ANAHEIM. Former presidents, celebrities, and princesses have all dined here, enjoying owner Bruno Serato's Northern Italian cuisine. A signature dish, Gucci Chicken, is baked in parchment with leeks, shiitake mushrooms, and fresh sage and then served with whole-grain mustard sauce. The award-winning restaurant ­ set in a romantic Victorian mansion with intimate dining rooms, candlelit tables, and incredible service ­ has it all, including a little something called the Pastry Chariot that's certain to make any meal unforgettable.

FULLERTON. Mamma mia! Had P.T. Barnum been Italian, this is the type of restaurant he would have created. From the Piazza Fantasia with Christmas lights to the flying Gelardis (high-wire dummies), there's entertainment for everyone. Nevertheless, fun doesn't overwhelm the food. From pizzas with gourmet toppings to hand-stuffed ravioli, calamari, and vegetarian dishes, this Italian fun house promises delicious food and guarantees a great time!

SANTA ANA. While upscale South Coast Plaza Village boasts several superb restaurants, a few separate themselves from the pack. This establishment is one such place, thanks to its sublime northern Italian menu. You'll find a variety of veal, chicken, and fish entrees, but red meat really turns heads. Imported Piedmontese beef is showcased, as in the popular Filetto al Piatto, which is prepared with lemons in a clay pot. Ideal for romantic occasions and celebrating big events, the manor-like restaurant boasts vine-draped walls, fine art, and hand-painted frescoes

TUSTIN. For a gourmet brush with Mediterranean cuisine, locals recommend Black Sheep, where the distinct flavors of Provençe and Catalonia merge. House specialties span the continent and feature the likes of Grand Aioli, a Provençal-inspired seafood potluck with traditional garlic-and-olive oil sauce; Oveja Negra Paella with shrimp, mussels, and black Valencia rice; and grilled lamb loin with baby portabellos. Streetside dining is available, and Wednesday nights bring "Valenciana al a Veranda!" ­ all-you-can-eat paella on the patio.

DANA POINT. Located in the southern quarter of Orange County, Luciana's affords savvy diners ample reason to eschew crowded, expensive restaurants at Newport or Laguna Beach. Cozy and casual, the restaurant features traditional Italian favorites at reasonable prices, including risotto alla vongole with asparagus and saffron, fettucine Toscana with sun-dried tomatoes and kalamata olives, and scaloppine al funghi in a veal reduction sauce. In true Italian spirit, tables are set close together, meaning that the noise level can be elevated at times. Patio dining is available.