CAPITOL HILL. A breakfast haven for locals since the late '70s, this friendly, offbeat café is known far and wide for its great breakfasts. From traditional eggs-bacon-potatoes combos to more unusual dishes like tahini French toast and Greek omelets, the menu has all bases covered. Coffee cake and cinnamon rolls are freshly baked, and there are four kinds of pancakes. Don't expect a fancy scene, though, because it's the type of place people head to having just rolled out of bed. On Saturday mornings, 14 Carrot tends to stay quite packed, so expect a wait. Lunch is good too!

QUEEN ANNE. Scan the menu at this fun and funky American eatery, and you'll likely find your favorite region of the States soundly represented, from Southern-style Tasso ham and honey-stung fried chicken to Northwestern salmon cakes and Southwestern shrimp enchilada con queso. Indeed, 5 Spot is nothing if not dynamic, even changing its artwork and decor every so often to transport patrons to various seasonal locales. Early-risers (and late-risers, too!) take heed ­ their breakfast menu, available until midnight, features the likes of red flannel hash, smoked salmon scramble, and homestyle biscuits & gravy.

CAPITOL HILL. This cozy red-brick eatery is ideal for people on a budget, especially if Sunday brunch is on the slate. As the name no doubt hints, homemade crêpes are the stars (many local rags regard these as the "best in town"), and the skilled chef stuffs them with everything from salmon, ham, and Gruyere cheese to scallions, potatoes, and sautéed veggies. Friendly, Parisian-esque service and a comfortable lounge make this an easy fave of Capitol Hill's young, hip crowd.

KIRKLAND. Anthony's HomePort enjoys immense popularity thanks largely to a mastery of fresh seafood, vegetables, and salads. Start with garlic herb mussels, and then try chargrilled halibut cheeks, fishermen's cioppino, fettuccine with fresh Dungeness crab, or even a NY steak. For dessert, consider homemade deep-dish apple crisp served with Olympia Mountain cinnamon ice cream. Enjoy great views of the water from inside the restaurant.

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND. An interesting union of Northwestern and Mediterranean fare emerges at this romantic eatery, one of Bainbridge Island's culinary treasures. House specialties include Cornish hen with wild rice-almond stuffing, and chicken medallions with Egyptian curry sauce. More exotic dishes are featured as well, such as coffee ground-encrusted ostrich filet with fresh seasonal vegetables. Although the elegant dining room is lovely, during fine weather the best tables are on the tranquil garden patio. In addition, the restaurant promotes regional wines, so you'll have quite an array of choices.