HISTORIC DISTRICT. Although housed in a 19th-century mansion, 700 Drayton has a pronounced modern sensibility that creates a dynamic tension in its cuisine and decor. Beautiful architecture, vibrant artwork, and high ceilings set the scene for updated dishes that include blue crab-crusted red snapper with lime-tomatillo sauce, a stuffed pork chop with homemade apple sauce, cabernet-braised short ribs, and pan-roasted grouper and shrimp fricassee with a country ham and herb grit cake. A fun lounge is also part of the package, and if you become enamored of the cuisine, the inn's on-site cooking school will teach you how to prepare it on your own!

Located in the exclusive Westin resort, this dining room offers a beautiful view of the city. The kitchen specializes in premium seafood and steak dishes. Start off with she crab soup, and then dig into the signature filet, wrapped in applewood bacon. If you're still hungry, the dessert menu boasts an exquisite crème brûlée. Sunday brunch is also popular.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. A bountiful breakfast buffet draws hungry patrons to Belford's each morning, and the a la carte menu features items like a blue crab frittata and traditional eggs Benedict. Sunday brunch follows suit and includes great choices from the lunch menu, including shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and filling sandwiches. At dinner, you'll find options like Cajun lobster ravioli, shrimp-stuffed filet mignon, and grilled fish. A favorite.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. Whether you've come for a dinner date or weekend brunch, this neighborhood café doesn't disappoint. Large windows, an outdoor dining space, and a focus on healthy dishes (vegetarian and vegan options are available) ensure lots of business. Popular fare includes spicy Caribbean shrimp, Carolina red trout, Italian sausage lasagna, and a vegetable napoleon. Bolstering these selections are plenty of sandwiches, pastas, soups, and salads. Happily, Firefly is a big proponent of recycling and makes a strong effort to promote sustainability.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. Soho South's motto is "where food is an art," and since 1997, they've been turning out delicious offerings certain to please palate and eye. Terrific ingredients and attention to detail make a noticeable difference in quality, as seen in the Sunday brunch menu. Try a flavor-packed Southwestern omelet, enjoy a savory Monte Cristo sandwich, or give yourself over to their shrimp and grits. If you'd prefer something with a sweeter touch, go for brioche French toast or crisp-edged pecan waffles. Scrumptious bakery goods are also on-hand.