Frank's Pizza: Downtown pizza joint is known for its hand-tossed specialties and 3 a.m. closing time. 2 blocks @ 417 Travis St.

17 Restaurant: Critically hailed inventive New American cuisine characterizes this chic downtown eatery in the Alden Hotel. 3 blocks @ 1117 Prairie St.

Niko Niko's: Gyro lovers on the go have a new place to snag savory kabobs, hummus and authentic Greek fare at Niko Niko's new Market Square outpost. 3 blocks @ 301 Milam

Bistro Lancaster: Take in a pre-theater meal at this cozy bistro in The Lancaster Hotel. 5 blocks @ 701 Texas Ave.

Vic & Anthony's: Award-winning steakhouse featuring the finest prime beef and seafood and a distinguished wine list. 6 blocks @ 1510 Texas St.

Irma's Southwest Grill: This small upscale bistro serves downtown lunch-goers a short and ever-changing Tex-Mex and southwestern menu. 6 blocks @ 1314 Texas St.

TO DRINK

Dean's Credit Clothing: A laid-back mood and hip atmosphere is the feel at this funky downtown bar housed a 1930s clothing store. ½ block @ 316 Main St.

Bad News Bar: This modern American cocktail bar serves up quality drinks in a fun atmosphere. ½ block @ 308 Main St.

Clutch City Squire: This "citified-rustic neighborhood bar" is the owner's modern take on a saloon. 1 block @ 410 Main St.

Shay McElroy's Irish Pub: Shay McElroy's in the Rice Lofts building downtown takes the Irish-pub-in-America concept to a new level. 1 ½ blocks @ 909 Texas St.

OKRA Charity Saloon: This bar donates 100 percent of the proceeds to charity.

1 ½ blocks @ 924 Congress.

Warren's Inn: This classic downtown bar holds its own amid downtown's revitalization. 2 blocks @ 307 Travis St.

La Carafe: Housed in one of the oldest buildings in Houston, this cozy wine bar offers unbeatable ambiance and a very enviable wine selection. 2 ½ blocks @ 813 Congress St.