DOWNTOWN. Guests at the Marriott Plaza San Antonio are fortunate ­ they don't even have to leave the premises to sample Anaqua Room's Southwestern take on contemporary American fare. Stand-out dishes include crab meat pancakes with fava beans and blackened salmon with blue corn-fried oysters. Views of historic cottages and a garden make the dining room an enticing space. Anaqua also offers a decent wine list, and a slightly more hectic hotel bar is adjacent. Easy access to the courtyard demands a romantic after-dinner stroll.

SAN ANTONIO. The massive chandelier of shed antlers won't cast a shadow on your dining experience at this resort restaurant. Texas cuisine with a (very elegant) twist is offered nightly, as proven by quail with mascarpone grits or free-range bison tenderloin. More traditional options include certified Angus prime rib and sauteed Gulf grouper. An above-average wine list and dessert menu round out your meal. Plus, there's not a bad seat in the house: enjoy views of either the resort golf course or the partially open kitchen.

SAN ANTONIO. Annie's offers an immense variety of desserts, and each one is just as delicious as the last. The quiet ambience allows for a relaxed repast, just as you'd hope to have while enjoying a mouthwatering sweet. Although Annie's is best known for scrumptious desserts like sawdust pie and carrot cake, patrons can treat themselves to sandwiches and soups at lunch.

RIVER WALK. Request table 31 when you make a reservation at Biga on the Banks, and you'll end up with the best view in the house. You won't be gazing at the river, but you will have an eye on chef Bruce Auden as he concocts lobster ravioli on arugula and guinea ham in guajillo sauce. Tasting menus are a draw, but the food is equally as interesting when ordered a la carte. The loft-inspired space is airy and light ­ you'll have plenty of elbow room when you dig in.

Ensconced in an industrial space with gleaming concrete floors, high ceilings criss-crossed with track lighting, and an abundance of warm, russet tones, Bistro Thyme is a convivial place, welcoming of conversation and animated meals. The creative menu starts with vanilla scallops and crab spring rolls before shifting to braised lamb shank, beef-and-veal meatloaf with a gorgonzola crust, seafood pasta, oak-grilled trout, and a grilled beef tenderloin with béarnaise sauce. Dishes are served with a touch of artistry, and the atmosphere promises a classy dining experience.