The Ritz earns its reputation with its luxurious and varied facilities alone. No fewer than five distinctive, richly appointed indoor and outdoor dining spaces grace the premises—ranging from the Escoffier Room, a pavilion-style space with Georgian accents and portraits of the renowned Paris Ritz Hotel chef Auguste Escoffier, to the Wine Cellar, a vaulted brick chamber accessed through an oval tunnel and illuminated by antlered chandeliers. The spectacle would be for naught without cuisine to match, and the outstanding contemporary menu encompassing French, Italian, and American influences meets the task. A clientele laden with deal-makers and lovebirds indulges in entrées like almond-crusted halibut, grilled ahi and swordfish, and carmelized onion and pepper top sirloin—all served with sophisticated, elegant flair by a caring waitstaff. The inspired desserts, many of which incorporate liqueurs, include a homey warm pear cheesecake and a decadent martini made with coffee- and vanilla-flavored vodka and Godiva chocolate.

The Ritz Information:

• American, French menu. Lunch, dinner. Closed holidays. Bar. Valet parking.