BACK BAY. Bangkok Blue offers great lunches, speedy service, and expertly prepared food. To start, order signature "golden triangles" (fried egg roll skins packed with spicy curry filling) or try dumplings (filled pastas topped with soy-ginger sauce). Entrees run the gamut from rendang chicken to pad Thai and chicken satay, and desserts include Thai custard and coconut-tinged ice cream. Hanging lamps and picturesque paintings adorn the Boylston Street eatery.

CHINATOWN. Chau Chow City is just the sort of place you'd expect to find in Chinatown, and its fine reputation is recognized by business types, in-the-know tourists, and neighborhood locals alike. The basic decor is completely overshadowed by traditional Chinese dishes of shrimp, pork, and chicken. Lobster dumplings and rice crepes packed with shrimp also draw raves. Plus, according to regulars, Chau Chow's dim sum can hold its own against anyone else's in the city.

BACK BAY. Kashmir brings together excellent Indian cuisine and a relaxed environment. The pleasant interior invites guests to linger over heaping plates of vegetarian curry and tandoori rack of lamb. Outdoor patio dining is available too and makes for a great spot to catch the energy and action of Newbury Street. If you're looking for a quick lunch stop, Kashmir fits the bill with a convenient lunch buffet.