Contemporary decor is a change for Williamsburg, and A. Carroll's menu is as trendy as its ambience. Famous for its Chicago beef, the menu also includes many other choices such as veal, chicken and seafood. The desserts are made on the premises, and the pecan pie with whipped cream should not be missed. This is a very different kind of restaurant for Williamsburg, and it is a refreshing addition to the cuisine scene. Needless to say, the list of martini options is lengthy, as is the wine list.

WILLIAMSBURG. A local favorite, this place does not have the ambience of its name ­ it is not a barn but an elegant place with nice linens, candlelight, attentive waiters and a wide selection of prime Midwestern beef and local seafood dishes. Known for its meat, the menu offers a wide selection of cuts and sizes. Open only for dinner, this popular place stays busy, so make a reservation. Casual attire is appropriate.

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG. This place has the right name ­ you can smell the aroma all the way down Prince George Street. The Aroma "therapy" menu runs the gamut from Stimulating to Tranquil to Contemplative ­ and those are just the beverages! There are bagels and croissants for breakfast; sandwiches, salads and soups for lunch and dinner; and of course, pastries and pies anytime. You can also make your own s'mores here ­ they give you the stuff and the flame! A funky, fun place with a diverse clientele.

One of the best-known seafood places in Williamsburg, this is a casual, laid-back place with photos instead of stuffed fish as decor. The crab cakes are popular at lunch and dinner, and the "back fin skins" with crabmeat and cheddar are a local favorite. The raw bar offers just about anything you could want this side of sushi. This is a family-friendly place with great seafood. Let the key lime pie finish off whatever room your stomach might have left! Reservations are suggested for dinner.

MERCHANTS SQUARE. If you are lucky, they will have the "Hot Pot" on the menu when you dine here. It is a combination of seafood, vegetables and beans and is a complete meal. But other items are also outstanding ­ local seafood is done right here! On a summer day, the outside raw bar is a great place to dine and people watch. There are lots of specials for lunch and dinner, and they are always excellent. This is a casual, fun place in Merchants Square. Reservations are suggested for dinner.