there are more than 100 excellent, and very affordable, wines available. You'll definitely want to linger: the hardwood floors, dark paneling, brass fixtures and elegant table settings provide a wonderful atmosphere.

Loco Hombre is as good as Tex-Mex gets, so be prepared to wait for a table, as reservations are not accepted. The small dining room boasts a desert mural and cactus wall decorations, making the space cheerful. Tables are clustered close together and set with fiesta ware. Start your meal with a cup of Black Bean Soup, adorned with a dollop of sour cream, red salsa and cilantro. For an entree, consider a tasty enchilada or sizzling fajitas! You won't be disappointed.