FELL'S POINT ­ GREEKTOWN. You'll feel like you've stepped onto a Aegean isle when you enjoy an evening at the Acropolis ­ the ambience and food make this the next best thing to being there. Colorful murals decorate the walls, Greek music flows from the sound system, and the smells of homestyle Greek cooking linger in the air. The seafood specialties are fresh and authentic, generously sauced with olive oil, white wine and herbs, with options such as shrimp, rockfish and red snapper. Or try braised lamb served with orzo. Then sit back and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of Greece.

MT VERNON. Head to this upscale restaurant for the best in flavorful North Indian cuisine. Spicy but not overwhelming, each dish shows a delicate balance of flavors that keeps locals returning for more. If you come for lunch, opt for the tasty, affordable buffet. For dinner, try the classic lamb curry or chicken tikka, both redolent with coriander and cumin, or sample specialties like vegetable fritters in creamy yogurt or any of the excellent, buttery masala dishes. Relax amid the muted colors of the elegant dining room while digging into indulgent Indian ice cream made with pistachios and rosewater.

BALTIMORE. Sicilian actor Al Pacino probably knows good pizza ­ that much is true. Oddly enough, the "Godfather" star has nothing to do with this restaurant. Transplants from Egypt created this cafe in the mid-1990s, and it has become a unique stop for Middle Eastern favorites and classic Italian pizza, often jazzed up with interesting combinations of designer flavors. Unique toppings such as mango chutney, yogurt curry, and tandoori chicken make for surprisingly delicious pies. The ornate Egyptian atmosphere only adds to the pleasingly over-the-top dynamic.

CHARLES VILLAGE. This is Indian cuisine fit for a king or a queen. Solicitous service, a fabulously ornate dining room and a lovely outdoor patio supplement a perfectly executed menu of flavorful Indian favorites. Enjoy excellent chicken tikka masala with a rich tomato-based sauce, spicy grilled shrimp in limejuice and chili, or the exotic Bengali swordfish in a tangy-sweet mango sauce. On warm evenings, take advantage of the garden dining area, which creates a tranquil oasis with its trickling fountain.

Little Italy is full of excellent, authentic dining options, but this one has carved out a niche for its friendly hospitality and its simple but flavorful cuisine. Ample portions of pastas, meats and seafood are generously ladled with the excellent, robust tomato sauce and plenty of melting cheese. Sample ziti la rosa, full of tasty sautéed shrimp, or the sweet, hearty sausage Marsala. The restaurant has several small dining rooms divided by hallways, giving an intimate feel to the space. If you have any room left after all that feasting ­ most don't ­ the cannoli is a worthwhile indulgence.