DOWNTOWN. Barrio appeals to a wide variety of people. Young professionals enjoy the trendy atmosphere and inventive Southwestern cuisine after work, the post-theater crowd enjoys the variety of late evening offerings, and nine-to-five types appreciate fresh and reasonably priced lunch fare. Menu standouts include an Anaheim chile stuffed with roasted garlic, black beans and goat cheese and topped with roasted red bell pepper cream sauce; Ensalada de pescado which pairs mixed greens, sunflower sprouts and pineapple relish with papaya-cilantro vinaigrette and pan-blackened fresh fish; a taco salad with lots of extras tossed with a kicky chile-cilantro-lime vinaigrette; pan-seared venison on shoestring potatoes with ancho chile aioli; and Dijon crusted rack of lamb. Barrio also offers flights of wine or spirits, perfect for sampling!

SOUTHEAST ARIZONA. The elegant desert setting of the Rex Ranch's restaurant is ideal for a quiet gourmet meal ­ nothing complements great food and wine like an awe-inspiring view. Try a grilled steak or the catch of the day, or venture into something more unique, such as grilled citrus chicken and shrimp with tequila-prickly pear sauce, or Colorado double cut lamb chop with port wine-cherry-jalapeno jus. Service is professional and knowledgeable.

CATALINAS. The Loews Ventana Canyon Resort has several top-notch restaurants, including the elegant Ventana Room and this, the tastefully casual Flying V Bar and Grill. Overlooking the Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with the Tucson skyline as a backdrop, the restaurant brings a bit of the outdoors in with natural stone, metal and leather décor. The Southwestern cuisine consists of grilled steaks, fish and fresh veggies like squash, corn, peppers and tomatoes. Hearty and robust flavors that avoid being heavy or overwhelming. The best views are from the deck, so if the weather is fine, ask to dine al fresco!

NORTHEAST. Walk on the wild side at Fuego, where innovative Southwestern cuisine is the order of the day. Relax by the roaring fire in the rustic fireplace ­ or head for the beautiful deck in the summer ­ and enjoy great meals ranging from ostrich or caribou to more traditional choices like steak and seafood. Every dish exudes the flavors of the Southwest, with plenty of influences from around the world. The sensational wine list and great microbrews complete a casual, always-interesting meal. Reservations recommended.

FOOTHILLS. The Gold Room has long been considered one of the finest restaurants in the city. The excellent location in the foothills offers great city views, but the wonderful Southwestern and Continental cuisine is what has made this restaurant a revered classic in Tuscon. Fresh herbs, produce and vegetables from the restaurant's own garden add a flavorful accent to each meal. Try the antelope, or go for classic beef Wellington. Reservations are suggested.