Where can you go for a special pre- or post-theater dinner that won't break the bank? Make a beeline for Brazil Grill, where the tables are spacious, the staff is charming, and cobalt-blue accents add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the decor. There's a festive soundtrack, but the noise level -- unlike the also-pleasing but significantly rowdier Churrascaria Plataforma (below) -- is reasonable.

There's lots of simple country cooking to satisfy the meat-and-potatoes crowd (such as sizzling beef skewers with peppers and onions), while diners with more adventurous palates might try dishes like the spicy camarao baiana (shrimp sautéed with palm oil and served in a sauce of coconut milk, tomatoes, and garlic). Portions are generous, and main courses come with ample sides of rice and beans. Don't miss the incredible doce de leite for dessert -- if you've never tasted this rich and creamy caramel confection of the gods, you'll thank me.

The prix fixe is an incredible deal -- three filling courses for a mere $19.95 -- and the wine list offers affordable choices, including an array of wines by the glass for only $5-$6.