Everything about this mom and pop bistro smacks of European authenticity, from the handmade pastas, to the imported meats and cheeses, and even the lovingly crafted sandwiches. The dining area is a tight squeeze, but patrons are willing to sacrifice a bit of elbow room for the opportunity to savor the fresh zwiebelkuchen along with a bevy of other tasty morsels that are much easier eaten than pronounced.

It doesn’t get any better than this Crabapple gem for adherents of the credo that life is short, so it’s best to eat dessert first. There are lunch and dinner menus full of delectable Italian staples, but that’s only for guests with the willpower to resist stuffing themselves in a bakery overflowing with astounding layer cakes. And pies. And cookies. And cannolis. And cheesecakes. And strudels. And tarts…

Carnivores ravenous for a never-ending parade of meat, but disinclined to drop big bucks at a fancy Churrascaria, have found a happy place at this self-service Brazilian steakhouse. There aren’t any gauchos with meat skewers; just tantalizing all-you-can-eat beef, chicken and pork cuts rotating in a sumptuous dance, waiting to be carved onto a lucky diner’s plate.

Connoisseurs on a quest for the area’s best lobster roll have pegged Bite’s jalapeño corn slaw-slathered beauty as a serious contender. Beyond the crustacean, there is plenty to love about an eclectic farm-to-table menu that incorporates global flavors but sources locally for the freshest ingredients possible.

Few restaurants can claim to be true Alpharetta institutions, but this sprawling seafood eatery has been flying in fresh fish daily for over a decade. Long considered a “special event” destination by many, it recently introduced a $10 lunch menu that has locals packing the house for a reasonably priced midday meal of sushi, fish tacos, and even a darn good burger.

This unassuming restaurant can be found in cozy historic house on Old Roswell St. The relaxed atmosphere is complimented by an outstanding menu of rustic Italian classics, courtesy of Pasquale Cardamuro, who has been serving this style of cuisine in Georgia for over 30 years.

The restaurant formerly known as Ray’s Killer Creek has undergone a significant transformation in recent months that permeates beyond its swanky décor. A newly designed menu maintains some of the old favorites, but also incorporates a wider selection of sharable plates and seafood options. The early consensus? Change is good.

Authentic Thai and Malaysian cuisine can be found beyond Buford Highway, if you know where to look. Satay House takes it a step further by offering a menu packed with other Asian influences as well, including lo mein, fried rice, and a nice selection of Chinese classics that are sure to please everyone. Great for groups!