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With trendy restaurants lining the streets of Philadelphia, it's hard to choose where to dine when your out enjoying the city. If you live in the area, or are planning to visit, you don't need to be told to try the famous cheese steak- save that for a quick lunch and touristy photo op. If your looking for a great dining experience, where you don't have to worry about ordering the right way- wiz wit, anyone?- check out these frequently visited restaurants.

Italian
If music from crooners like Frank Sinatra pouring out onto South Street doesn't pull you in to La Fourno, the rich smell of authentic Italian entrees will. The menu of this BYOB Italian restaurant, which serves dishes from Tuscany, Umbria and Abruzzo, is as eclectic as the vibe from its location. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, while still lively and vibrant. Tables clothed with red checkered dressings accompany an array of colorful artwork in the back of the main dining room, while white linens cover tables running parallel to the busy bar and brick oven in which delicious pizza is made. There is also a private dining room upstairs for a quieter, intimate dining experience. The food and environment mixed with an attentive staff make this the place for dinner date with friends or coworkers. Food to try: Farinatta Bread (offered exclusively at La Fourno) and a homemade cannoli for dessert. Approx. $15. La Fourno Ristorante Trattoria, 636 South Street.

American
Empty stomachs looking to fill up in a laid back environment will find Good Dog Bar and Restaurant the perfect place to hangout and refuel. This multi-level restaurant/bar serves a diverse crowd and the range of beer offered in cans, bottles and on tap will accommodate those looking for a nice cold one. The fire-engine-red exterior with a sign reading, "come, sit, stay" may seem a little commanding, but one bite into a thick, famous Good Dog burger and you'll be glad you obeyed. With cheese oozing from the center of the burger, even the most reserved customer will be drooling. The service is relatively quick and the generous portions will leave you needing a doggie bag. Food to try: Good Dog Salad (half order) and the Good Dog Burger. Approx. $20. Good Dog Bar and Restaurant, 224 South 15th Street.

Asian-Fusion
For a taste of class, head over to Swanky Bubbles, an Asian-fusion restaurant and champagne bar located on Front St. If your looking to try a variety of dishes, make sure to go with a group of people entrees are prepared with sharing in mind. Seafood lovers will enjoy an extensive variety of sushi and the creamy, flavor-packed Thai Shrimp. Make sure to compliment your meal with one of the many champagne cocktails, like Sapphire, which mixes champagne and blue triple sec. The interior lives up to the restaurant's name- elegant and sophisticated, with plush blue velvet curtains, a brick wall decorated with candles and a large, smooth bar with topsy-turvy curves. Dress is casual elegant. Food to try: Indonesian Chicken Satay and the chocolate fondue for dessert. Approx. $25. Swanky Bubbles, 10 S. Front Street

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