Best of the rest: key stops in the United States and Europe

Latin Trade, Feb, 2005

Taillevent, a celebration of French refinement, is very near the Arc de Triomphe. In the style of a 19th-century home, food is nothing less than exquisite. Gourmet entrees and an incredible wine cellar make for an unforgettable meal. Prices are high, but worth it. From $80 to $200. [33] (1) 44-95-15-01. www.taillevent.com.

ROME

BEST HOTEL

The Sheraton Roma Hotel's location is perfect for the business traveler, more or less equidistant between Fiumicino Airport and the historical city center--both around 20 minutes away--and a short distance from EUR, home to Rome's convention centers, corporate headquarters, and Viale Europa, an up-and-coming shopping area. The elegant and recently renovated property includes 644 guest rooms (including 13 suites; all rooms are equipped with high-speed Internet access) along with 24 meeting rooms, a full-service business center, and Il Vigneto, the hotel restaurant, which has a reputation strong enough to lure locals in search of quality dining. Rates start at US$265 to $530, depending on the season. [39] (06) 54531. www.starwood.com

WASHINGTON

BEST HOTEL

Located just two blocks from the White House, the St. Regis, Washington, D.C. features Italian Renaissance architecture, Louis XVI chandeliers, Damask draperies and Palladian windows. The elegance of the 78-year-old hotel has attracted world leaders for decades. The Washington Monument is within walking distance. The Lincoln Memorial, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the trendy restaurants and bars of M Street are a short ride away. Rates from US$335. [1] (202) 638-2626. www.starwood.com

BEST RESTAURANT

The Willard Room, in the Willard Intercontinental Washington, stands out even in a city known for good restaurants. On the same street as the White House, the Willard Room attracts some of the nation's most influential political leaders and those with the most discriminating dining tastes. Waiters serve European and American cuisine in a two-floor Baroque-style dining room. The restaurant's awards include the AAA Four-Diamond rating, ExxonMobil's Four-Star designation, the DiRoNA award and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Main dishes start at under $40. [1] (202) 637-7440. www.intercontinental.com