NORTH LAS VEGAS. Locals and tourists agree: This steakhouse is worth the trip to parts north. Friendly and personable, the waitstaff set the tone for the evening, imparting just the right note of familiarity before you tuck in to a 24-ounce rib-eye, mesquite-cooked and seared in garlic and butter (you might want to bring a friend along). Cheesy, bacon-wrapped shrimp and fried green tomatoes are also on offer. Devour the chocolate decadence cake, with its warm, liquid center, if you still have room for dessert. Prices are lower than along the Strip, too.

THE STRIP. This classic Las Vegas steakhouse successfully merges a traditional hunt-club theme with NYC-style leather booths and rich wood paneling. Stylish brass lamps and paintings of the "great fox hunt" add lodge-like charm. From split broiled lobsters and rack of lamb to premium American steaks and pineapple-roasted Chilean sea bass, the menu runs the gamut, featuring a bevy of delicious entrees to suit any appetite. Save room for desserts ­ they're taken seriously at Bally's.

NORTHWEST LAS VEGAS. Fine dining should be a memorable experience, and nobody knows that better than the staff at Becker's. From describing the chef's specials, to removing post-dinner crumbs from table linens, to presenting you with a hot finger towel, servers are attentive (yet not intrusive) and professional. And they're knowledgeable too ­ whether you've got a menu question or a wine pairing dilemma, they've got a ready answer.

DOWNTOWN. A rugged, Western-themed restaurant that is popular with locals who rave about the luscious meat selection. Steaks are seared to perfection on the open-hearth mesquite grill. Good dining choices include prime rib, filet mignon and an enormous 23-ounce porterhouse. Fish and chicken choices are also plentiful and popular. All entrées are accompanied by soup or salad, fresh bread and a huge baked potato.

NORTHWEST LAS VEGAS. Open since 1955 (making it one of Vegas's longest-running eateries), this restaurant ­ in both decor and food ­ has real Western flavor. Cowboy memorabilia adorns the walls, and plates are graced with hearty "ranch hand" cuisine like mesquite-grilled steaks and barbecued ribs. If you can finish the gargantuan 32-ounce "Diamond Jim Brady" prime rib, dessert is on the house!