CORAL GABLES. This restaurant is known for having the area's best breakfast, but its vast champagne brunch buffet on Sundays (10am-3pm) presents some tough decisions. Everything is presented so elegantly, you'll want a little bit of it all. How about an omelet made any way you like? Pastas? Sushi? Or even caviar? Afterwards, there's a chocolate fountain and no shortage of sinful dessert offerings. Indeed, no one walks away hungry! Live music complements the meal perfectly, and al fresco seating is available in the tropical courtyard.

SOUTH BEACH. As polished and gracious as is the Ritz, so is Americana. Dressed in sleek mid-century style and peppered with stainless steel, the restaurant is a beauty. Its menu is just as well composed, if not a little more bold in approach. Classic comfort foods are the kitchen's realm, but they're taken to new heights of invention. As a result, you'll find phyllo fried chicken, lamb cassoulet, braised veal ravioli and Dover sole presented in four different preparations. Steaks with lush sauces of truffles and cognac can also be had, and desserts are similarly delicious. In addition, Sunday brunch is an extensive, spectacular event.

NORTH MIAMI. Whether you want to grab a bagel and cup of coffee on the run or linger over a more substantial meal, Bagels & Co. is a top choice. The fresh bagels come in numerous flavors and can be topped with any of several tasty toppings. Bagel sandwiches are a great start to your day, stuffed with combinations of sausage, eggs and cheese. Sunday brunch is always popular, with breakfast favorites like biscuits, eggs, bacon and toast served by a friendly staff.

SOUTH BEACH. This cafe features a colorful, whimsical interior, but the outdoor tables are considered the place to be. A concrete canopy shields the sun, assisted by colorful umbrellas at each table, creating an appealing courtyard setting that is shady enough to temper the heat. The original Balans was located in London's Soho, and the hip, cosmopolitan vibe is evident at the Miami Beach outpost. Area executives and moguls often have lunch here, enjoying light favorites such as Thai salad with an excellent homemade peanut dressing or creamy sweet potato soufflé with leeks and garlic. A light entree is a wise choice, as it leaves more room for dessert ­ a primary attraction here. Try the white chocolate cheesecake or the apple tart with sour cream ice cream.

COCONUT GROVE. Experience Floridian cuisine at its best at this well-known hotspot, where the creations win stellar reviews from all over. For an unforgettable brunch, snag a seat on the breezy patio overlooking the Biscayne Bay. Take in the panoramic view and then prepare to feast on breakfast favorites like waffles, pancakes and omelets. Visit the buffet and also order as much as you like from the à la carte menu, all for one price. The menu offers everything from fantastic crab cakes and spicy Chilean sea bass to prime rib. Don't miss the great dessert selection, which often features hand-churned ice cream. Reservations required.