Amerigo caters to sophisticated customers, ones who may have visited Florence, Italy, and who yearn for the simple, flavorful foods and classic interiors of that region. Dark wood paneling adds to the centuries-old European building effect. The wood-fired pizza oven makes this a great place to come on a chilly winter night. The dinner crowd is affluent East Memphis. As for the food, the mussels in broth make an outstanding appetizer or whole meal. Pasta portions are huge, so you can take the leftovers home for lunch the next day. Order the planked fish of the day to share-it comes with wonderful wood-smoked mashed potatoes and vegetables. Desserts include tiramisu and a credible key lime pie!

The food here tends to have a Mediterranean base, with risottos, pastas and salmon appearing in many variations, but infused with delicious Asian touchees. The Salmon with Wasabi Glaze and Tomato Basil Risotto is a perfect example. Local favorites are incorporated, too, as in the grilled shrimp with grits. Feta cheese, tapenade sauce, pancetta and gazpacho offer southern European elements, while Memphis' proximity to New Orleans is recognized in the Barbecued Catfish with Remoulade Sauce. Buttermilk pie with brown sugar sauce is among the best of the lush desserts. Occupying a small space, this restaurant is cozy with dark wood paneling. The atmosphere is casual and relaxing.

The menu at the Grove Grill continually varies, as the chef rotates dishes with the seasons. Oysters, for example, may appear in an oyster-and-artichoke soup or in a fried oysters Rockefeller. The pasta dishes here are fresh and imaginative; the beef, lamb, and pork are tender and delicious; and the desserts are understated but delighful.The restaurant's interior is charming, revealing no hint of the shopping center outside. With its high ceiling and wood-paneled walls, the decor combines elegance with a cozy casualness. The bar, set off from the restaurant, is a great place to have a huge martini before dinner. Diners often include well-known local figures, executives entertaining clients and couples celebrating anniversaries. Call ahead for details.

Located in East Memphis, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar offers fine dining in an elegant atmosphere. Succulent cuts of beef are the house specialties. The large selections of wines complement the meal in style. Baked brie, beef carpaccio and other appetizers are a delightful way to begin your meal. Filet mignon, prime rib, pork, chicken and the freshest seafood are available as entrees. Delectable desserts complete the austere dining experience. -Ann Baker

Circa is the place to dine if you desire upscale lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch in East Memphis. The restaurant recreates the dining experience of a French bistro circa the 1900s. It is a classic and elegant venue for special occasions or a date night. The menu features French-inspired dishes, such as crawfish beignets or chevre stuffed chicken. Whether you are a vegetarian, beef aficionado or seafood lover, this restaurant will not disappoint. -Ann Baker

A favorite on the Memphis dining scene, this local joint is the place to go for traditional Italian fare, such as spaghetti and meatballs, pizza and lasagna. The place is so authentic that you half expect a ninety-year-old Italian grandma to come out of the kitchen and give you a big kiss on the cheek. You can also order for steaks and seafood. A private dining room is available for bookings and carryout is also available. Reservations are recommended on the weekends.

Located in a strip shopping center, Los Reyes offers generous servings of Mexican favorites at very reasonable prices. The beef and chicken fajitas are especially good you will find no stringy bits of meat here. Enchiladas and tamales are served with a thick meat sauce. All dinners are served with the eatery's excellent Spanish rice and refried beans and the creamy guacamole is highly recommended. Complimentary chips and salsa are served with meals. The atmosphere is casual.

This brewpub features several beers made on site, including Boscos Flaming Stone Beer, concocted using traditional German brewing techniques that give the beer its unique caramel character. Also on tap are India Pale Ale, Scottish Ale and various seasonal offerings. The specialty pizzas, such as the vegetarian, barbecue chicken and New York and Santa Fe varieties, are the best bets. Pastas, sandwiches, salads and grill items are also available. The Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip and the battered and fried calamari appetizers are especially good. The pub atmosphere offers casual dining plus an outdoor patio. On the weekend, try the Sunday jazz brunch.

Try this fun and interesting restaurant for a taste of local cuisine. The atmosphere, the friendly owner and the food combine for a down-home experience. Try the fried chicken, catfish, or fried green tomatoes. You will also find an array of salads and vegetables including turnip greens, mashed potatoes and green beans. Desserts include a rich bread pudding and German chocolate cake. A jungle motif provides an interesting and entertaining atmosphere, especially for the kids. The service is friendly and the owner is usually around to greet customers as they come in the door.

The chefs here are experts on the difference between medium and medium-well. Or, cook your steak yourself. The menu is limited to steak and a few other items including chicken, salmon and pork chops. Baked potato, creamed spinach and sauteed mushrooms are sides. Appetizers include Cajun Sauteed Shrimp and Spinach & Artichoke Dip. After your meal, indulge in such delights as Sizzling Apple Pie, Homemade Cheesecake and Chocolate Thunder Brownie. A children's menu is available. The atmosphere is simple and casual with a dark interior with wooden floors, large tables and comfortable seating.