(FORTUNE Magazine) – Nothing heralds spring like sidewalk cafes filled with smartly clad urban folk sipping pink drinks from behind designer shades--or better still, a sign in a restaurant window proclaiming THE TERRACE IS NOW OPEN. After a winter that was too long, too cold, and too wet, head to one of these places recommended by the Zagat Survey to enjoy the sunny seasons' good vibrations. --Eileen P. Gunn

Food Decor Service Cost ATLANTA Veni Vidi Vici 24 24 22 $32 41 14th St. 404-875-8424

HOUSTON Bistro Vino 20 23 20 $22 819 W. Alabama 713-526-5500

NEW YORK Bryant Park Grill 18 22 16 $35 25 W. 40th St. 212-840-6500

SAN FRANCISCO Primo Patio Cafe 21 13 14 $16 214 Townsend St. 415-957-1129

SANTA MONICA Knoll's Black 22 21 22 $31 Forest Inn 2454 Wilshire Blvd. 310-395-2212

WASHINGTON, D.C. Melrose 24 24 24 $42 24th and M Sts. N.W. 202-955-3899

0-9 poor to fair 10-19 good to very good 20-25 very good to excellent 26-30 extraordinary to perfection

Cost reflects the estimated price of a dinner with one drink and tip.

ZAGAT SURVEY