If you’re seeking a little glamour with your Chinese cuisine, P.F. Chang’s is the place to visit. Located at a bustling (and gastronomically exciting) intersection in downtown Sacramento, P.F. Chang’s is all about lofty ceilings and striking Asian artwork (check out the cool replicas of terra cotta warriors), showcasing visually impactful colors and a sweeping, grand staircase that leads to a second-level dining room. Airy and cavernous, the restaurant also features attractive mosaic-tiled floors and a stunning bar area. Oversized Chinese lanterns dangle imperiously above patrons and the ambience is crisp, controlled and efficient. The extensive (and drool-inducing) menu offers items whose origins spring from many regions throughout China, but reflect a California sensibility—the restaurant’s cuisine is often described as “Asian-fusion.” The appetizer list is especially appealing, including dishes such as the irresistible, translucent shrimp dumplings and chicken lettuce wraps, whose juxtaposition of cool/hot, soft/crunchy and salty/sweet are like a Fourth of July show in your mouth. Seafood dishes are always a great choice (definitely try the fabulous oolong-marinated sea bass and salt-and-pepper prawns) and traditionalists will be more than pleased with the kitchen’s crispy honey chicken and feisty Mongolian beef. There’s also a great selection of vegetarian items, from (our favorite) the stir-fried mixed vegetables and tofu, bathed in a luscious coconut curry sauce, to the egg noodles tossed with garlic and chili peppers. One notable aspect of P.F. Chang’s menu is that both white and brown rice are available to patrons; this is the only Chinese restaurant I’ve encountered that offers that choice. In short, you can expect distinctive food that tastes very fresh, and service (though peremptory and overly scripted at times) that’s attentive and speedy. Note: This is a great place for big groups. — Kira O'Donnell

Insider tip: P.F. Chang’s has developed a special menu for customers who are intolerant to gluten. It is available upon request.

Reservations: Recommended

Payment methods: AmEx, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Alcohol: Full bar

Corkage fee: $10

Hours: Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–11 p.m. (open continuously)
Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.–12 a.m.