SOHO. Eclectic and sophisticated ­ these describe the scene at this South Howard address. Fashionable professionals, attracted by the surroundings and creative martinis, gather in the posh lounge after work. 717 South's dining room, meanwhile, features Art Deco paintings, stained wood trim, high ceilings and an open kitchen. Expect imaginative takes on Italian classics ­ for example, manicotti stuffed with lump crab, scallops and shrimp, veal scalloppine, or penne with jumbo sea scallops and pesto. In keeping with the place's cosmopolitan feel, the menu also lists a handful of Asian-inspired dishes, sesame chicken and Szechwan duck breast among them.

WEST TAMPA. The heritage of Italian baking runs prominently through this family-run business, which opened on Cypress Street in the early 1960s. When you step into the place, you'll find a host of delicacies to choose from, including cakes, pastries, cookies and tortes of all flavors and varieties. Quality ingredients are always used, and the light, tender results are proof. There's also a deli on the premises where you can order soups, salads and sandwiches. Specialty offerings include the Italian steak sandwich, the vegetarian and the Cuban, a Tampa-area classic.

AIRPORT AREA. Bright and airy, this chic restaurant rests atop the Hyatt Regency and affords extensive views of the Tampa area. Its menu of northern Italian cuisine centers around seafood, pasta, poultry and steaks, but the specialty of the house is veal, especially scaloppine Armani. For a first course, guests may choose their own appetizers from the selections on the antipasti bar. Entrees, which include marinated salmon and rack of lamb, are classic but creative and have contributed to the many awards the restaurant has garnered. Frequented by celebrities, Armani's is also ideal for romantic dinners and special occasions. Jackets and reservations are required.

SOHO. Although it could easily be pretentious, thanks to subdued lighting and gracious details, Bella's prefers to greet guests with relaxed charm. In fact, it's a delightful place to dine throughout the day, and folks return often to tuck into wood-fired pizzas and a plethora of delectable pasta dishes. The open kitchen provides a hint of what's to come, and whether you choose a chicken entree, stuffed eggplant, an appetite-pleasing bowl of pasta, or a bit of tiramisu, you'll see the kitchen's skill immediately. Late hours and favorable prices heighten Bella's appeal.

YBOR CITY. Named after Italian sculptor Bernini, this elegant restaurant occupies the building that once housed the Bank of Ybor City. Its elegant interior befits the extravagant entrees and sophisticated diners who frequent the place. Although lunch is a casual affair, dinner itself is an occasion. Live jazz plays in the background and patrons feast on calamari, black Angus beef, orange-glazed duck and salmon carpaccio. The open dining room provides a vista through the entire restaurant, and guests who partake of martinis and cigars upstairs have an even better view of events. Desserts, as necessary as main courses, are fresh interpretations of Italian classics. NB Their wood-fired pizzas are nothing short of sinful.