George's offers many Lebanese and American dishes, and there is even a small Lebanese grocery section in the restaurant. The décor is simple and casual; there are just 10 tables in the intimate dining room. The food is very fresh--George cooks it himself as it is ordered. Though not the fastest in town, the service is friendly, and the food is always worth the wait. George's also offers an extensive catering menu.

Making her way from humble beginnings, Ruth Fertel has managed to create a wonderful haven in the form of Ruth's Chris Steak House. The restaurant is a good place to try some steaks cooked in traditional recipes and spiced according to the diner's indications. The success story that it has become owes credit to the fine flavor and texture of the meat, combined with the splendid service that makes the experience well worth the high prices. The classic New York Strip, the various pastas and sandwiches all hold a special place in the hearts of the patrons. The steaks can be washed down with wine from the bar. Do not forget to try the tasty desserts that are equally famous too.

Bringing the culinary delights of Italy to the States, this eatery strives to offer guests a true taste of Tuscan bliss. The food at Brio Tuscan Grill is prepared using authentic Italian wood-burning ovens and the arched collanades and mosaics make guests as though they're stepping into an Italian oasis. This restaurant also receives rave reviews from customers; it surely sticks to its motto of "To Eat Well, Is To Live Well". On the weekends, come for brunch--it's served until 3 p.m. The Brio Tuscan Grill is a must-visit for a lip-smacking Italian treat!

Fleming's is one of Birmingham's as well as the country's best steak houses. Steak options include Filet Mignon, New York Strip, Beef Flemington, Veal chops, Pork Rib Chop, and Prime Ribs. So take your pick and ask your waiter to help you choose from the 100 different wines. If you're not a meat fan, then sample the fresh seafood and scrumptious side dishes. The Salmon with the signature mashed potatoes are highly recommended.

Mike's may look like a backyard shed with an awning and patio furniture, but this bare-bones eatery offers Chicago-style hot dogs and big, grilled burgers with a smoky flavor. Mike's was a finalist in the Birmingham News Best Burger Around contest, which, judging by the large lunch crowds, is no surprise to locals.

Located on Oxmoor Road in Homewood, Nabeel's offers a full range of Greek repasts along with an adjoining store stocked with Mediterranean groceries. The décor is very cozy and very Greek, furnished with antique-looking Mediterranean furniture and decorative ceramics. The tables are candlelit, and the lighting is soft. The interesting menu tapers upward from a massive array of salads, soups, and Greek appetizers, to a much smaller selection of main-course meat dishes including John's Steak, Shrimp Aegean and Chicken Skewers.

Located on 18th Street in Downtown Homewood, De Vinci's offers an array of pizza and pasta dishes. The décor is a step up from the typical pizzeria, featuring Italian art and photographs on the walls, and looks more like a formal Italian restaurant, with tables and booths in two dining rooms. The menu lists calzones, sandwiches, appetizers, desserts and 27 different pasta dishes, but pizza is the specialty. Many believe that De Vinci's serves the best pizza in town--the crowds seem to support this contention.

Located on Green Springs Highway just north of Valley Avenue, Renge is easily the most authentic Japanese restaurant in Birmingham. The décor is typical Japanese (although there are tables and chairs and you can leave your shoes on) with several small dining rooms and a sushi bar. The menu offers sushi, soup noodles and other traditional Japanese dishes.

Located at the corner of Green Springs Highway and Oxmoor Road in Homewood, this charming restaurant is great for romantic dinners. There are large tables for families or groups and small intimate booths for couples, all covered with checkered tablecloths. Photographs and paintings of Italy adorn the walls. The food is strictly traditional Italian-American fare in very large portions which offers a good value.

A traditional Chinese restaurant with uniformly high-quality dishes. The egg rolls are crisp, not soggy, and a good start with fresh hot and sour soup. General Tso's chicken is a favorite as well. A variety of chicken, pork, beef and vegetable options are available.