Set in a small, black-tiled basement on Newbury Street, Thai Basil is less expensive than its location would suggest. The menu includes standout spring rolls, flavorful tofu and spicy seafood. The service is fast but not rushed, and the space is intimate without being cramped. Step downstairs and enjoy delicious Thai food with a young, relaxed crowd in a romantic atmosphere.

Bangkok Blue serves all of the Thai favorites, but it is also popular among diners seeking a more adventurous culinary experience. For example, try the Chili shrimp and Soft shell crabs with basil sauce. The Back Bay location means interesting people-watching for patio patrons. Or you may enjoy an intimate dinner inside, where the blue walls lend credence to the name.

Tucked away at the chic Newbury Street, Cafe Jaffa serves up shwarma, kabobs, grape leaves, Turkish coffee and Israeli wine. Less adventurous diners will also find plenty to eat in the way of burgers and sandwiches. Brick walls create a cozy ambiance. The service is friendly and quick. This restaurant, which serves beer and wine, is a great choice when you are not up for the pretension of other nearby restaurants.

Salmon quesadillas may not be the rage in Mexico City, but they are just right for Boston's trendy South End. Other California-inspired Mexican dishes include duck-breast fajitas and seafood paella. Portions are huge at Baja Mexican Cantina but the prices are not. The after-work crowd often gathers here for a bit of tequila-slamming revelry. There are over 70 kinds of tequila and hundreds of varieties of margaritas available. Do not miss the all-you-can-eat jazz brunch on Sundays.

Sidewalk dining, masterful, award-winning margaritas and a bustling bar bring a young crowd to Cactus Club. Crispy Nachos, Buffalo Wings and spicy Queso are some of the appetizing items. While eating your Quesadillas, enjoy the distractions of the trivia games on TV screens, unique décor such as animal skulls and the loud and energetic crowd. The wait for a table can be considerable on weekends.

This 50-seat Back Bay Indian eatery is located near the Charles River. The daily specials at India Samraat Restaurant are the biggest draw for both vegetarians and carnivores. Tea and bread put the finishing touches on satisfying meals. Order a dish that contains some of the homemade cheese. Come at noon and enjoy the rice, cabbage, chutney and papadams that come with the lunch platters. The restaurant serves beer and wine.

Casa Romero is an ideal location for couples and anyone seeking some serenity with their salsa. The outdoor courtyard is gorgeous in nice weather, and the attractive Back Bay clientele make for prime people-watching anytime. The restaurant is actually tucked away in a basement on a side street of Newbury Street, and the food sells itself. The seafood is first-rate, and the meats also impress. Quench your thirst with a pitcher of sangria or a salty margarita for the ultimate Mexican dining experience.

Nestled on the sidewalk of Newbury Street, Kashmir restaurant has an ornate yet subtly lit ambiance. Unlike some trendy spots nearby, the food lives up to the décor and location. Relax with large plates of excellent tandoori or the chicken and lamb dishes. Make time in the afternoon for one of the best Indian buffet lunches in town. You can also enjoy the outdoor seating in the summer months while you people watch and sip on a cool cocktail.

No wonder this is called "Boston's living room." Situated within Boston's Four Seasons Hotel, as soon as you step through the door, you're sure to feel right at home. Popular with the young professionals after work, feel free to lounge around with your tea or cocktail gazing out of the floor-to-ceiling windows, while warming up next to the cozy fireplace.

Douzo means welcome in Japanese and this restaurant has certainly been welcoming guests on a regular basis. Creative sushi rolls and delicious cocktails are served at this eatery. Menu is extensive and selecting can be a chore, especially if you are new to the cuisine. But don't hesitate to take help from the obliging staff. Go ahead and order a variety of these tiny treats and combine them with some of the unique sakes on offer. Afternoons feature an affordable lunch menu. The interiors are simple with a touch of elegance added by Asian art pieces. Good food, delivery and takeout are the biggest pluses of this venue on Dartmouth.