Bites Nearby: Tempo

is a place for gourmet dining in an elegant atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion. Be forewarned, though, the wine menu prices aren't for the faint-of-heart.

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. And why not: Customers receive a better table and don't have to wait? Although it's known for its fine dining, you can also just hang out at the more-casual bar with its two large flat screens and people-watch.

Favorite dishes: More than half of the menu features seafood, such as mussels, oysters, calamari, salmon, tuna, lobster, catch of the day and a house special swordfish chop served with paella and asparagus. For carnivores, gourmet meats come from local farms.

The Vibe: Hip, well-heeled, and sociable, with pop and rock music in the background and Top 40s hits after 10 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays.

Cool factor no. 1: All the appetizers -- about a dozen mouth-watering, tapas-like dishes -- are $7 before 7 p.m.

Cool factor no. 2: Free samplings of wines or other liquors are offered every Thursday, 7-9 p.m.