SEAPORT DISTRICT. Open since 1963 and located on the waterfront, Anthony's offers diners great views of the harbor and city. Excellent and fresh seafood entrees (try the lobster as it's their specialty item) line the menu that features a variety of grilled, breaded, and steamed items as well as a well-selected wine list. It's a pleasant place to dine, especially during nice weather.

BACK BAY. A beloved part of the Boston scene since the late 1970s, Atlantic Fish sports an updated atmosphere these days ­ in other words, the original's galley look was traded in for a more polished scene of stained wood, pendant lights, coffered ceiling and crisp white linens. The menu, though hasn't changed all that much over the years (Hey, why mess with a good thing!), and Atlantic's kitchen continues to serve up timeless raw bar classics like shrimp cocktail, iced Littleneck clams and Blue Point oysters. Patio dining is available.

SOUTH END. A sleek, stylish raw bar? Thanks to owner Barbara Lynch (of No. 9 Park fame), that's just what B&G is. The sub-level space is subtly (that is, unpretentiously) contemporary, featuring blue and gray tiles, stainless steel elements, and an open kitchen. The raw bar eats are fronted by fresh local oysters, clams, scallops and shrimp. Meanwhile, creative main courses like bacon-wrapped cod, wild striped bass with squid puttanesca, and Italian fish stew are themselves superbly done. Patio dining is available during the warm seasons.

SEAPORT DISTRICT. Barking Crab doesn't do fancy presentation ­ meals ares served on paper plates and eaten with plastic utensils ­ but great food needs no fancy trappings anyway. The place has a way with seafood, evidenced in their Barking Crab Cakes, famous fish and chips, herb-marinated swordfish, and seafood scampi over fettuccini. Outdoor dining and great views of the city skyline make the restaurant a fun spot for casual, relaxed meals.

BACK BAY. Enjoy a French meal without ever leaving Boston ­ Brasserie Jo transports you to Alsace, France, with the very first bite. The menu focuses on "les fruits de mer" (seafood) and includes clams, shrimp, and lobster. Additional entrees include filet of skate, mussels Riesling, and sautéed sea scallops. Of course, landlubbers can enjoy classic dishes such as steak, chicken, and lamb. Nice wine list. Outdoor sidewalk dining available.