Bistro in Detroit: Staff Pick

At Atlas, you’ll find Carolina catfish, pork taquitos, short ribs, ravioli and polenta, Hawaiian shrimp and Moroccan beef. Ingredients — which don’t necessarily remain with their cuisine-of-origin — include lemongrass, cactus, Gorgonzola, wasabi, coconut, pancetta, caviar and black-eyed peas. It may sound like the chef is confused, but even if he were, open-minded taste buds should not quibble with the results.

Steak dominates the fare and there’s nothing on the menu that would make a meat-and-potatoes lover squirm. Six dishes under the heading “VIP” are flambéed at two stations in the dining room. All of the entrées we tried were very good: seafood strudel ($16.95), fettuccine carbonara (prepared with chicken), veal Marsala, seafood marinara ($17.95). Sides are predictable, such as green beans. Soup or salad comes with entrees; the clam chowder, which we had in both the New England and Manhattan variations, is terrific. Service is a serious issue that needs attention from management.

Specializing in fresh seafood, pasta and grilled meats. Bistro-type atmosphere; small town but cutting edge.

Bringing Tuscany to Detroit, La Dolce Vita's classic Italian cuisine will have a fresher taste and be lighter for the summertime according to new Executive Chef, Matt Baldridge. Their menu will still include old favorites like classic pastas, chicken, veal and beef, but new to the menu is the stuffed trout, which will be served with chili, a hint of lime and olives. The dessert tray has some creative chocolate gems, but sorbets are also available if you're looking for something lighter. An inviting courtyard awaits behind a wrought-iron fence to offer al fresco dining. Hit the patio on Tuesdays to dance to live a DJ or for cocktails during their weekly patio parties that last until 2:30 a.m.