SOUTH END. 300 East has a sophisticated European feel ­ a bit Bohemian, a bit Champs-Elysées ­ and always makes for a memorable evening. The antique mahogany bar is where you'll find one of the best martinis anywhere, and, unlike some bars, 300 East's food is the perfect complement to your libations. They also boast a full Sunday brunch menu, including veggie eggs Benedict and a light breakfast of bagels and fruit. Sandwiches, salads and selected entrées are also available. On seasonable days, snag a table on the outside patio surrounded by cascading lantana and black-eyed susans.

UPTOWN. Perched on the 27th floor of Charlotte Plaza, Bentley's is sure to impress with its panoramic views of the impressive Uptown skyline. The scene inside features sharp, contemporary angles, recessed lighting and smartly appointed tables. The influence of France, meanwhile, shines through in dishes like veal chop with snow peas and bacon-whipped potatoes or mahi mahi with crimini mushrooms and carrot-ginger sauce. In addition, Bentley's employs a guéridon (a cart used for tableside cooking) to add a touch of theater to the dining experience.

SOUTH BOULEVARD. Eastern North Carolina style, South Carolina style, forget the distinctions...this is just plain "suey-perb" barbecue. The meat is slow roasted for a smoky, rich and tender culinary experience. You add the sauce (however much or little) you prefer. The hushpuppies are hot, the tea is sweet, and the staff is pleasing! So, bring your appetite and save room for some "nanner puddin'" (banana pudding).

If you're prone to let appearances fool you, then you may miss one of Charlotte's most genuine culinary gems: Bubba's Barbecue. Renowned all over the Southeast, Bubba's doesn't try to impress customers with smoke and mirrors ­ no, what you get here are a few tables, wood panel walls, some metal chairs and, of course, awesome hickory-smoked Eastern North Carolina BBQ. From ribs to pulled pork, hushpuppies to Southern-style coleslaw, for many a meal at Bubba's is nothing short of life-changing. And if you're in need of directions, just follow I-77 north to exit 16-B ... as the saying goes, "The 'B' stands for 'Bubba.'"

ELIZABETH. Looking for a place with old school appeal? Lupie's has been filling that niche in Elizabeth since 1987. In the years since its debut, this friendly, redbrick dining room has given folks from all walks of life a warm, friendly place where they can gather for great-tasting comfort food, wings and Texas-style chili, and even a few after-work brews. From Southern classics like chicken & dumplings to fettucini alfredo, the daily specials are hand-written on a chalkboard that hangs just outside the kitchen.