DOWNTOWN. The Westin Crown Center's signature restaurant is perched on the hotel's top floor. Elegantly appointed with white linens and candles, tables are intimately arranged, conducive to quiet conversation. The restaurant's subdued decor takes a back seat to floor-to-ceiling windows, which afford fabulous views of downtown. American steaks are the specialty, although chops, fish, and seafood are available as well. Rumor has it that Sunday brunch at the restaurant is a treat unlike any other, thanks to dishes like prime rib, made-to-order omelets, fresh fruits and salads, shrimp, caviar, and a host of delectable desserts.

LEAWOOD. This classy restaurant is a near-perfect seafood standard. The dining room features a gorgeous, stained-glass dome that's only part of the restaurant's claim to fame. A visit to Bristol wouldn't be complete without at least a nibble of the sweet drop biscuits that have helped put the place on the map! Bristol also serves terrific crab cakes, wonderful grilled fish, and a sinful array of desserts. A great wine list and individualized service top off the experience.

WESTPORT. One of the best reasons to visit the Kemper Museum is this innovative American restaurant, whose talented chef serves up delicious portions of pan-seared foie gras, grilled scallops, and roasted beef tenderloin. A concise but eclectic wine list rounds out the experience. The dining area is decorated with more than 100 original oil paintings, each of which reflects a different movement, school, or figure in art history. While the cafe is a favorite lunch destination among members of Kansas City's well-heeled elite, dinner is served only on Friday and Saturday nights.

SOUTH KANSAS CITY. The name EBT comes from Emery, Bird and Thayer, the name of downtown's one-time department store. Many artifacts and architectural elements from the store are now featured in the restuarant's decor. As transfixed as they are by these classic elements, diners are also sold on EBT's tasty fare, including appetizers like portobello mushrooms and crab cakes and entrees like herb-encrusted swordfish and Black Angus steaks. Food presentation is on par with the service. Reservations suggested.

DOWNTOWN. Upon close inspection, you'll likely determine that little has changed about this KC staple since it first opened back in the 1940s. Golden Ox is the quintessential Midwestern steakhouse, complete with "City Slickers"-style ambiance: dark wood paneling, dim lighting, Western-themed decor, and a wagon wheel chandelier. Vegetarians and dieters beware: Black Angus cuts and highly regarded prime rib are king here, and entrées come with large portions of hot vegetables and starchy sides.