Amelia's Bistro, Bellbrook

Amelia's Bistro calls its particular bend of Old World and modern American recipes "rustic comfort food." That label might sound a little less flashy than Amelia's can be, however—as anyone knows who's ordered the brie flambé, its bourbon glaze set aflame tableside to caramelize its brown-sugar, walnut, and cranberry toppings. Entrees such as seared scallops atop a bed of creamy pumpkin risotto attest that comfort can coexist quite easily with creativity. But if you're in the mood for a true supper-club feel, chefs also grill hearty steaks and top them with boozy sauces such as whiskey butter. Meanwhile, vegetarians are welcomed with fruit- and cheese-packed salads and breaded or curried eggplant.

For dessert, cheesecake is practically mandatory—a sweet way to extend the evening if you want to linger and listen to the occasional live music. Inside is all soft lighting and graceful wrought iron, while outdoors a patio beckons during the warmer months and on the one day in January when the sun passes in front of the solar system's massive magnifying glass.