Fodor's Expert Review Shade

Amid the home-grown antiques, oddities, and furnishings stores of the still-wacky main street of the Heights, Shade is a slice of cool sophistication and attentive, hospitable service. The seasonal menu—creative, fresh, and very well priced—includes local favorites like the massive bacon, lettuce, and fried-green-tomato sandwich; and an unbeatable butternut squash risotto with pan-seared scallops. On the vegetable plate are chicken-fried asparagus, possibly the most perfect veggie comfort food ever invented. Because this part of the Heights is dry, you'll have to join the Shade Club if you want to drink, but membership is free, so drink up! Brunch is served on weekends.